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rosacea vs eczema

Rosacea vs eczema: What’s the difference?

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Are you suffering from red, inflamed or itchy skin? Dry scaly patches perhaps? Or pustules even? If you answered yes to any of the above, you could be suffering from one of two inflammatory skin conditions – rosacea or eczema, but before being able to treat it, it’s important to understand which one you have!

From intermittent flare-ups to skin redness and irritation, both rosacea and eczema can be easily confused, yet both disorders have a number of different triggers and therefore need to be treated in different ways.  But how exactly are you supposed to diagnose which of you two you might have? We talked to Beauty Collectives’ Director of Education to find out everything there is to know about the two.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions which unlike eczema mostly affects the face. Rosacea typically occurs in adults over 30, and while more common in women, men who suffer from the disorder tend to experience more obvious symptoms.

What are rosacea symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of rosacea include facial flushing which may resemble a blush or sunburn. This can be persistent. This redness mainly occurs on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin and tends to come and go. It can also be accompanied by a sense of heat, warmth or burning.

Occasionally rosacea causes papules and pustules to appear which can be confused for acne. And for many people with rosacea, prominent small blood vessels called telangiectasia become visible on the cheeks, nasal bridge and other areas of the central face.

Finally, but a much less common symptom – your skin may thicken and enlarge from excess tissue, most commonly on the nose (known as rhinophyma).

What causes rosacea?

While the cause of rosacea is unknown there are lifestyle and environmental factors which can affect its severity from sunlight to weather changes, alcohol, caffeine, smoking and more.

How to get rid of rosacea permanently

Sadly, eliminating rosacea altogether is an impossibility, but you can keep symptoms at bay, you just need to be religious about maintaining a good skincare routine using targeted rosacea treatments and by making adjustments to your lifestyle;

  1. Avoid sun exposure

Unfortunately. sun exposure is the most common trigger for rosacea. While we may all love long days at the beach, if you suffer from rosacea your skin sadly will pay a price. Not only can sunburn make flare-ups even worse, the heat from the sun can also increase your body temperature which in turn dilates blood vessels and triggers inflammation.

  1. Relax more, stress less

Stress and anxiety can cause rosacea symptoms to worsen, so some stress management techniques will be imperative. Make sure to get plenty of rest where you can as well as practice mindfulness, as this can really help combat the stress-inducing effects of negative thinking.

There are several methods for increasing mindfulness a few of which include, mindfulness-based stress reduction, meditation, and yoga.

And don’t forget to practice deep breathing when you feel anxiety creeping up.

  1. Eliminate any hot, spicy foods from your diet

These are two big rosacea triggers for some, so it’s best to steer clear from things like horseradish dip and hot sauce when you’re drinking alcohol as heat dilates the blood vessels in the skin, and since hot foods generate heat, peppers are a big no-no!

  1. Reduce your alcohol consumption

While you might well love that glass of wine of an evening, sadly it can trigger or potentially worsen any facial redness.

  1. Introduce skincare specifically designed to combat rosacea

Look for products such as rosacea serum formulated with calming and soothing ingredients like green tea, licorice extract, chamomile extract, and French rose extract. Try Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 rosacea skincare line – a soothing, calming and irritant free collection that not only alleviates redness and discomfort but also helps create a healthy skin barrier.

Beauty Collective - RS2 line

  1. Never skimp on your sunscreen

Despite avoiding sun exposure where feasible, it’s not possible to completely steer clear, so wearing SPF daily is a necessity. Just opt for sensitive skin formulations that won’t aggravate your rosacea.

Or for the best colour correcting makeup for rosacea that’s also formulated with SPF try ELES Cosmetics Luminous CC Cream 20. Perfect for those with skin sensitivities like rosacea, it’s lightweight, oil-free, hypoallergenic and paraben free, and while it’s technically not a foundation, the full coverage pigments cover redness and other rosacea symptoms flawlessly.

ELES - CC Cream 20

  1. You can also try light and laser therapy

To reduce rosacea symptoms and use both topical and oral medications from your doctor if symptoms are really aggressive.

What is eczema?


Otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a very common anti-inflammatory skin disorder, more evident in young children, but also apparent in adults too.

What are eczema symptoms?

Eczema typically presents with a dry, cracked, red, itchy skin that may be scaly and/or bumpy. Fluid-filled blisters can also form.

Eczema most often occurs on the inside of the elbows, the knees, hands, feed, upper chest, neck and sometimes on the face.

What causes eczema?

Eczema is caused by a combination of genetics, stress and immune system activation. When you suffer from eczema your immune system overreacts to small irritants or allergens. This overreaction can inflame your skin.

Eczema can come and go but certain fabrics, soaps, and detergents as well as the environments and certain foods can really cause flare ups. Changes in weather can contribute to dry and eczema prone skin.

How to get rid of eczema permanently

As with rosacea, it’s not possible to totally cure eczema, but you can effectively manage symptoms by following a few essential steps;

  1. Avoid foods that can trigger eczema flare ups

These include; refined carbs, processed meats, dairy, citrus fruits, peanuts and soy.

  1. Feast on vegetables and fruits that are high in inflammation-fighting flavonoid

Such as spinach, kale, broccoli, apples, blueberries, bananas, oranges and cherries (when in season!) these have been found to help improve the overall health of skin and fight inflammatory skin conditions.

  1. Do not bathe in hot water

Instead, just warm water only.

  1. Keep skin moisturised daily with products that will support your skin barrier function

Products formulated with shea butter, lanolin, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, fatty acids and Niacinamide are best.

  1. In some cases topical medication is paramount. See your doctor.
  2. If the condition is bad, oral and injectable options are also available

Just remember maintaining a healthy skin barrier and avoiding triggers are key to managing symptoms when it comes to both rosacea and eczema.

Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum

Is Hyaluronic acid right for you? Everything you need to know

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You’ve likely heard of the ingredient Hyaluronic Acid. After all every beauty professional, blogger and vlogger raves about it. But do you know exactly why this super skincare ingredient is adored by so many? Or whether it’s right for your skin? Well, we are here to educate you. Keep reading as we reveal all you need to know about this hydration hero, it’s multiple benefits, and the best hyaluronic acid skincare products you should try.

Firstly, hyaluronic acid is not a new ingredient, in fact, it has been a staple in skincare and makeup for decades now. The word ‘acid’ can be daunting for many when it comes to their skin, but this ingredient is in fact a paradox as it’s not actually an acid at all! It’s in fact a sugar!

Thanks to its sponge like affect, Hyaluronic acid has the ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in moisture, in other words, one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water! Crazy right? Making it THE super hydrator of the skincare world, especially more recently as advancement in technical innovation has changed it for the better! Now, thanks to its molecular structure Hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds! In fact, it literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant! The extra moisture also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!

But, this skincare-wonder doesn’t stop there, not only does it benefit those with dry, dehydrated skin, it’s also a must for all skin types, especially those concerned with premature ageing. This is because not only does it allow the skin and the connective tissues to retain moisture and remain hydrated, (and hydrated skin is healthy skin that ages slower!) It also helps maintain collagen levels (which dramatically declines with age), and we all know we need collagen to remain youthfulness when it comes to our complexion.

Hyaluronic acid also helps with tissue regeneration, it is proven to help wounds heal faster, can reduce scarring and diminish redness and sunburn! This is due to its ability to keep the tissue moist, manage inflammation and signal the body to build more blood vessels in areas with the skin has been damaged so nutrients can get to them!

And finally, this multi-tasking wonder is a real acne fighter. Hyaluronic acid has natural antibacterial properties making it perfect for those who are suffering from breakouts.  What more could you ask from one skincare ingredient?

Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skincare ingredient though, it’s actually naturally produced by our bodies, but like collagen, as we age its production gradually decreases. Our skin then slowly loses its ability to maintain moisture and stay well balanced! This is where topical hyaluronic acid skincare becomes a necessity. Just remember though the more hyaluronic you put on your face, the more youthful you’ll look – fact! And nowadays we are spoilt with the many hyaluronic acid serums, creams, lotions and potions. Here are our four of our favourites, adored by our customers too!

