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35s woman touching face and looking at skin

19 beauty mistakes that can make you look older than you are

Ever find yourself staring in the mirror and wondering why you’re looking older than you actually are (or feel!) despite investing in expensive skincare and makeup products time and time again? Well you most certainly aren’t alone! Unfortunately many of us are guilty of accidentally adding years to our face thanks to a number of beauty mistakes we are making! From basking in the sun without SPF (eek!) to overdoing the foundation, keep reading as we count down 20 beauty mistakes that could be making you look older than you are!

 

  1. Becoming complacent with your skincare routine

One of the cardinal sins in the beauty world is neglecting your skincare routine. No amount of makeup can compensate for poor skin health, nor will your makeup look good without proper skin prep! Yes, many of us are time poor, especially in the mornings, but I can’t express how important it is to invest, even just a little time, into a proper skincare routine.  This starts with cleansing your skin every morning.

Woman Wiping Her Face With Cotton Pad In The Bathroom

  1. Not moisturising before applying your makeup

Hydrated skin is key to creating the perfect smooth surface for makeup. If your skin is dehydrated it can have an adverse effect on your foundation’s appearance and make skin appear dull, dry and flaky too!

Both your morning and evening skincare routine, no matter how busy you are, should include a good nourishing serum and anti-ageing moisturiser. Try products formulated with marine collagen and hyaluronic acid, two anti-ageing wonder ingredients. Just be sure not to overload your skin with product or overstimulate the sebum glands as producing excess oil can cause foundation to slide off your skin revealing what might be a less than desired complexion.

Try; Two BC best-sellers – Pevonia Hyalouric Acid Hydra Serum and Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream.

Pevonia - Power Repair Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum

  1. Ignoring eye care

Unfortunately our eyes are the first area of our face to show ageing, so you need to show it love just as you would the rest of your face! This means applying a good eye cream daily!

Like a moisturiser, an eye cream’s main objective is to deliver brightening and anti-ageing ingredients, however in a milder, gentler, safer dose.  Moisturisers tend to have a much richer consistency in comparison to their counterpart which if applied under the eyes can prove too much, resulting in irritation, allergic reactions and milia.

reflection of Beautiful Happy Young Hispanic Mixed Race

Eye creams also tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns such as crow’s feet, under eye bags and dark circles.

Want younger looking eyes? Start wearing eye cream or eye gel today!

Pevonia - Évolutive Eye Cream

  1. Not applying sunscreen every. single. day

This one’s a no-brainer. Sun damage is the ultimate age accelerator, wreaking havoc on collagen and elasticity. You need to embrace daily sunscreen, rain or shine, if you don’t you really will be adding years to your face instead of reducing them!

 

  1. Forgetting regular exfoliation is a must

As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build up of dead, dull skin, leading to a dull complexion and emphasizing fine lines. Regular exfoliation however helps to slough off the dead skin, promoting cell turnover and revealing a fresher, more youthful-looking complexion.

Be sure to exfoliate at least once a week. If you’re worried about exfoliating because you have sensitive skin try using an enzyme exfoliator free of granules. For more on the beautifying benefits of exfoliation click here.

 

  1. Choosing the wrong shade of foundation

We understand, you want your skin to look like you have a healthy glow but you shouldn’t attempt to achieve this with your foundation! Opting for a shade too dark or heavy will not only create a mask like effect but it will highlight wrinkles too! You need to choose a shade that perfectly matches your skin tone!

 

  1. Choosing the wrong foundation formula

Talking of foundation, choosing the correct shade isn’t the only thing you have to worry about, choosing the incorrect formula can add years to your face too!

There is this pretence that as we age, we should opt for thicker foundation to cover our imperfections but actually when you use a full-coverage foundation or are too heavy-handed with your application, the makeup settles into the wrinkles, pronouncing them even more! Just remember quality over quantity! Steer clear of the thick, full coverage foundation, instead opt for light, sheer bases that can be buildable, this way you can focus on areas that need that extra coverage.

Try; ELES Cosmetics New Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30. It literally primes, tints, nourishes, conceals and evens out skin tone, plus it protects skin from UVA, UVB, Blue Light and free radical damage, Genius!