 

THE SERUM

Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum

This Hyaluronic Acid Serum features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract for optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, softer, plumper, firming and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types!

“I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!” Mary C, BC Customer

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Hydra Serum

 

THE MOISTURISER

Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream

Any Pevonia fan will tell you this is the “go to” cream for rehydrating the skin and smoothing away dehydration lines. This global best-seller is in fact abundant in Hyaluronic and Collagen, and acts like a moisture magnet, plumping and firming the skin immediately.

“I absolutely love this cream. It is a day crem and night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤️” Ana Hall, BC customer

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Marine Collagen Cream

 

THE MIST

NEW Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist

A true multi-tasker, it can be used in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight, after your makeup to set it in place, throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh (or as the perfect pick-me-up), and as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too!

“Completely obsessed! I’m not usually into face mists or even toners but tried this and fell madly in love!!! Not only does it make my skin feel super moist and dewy first thing, but I also noticed it keeps my make-up nicely set. I use it in the am after I’m made up and before bedtime after my moisturizer. Here’s the obsession part, since I’m on a computer all day and it’s become my go-to mist as my skin feels dry and tight from all the blue light exposure, I hydramist away!” Maribella, BC customer

 

THE MASK

Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic acid vitamin mask

Containing a cocktail of vitamins and hyaluronic acid, this sensational mask reveals hydrated skin and a radiant complexion. With each application, skin is visibly smoothed and plumped.

”My skin was feeling patchy with the changing seasons, but after one application of this mask it felt better moisturised and fresher. Dry, flaky patches were soothed and smoothed with my powder foundation sitting much better the very next day. I’ve used it once or twice a week since and my skin tends to feel plump and fresh for a good 4 days after using the mask. Very gentle and soothing.” A McBride, BC Customer

Beauty Collective - Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid VItamin Mask 

face with sensitive skin

7 reasons you are suffering from sensitive skin and how to fix it

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Whether you’ve always been prone to sensitive skin or have suddenly started to suffer from inflammation, we feel you. Unfortunately, a number of factors can affect our skin and lead to common skin sensitivities but there are steps you can take overcome this!

From the weather and our environment to the water and what we eat, read on as we count down 7 sensitive skin triggers and the best products to counteract them!

 

Firstly, though what is sensitive skin exactly?

Contrary to popular belief sensitive skin isn’t actually a skin type. Unlike dry, normal, oily and combination skin, sensitive skin is not determined by how much sebum a person’s skin produces, in fact those who have dry or oily skin types can also have sensitive skin! Sensitive skin instead refers to a range of conditions, from facial redness, rashes, broken capillaries and inflammation to burning sensations, itchiness and breakouts!

And yes, you might be thinking that most people are likely to have at least some sort of skin reaction in their lives whether it be to a product or ingredient for example, those with persistent issues are classified as having sensitive skin.

 

What are the triggers for sensitive skin? and the best way to treat it?

 

  1. The weather

Harsh weather conditions be it low temperatures, strong winds and extreme heat can strip the skin’s natural protective barrier compromising our complexion as water escapes and irritants get in! Skin can look and feel irritated from redness and itchiness to inflammation.

Solution: While we can’t change the weather (although often wish we could!) you can turn down the heating in the winter and lay of the air conditioning unit in the summer.

Also inflamed skin needs calming, so look for products with soothing ingredients like calendula, chamomile aloe and azulene extract.

Try; Pevonia’s Sensitive Skin Line. Comprising of a cleanser, lotion, moisturiser and serum, this best-selling collection effectively controls sensitivity, soothes skin irritation and diffusing redness.

  1. Over exposure to the sun

Ten minutes in the sun and before you know it you are looking and feeling somewhat flushed in the face! This is because UV rays from the sun triggers oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin.

Solution: Integrate abroad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher into your daily routine (yes that’s right daily, even in winter!) Fragrance-free and natural sunscreen formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are best, oh and wear a hat too!

Try: Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. A true triple threat, this smooth, tinted sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula including both zinc and iron oxides to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light AND pollution! It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. So worth the investment in my books!

Beauty Collective - Medicalia - Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield

 

  1. Taking hot (not warm) showers

We all love a hot shower or indulgent bubble bath, especially on a cold winters night but this luxury can lead to taut, itchy, uncomfortable skin – all common signs of sensitivity.

Solution: it’s simple enough switch to lukewarm water or at least turn the heat down! Always use a gentle cleanser and apply a nourishing moisturiser packed with ceramides as soon as you come out.

Try Medicalia Gentle cleanser. Formulated with a unique natural blend of soothing Green Tea, Chamomile, and Oat Amino-Acids it beautifully cleanses skin both thoroughly and gently while preserving the skin barrier and reducing symptoms of inflammation!

  1. Additives in skincare and cosmetics

It doesn’t matter what you seem to put on your skin, it reacts! This is because people with sensitive skin typically have a much weaker, thinner and more easily damaged skin barrier making it easier for irritants to penetrate the skin and cause unwanted inflammation!

Solution: Don’t overload your skin with multiple products or use skincare with harsh ingredients. Opt for gentle and hypoallergenic formulations specifically designed to address sensitive and reactive skin and always use mineral makeup as it contains no chemical nasties and will allow skin to breath freely.

Try; Phytomer Douceur Intemporelle Restorative Shield Cream. It’s an outstanding comforting cream with a beautifully light consistency which literally rescues skin by strengthening it’s protective barrier.  It soothes, calms and comforts skin, conveniently remedying red patches.

  1. Alcohol

You love a good glass of wine in the evening but have noticed every time you indulge you get a flush face and a rash even? This is because alcohol is a stimulant and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The sulphites used in wine are meant to preserve it, however exposure to sulphites induce a number of adverse reactions including the majority of common skin sensitivities.

Solution: Buy preservative free alcohol. Yes, it’s a thing! And for every glass of wine consumed, drink two glasses of water!

 

  1. Specific foods

Certain food choices can sadly lead it skin inflammation. It’s best to avoid foods such as peanuts, wheat, eggs, cow’s milk, soy and shellfish which are among the most common culprits. The itchiness caused by these foods and subsequent scratching can then lead to flare-ups or worsening of sensitive skin symptoms!

Solution: Make sure your daily diet is rich in foods such as anti-inflammatory asparagus, red onion, tomatoes, broccoli, berries, peppers, olives oil and avocado.

 

  1. Pollution

Every day, our skin is in contact with atmospheric pollution and more specifically ozone and PM2.5, microscopic fine particles (basically soot). These pollutants can stick to the skin, and the smallest particles may even penetrate down to the epidermal cells causing oxidative stress. The result? people with sensitive skin suffering from inflammatory skin conditions are faced with further inflammation.

Solution: Use pollution proof skincare!

Try: Phytomer Citadine Citylife Face & Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. A combination of three marine sugars create the active ingredient, CITYSAFE®, to depollute, cleanse and oxygenate the skin. CITYSAFE®, along with blue and red algae’s and Phytomer’s patented seawater concentrate – Oligomer®, reset skin repairing damage caused by pollution. CITYLIFE not only sweeps away toxic micro particles but provides an ultra-moisturising facial experience too!

Beauty Collective - Phytomer - Citadine Citylife - Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream

skincare mistakes

10 skincare mistakes you could be making and how to fix them

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You’re a stickler when it comes to your skincare routine, you eat an antioxidant rich diet, drink plenty of water and make sure you exercise daily, yet still your skin is dull and lifeless, or perhaps you’re finding yourself constantly prone to pesky pimples, or dryness even? If this is you, chances are you could be doing a few things wrong when it comes to your skincare and believe me, you’d not be the first! Keep reading as we count down 10 common skincare mistakes you may well be making and how to fix them!

 

  1. You are overloading your skin

From cleansers to exfoliators, serums, moisturisers, masks, oils and more, it is easy to get carried away with skincare and believe that buying and applying all the products will be best for your skin! The problem is overloading it, particularly when you are using too many actives in your products can actually be detrimental and result in dryness, irritation and redness!