ELES Cosmetics Blue Light BB Cream 30

  1. Using too much powder to set your makeup

While setting makeup is important, piling on the powder can accentuate wrinkles and dryness. Use a light, mineral based powder and focus on the T-zone, and leave the rest of your skin with a natural finish. For mature, dry or dehydrated skin, opting for a good setting spray might be best.

Try Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist – Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, ultra-calming Chamomile, Aloe, Green Tea and aromatic essential oils, this multi-tasting product helps makeup stay in place all day long (no more looking in the mirror mid-morning and seeing that makeup has disappeared from your face!)

Beauty Collective - Pevonia - Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist™

  1. Rubbing Your Eyes

The area around your eyes is the most delicate on your face, fact. When we are tired it’s easy to fall into the trap of rubbing our eyes, or when applying eye makeup with precision. We’ve all been guilty of pulling at our eyes I’m sure, but tugging, rubbing or pulling at your eye area can cause tiny blood vessels to break resulting in dark circles that make you look tired All. Of. The. Time. Instead, start applying an anti-ageing eye cream morning and night pronto! I am currently loving Vie Collection’s Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream. It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles! Seriously!

Vie Collection - Vie Collection - Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Acid Concentrate 15ml

  1. Not looking after your eyebrows

Just as the hair on our heads can thin with age, so do our eyebrows, so to look younger, we want to create instantly fake fullness and to do this we need to fill them in with the perfect brow pencil! Just be sure you don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh. Read more on how to create perfect brows and get grooming!

ELES Precision Brow Pencil

  1. Using harsh eyeliner shade

Yes, eyeliner is essential for defining eyes, I wouldn’t live without mine but using a harsh black liner can emphasize under-eye circles and make eyes appear smaller. Try using a brown or grey liner, focusing on tightlining for definition. 

  1. Blush Blunder

Applying blush too low can drag down your features. Sweep it upwards towards your temples for a youthful lift.

  1. Caking on concealer under your eyes

Caking on concealer to hide dark circles can actually worsen the problem. Use a lightweight formula and apply it in thin layers.

  1. Neglecting your hands

While your facial skincare routine is crucial, so many of us forget to look after our hands! An area always in the sun and as a result often show signs of ageing first! Apply sunscreen, moisturize, and treat them with the same care you give your face.

  1. Ignoring Your Neck and Decolletage

Another forgotten area! And the area of your skin which can actually age you the most! Exposed to sunlight just as much as your face (and hands!), if your neck and decolletage aren’t cared for daily or protected with SPF, they can end up crepey and wrinkly so much earlier than they should! Whatever you do for your face you should do for your neck and decolletage too.

There are neck and chest specific products you can use, try Pevonia’s Age Correction Rapid Restore Neck and Chest religiously, it’s a 2 in 1 serum and cream which hydrates, nourishes refines and brightens skin for a more youthful appearance while smoothing wrinkles too! But there is also nothing wrong with using your daily moisturiser or a hydrating body cream instead! Just start doing it now!

Pevonia - Power Repair Rapid-Restore Neck & Chest

  1. Going to sleep with your makeup still on!

I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of skipping our evening cleansing routine once in a while because the idea of peeling ourselves off our bed just doesn’t feel like an option, but did you know just how bad this can be for your skin? Not removing your makeup at night hinders the skin renewal process that takes place while you sleep. The days makeup and grime can clog the pores and trap dirt which can be damaging to your skin and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear.

And then there are your eyes. Mascara makes your lashes stiff; it’s part of its job, but leaving it on while you sleep will cause the stiffness to turn into dryness that can trigger lashes to break and soon result to lash fallouts! For hassle free cleansing use a all rounder makeup remover like Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. It’s a fantastic and effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort! 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!

Phytomer - DOUX CONTOUR Eye And Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover

Another cleanser we are loving is Pevonia’s new CleanRefresh Foaming Oil CleanserIts 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.

Beauty Collective - Pevonia - CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser

  1. Not drinking enough water

As I’m sitting here writing this, I can hold my hands up and say today so far I’ve only drunk 2 glasses of water when I should have in fact consumed at least a litre by now! Yes, it’s fact, water, or lack of should I say is a real skin ager!! And I know I must practice what a preach! The thing is I do, but some days I will admit it’s easy to forget! And when I do, I get cross with myself as I can see it in my skin! It’s drier, duller and devitalised. This is because drinking ‘enough’ water helps the body to flush out toxins while increasing blood flow to the skin which gives it an even tone and dewy appearance! And dewy skin equals youthful skin after all!

Not a huge fan of water? Try a good herbal tea instead.

  1. Indulging in a shower or bath that is way to hot!

How many of us are guilty of indulging in a hot shower or simply washing our faces with water set to a high temp. But really for best and healthy results we should be washing with lukewarm water. This is because extreme water temperatures will strip healthy natural oils from your skin quickly, making it dry and therefore age much faster. Water that’s too hot can also dilate your capillaries leading to spider veins.

  1. Not getting enough shut eye

If I had a dollar for every time I said to my husband I must get to bed early tonight because I need more sleep and am fed up of looking old and tired, I’d be a rich woman. While they say practice what you preach, I am a testament that not getting enough sleep (when I could indeed fit in another 1-2 hours a night (darn netflix!) literally does age you.

Beauty sleep is real! Poor sleep is quite literally to blame for premature ageing, dermatitis, eczema, acne, loss of collagen and more! Scary right? So let’s make a pact and try for that 8 hours + we really do need nightly and enjoy reduced puffiness and radiant skin instead!

Beautiful,Woman,Holding,A,Pipette,In,Her,Hand,With,Serum

Antioxidants: Why these anti-agers are so important

We are told to eat a diet rich in antioxidants every day, but when it comes to our skin, applying products rich in antioxidants can be game changing too. But what exactly are antioxidants, and why are they so essential for our skin? Keep reading for our guide on these age-defying skin saviours, from their many benefits to the antioxidants you’ll want to ensure are in your daily skincare routine.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are powerful compounds that defend our skin from free radicals. But what are these free radicals, you might be thinking? Free radicals are unstable molecules generated by exposure to factors like UV rays, pollution, cigarette smoking, industrial chemicals and more! They wreak havoc on our skin by causing damage to cells, speeding up the ageing process, and contributing to a range of skin issues!

Antioxidants, on the other hand, neutralize these free radicals, preventing them from causing damage to our skin. Think of antioxidants as the shield that protects our skin from the constant assault of modern life!

Female Hands Holding Bowl of Cosmetics

 

The benefits of antioxidants

Now that we know what antioxidants are, let’s talk about the many benefits they bring to our skin.

  1. Anti-Ageing

Antioxidants are the secret weapon against premature ageing. They help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots by neutralizing free radicals and supporting the skin’s natural repair process.

  1. Skin brightening

If you’re dealing with dull, lacklustre skin antioxidants can come to the rescue. They promote a brighter complexion by tackling oxidative stress and enhancing skin radiance.

  1. Sun damage defence

While sunscreen is our first line of defence against UV rays, antioxidants play a crucial role in repairing and preventing sun damage. They work hand-in-hand with SPF to shield our skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure.

  1. Inflammation soothing

Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for calming irritated skin. Whether you’re dealing with redness, sensitivity, or conditions like rosacea, antioxidants can help ease discomfort and promote a more balanced complexion.

  1. Collagen boosting

Collagen is the holy grail of youthful skin, and antioxidants are its best friend. By neutralizing free radicals that break down collagen, antioxidants contribute to maintaining the skin’s elasticity and firmness.

Young woman holding a cosmetic dropper

The top antioxidants in skincare and their benefits

When it comes to incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine, there is a diverse range to choose from, here are the most loved by the experts;

 

1. Vitamin C

Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is known as the true glow getter of the skincare world.

It brightens the complexion by inhibiting melanin production, diminishing dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Its versatility extends to supporting the skin’s natural regeneration process, contributing to a youthful and radiant appearance.

But vitamin C isn’t just about skin brightening, it more importantly shields skin from free radical damage induced by UV exposure and environmental pollutants, while also stimulating collagen synthesis, promoting skin elasticity and reducing fine lines!

Incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine aids in protection, repair, and overall skin vitality, making it a foundation for a luminous complexion.

Recommended products;

Pevonia Vitamin C Complex – this Vitamin C Serum is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied, skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!