The fix: Listen to your skin! The best approach is to understand your own individual needs rather than just adding layers of products because you are under the misconception that using them all will deliver optimum skin results! Remember if you are prone to sensitive skin simplicity is key, if you have an oily complexion cleansing, toning and a light mattifying moisturiser can be enough, and if your skin tends to be on the dry side, then a serum, moisturiser, mist and face oil to lock moisture in will be beneficial.

Also, if you are adding in new steps to your skincare routine, do so one product at a time so that your skin has time to adjust.

 

  1. You are using toxic ingredients

You think you’ve invested in a moisturiser that will deliver beautifully bright and blemish free results but it’s actually packed with toxins that can irritate skin, leading to reactions and more! Sadly, the products you put on your skin aren’t always safe. So many skincare products are formulated with toxic ingredients including Parabens, Phthalates, Triclosan, chemical sunscreen filter and synthetic fragrance.

The fix: Choose natural skincare products, they’ll contain zero toxic nasties and always be aware of what you are buying, don’t just fall for the marketing hype!

 

  1. You aren’t updating your skincare as your skin changes with age

You might have been loyal to the same moisturiser for many years but sadly the skincare you’ve used in your 20’s really won’t cut it in your 30’s, 40’s and beyond. This is because as we age our skin’s needs dramatically change. Skin becomes thinner, drier, more sensitive, and loses elasticity as collagen and elastin start to deplete, while fine lines and wrinkles start to form.

The fix: As you start to age look for anti-ageing skincare rich in ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C. For more info on this read about the top 5 skincare ingredients as recommended by the experts and adjust your products accordingly.

 

  1. You are skipping your moisturiser because your skin is oily or prone to blemishes

It’s that time of the month and a few pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or you are often prone to adult acne or simply suffer from oily skin, so think it best to lay off the moisturiser which must be exacerbating the issue right? Wrong.

The fix: While you are likely not alone in thinking lathering up on moisturiser seems counterproductive, everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern, needs to apply a moisturiser daily! This is because moisturiser maintains skin hydration throughout the day and therefore assists in fighting premature fine lines and wrinkles too. In fact, applying moisturiser will greatly reduce your chance of developing extreme dryness, skin sensitivity, or oiliness! Why? Dehydrated skin can lead to issues like inflammation, premature skin ageing, and even breakouts. When your skin becomes dry, your body responds by making more oil! And we all know excess oil can clog pores leading to more of those darn pesky pimples.

When searching for the right moisturiser for your skin type they do tend to be categorised by skin concern so you just need to research and find the right one for your skin’s needs. Just be sure to opt for lighter moisturisers by day, especially in the warmer months, and richer creams at night.

For oily skin types, we highly recommend Phytomer’s Oligopur Hydra Matifying Control Cream. It’s an ultra-light cream that controls oil and breakthrough shine throughout the day. No shine, no greasy feeling, no heaving feeling!

Phytomer - Oligopur Hydra-Matifying Control Cream

If your skin is prone to pimples try Phytomer Acnipure Blemish Solution Fluid, it’s a lightweight gel-cream that fights acne without clogging pores or irritating skin. It also helps eliminate shine, diminishes the appearance of blemishes, and prevents future breakouts!!

Acnipur Blemish Solution Fluid

 

  1. You are over exfoliating or not exfoliating enough

As we age our skin’s natural ability to shed dead cells declines, our pores can get clogged and skin can become uneven, dull, lacklustre and spotty even! This is why exfoliation is so imperative, and not a step that should be ignored even if you are prone to acne or suffer from sensitive skin!

I’m not talking daily exfoliation though! Just once or twice a week depending on your skin type will suffice, as too much exfoliation can be counterproductive! This is because exfoliators, especially physical ones with granules or beads can damage the outer most layer of your skin when overused. One sign of over exfoliating is skin hypersensitivity. This can cause irritation, breakouts, and even a stinging feeling when you apply products! Eek.

The fix: Understand your skin and choose your exfoliator accordingly. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser for blemish prone skin. It combines soapwort, Triclosan, Grapefruit Oil, Salicylic Acid and Citric Acid with Jojoba to gently remove impurities and delivers an intense exfoliating and deep cleansing experience!

Pevonia Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser

If your skin is a little on the sensitive side, just be sure to opt for a super gentle formula – I LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture. But if granules scare you, I also highly recommend 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.

Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser blog

  1. You are not wearing sunscreen daily, all year round

It’s easy to think why bother with sunscreen if we are in the middle of winter but as I’ve preached many a time before, sunscreen isn’t just a summertime skincare product, it’s necessary to religiously wear it All. Year. Round. Why? Because it is THE best protection against skin ageing. Oh, and if you are staying indoors, and happen to work next to a window like me, the sun has the ability to penetrate the glass and your skin too!

And then there is the issue of blue light damage. To read all about it click here. But in short, just like the sun, your devices omit harmful ‘blue light’ rays, so it’s important to wear sunscreen to protect skin against them too!

The fix: Sunscreens formulated with iron oxides provide enhanced protection against blue light, especially when combined with zinc oxide. A new favourite of mine is Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 30 with Blue Light Shield. If you’re a little reluctant to wear your sunscreen because quite frankly its smell and greasy texture puts you off, you are going to love this lightweight emulsion! This everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It also rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones!

  1. You are taking daily hot showers and baths

Who doesn’t love soaking in a boiling bubble bath or indulging in a long hot shower every evening? But do you know how detrimental this actually is for your skin? Hot showers and baths can actually inflame the skin, causing redness, itching, and even peeling. They also can disrupt the skin’s natural balance of moisture, robbing you of the natural oils that keep skin healthy. Eek.

The Fix: To keep skin happy, healthy and supple, reduce time spent in the shower or bath, keep water to a warm temperature and always apply moisturiser immediately after while skin is still damp. By doing so will prevent damage, dryness, irritation, and itchiness.

 

  1. You are not using your retinol cream correctly

We all know retinol is THE no. one ingredient when it comes to combatting skin ageing. The hero ingredient multi tasks like no other. Known for its ability to empower and enhance skin cellular performance it dramatically improves fine lines and wrinkles while repairing sun-damaged and mature skin. It’s also a free radical fighter! Who wouldn’t want to introduce this multitasking miracle ingredient into their daily life!  But you need to know how to use it! Using it incorrectly can unfortunately have ramifications.

The fix: Because retinol is unstable when exposed to heat and light avoid using it in your morning skincare routine, instead apply before bed. I’ll ntroduce it slowly. Apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Also it’s best not to layer your retinol cream with other potent ingredients such as your acids. And finally, give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months, but the results are worth it. We promise! To learn more about this anti-ageing wonder ingredient click here.

 

  1. You are mixing skincare ingredients that are no compatible

I’m certain many of us will have mixed our skincare products without knowing that some ingredients do not complement each other, in fact some combinations can actually counteract each other! These ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, AHA’s and BHA’s are simply better suited on their own and can be detrimental to skin when mixed or layered leading to irritation, redness or just general lack of desired results! (Unless of course they’ve been carefully placed in the same product by the clever scientists!)

The fix: Let your retinol, vitamin c, benzoyl peroxide, AHA’s and BHA’s be the star of their own show. This doesn’t mean you can’t use your retinol cream and your vitamin c serum! Just use the serum in the morning and your retinol cream at night!

Also focus on the combinations that can be mixed! These include; Hyaluronic acid and most ingredients! SPF and vitamin c, AHA’s and BHA’s, vitamin c and vitamin e, retinol and SPF.

 

  1. You are not cleansing your face before bed

I’m sure we’ve ALL been guilty of this once or many a time! Especially when we are exhausted after the daily juggle, or perhaps have had one too many and ooh how that bed looks so inviting but removing the days makeup and grime off your face is a must! In fact not cleansing before bed means your skin is unable to regenerate effectively while you sleep, pores clog, and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear.

Phytomer - DOUX CONTOUR Eye And Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover

The fix: For a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast! And my absolute favourite cleanser at the moment is Pevonia’s new CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser. Its oil formulation transforms into a luscious foamy cleanser on application when mixed with water and it leaves skin feeling fantastically refreshed and beautifully clean without the drying effects that other cleansers can leave. Plus its subtle scent is just heavenly.

Pevonia - Eye Makeup Remover

 

To read more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here.