Pevonia - C Complex

Naturys Anti-Age Antioxidant Facial Toner – rich in vitamin c and hyaluronic acid, this anti-ageing toner not only cleanses and rebalances the skin but nourishes and brightens it too! Is the perfect way to complete a full facial cleanse! Youll love the results, trust us!

Naturys - Anti-Age Antioxidant Facial Toner

Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Moisturising Mask – rich in orange water, aloe vera, rose and ceadarwood this creamy deeply nourishing mask revitalised dull skin leaving it fresh, visibly plumped and beautifully radiant. We LOVE it!

Phytomer - CYFOLIA ORGANIC Radiance Moisturising Mask2. Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3, this skincare powerhouse is renowned for its multifaceted benefits.

A truly versatile ingredient, it strengthens the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and enhancing hydration.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide also calms redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It also regulates oil production, minimizing pores and balancing sebum levels.

What’s more, niacinamide brightens skin tone, diminishes dark spots, and supports collagen production, combating signs of ageing.

Recommended products:

ELES Calming and Soothing Sheet Mask – drenched with the highest percentage of natural, active ingredients on the market, this calming mask reduces inflammation, redness and heat and restores a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. It’s also vegan, cruelty free, fragrance free and sulphate free.

ELES - Calming and Soothing Sheet Mask

Naturys Deep Purifying Serum – If you’ve got oily to combination skin, you simply must give this purifying serum a try. Formulated with niacinamide, bakuchiol and vitamin C and enriched with olive oil microcapsules that melt when in contact with the skin, it helps correct overproduction of sebum, enlarged pores, acne and skin prone to redness. It’s seriously good stuff!

Naturys Deep Purifying Serum

 

3. Vitamin E

Known as the nourishing antioxidant, vitamin E or tocopherol, safeguards the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, UV rays, and pollution. This protective shield helps prevent premature ageing, supporting skin elasticity and resilience.

Vitamin E‘s hydrating properties nourish and moisturise the skin, promoting a supple complexion. Known for its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin, vitamin E contributes to a balanced and healthy skin barrier.

Recommended products:

Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate – Fast-absorbing, this soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil radically combats premature ageing, dehydration, and excessive dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning. We are obsessed!

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate

Medicalia – Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield – No one likes slathering on sunscreen, but it is THE most important step in your daily routine, and we don’t need to remind you why! Sunscreen IS essential all year round but we get that sunscreen often doesn’t feel good, no one likes the thick, oily slick that some can leave, not to mention the smell, but this one by Medicalia is subtle in fragrance, is rich in antioxidants vitamin e, green tea and hyaluronic acid, offers skin a smooth tinted look and protects skin against UV rays and Blue light damage omitted from all those devices we love to use! That’s right your devices can and will affect your skin just as the harmful rays from the sun do, and this sunscreen will help prevent that! We love it!

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

4. Vitamin A (retinol)

Hailed as the anti-ageing hero, this favourite antioxidant helps with cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, accelerates cell renewal and repairs damaged DNA.

Just be careful though as retinol can be a little much for some skin types so it’s best to start introducing it into your skincare routine slowly and apply it only at night. For more information on retinol click here.

 Recommended products:

Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Moisturiser – For those with advanced signs of ageing – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots,  is your go-to! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with antioxidants retinol and hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms! Best results when used in conjunction with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Serum.

Micro Retinol

Vie Collection – Retinopur Wrinkles Imperfections Fluid – If your skin is prone to sensitivity and irritation but you really want to give retinol a try, you need to pick your product with care and this retinol fluid will be a great solution for you! While retinol is the main ingredient, it is encapsulated therefore limits tolerance risks and boosts the effectiveness of the retinol which is released gradually. Just remember to introduce it very slowly, 2 nights the first week, 3 nights the second week and so on.

Vie Collection Retinopur Wrinkles Imperfections fluid

5. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid, often celebrated for its hydrating properties, may not be a conventional antioxidant, but it plays a crucial role in supporting the skin’s defence mechanisms. Despite not directly neutralizing free radicals like traditional antioxidants, hyaluronic acid contributes to antioxidant function indirectly. By promoting optimal skin hydration, it helps maintain the skin barrier, preventing environmental stressors from penetrating and causing oxidative damage. Essentially, well-hydrated skin is better equipped to fend off free radicals, making hyaluronic acid an essential ingredient when it comes to the ongoing battle against premature ageing and environmental aggressors.

Recommended products:

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!

Pevonia - Power Repair Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum

Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask – Rich in hyaluronic acid and a cocktail of vitamins, this sensational mask reveals hydrated skin and a radiant complexion. With each application, skin is visibly smoothed and plumped.

What’s more if you purchase this product this February you’ll receive a FREE Vie Collection Mesoforce Hydra Revitalizing Cream!

Beauty Collective - Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid VItamin Mask

6. Green Tea

Green tea earns its title as one of the top antioxidants due to its rich content of polyphenols, specifically a subgroup called catechins. These antioxidant powerhouses combat free radicals, protecting the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. With anti-inflammatory properties, green tea soothes irritated skin, reducing the appearance of redness and puffiness, and promoting a balanced complexion. Its cell regeneration capabilities contribute to a fresher appearance, reducing fine lines. Ideal for various skin types, green tea regulates oil production, making it an essential ingredient for a clear and vibrant complexion.

Recommended products:

Naturys Anti-Age Well Aging Eye Contour Cream – worried about your eyes ageing. Try this beauty! It is lightweight, fast-absorbing, nourishing and moisturising and visibly reduces signs of ageing, fatigue, fine lines, puffiness, and improves the elasticity of the delicate skin around the eyes! Seriously good stuff packed with antioxidant goodness green tea, peptides, bakuchiol and caffeine!

Pevonia RS2 Care Cream – If you suffer from ultra-sensitive or rosacea prone skin you will love this seriously nurturing cream. Formulated with Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, it soothes skin while providing vaso-constricting, repairing, protecting and hydrating benefits!

Beauty Collective - Pevonia RS2 Care Cream

 

How to incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine

  1. Choose products with a mix of antioxidants for comprehensive protection
  2. Layer your antioxidants under sunscreen for enhanced defence against UV damage.
  3. Use antioxidants daily to maximise benefits and for optimal results.

By incorporating these powerhouse ingredients into your skincare routine, you’re not just pampering your skin; you’re providing it with the defence it needs to shine with radiance.

acne faqs

Acne – your most asked questions answered by the BC experts

From stress inducing activities (hello school holidays) to overindulging (another cheese platter anyone?) the December/January holiday season (or silly season as we like to call it!) are rife with potential triggers that can lead to acne flare ups! That’s why this time of year is when we, at BC, get inundated with your questions about acne.

Whether acne is something you’ve lived with for many years, or it’s decided to crop up now as an unwelcome adult guest, acne is one of the most common skin woes and we are here to help! We’ve listed the most frequently asked questions about acne and tapped into the wisdom of our skincare experts to get you the best possible answers. Keep scrolling to find out what they are…

 

Q: Why am I getting acne as an adult, I thought acne was for teenagers?

Sadly acne isn’t only reserved for awkward high school years. Several factors can contribute to acne in adults. These include;

hormonal changes: This often occurs during menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause. Hormonal imbalances can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production and breakouts.

Stress: High stress levels can wreak havoc on your skin. Stress triggers the release of certain hormones, such as cortisol, which can stimulate oil production and contribute to acne. Additionally, stress may lead to unhealthy lifestyle habits, like poor sleep and an imbalanced diet, which can further exacerbate skin issues.

Diet: While the link between specific foods and acne isn’t universally agreed upon, some people find that certain dietary factors such as high-glycemic foods and dairy products can impact their skin and increase the risk of acne.

Skincare and makeup products: The products you use on your skin could be a culprit. Some ingredients in skincare or makeup products may clog pores or irritate the skin, leading to breakouts. Ensure the products you are using are of good quality and are suitable for your specific skin type too!

Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as smog or certain chemicals, can contribute to skin issues. Additionally, humidity may increase the likelihood of acne. Not good news this time of year!

Genetics: Your genetic makeup plays a role in your skin’s characteristics including its susceptibility to acne! If your parents or close relatives had acne, you might be more prone to it as well. Thanks parents!

Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that include acne. If you suspect your medication might be contributing to your acne, it’s best to have a chat with your GP.

Over-cleansing or products that are too harsh for your skin: Sometimes, the desire to combat acne can lead to over-cleansing or the use of products which you think will help but are in fact too harsh for your skin! This can strip the skin of its natural oils, prompting it to produce even more oil in response. More oil produced equals more breakouts!

 

Q: Can I blame overindulging in chocolate for my breakouts?

Sorry to all you chocoholics out there but the link between chocolate and acne isn’t actually crystal clear. It’s more about your overall diet, which does include sugar (and dairy too) so if you’ve been hitting the cheese board like me this silly season, or indulging in too many sweet treats, this definitely could be impacting your skin. Remember everything in moderation! And instead try to indulge in foods such as almonds, blueberries and avocados as they are among a range of foods which may help to reduce and prevent inflammation.

 

Q: How can I get rid of my pimples overnight?

Some spot treatments can work wonders at reducing, and in some cases eliminating, unwanted blemishes overnight. This is because they encourage rapid healing by controlling bacteria, reducing inflammation and diminishing the follicular accumulation of keratin.

For the most effective results look for spot treatments formulated with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. We highly recommend Phytomers Oligopur Blemish Target Gel as the best spot treatment! It targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Simply apply a small amount of product to your pimples and let the powerful ingredients keep your skin follicles clean to achieve an even and bright complexion by morning.

Beauty Collective - Phytomer Blemish Target Gel Q: Can following a specific skincare routine really help my acne?

Absolutely! Consistency is key. A gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser, and targeted treatments can help keep acne at bay.

Also, don’t forget sunscreen – it’s like armour for your skin, yes even for those of us with acne! And I know it sounds counterintuitive, slathering sunscreen all over acne flareups but believe me when I say avoiding sunscreen can worsen the appearance of acne, and if the skin gets sunburnt, the symptoms of acne can be painfully exasperated.

Just be sure to choose your sunscreen wisely. Using the right sunscreen can prevent and heal acne, soothe the skin, keep dark spots and clogged pores at bay, all while protecting from harmful UV rays.

We love Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield.

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

Q: Can I wear makeup if I have acne prone skin?

Absolutely! But you must be careful with what you use! Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas. Mineral makeup can be a game-changer as it doesn’t contain any chemical nasties or additional oils, nor will it aggravate skin or clog pores. Genius! Here at BC from the staff to the experts we all love ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. And for more translucent coverage the ELES Mineral Foundation Powder. Both products are perfect for those with skin sensitives, are free of any chemical nasties, provide effortless and natural coverage and most importantly will allow your skin to breathe freely (so no pore clogging in sight) plus you’ll feel like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! What more could you ask for?

For more information on makeup for acne prone skin, including the best makeup tips click here.

ELES - Mineral Powder Foundation

My pimples really need popping, is it ok to do so?

No! Experts cringe at the thought of DIY extractions. Popping pimples can lead to scarring and more inflammation. Let it be, and consider a spot treatment instead.

Are all pimples the same?

Nope! From blackheads and whiteheads to cystic acne, the acne family can get a little confusing! And each type of pimple or acne requires a slightly different approach too! To understand more about the type of acne you could be suffering from click here.

Could stress and lack of sleep being affecting my skin?

Yes sir-eee. Lack of sleep and high stress levels can trigger hormonal imbalances leading to breakouts. Try to prioritise self-care, practice relaxation techniques and try to get to bed earlier if you can for ample beauty sleep. If you struggle with getting to sleep make sure you turn off devices an hour before bedtime and instead listen to some soothing sounds. We love listening to the ambient relaxation playlist on Spotify.

These were the top 10 beauty buys on BC in 2023 and your reviews prove it!

These were the top 10 beauty buys on BC in 2023 and your reviews prove it!

Another year, another count down of the best-selling products on BC, this time for 2023! From the cult classics that keep coming up year after year, to new product launches, the top 10 beauty buys range from true skincare saviours to makeup must-haves. Keep reading as we reveal them all, and with your reviews to prove their worth too!

 

ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15

I personally LOVE this gem of a product and since it’s the no.1 best seller on BC, our customers clearly feel the same! If you are a lover of matte foundations but after something soft, subtle and natural looking, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, smooth, powder finish, it’s also mineral-enriched (so great for your skin) and provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for!

5/5✭

“Amazing foundation! So easy to apply with fingertips and has great coverage whilst looking natural and not settling into lines. Excellent match for my skin colour with smooth luminous finish that’s perfect for my late 40’s skin needs.”  Clarissa

5/5✭

“I have been using this product for 10 years+ and cannot fault it. It is light, silky and even though my skin is oil based it does not leave it clogged like many other foundations I have used previously.
I absolutely recommend anyone to try it to see how beautiful it is to wear.”  Debrah

5/5✭

“This is the best foundation I have ever used! Firstly, it’s mineral makeup so it doesn’t clog your skin. Secondly the coverage is amazing and it makes your skin look and feel like velvet – honestly the best I have ever used. I have been using this for years and just love it. I get compliments on my makeup all the time.” Sia P

ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation

Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream 

Pevonia’s global best-selling product, is once again at the top of Beauty Collectives best-selling list for another year and for every good reason! It is deeply nourishing (without feeling heavy or oily), feels amazing on application, and is formulated with the best anti-ageing and hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, marine collagen, squalane and glycerin, to plump, smooth and deeply nourish skin for optimal radiance. I swear I have less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream and our customers agree too.

5/5✭

“I love this daily face cream….I use it morning and night! My skin looks and feels amazing. I’m 52 and am told constantly that I look so young….I give Pevonia products the credit. Linda

5/5✭

“This cream is amazing! After about 3 weeks of using it, I noticed that the lines around my eyes were softer, the red sun damage on my cheeks was lessening and the general quality of my skin was improving. I will continue to use this product indefinitely.” Sara

5/5✭

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

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Marine Collagen Cream

ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30

Another product I’m a huge advocate for! This time it’s this multifaceted wonder cream from ELES Cosmetics. It has the perfect light, dewy coverage and literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects (thanks to its SPF of 30) and evens out skin tone all in one! for a truly natural and flawless finish, plus it feels like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! Honestly, if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this product is one you should seriously consider too! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one!

What’s more, thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned!

5/5✭

“I absolutely love this product. I used it years ago, tried others but nothing compares. Such a beautiful feel on your skin and the perfect amount of glowy/dewy coverage. I love the spf included, I don’t need to use any other product but this on my face of a morning. Perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger.” Krystle W

5/5✭

“This product is so beautiful for older skin. It covers really well yet allows the skin to breath. It’s pearlescent finish makes the skin glow. I am really happy with my purchase and recommend it to others without reservation.” Judith

5/5✭

“I’ve been using ELES BB Cream for 5 years and have not strayed. I love the coverage (you only need a little) and the dewy complexion it gives my skin! Highly recommend this product!” Joanne

ELES BB Cream 30

 

Pevonia RS2 Care Cream

If you suffer from ultra-sensitive or rosacea prone skin, this could well be your new go-to cream like so many of our customers! Rich in licorice root extract (also known as nature’s cortisone) this beautifully nurturing cream is soothing like ice on sensitive skin. Formulated with Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, it provides skin with vaso-constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits! No wonder our customers love it!

5/5✭

“I love this cream, the best one around. It is cool and refreshing. It does not make me break out, which many creams do. I have super sensitive skin and this is one of the few products that my skin loves.” Jackie

5/5✭

I have paid out a lot of money on products for my rosacea- this time I have hit the jackpot! After years of frustration and not wanting to go down the laser path I have found this cream and I can truly say it has helped my skin. It is calmer with less redness and flare ups.” Sharon  

5/5✭

I have rosacea and my skin can be sensitive so have been using this care cream for some time now. I have tried some others but have moved back to this one as it keeps my rosacea calm and my skin hydrated. I love it.” Margaret

Beauty Collective - Pevonia RS2 Care Cream 

Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser

Everyone needs a good daily cleanser in their skincare collection and this cleanser is the one that keeps topping our best-sellers list year after year. Why? Because its anti-ageing and deeply nourishing! Creamy textured, it’s formulated with marine collagen, marine elastin and other natural nourishing and nurturing ingredients that hydrate and gently but deeply cleanses the skin removing impurities without any residue.

5/5✭

Best Cleanser Ever. Creamy, non-irritating cleanser. I’ve been using Pevonia for years and my skin feels great.” Kelly

5/5✭

The best way for younger looking skin.Just a few pumps will clean your face and your face will feel silky smooth. Does not leave your skin feeling dry.” Sarah

5/5✭

“I love this cleanser and so does my skin. I have tried others but keep coming back to the Power Repair. Even my rosecea loves it.” Robyn

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Power Repair Hydrating Cleanser 

Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20

I know I’m biased but I really do love all the foundations from ELES Cosmetics, but this one has to be my favourite go-to for the summer season! It is sooo nourishing, dewy and light on the skin, and provides the perfect natural sun-kissed glow.  It’s also rich in Vitamins A & E and SPF to condition and protect skin. Looking for effortless coverage that leaves skin with a natural radiance glow, this is it!

5/5✭

“This tint is the best thing EVER for summer days – really sheer but it just evens out your skin tone and gives it a lovely glow. It stays in place and seems to be incredibly sweat resistant and also doesn’t wipe off on clothes or settle into pores. Miracle!” Jenni

5/5✭

“This is a beautiful sheer tinted moisturizer, with SPF. It looks and feels like skin. I love the Natural Glow. it is perfect for mature skin making it look a little dewy and more youthful.” Christina

5/5✭

“Seriously the best foundation I’ve ever used. My skin reacts to a lot of chemicals/make-up but never to this one. Goes on beautifully and the tint shades are perfect. :)” Leah

Beauty Collective - Mineral Sheer TintPevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream

There is nothing not to love about this product if your complexion tends to lean towards the shiny, oily, hormonal side. This extra light yet nourishing moisturiser feels smooth and soft on application but effectively controls oil and shine while reducing congestion! Oh, and it smells pretty fab too!

5/5✭

“I love this day cream. The lemon grass smells divine. It is not heavy or oily. It soaks in beautifully and makes my combination skin hydrated yet controls the oil flow and reduces congestion.” Nikita

5/5✭

“What’s not to love about this product? It provides just enough moisture for my combination skin, absorbs quickly, doesn’t pill under makeup, doesn’t cause me to breakout and the cherry on top….it smells AMAZING! The ingredient list is very clean so I know I’m providing some great nutrients to my skin.” Dyan

5/5✭

“The Pevonia Combination Cream is fantastic for my skin. Controls the oil in my skin, extra light and feels smooth and soft. I have always suffered with hormonal skin along my shin line and now I am finally happy with the results from using Pevonia combination range.” Sasha

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream

Pevonia C Evolutive Eye Gel

This eye gel is the perfect morning pick-me-up for tired, ageing eyes. Or customers think so too! Formulated with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Ginkgo Biloba, this powerhouse product really packs a punch. The three potent ingredients work together to deliver not only decongesting and brightening benefits but they also affectively target dark circles and wrinkles. The results speak for themselves. Renewed, rejuvenated, refreshed and visibly brighter eye contour with visible reduction in wrinkles. Enough reasons to make you see why its on the top 10 best-sellers for 2023?

5/5✭

“I have been using this for 15 yrs and best eye gel for keeping the wrinkles at bay” Isabelle

5/5✭

“I love this eye gel, i have been using it for years and it is non-greasy and soothing on the skin. It also reduces puffiness straight away and you can put make-up on without having to wait. I would highly recommend this product”. Jane

5/5✭

“Have totally fallen in love with this product! It’s cooling around the eyes without that tight feeling you sometimes get with other gel eye creams. Definitely reduced puffiness around the eyes. Highly recommend!” Miriam

Beauty Collective Pevonia - C Evolutive Eye GelPhytomer 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.

5/5✭

“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

5/5✭

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

5/5✭

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

Rosee Visage Cleansing Lotion

Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes 

Exfoliation is important for everyone, even those with the most sensitive of skin, but finding the right exfoliator to suit can be tricky. We therefore aren’t at all surprised that Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant has been in the top 10 for a number of years now! It is a seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant for all skin types, as it eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) This formidable exfoliator 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!) the Vegetal Exfoliant is for you!  

5/5✭

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

5/5✭

“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

5/5✭

“Love this Vegetal Exfoliant, after using it twice a week I notice more clear skin without irritation or redness.I have very sensitive skin and are wary of exfoliants since most of them have chemical ingredients. No redness but fresh looking skin. My favourite exfoliant now.” Phoenix

Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant