BC Skin Journal

BC Blog

Beauty Collective - BC Summer must haves

BC’s top 5 Phytomer products for summer

by Jo Boyden on Jan 18 2022
Keeping your skin looking good in summer can be such a challenge! Extreme temps contribute to a number of pesky conditions that lead so many of us wanting to pack our bags and set off for cooler climates.We asked the team at Phytomer Australia headquarters to recommend their top 5 summer skin challenges and solutions and this is what they came up with…Challenge One: Excessive Oiliness and Open PoresSolution: Marine Scrub Creamy ExfoliantThis nifty product is just like a scrub and mask in one, allowing you to use it several times a week in summer to keep skin fresh and refined; it polishes off the dry dead skin cells that adhere more easily to the skin when it’s oily and Chondrus crispus oil and OLIGOMER moisturize and strengthen the skin. Challenge Two: DehydrationSolution: Hydra Continue 12H Moisturising Flash GelApply this gorgeous cooling gel beneath your moisturiser for lasting hydration. It literally “plumps” the skin with dewy moisture that lasts all day. Challenge Three: Redness!Solution: Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum with OligomerLike liquid ice on the skin this gentle serum, sooths, cools, strengthens and replenishes heat irritated skin. Apply at night to do its thing while you sleep and wake with normalised calm skin.Challenge Four: Dry Body SkinSolution: Oleocreme Ultra-Moisturizing Body MilkI know, on a hot day the last thing you feel like doing is applying sticky cream all over your body however this one isn’t sticky and sinks into the skin long before you have the lid back on! It leaves the skin feeling velvety soft and as a bonus it smells exquisite!Challenge: Puffy Eyes and Dry Lips (yes it’s two but who’s counting?)Solution: Youth Contour Smoothing Eye and Lip CreamThis is a favourite and no wonder, it’s the ultimate multi-tasking and lets face it, we all love to save time! This marvel increases the circulation flushing away puffiness and dark circles yet moisturises deeply to repair the skin, apply around the eyes and over lips for the softest peepers and kisses you’ve ever experienced!Want to know more about Phytomer products? Check out https://beautycollective.com.au/Brand-Phytomer
Beauty Collective - Phytomer

The Incredible Discovery of Marine Sugars by Phytomer

by Jo Boyden on Jan 18 2022
You cannot see them with the naked eye yet microscopic organisms represent 90 per cent of underwater life. Only one per cent of them are known to date.Phytomer has been exploring marine life for over 40 years with a true passion and is now inaugurating brand new biotechnological ingredients: marine sugars. These sugars, naturally produced by marine microorganisms, have no earthly equivalent and cannot be copied. They represent a reservoir of unique and inimitable ingredients with unprecedented benefits for the skin!Each marine sugar has specific properties in terms of texture, cellular activation and, for certain ones, powerful and instantaneous surface effects. For example, the XMF (extra marine filler) marine sugar, discovered and produced by Phytomer, creates an invisible natural film on the skin surface that instantly smooths the appearance of wrinkles.To be able to use these marine sugars without tapping into natural resources, Phytomer has developed a biotechnological cultivation program. The program starts by selecting and isolating the microorganism capable of producing the identified marine sugar; then placing it in the bioreactor in optimum conditions that promote the synthesis of its marine sugar.The micro-organism thus becomes a ‘manufacturer’ of advanced molecules in the laboratory. Once synthesised, the marine sugar is then extracted and purified without adding a chemical solvent or alcohol. This very advanced natural production method provides Phytomer laboratories with a high level of purity and optimum quality of active ingredients. As a result Pionnière XMF Perfection Youth Cream, that incorporates XMF marine sugar, provides incredible anti-ageing results! find out more on https://beautycollective.com.au/Brand-Phytomer.
Beauty Collective - Skin in need of a detox

Skin in need of a detox? 7 ways to get it back into shape

by Jo Boyden on Jan 13 2022
If you’re anything like me, the festive season might well have seen you over-indulging. And the more ‘treats’ you’ve enjoyed, the more likely both you, and your skin will be in need of detox!Detoxing your skin simply means removing as many of the impurities, toxins, pollutants and dead skin cells as possible to cleanse, treat, brighten, hydrate and soothe your skin back to its optimal condition. If you’ve yet to try a skin detox, it’s probably time, here’s how; Double Cleanse We all cleanse our skin of course, it’s a daily habit, but no matter what your usual skincare routine, a serious skin detox requires double cleansing! The first cleanse will eradicate daily dirt, excess oil and makeup, but if you double cleanse you’ll be sure to remove any remaining impurities guaranteeing your cleanest skin yet!The double cleanse method works on the principle that you firstly use a cleansing oil (we LOVE the ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil) or micellar water (if you are a lover of micellar water you simply must try Vie Collection’s Micellar water for face, eyes and lips), they will break down makeup, SPF and sebum on the surface of your skin. Then follow with a water-based cleanser, which will clean much deeper into the pores, removing any remaining sweat, bacteria and dead skin cells. The deeper cleanse will also allow your serum and moisturiser, as well as other night-time leave-on products, to penetrate into your skin working their magic much more efficiently, giving your skin cells the best chance at regenerating for a plumper more youthful complexion! Up the ante when it comes to exfoliating It’s time to step up your game. The goal is to slough away dull, dead skin cells and toxins frequently, so opt for a gentle formula you can use twice a week. we LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture. But if granules scare you, we 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. Apply a detoxifying mask Whenever skin is in need of a serious detox, applying a mask containing ingredients like charcoal is a must! It’ll help to absorb deep-dwelling dirt and toxins as well as removing excel oil and impurities from the skin. We love Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask. This silky-smooth and creamy mask easily pulls toxins out of the skin for a clean, purified and healthy complexion as it restores a normalized cellular function.Kaolin and Bentonite Clays can also help refine pores and balance the skin. Our go-to mask for deep cleansing is Phytomer Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask with Kaolin Clay. Add your skin boosters Now that your pores are open, clean and ready for action - in other words ready to absorb some serious active ingredients - it’s time to apply your skin boosters AKA hyaluronic acid, vitamin c and retinol among others. Vitamin C especially is a great detoxing agent since its rich in antioxidants and can combat free radicals! Try Pevonia’s C Complexe. 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, it makes skin instantly brighter and dewier on application too. Hydrate your skin Complete your facial detox regimen by keeping your skin's moisture levels balanced. Opt for a moisturiser that contains Hyaluronic Acid such as Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. If you read our blog, you’ll already know it’s my personal absolute can’t live without product and Pevonia’s Global Best-Seller too! It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream – formulated with the best hydrating ingredients; Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Collagen, Glycerin, and more, that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin super soft, supple and like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day!At night use a facial oil designed to help lock in optimum hydration levels. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. It’s a soothing, silky antioxidant oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma and is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and 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 by morning. Don’t forget your body Now we have your skin sorted it’s time to move onto your body! Dry brushing your body with a firm-bristled brush before showering is amazing for detoxifying! It can help remove dead skin cells, stimulate lymphatic fluid and improve circulation to rid skin of impurities.Also using a good seaweed soap in the shower can have major benefits. Combining Seaweed, one of the greatest marine elements with Shea Butter, Pevonia’s Seaweed Exfoliating Soap detoxifies, stimulates circulation, removes surface build-up, and renders your skin silky-smooth! Winning. Clean from within Finally eating lots of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables, as well as drinking green tea and at least eight glasses of water a day, will help your skin flush toxins from the inside out.
Beauty Collective - fatigued skin

5 signs your skin is fatigued and how to fix it

by Jo Boyden on Nov 12 2021
If you’re feeling fatigued then your skin will likely reflect it too. In fact, tired skin is a very common skin complaint! Luckily it can be easily corrected with a combination of lifestyle changes and topical skincare treatments! Phew.Read on as we reveal the 5 signs of a tired complexion as well as the steps you should take to fix it! The 5 signs of tired skinDullnessDehydrationUnder-eye circlesPronounced/exacerbated fine lines and wrinklesPuffiness How to fix it Cleanse your skin every evening with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water Who doesn’t love a hot shower or bath of an evening? Thing is washing in hot water has the ability to strip your skin of its natural oils causing dehydration. If you’re suffering from fatigued skin, the best way to cleanse is therefore with lukewarm water and using a gentle cleanser free of harsh chemicals. My personal new go to is Phytomer’s new Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing Cream. It’s a super-soft, velvety and creamy cleansing cream formulated with so many clever ingredients including; the formidable Cyfolia algae, revitalising seawater – oligomer, organic orange water, organic vegetal oils, rose, cedarwood, spiced pink peppercorns, and aloe vera which literally envelope the skin with a beautiful, fresh fragrance. And on application, it quite literally melts into skin to very gently (but also very effectively!) remove makeup, oil, and any impurities. Make sure you exfoliate weekly Exfoliation is a no-fail way to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion. Proper exfoliation accelerates skin cell turnover by sloughing dead cells from the skin’s surface to reveal the new, healthy cells underneath. For dehydrated skin, we recommend avoiding gritty scrubs that could irritate the skin. Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliant like Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. It’s a product I love to rave about and for very good reason. It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells, and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away.Another new love of mine is Phytomer’s Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream. It is amazing and does exactly what the name says! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! It features two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, as well as Algae, Oligomer and Orange water that work together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application.Using this once a week will help you gain a brighter, smoother, clearer complexion. Trust me. Just don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! Use a serum rich in skin brightening Vitamin C Another tip for reviving dull skin? Adding a vitamin C serum, like Pevonia’s “C” Complexe to your skincare routine. This serum will help boost radiance, but it also has incredible anti-aging effects as it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance collagen production and help to create tighter and younger looking skin overall.Vitamin C serums offer a multitude of benefits when incorporated into both your morning and evening skincare routine. For example, by using a vitamin C serum as part of your morning skincare routine, your skin is better able to neutralise harmful free radicals that can build up throughout the day. Protect your skin’s outer layer Dull, dehydrated skin lacks water. The key is preventing water from leaving your skin by keeping its moisture barrier intact. One of the best ways to achieve this is with a topical treatment like Pevonia’s outstanding Vitaminic Concentrate. It’s a deeply nourishing, fast absorbing treatment oil which uses mandarin oil to lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss. Also combining Vitamins A and E it’ll have your complexion looking beautifully brighter and rejuvenated by morning. What’s more, it has the most amazing aroma! Use a nourishing and brightening moisturiser You might love your current moisturiser but when skin is fatigued it's time to up the ante. Try Phytomer's Citadine Citylife Face & Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. Formulated in a refreshing sorbet texture and suitable for face and eye contour, this cream is just what you need to reoxygenate your tired skin. A combination of three marine sugars create the active ingredient, CITYSAFE®, to depollute, cleanse and oxygenate the skin. CITYSAFE®, along with blue and red algaes and Phytomer’s patented seawater concentrate – Oligomer®, reset skin repairing damage caused by signs of fatigue, dark spots and a dull complexion. CITYLIFE not only sweeps away toxic micro particles but provides an ultra-moisturising facial experience too! Add a facial mask to your routine While clay masks are known to absorb excess oils (so great for those with oily skin!) they also help to remove the build-up of dead skin cells that cause the skin to look lifeless and lacklustre. The Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask combines100% natural red and white clays with the best in marine ingredients to instantly unclog pores and counter the effects of pollution, including signs of fatigue, dark spots, and dullness. After every application, the appearance of tired skin is diminished and replaced with a radiant and renewed complexion. LOVE. Don’t forget your peepers Dark circles are a very common sign of skin fatigue as well as loss of collagen around the eye area. To help stimulate collagen production and give the skin a glowing complexion make sure you use a nourishing eye cream or gel rich in hyaluronic and vitamin c. We LOVE Vie Collection’s Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream. A mouthful to say, but a product that does exactly what it says! It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Seriously! it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area, and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened my dark circles, and even smoothed my wrinkles! Watch your water intake Yes, we all know we are supposed to be consuming a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day but did you realise that this should start as soon as you awaken from blissful slumber! Drinking approximately 2 glasses of water first thing is hands down the most ideal way to bring back your hydration levels, after all, you’ve not replenished fluid levels for a number of hours over night. Get yourself a good night’s sleep! And last but not least get some sleep! Your skin might be looking tired because you are tired! Poor sleep is proven to lead to dull, dehydrated skin! And I’ve told you many a time before how blue light emitted from our devices can also have a significant impact on our skin and our sleep cycle so make sure you put that phone down at least an hour before bed. 8 hours of blissful sleep is what you are aiming for a night! Why? Because your skin switches to regenerative mode while you sleep. If it doesn’t get enough time to complete its restorative process, skin won’t look as fresh and bright. Simple as that.
Beauty Collective - 6 face oils

6 reasons why you should start using face oils

by Jo Boyden on Nov 11 2021
While they're predominantly known for their hydrating properties, face oils, contrary to popular belief, are not a skincare product designed only for those prone to dry skin! Oh no, they can in fact work wonders on most skin types thanks to their myriad of benefits, and can transform skin from dull to dazzling in next to no time! But don’t just take my word for it, read on as we reveal 6 benefits of face oils and why you need one in your daily routine stat! We’ll also tell you all about our top 6 face oils on BC. Firstly though, you need to understand what exactly a face oil actually is!So what are face oils?Face oils are typically formulated with botanical and essential oils as well as plant extracts and antioxidants. They are designed to soften, nourish and balance your complexion, locking in hydration and providing skin with the additional moisture it needs for a truly glowing complexion. Non-comedogenic, they won’t clog pores and cause breakouts either!Why you would benefit from using a face oil; They are skin protecting Face oils have numerous benefits, but their no. 1 purpose is to serve as an extra level of protection for your skin. Because oils are lipophilic, they have the ability to trap water and other moisturizing goodness in, while keeping toxins and other bad stuff out! Face oils are also considered a type of emollient, which means that unlike creams and serums which sink deep into the dermis (the deeper layers of skin) for intensive long-lasting hydration, oils tend to hang out near the skins surface creating essential skin barrier protection. This is especially important for those of us city slickers who need extra protection against pollutants and smog, one of the main causes of premature ageing after the sun’s harmful rays! Eek. They provide essential nourishment for all skin types While anyone, even those with oily skin, can benefit from facial oils, they can be the ideal remedy for those with dehydrated and dry skin. Not only do they provide nourishment of their own, they also have the ability to help boost your moisturizer’s hydrating efforts by sealing in the hydrating ingredients, making your skin more likely to hold onto that added hydration. In fact, face oils are integral to healthy skin as without them, moisture just continuously leeches out from the skin until the next time you apply your cream! They promote a healthy-looking glow If your skin is looking dull and devitalised a face oil will be your new best friend. As we age our skin produces less natural oil, so adding a facial oil into your daily skincare routine had helped restore essential moisture loss and encourage a youthful, glowy complexion. They can effectively help reduce wrinkles In your late 30s, wrinkles can start to look more obvious because the skin's natural oils decrease, the moisture barrier breaks down, and the skin dries out. Because oils are lipophilic, or fat loving, they pass through the lipid layer of the skin faster, preventing water loss and plumping skin with moisture more effectively. Some facial oils are also packed with antioxidants which have powerful anti-ageing benefits since they help protect the skin's surface from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors like UV and pollution! So if you are concerned with skin ageing, are prone to dry skin or suffer from sun damage, opt for oils rich in vitamins A and E. They provide antibacterial and skin healing properties Many oils have anti-inflammatory properties and in turn have the ability to decrease inflammation as well as help soothe irritated skin. They can shrink pore size Oils such as jojoba, can actually draw-out grime and fats from pores, making them appear smaller and less noticeable.Our top picksTo learn all about our favourite five face oils click here.Now we’ve established why you should use a face oil in your beauty regime, click here to understand the benefits of serums too!
Beauty Collective - 5 face oils

6 face oils to add to your daily routine

by Jo Boyden on Nov 10 2021
I may have been late to the party when it comes to introducing face oils as a staple in my beauty routine, but today I’m testament to how good they really are how much they have single handily benefited my skin. You see my skin has always been notoriously dry. No matter how much water I drink, how much love I seem to show it, I have a dehydrated complexion. But since discovering my favourite skincare products including my much-loved face oils, my skin has gone from dehydrated to glowy in next to no time and I’m here to tell you how.Firstly though, it’s important to understand that face oils are not just for those of us suffering from dull, dry, or dehydrated skin. They are in fact the perfect product for everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern. So if you’ve been wanting to try a face oil in what feels like forever but have been holding back from fear of breakouts because let’s face it applying oil to oily skin isn’t logical right? You’d be wrong! The age-old beauty myth is just that, a myth, because not only do face oils actually balance oil flow (yes really!) they help to repair your skin’s natural barrier too! Genius!From cleansing oils to radiance boosters, the following face oils will transform your skincare routine and your skin! What’s more they come highly recommended by the BC professionals and you, our loyal customers too! Pevonia Vitaminic ConcentrateThis soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma, is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and 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.“This product has saved my dry skin, especially during the colder months. You put it on after cleanser and it is absorbed right away. It is a dry oil and is just wonderful.” Amelia G Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing OilThis is one of those silky, soothing oils with a heavenly rose petal scent that quite literally makes you go ahhhhh” as it melts into your skin. It’s a lightweight dry oil so it absorbs immediately creating a velvety finish without the greasy residue of many an oil. Nourishing marine extracts and botanical oils work together to eliminate impurities while brightening, hydrating, and restoring your skin's natural luster! So while you sleep, your skin repairs and you wake up with a baby soft, radiant complexion that strengthens and firms with every application.“I love this product it makes my skin feel soft and subtle and gives it a beautiful glow. I suffer from redness and this helps to soothe my skin. Amazing product.” Jenni Pevonia De-stress Escape Aromatic OilIf your skin is dry, you’ll really benefit from using facial oils as your barrier. Our current go-to is Pevonia’s new Destress Escape Aromatic Oil. This barrier warrior features a blend of premium and delicate natural oils including safflower, squalane, lavender, chamomile, grapefruit and rose to instantaneously deliver intense hydration while soothing, calming, relaxing, brightening and protecting the skin barrier for ongoing optimal skin health.“I love this face oil! I’ve been using it for a month now as a night time treatment for my dull, dry skin and the results next morning are fantastic! Smoother, plumper, brighter skin! The scent is also heavenly and definitely transports me into a relaxed state of mind. Such amazing stuff!” Amy K Phytomer Tresor Des Mes Beautifying OilThis “treasure of the sea” is THE double duty beauty oil you want in your bathroom! For face, body, and hair! It infuses all the benefits of marine and vegetal oils to moisturise, nourish, repair, and protect you from head to toe. Apply in the evening after a shower or bath and breath in the sensual summer scent. Subtly golden, this beauty elixir will illuminate your skin with light.“This oil keeps my skin smooth and soft. It’s not greasy and absorbs well leaving an attractive glow to skin and hair. I'm so delighted to have been introduced to this product!” Emily Phytomer Oligoforce Advanced Wrinkle and Dark Spot CorrectionThis micro-emulsion contains two active breakthrough ingredients; OLIGOMER concentrated seawater and Marine Ethernal blue micro-algae to specifically target dark spots and wrinkles. Its dewy texture, combining all the comfort of an oil and the effectiveness of a serum, envelops the skin in light and delivers intense hydration. Day after day your skin will become more radiant and dark spots will diminish and fine lines smoothed away! Sound good?“This is a beautiful product. I have only been using it all for about 1 week but already I see a big improvement. I will definitely buy this again and highly recommend it.” Leanore A ELES Cosmetics Transformation Cleansing OilOils aren’t just products that you add at the end of your night-time routine, they also come in the form of cleansers too! Yes! It might sound crazy to remove oil and grime with ‘oil’ so to speak but once you try a cleansing oil you won’t look back. Nothing feels more nurturing and luxurious than a good cleansing oil and the ELES Transformation cleansing oil won’t disappoint! Firstly it literally melts into skin dissolving everything, even waterproof mascara! It does this by binding impurities to the molecules like a vacuum cleaner! Secondly, it dissolves in water. That’s right, you will not be left with a greasy film at all, this oil literally transforms into water-soluble milk which is easily rinsed off leaving your skin feeling not only beautifully clean but remarkably soft and supple too!“Oil cleansers can sound scary especially if you have oily skin but they’re really life-changing and this cleansing oil is no exception! I love how soothing it feels and actually enjoy the process of removing my makeup. There is no oily residue – just clean, soft, smooth, nourished skin. Bliss.” Sarah H
Beauty Collective - airbrushed beauty

How to get airbrushed-looking skin naturally

by Jo Boyden on Nov 05 2021
Let’s face it… we all want it! Perfect skin, All. Of. The. Time, and with little evidence of makeup too! And sure, what with the likes of #facetuning every one of us can achieve a beautifully airbrushed complexion in our photos, but what about looking airbrushed the natural way, without the likes of apps?Armed with a few miracle makeup items you indeed can! Here’s how; STEP ONE: THE SKIN PREPPevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserThe key to nailing your makeup actually lies in the prep you do beforehand. For flawless airbrushed-looking skin you must start with a smooth, clean, flake-free canvas. Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser that will thoroughly cleanse skin as well as remove any build-up of excess oil and dead skin cells. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single use!STEP TWO: THE MULTI-TASKERELES Age Defying BB Cream 30Loaded with Goji Berries, Minerals, Vitamins and Sun Protection this wonder base and ELES Cosmetics best-seller, is your skin care, primer, base and sunscreen in one! Skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!! Simply apply to cleansed skin for the silkiest and most undetectable coverage ever! STEP THREE: THE PERFECTORELES Dual Action ConcealerNothing takes the years off your face more than a great under-eye concealer and this is no exception! It not only covers dark circles, it smooths, brightens, depuffs and treats them too! Plus, its medium coverage formula provides continuous hydration and a natural longwearing finish. Select a shade lighter than your foundation and apply it beneath the eyes or wherever you see darkness. Pat into your skin with your finger to look as though you’ve just had 10 hours of blissful slumber.Make sure you always apply your concealer after foundation because then you really get a much-desired brightening effect.STEP FOUR: THE AIRBRUSHERELES Baked Finishing Powder - Diffused LightA compact full of miracles! Sweep over the skin for a soft airbrushed finish to any base. The glow-giving powder contains light-reflecting pigments to make skin look impossibly fresh and flawless while the gorgeous warm tones act like a photo filter on your skin. Sublime skin every time! STEP FIVE: THE YOUTH ENHANCERELES Baked BlushFor a pop of colour that makes skin look fresh, dewy and youthful try this! Six gorgeous shades multi-task as blush, eye shadow and when applied with a damp brush can even work as a matte lip colour!N.B if you tend to have a fair complexion, go for a lighter, more muted version of the blush shade you’d like to use! If you have darker skin, try a stronger, deeper version.
Beauty Collective - Beauty Essentials

5 skincare essentials for glowing spring skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 29 2021
Halfway through spring but your skin isn’t looking it’s best? Want to achieve that healthy spring glow but not sure where to start? We’ve got you! Unfortunately, with spring comes a change in our skin thanks to an increase in temperature, sun exposure and humidity levels so it’s important to up the ante when it comes to your skincare! Below are five of our favourite beauty buys to achieve your healthiest skin this spring! We promise you’ll love them too! Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserMany people avoid exfoliation during the winter months because they feel it can dry out their skin, but as the weather warms up and the humidity increases, it’s a good time to exfoliate at least once a week if not more, to brighten a dull lacklustre complexion. A good weekly exfoliation will break up dead surface skin cells and reveal a fresh glowy complexion instead! For the perfect all-rounder exfoliator for all skin types we LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single use!To learn all about the beautifying benefits of exfoliation and which other exfoliators might be best for your skin this spring click here. Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing CreamAs the weather continues to warm up, it’s time to be rid of our richer creams and reach for a lightweight moisturiser instead! Something that will absorb quickly and keep pores clear. And remember even oily skin needs daily moisturising! Why? Because without daily hydration it can produce even more oil to compensate!I highly suggest you give Phytomer’s Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream a go! Perfect for all skin types, it’s a beautifully light yet deeply nourishing cream that provides skin with that ‘invigorating boost’ for fresh, moisturized skin all day long. Rich in hyaluronic and vitamins, it really will transform skin from lacklustre to soft, supple, and visibly radiant. ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50We get it, 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 with more time out and about in spring, it really is time to find that SPF favourite and use it religiously.My personal go-to in spring is ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. It’s lovely and light (none of this thick white greasy emulsion!) plus not only does it protect skin against the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent discolouration while diminishing existing dark spots, all whilst calming and brightening your complexion too! Pevonia “C” ComplexeIn the warmer months, when the sun is shining, UVB radiation is at its strongest, so it’s important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C in our skincare too! Vitamin C when applied topically not only boosts our skin’s natural tolerance to the sun, but it is able to help control the formation of pigmentation as well as significantly lightening its appearance too! So make sure you are armed with a great vitamin C serum or cream. I can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complexe with Oxyzomes. The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equals radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh and it feels a-mazing too thanks to it’s combination of vitamin c and hydrating powerhouse hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing CreamDon’t forget a good night-time ritual that includes a nurturing night-time cream! Looking after your skin before bed will have a profound effect by morning. My go-to for spring is Phytomer’s beautiful silky, lightweight Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. It literally cocoons my skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning. One of my personal all time favourites!
Beauty Collective - skincare makeup

5 makeup products that’ll seriously benefit your skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 27 2021
When it comes to maintaining healthy skin there are those non-negotiable steps that shouldn’t be skimped on….You know the drill, follow a daily skincare routine, drink all the water, do an ample amount of exercise and get plenty of shut eye to name a few, yet when it comes to covering up any facial flaws from blemishes to redness, or simply not being game to go makeup-free, we are quick to slap on that thick layer of concealer, foundation, blush, bronzer and more…in turn clogging pores and reversing the good we’ve done! This is because our makeup choices can sometimes have a less desirable effect on our skin, often causing blemishes and skin irritations! And doesn’t it seem crazy to spend so much time and money perfecting our morning skincare ritual, using the best of the best for our specific skincare needs, only to undo all the good by applying makeup that’s full of toxic ingredients on top!Luckily, here at BC, we are spoilt with an abundance of skin nurturing makeup essentials! Products that not only create the illusion of flawless skin, but actually do good for our skin too! From foundations that provide both breathable coverage and anti-ageing benefits, to illuminators that will also work to hydrate the skin. Read on for our top 5 recommendations, also known as ‘skincare makeup’, and why our customers keep buying them over and over too! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15Foundation, in the past, has always been categorised as makeup, a short term ‘fix’ or superficial layer to conceal flaws and help create the illusion of perfect skin. But who says your foundation can’t have long-term skin benefits like your skincare products? After all shouldn’t your foundation enhance your complexion not mask it? Well ELES’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation does just this! Not only is it formulated with anti-inflammatory zinc as well as Vitamins A, C and E, it allows skin to “breathe freely” whilst shielding against age aggressors. It’s free of heavy fillers and pore-clogging ingredients (phew!) and the skin-safe formula contains no chemical ‘nasties’ or potential irritants, such as fragrance, talc, oil and dyes.If you are a lover of liquid foundation but after something silky and light, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, soft, subtle powder finish, it also provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for!“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 Luminous CC Cream 20Colour correcting and broad-spectrum protection in one, the ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 is amazing for everyone but especially those with facial redness or hyperpigmentation as it adapts to your skin tone so it will darken and lighten as needed to blend and conceal!Its multi-Mineral Complex helps to condition skin and provide antioxidant protection while skin nourishing and brightening ingredients help balance your complexion and fight free radicals for a more even, youthful glow!“I just recently purchased the luminous cc cream and I’m very satisfied. The coverage is perfect for my mature skin, and having oily skin I find this cc cream controls it.” Adele K ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 30Not to be mistaken for its sister – the CC Cream, BB Creams or otherwise known as beauty balms, are infused with antioxidants, brightening agents, acids, broad-spectrum SPF to treat the skin while giving it a fresh, even glow, and let me tell you the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30 is no exception! Multi-faceted it really packs a punch as it quite literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen skin on contact. So if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this is for you! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one! It's skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!! 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! Yessss!“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 ELES Dual Action ConcealerPacked with collagen, vitamins C & E, hyaluronic, Tetrapeptide 5 and Matrixyl® Synthe 6™, this anti-aging concealer not only conceals fine lines and dark circles, it smooths, brightens, depuffs and treats them too, all whilst helping gradually improve skin's texture and elasticity around the eyes! Eyes look beautifully refreshed and radiant. Its medium coverage formula provides continuous hydration and a natural longwearing finish. Apply beneath the eyes and pat into the skin to look as though you’ve just slept 10 hours.“I love this product, been using it for 2 years. You only need the littlest amount to hide dark under eyes reduce the look of wrinkles around your nose and mouth. I always have to have it.” Josephine P ELES Mineral Eyeshadows Let’s face it our delicate eye area is just as important as our skin, in fact it’s the first area to show signs of ageing so surely, we want to treat it to good products as we do our complexion! I love a good eye shadow to take my eyes from awake to stand out and the ELES Mineral Shadows have become a firm favourite (and no not just because I biased!) Ingeniously blended with real minerals and vitamins, each individual eye shadow is free of oils, fragrances and other ingredients that can irritate skin. Also free of talc so colour is fresh, clear and incredibly vibrant! The shadows sweep over eyelids without creasing or fading, while reflecting light away from bruises and dark circles, as well as fine lines.They can be applied dry for soft, low-key shadings, or wet for more vibrant effects and come available in a range of matte and pearlized shades in single inserts or a trio compact so you can mix and match colours.“These eye shadows just blend so easily and remain in place for hours without creasing or flaking. They are light enough to use for a sheer wash of colour but are so easy to build for a strong look. The hard part is deciding which colours i want/need/have to have next.” Naomi F
Beauty Collective - Don't feel like wearing foundation

Don’t feel like wearing foundation? 4 alternative skin-perfecting products

by Jo Boyden on Oct 22 2021
We all have those days when we feel like paring back on the myriad of makeup we wear every day. You know swapping out our foundation for something less ‘full coverage’ so to speak, or even going makeup-free! But then for many of us we still need something to hide those unforgiving flaws or simply to enhance our complexion while making it look naturally flawless of course! Well here at BC we’ve got you covered. Read on for four skin-perfecting products that you can use instead of your foundation, they’ll boost your natural glow too! ELES Retexturizing Face PrimerOften overlooked, a good primer can be a godsend when it comes to achieving flawless skin. We are loving the ELES Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, try this! ELES Age Defying BB Cream SPF 30If you’re looking to simplify your products because you’re a busy mum on the go like me or for days when you want little coverage a BB Cream is a must. Formulated with skincare benefits that include hydration, anti-ageing properties, and SPF protection, BB Creams are a quick and easy way to effectively even out your skin tone without caking on the makeup!I am a huge advocate for the ELES Luminous BB Cream 30. It primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish and 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!! What’s more, it really does feel like you aren’t even wearing makeup, no easy feat for a product with SPF for that matter! ELES Luminous CC Cream SPF 20While the idea of going foundation free in hindsight is great, having your imperfections out there for all to see isn’t so much. You know those obvious undereye dark circles, the hyperpigmentation you normally hide, or your rouge complexion thanks to facial flushing. Opting for a CC Cream though is the perfect solution! Plus, if you have rosacea or are suffering from acne the likelihood is your foundation could well have been exacerbating your condition!Unlike tinted moisturisers, foundations and even BB Creams, these miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover your imperfections, the ELES Luminous CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, and other skin flaws, subtly illuminating the skin. ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightWe are all on the quest for those lightweight multi-tasking miracle products, and ELES’s Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light is just that! Your bronzer, highlighter and foundation powder combined into one clever compact that you can lightly brush over your face for beautiful ‘lit from within’ skin in seconds!The glow-giving base contains light-reflecting pigments to make skin look impossibly fresh while the gorgeous warm tones act like a photo filter on your skin.
Beauty Collective - Rejuvenate your skin this spring

Rejuvenate your skin. The 7 beautifying benefits of exfoliating

by Jo Boyden on Oct 20 2021
With spring well and truly underway and lockdown over, it’s time to get serious about our skin! We all know the importance of daily cleansing and how much of a necessity moisturising both morning and night is but are we all aware of the numerous benefits of exfoliation, an essential step in our skincare routine but sadly one, that not all of us stick to!It doesn’t matter if you suffer from sensitive skin, a dry complexion or if you’re prone to acne, a good weekly exfoliation is vital! Not only because it’ll get rid of dead surface skin cells but because it’ll also improve the effectiveness of your regular skincare routine so you can experience glowing skin faster! You just need to know which exfoliators are best for your skin type and how often to use them. But first we are here to tell you about 7 benefits of exfoliation, and why you need to make sure it’s part of your regular routine from now one! Exfoliating will give your skin back its radiance! As we age our cell turnover slows down and dead skin cells sitting on our skin’s surface can give us a dull, devitalized complexion! Exfoliating is THE one step in your skincare routine that effectively removes this layer of dead skin, restoring your healthy, vibrant glow. It’s that simple! It smooths your skin tone and texture If you are prone to bumpy skin or dry patches you need to get scrubbing! Exfoliation helps to smooth the skin beautifully and will even out uneven tone and texture for a baby soft complexion! It will enable your moisturiser and serum to better penetrate your skin for optimum results There is little point in splurging on fancy face creams and superlative serums if they are simply going to sit on the surface of your skin! Applying your skincare to a surface of dead skin cells (yuck) is ineffective, that’s because ingredients only work if they can get deep down into the dermis. Often people with dry skin tend to gravitate towards rich, heavy moisturisers not realising that the dryness they feel is in fact a layer of dead skin preventing their moisturiser from absorbing! Regular exfoliating will ensure you are reaping the benefits of your regular skincare routine. So get scrubbing people. It will unblock pores reducing the chances of pimples! If we don’t exfoliate and in turn remove the dead cells sitting on our skin’s surface, in time, our pores can become blocked, which often leads to a breakout, acne or oily skin, even if you aren’t usually susceptible to those skincare conditions! Your makeup won’t be able to sit smoothly on your skin without it Yup. Exfoliating creates a clean, smooth canvas so applying your makeup becomes a breeze, this is because it helps your foundation glide on smoothly instead of sitting atop flaky skin. Plus without that clear canvas, they’ll be no way of avoiding that nasty patchy look! It boosts circulation making skin glow! Exfoliation can also help detoxify your skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage by removing toxins as well as dead skin cells. The results, a beautiful instant, rosy flush. It stimulates collagen production Exfoliating also helps stimulate collagen synthesis to improve the skin's texture, integrity, and keep the skin looking plump, tight, and young! Yes, it’s THAT important! What exactly is exfoliation?Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells. Our bodies actually naturally shed some of these dead cells by itself, but as we age the cycle of new cells to dead cells slows down significantly, therefore speeding up this cycle with weekly exfoliation is paramount to keeping skin young and healthy.There are two types of exfoliation methods - physical and chemical. They share the same goals - clearing dead skin cells, helping speed cell turnover, and leaving skin brighter and smoother - but while acids and skin peels are forms of chemical exfoliation, facial scrubs are forms of physical. How often should I exfoliate?Just once or twice a week depending on your skin type will suffice. As much as exfoliating is good for our skin, over-exfoliating—either by doing it too often or by using an exfoliant that’s too harsh or doesn’t agree with our skin—can lead to adverse reactions such as redness, peeling, and flaking. Just be sure to listen to your skin! What is the best exfoliator for my skin type?With so many exfoliators on the market, it’s hard to know where to begin. Finding one to suit your skin can be tricky but paramount to your skin’s health! Below we’ve listed four of our favourites (and that of our customers!) dependant on your skin type. BLEMISH PRONE SKINTo fight those pesky pimples We LOVE Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Jojoba Seed Extract and Grapefruit oil, it provides gentle but effective exfoliating action to open and clear pores, combatting acne-causing bacteria! “BEST CLEANSER EVER! I’ve tried so many cleansers with salicylic acid, glycolic acid or a mix of both to help my blemished skin but they are all too drying. This cleanser is by far the best I have ever found. It thoroughly cleans my skin of all makeup and impurities and my skin feels so smooth afterwards. This is a winner!” Shelley SENSITIVE /ROSACEA PRONE SKINIf you are a sufferer of sensitive skin, we 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.“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R DRY, DULL SKINIf your complexion is dry, dull or devitalized, I’d highly recommend investing in Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Exfoliating Cream! It is amazing and does exactly what the name says! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! It features two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, as well as Algae, Oligomer and Orange water that work together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application.“I love this product. It does wonders for my dehydrated, dull skin! It has a beautiful texture, is not harsh at all and the results speak for themselves. My skin is so soft and almost glowy after I use it. LOVE” Tina R ALL SKIN TYPESNo matter what your skin type if you are a fan of enzyme exfoliators over physical scrubs you are going to fall in love with Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. This little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) does wonders for the skin. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me.“Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It's gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft.” Lisa W SHOP ALL EXFOLIATORS.
Beauty Collective - 5 ways to look fresh faced everyday

5 ways to look fresh faced everyday

by Jo Boyden on Oct 15 2021
Wouldn’t we all love to wake to a fresh face every day? You know that perky looking, glowy skin we once donned many a year ago. Unfortunately, due to daily stresses, lack of sleep, environmental factors and more, our skin can look far from fresh and youthful! And instead, tired, dull and lacklustre. Urgh.The good news is however, that armed with a few key products and some insider tips, you can fake that fresh faced look daily! Firm and tighten your face with a supercharged serum It’ll leave your skin feeling super soft with a dewy, plumped appearance!Ok I have to admit I’m obsessed with my serums. And will not go a day without applying one before my moisturiser. They are the perfect skin booster, and in my eyes a complete necessity to your daily skincare routine, why? Because they help lock in moisture, working deep into your dermis thanks to their ability to penetrate the layers of the skin and work their magic. But also, because they tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products, due to their higher concentration of targeted active ingredients. To find out more about why you need a serum in your life click here.I have tried many a serum in my time, and while there are very few I don’t love, the two that stand out personally for me are Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & MyOxy Caviar and Pevonia’s Vitamin C Complex.Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & MyOxy Caviar is packed with anti-ageing and rehydrating goodness including collagen and hyaluronic acid that effectively nourish and oxygenate skin, repair cells, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles! Outstanding stuff.And when my skin needs a boost of radiance Pevonia’s C Complex becomes my other trusty go-to. Superhero glow-getter Vitamin C comes together with hydrating and anti-ageing powerhouse hyaluronic acid to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourish and correct photo-damage! The citrus scent is simply heavenly, and it feels amazingly refreshing on application! But more importantly, the results speak for themselves! Radiant looking skin instantly. It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up! Seriously. Choose a multi-tasking moisturiser When skin is looking far from fresh, you really need to up the ante with your moisturiser. Look for moisturisers formulated with ingredients that will both refresh and brighten your complexion. Some ingredients to look out for include;Hyaluronic Acid (plumpness and firmness)Vitamin C (skin tone and brightness)Alpha Hydroxy Acids (fine lines, wrinkles, smoothness)Retinol (fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture)Marine Collagen (hydration, strength, elasticity)Peptides (skin texture and fine lines)As many of you will already know I have personally been in love with Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream for years now! As have millions of others (since it is Pevonia’s global best-seller and for good reason!) Formulated with anti-ageing wonder ingredients marine collagen and hyaluronic, it’s a deeply nourishing, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin radiant, super soft and supple, like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture! I apply it every morning without fail!If I feel my skin is looking a little dull and needs that extra bit of pizzazz, I will up my night-time routine and turn to Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream before bed. It’s rich in AHA Glycolic, the super acid which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skins cells together. As the dead skin cells shed, the new smoother, brighter and younger looking skin underneath is revealed, so yes I do wake up to radiant, glowing skin as a result! Apply a de-puffing eye gel or serum An eye gel or serum will really help you refresh your tired eyes as well as improve with fine lines and wrinkles! Just look for products with key ingredients such as Green coffee, Vitamin C and Ginko Biloba, as they will help shrink capillaries and stimulate lymphatic drainage.Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel is a personal favourite of mine when it comes to tired, puffy eyes. Formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C and skin saviours hyaluronic acid and Ginko Biloba it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application! Lift and open your eyes by curling your eye lashes This can be really effective and makes sleepy eyes look all the more awake. Then apply two coats of mascara to lock in curls.For more tips on how to master bright, wide-awake eyes, click here. Buff highlighter into cheekbones for that lit from within glow If your skin is dull you need a little dose of liquid glow in the shape of an illuminator or highlighter! Apply to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow for a natural glow that will leave you looking rejuvenated and refreshed. Try ELES’s Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it!You can also freshen the look of your skin instantly with more makeup you just need to follow a few key tips.
Beauty Collective - Prep your skin this spring

Prep your skin this spring: 5 body products to firm, tone, smooth and sooth

by Jo Boyden on Oct 13 2021
I have to admit when it comes to keeping up with my body buffing, exfoliating and moisturising routine I’ve been a little lazy of late! But with lockdown nearing an end for many, and the days heating up thanks to spring, it’s now time to dust off those cobwebs and start prepping our bodies for the warmer months ahead!If like me, that smooth, supple skin you once donned has been replaced with dry, scaley, lumpy and lacklustre skin, eek! Worry not! With a little bit of dedication and a few of our favourite firming and smoothing beauty buys, you’ll have your skin back to its former glory in a matter of weeks! Promise! Just make sure you up the exercise and water intake too! Silky skin body scrub Oh, how I love me an indulgent body scrub and this most certainly is no exception! One of my favourite body products for a number of years now, Pevonia’s Silky Skin Body Scrub does exactly that – gives you seriously silky skin, no jokes! Oh, and its subtle scent is divine thanks to its key ingredients Chamomile, Rosemary, Lemon and Sage.Apply it to wet skin (use warm water) and gently massage all over the body in a circular motion. Then rinse and cleanse thoroughly with a gentle shower gel. By exfoliating the skin, it will eliminate any dead skin cells as well as dry flaky skin, making way for that silky smooth skin everytime. NEW Pevonia Crepe-No-More Body Cream This latest innovation from Pevonia is a necessity for anyone wanting to achieve truly smooth, supple skin. Rich in superfood Longan Fruit, anti-inflammatory actives, plant-based antioxidants, hydrating powerhouse Hyaluronic Acid, firming Marine Collagen and nourishing Shea Butter! it will both firm and tighten the look of skin (yup!) reduce any crepiness and fat accumulations, all while deeply hydrating your skin. Honestly, after every use my skin feels super soft, supple but also looks visibly radiant and I’ve noticed how much firmer it feels in just a few weeks of use!What I will say though is for the best results apply both morning and night and use in unison with dry body brushing – I’m a huge advocate! Just a few minutes each day will stimulate blood flow and circulation, detoxify as well as assist in firming your skin. If you haven’t tried body brushing no worries! Simply brush your body in upward movements towards your heart and then jump in the shower (or bath!) to wash off any excess dead skin cells. Then apply your Crepe-No-More Body Cream to put the moisture back into your skin! Voila!Oh and if you purchase Pevonia’s Crepe-No-More Body Cream in the month of October, the kind folk at BC will give you a Body Brush for FREE! Go on give it a go and thank me later! Phytomer Celluli Attack Concentrate This is my faithful go-to every spring and for good reason! It really is an intensive treatment for cellulite and when used religiously every morning for a minimum of a month you will see results! While it can’t eliminate cellulite completely (can any product really do that) it can and will improve your skin texture significantly. Phytomer Celluli Night Coach Intensive Cellulite Sleeping Mask I love the name of this product and of course the product itself! While Celluli Attack is a liquid consistency, this mask is a light soothing gel formulation which instantly melts into your skin as soon as you apply! It literally ‘coaches’ your skin while you sleep, working deep into the dermis to eliminate fat. Night after Night it visibly improves the appearance of ‘orange peel’ skin (or cellulite dimpling as you might better know!)What’s more for a limited time these two outstanding anti-cellulite products (Celluli Attack and Cellui Night Coach) come together in one duo gift set to provide an intensive two step program for day and night! Phytomer Sun Radiance Self-Tanning Cream If you’ve neglected to exfoliate, moisturise and buff your body over the winter months I’m betting that your skin hasn’t had a tan for a while either. With the pins making an appearance once again it’s time to get your glow on with a good self-tanner! Just be sure to steer clear of spray and mousse self-tans though as these can be slightly drying for the skin. Instead, try a nourishing self-tanning cream like Phytomer’s Sun Radiance. Its white satin texture makes it so easy to apply without leaving any streaks, it quickly absorbs into the skin and within a few hours, you’ll have the most perfect long-lasting natural tan! Result.
8 of the most loved products on BC

8 of the most loved products on BC and why you’d love them too

by Jo Boyden on Sep 29 2021
Beauty trends come and go but there are some products that really do stand the test of time. Those products many of us can’t live without. Why? Because they have the ability to transform our skin for the better and in turn have a positive impact on our mental wellbeing, something that is so important especially in today’s climate!Whether it’s your skin smoothing moisturiser, your favourite foundation, or your false lash effect mascara, we all have those favourites we’ve fallen in love with. These are some of our most loved products on BC, adored by our team and our customers alike. ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15I never stop raving about this gem of a product and neither do our customers! If you are a lover of liquid foundation but after something silky and light, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, soft, subtle 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! “I've been using this foundation for years and I can't live without it. The texture and the way it makes my skin feel is amazing. It gives such even, natural and flawless coverage. It's seriously the best foundation I've ever used”. Sia P ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightWe are all on the quest for those multi-tasking miracle products, and this product is just that! Your bronzer, highlighter and foundation powder combined into one clever compact that you can simply swipe all over for your healthiest, natural looking glow! Yess!It’s a palette of gorgeous glowing warm tones that acts like a photo filter on your skin, subtle enough for daily wear, yet gives you that truly “lit from within glow” in seconds. I LOVE it and so do so many! “I recently purchased this beautiful product and use it over my SPF with no foundation. It gives my skin a beautiful healthy luminosity without the look of shimmer. It looks like my skin only better.” Christina ELES Luminous BB Cream 30I am a huge advocate for this multifaceted wonder cream! 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 anything, no easy feat for makeup with SPF that’s for sure! 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! “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 Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamMy personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 global favourite too, the Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! Formulated with anti-ageing wonder ingredients marine collagen and hyaluronic, It’s a deeply nourishing, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin radiant, super soft and supple, like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day! I swear I have less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! “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. Thank you for making such great skin care products!” LindaPevonia C ComplexeIf your skin needs a boost of radiance this should be your go-to. Instantly brighter, dewier skin and who doesn’t want that right? Superhero glow-getter Vitamin C comes together with hydrating and anti-ageing powerhouse hyaluronic acid to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourish and correct photo-damage! The citrus scent is simply heavenly, and it feels amazingly refreshing on application! But more importantly, the results speak for themselves! Radiant looking skin instantly. It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up! Seriously. “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps, and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment”. Deborah W Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing LotionThis all-in-one cleanser, makeup remover and toner is quick, effective and wonderful to use. Alcohol-free and infinitely gentle, it thoroughly cleanses the complexion, removes makeup and tones skin without leaving an oily film just a silky soft and supple complexion instead! “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 recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara Enzymo Spherides Peeling CreamThis little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) will do wonders for your skin, I promise! And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me. “Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It's gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft”. Lisa W Pevonia Dry Oil Body MoisturiserHands down my favourite body moisturiser (and another of Pevonia’s global bestsellers), this beauty feels like silk on application, is not greasy at all (despite it being an ‘oil’) and absorbs immediately, quite literally nourishing every inch of your body. Formulated with Lavender and Chamomile the scent is heaven, and it renders skin beautifully soft and supple with a radiant healthy glow. It will not disappoint, and the many customer reviews speak for themselves! “This is amazing, I feel like I have been to a day spa when I put it on, luxury & pampering at home! It smells divine. Feels like silk, not too greasy, goes on easy, love this product ;-)” Lisa C
makeup mistakes

5 makeup mistakes that make your skin look dull and lacklustre

by Jo Boyden on Sep 17 2021
You’re religiously using your skin brightening, vitamin c packed serum, you’ve upped your weekly exercise regime, are practicing self-care rituals like there is no tomorrow, your drinking water like it’s going out of fashion, AND you’ve got super foods coming out of your ears, yet your skin is still looking dull and lifeless! Why? Chances are you could be doing a few things wrong when it comes to your makeup and we are here to tell you what! Read on as we divulge five common makeup mistakes that can actually make skin look dull and lacklustre! If you’re guilty of making them, stop now and transform dreary skin to deliciously radiant in no time! #1 You are not prepping your skin correctlyMakeup needs as smooth a canvas as possible to apply flawlessly, so if your face is covered with dead skin cells it’s not going to make for easy application! This is why weekly exfoliation followed by daily moisturising (before applying your makeup) is a must! A good exfoliator will remove any unwanted pesky dead cells, as well as dry flaky skin. Just be sure, after applying your moisturiser that you leave it to soak in for a few minutes before putting on your makeup, as the last thing you want is for that foundation of yours to slide right back off your face! #2 You are wearing too much foundationMakeup is meant to enhance, not mask your skin so we need to be mindful about the amount we apply! We get it, you’re having a bad skin day and those pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or your skin is looking a little on the flushed side, but if you pile on the foundation in an attempt to hide those flaws, you can end up with a complexion that looks flat, heavy and lacklustre. So no matter what your skin type or condition don’t overdo it! Be sure to conceal only problem areas rather than slathering foundation all over. Opt for a translucent powder to eliminate shine or prep with a primer and follow with a skin care-infused foundation like ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. If your skin tends to be on the more dry side steer clear of powder as dry, powdered skin tends to look older, duller and drained! Instead, opt for a multi-faceted base like the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30. This benefit-packed, innovative treatment cream primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen and protect skin on contact. What’s more, it has SPF 30 to shelter skin against UV rays.For more information on which foundation type might be best for your skin click here. #3 You’re using the wrong colour for your complexionFoundations have a tendency to turn grey if the shade applied is lighter than your natural skin colour. At times, some foundations can even react with the natural oils in your skin giving your complexion a somewhat ashy look! This is where a primer can be beneficial as it serves as a barrier between your skin and makeup and soaks up any excess unwanted oil!Finding the perfection foundation shade according to your skin type can be tricky so it’s best to either seek assistance! Click here to understand what steps you need to take to find the foundation shade that’ll work best for you! #4 You don’t use a blushLack of colour on your face can result on slight lifeless looking skin. Blush is supposed to fake flushed cheeks and give your complexion a natural-looking rosy glow so be sure not to skip this vital step! Make sure you apply blush correctly though! Natural flushing occurs on the apples of your cheeks and a little below. It shouldn’t veer towards your nose or up to your temples! I am personally crazy about my blush and wear is all year around! My go-to is the ELES Baked Blush in Bouquet it adds a supple, rosy shimmer glow to my face and makes my cheek bones stand out! #5 You skip highlighterA girl can’t have enough glow, and if we are suffering from dullness, we could use all the help we can get! Even if skin is dry and lacklustre you can fake the appearance of a dewy complexion by applying a good highlighter or illuminator to your face, just be sure not to overdo it though! Simply apply to your brow bone, down the bridge of your nose and above your cheekbone and see it transform skin from dull to radiant. I love the ELES Stick illuminator, it honestly highlights my complexion like never before!
Insta worthy skin

6 steps to insta-worthy skin

by Jo Boyden on Sep 09 2021
It wasn't that long ago that I discovered the secret to many of my friends looking forever young on their social media pages, yet looking less, should I say, spritely in person; Makeup Apps or 'facetuning' as it's otherwise known. Sure, they've been around for a long while, but what I didn't know, until now, was just how advanced the apps are and how dramatically they can change both the look and tone of your face and skin! The thing is when I gave it a go, I realised just how fake I really did look! Why pretend to be something I'm not when I can actually create the illusion of younger, airbrushed skin in a few simple steps, using only a few makeup items?Let's face it, we do all want to look younger than our years. We all want that perfect skin with little or no evidence of makeup. Well, we are here to tell you how to get it and look completely natural at the same time! Step one: THE PREPIf you want to compete with an airbrushing app you've got to prep your skin correctly before reaching for your foundation!Firstly ensure you cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any remnants of makeup and oil, then gently exfoliate to slough away those dead skin cells – remember you want a smooth, even surface to apply the perfect base, plus removing any unwanted dry skin and clogged pores will also allow your serum and moisturiser to seep into skin allowing it to properly work its magic. Next apply your serum according to your skin's specific needs, before layering with your chosen moisturiser. Moisturisers rich in hyaluronic acid will plump skin, providing the perfect cushioned effect. Step two: THE TOOLS OF THE TRADEWhen it comes to makeup application every makeup artist will tell you they swear by their tools.Many might opt for a foundation brush, but we are in love with the Pro Blender Sponge when applying our base. Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, it provides a more flawless, natural-looking coverage without effort. Step three: THE MULTI-TASKERNow it's time to get down to the nitty gritty. You might have a love for liquid foundations or maybe matte is your thing, but loaded with goji berries, minerals, vitamins and sun protection, we can't recommend enough the ELES Age-Defying BB Cream as your go-to base. This wonder cream is an extension of your skincare, your primer and your base in one. Simply apply it all over your cleansed skin for the silkiest and most undetectable coverage ever!Step four: THE PERFECTORNothing takes the years off more than a great under-eye concealer and the ELES Dual Action Concealer packed with collagen and vitamins C & E, not only conceals fine lines and dark circles, it smooths, brightens and treats them too! Apply beneath the eyes and pat into the skin to look as though you've just slept 10 hours. Step five: THE AIRBRUSHERFor that soft airbrushed finished to any base sweep the ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light over skin. It's the compact of miracles! The deeper tones in the powder enhance contours, while the highlight softly strobe and reflect away imperfections to make skin look professionally retouched and simply sublime every time!Step six: THE YOUTH ENHANCERFor a pop of colour that looks fresh, dewy and youthful try ELES's Baked Blush. It comes in six gorgeous shades that multi-task as blush, eye shadow and when applied with a damp brushcan even work as a matte lip colour!The end result? Skin is left looking flawless – like a real-life insta-filter. And there you have it – six simple steps to skin so good, no filter required! The beauty of this routine is that it works with your skin rather than masking it, giving you that effortlessly polished look that turns heads both on and off screen. Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or love a full glam moment, these steps are your new go-to. Ready to get started? Shop the full ELES collection at Beauty Collective and discover the products that will transform your everyday routine.
Beauty Collective - lockdown skincare

8 beauty products to truly treat yourself and your skin this lockdown

by Jo Boyden on Aug 25 2021
Feeling the lockdown blues? No time to treat yourself because #WFH while also #homeschooling? Or simply feeling in a bit of a funk?Time poor many of us might currently be, but surely, we can all make a little time, morning or night, to treat ourselves? During unsettling times it’s so important to look after our mental wellbeing, and one way to do so is by practicing a little self-care. Putting aside as little as even 5-10 minutes to treat yourself with a little pampering can have a profound effect on your mindset and skin of course! So read on as I reveal 8 beauty treats I am personally loving this looong lockdown. I promise that they will make you, like me, feel all the more better. Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream Something I love to do every few weeks is treat myself to an at-home peel, and I highly recommend you should too because it’ll do wonders for your skin! Do not let the word ‘peel’ put you off though. I naturally have fairly sensitive skin but Pevonia’s Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream works wonders for my complexion and is great for all skin types too. It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and in turn reveals smooth, soft and glowing skin every. Single. Time. For those of us who are extremely time poor, this product is like a mini facial in a jar! Don’t just take my word for it though, read all the fabulous reviews too! De-stress Escape Aromatic Oil If both you and your skin are feeling a little stressed you are going to love this product! With all the benefits of 4 mood enhancing essential oils – lavender, grapefruit, chamomile and rose, combined with squalane and vitamin e, this newly released organic must-have not only reduces dryness and dehydration while soothing, calming and brightening skin, it also promotes an immediate feeling of increased wellbeing and relaxation as soon as you apply it! Vitaminic Concentrate Probably one of my favourite products of all time (yes big call I know), Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate works wonders for my skin. Often dry and devitalised all I need is a dose of this before bed and I wake up to beautifully brighter, rejuvenated skin by morning. I LOVE applying it because both its silky texture and mandarin essential oil aroma are heaven, plus it immediately calms me! What’s more, even though it’s an oil, it's fast-absorbing so you know it’s doing great stuff to your skin! Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath Little instantly reduces stress quite like taking a relaxing remineralizing bath, so I do make sure I find the time at least once a week (after bathing and putting the kids to bed!) to indulge in one myself. I love to create a spa-like atmosphere to really set the mood, by lighting my favourite candles, burning some essential oils, and putting on soothing spa sounds on spotify or youtube! Next, I fill the bath with a de-stressing bath foam or detoxifying salts. After having the luxury of trying many a bath products, I have to say Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath is one of my absolute favourites. It’s lightly foaming and enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater (yess!) –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension. And that it does. Sound good? It really, really is! Phytomer Oligomer Wellbeing Sensation Moisturising Body Cream It’s easy to neglect our bodies during winter, throw in a lockdown and it’s all out forgotten!Give your body a little loving by introducing Phytomer’s Oligomer Wellbeing Sensation Moisturising Body Cream. Phytomer have worked wonders again in creating this amazing cream and the name speaks for itself! It literally melts into skin for an intensive moisturising experience, bathing skin a therapeutic seaside scent (lush) and its rich, soothing texture treats skin to all the benefits found in OLIGOMER® – a pure seawater concentrate that’s rich in minerals and trace elements.We all know that seawater is good for not only our skin but our soul too, thanks to the multitude of miraculous benefits and a treasure trove of skin-loving ingredients it holds! But let’s face it, we aren’t likely to be taking a dip in the ocean any time soon thanks to the cold weather the majority of us are experiencing right now!! Brrrrr so this product really is the next best thing! Pevonia Micro-Emulsion Massage Oil Anti-Stress Never underestimate the power of massage! And yes I know for many of us a trip to our local spa or salon seems a long way off now, but it is possible to give yourself a little shoulder massage or if you live at home with others try and rope them into doing it for you! My little kids have become pros these last few lockdowns and they absolutely love playing therapist! While it’s not as relaxing or comfortable as I might like! It’s fun for all the family. For a therapeutic back and shoulder massage to alleviate aches and pains at the hands of stress, I highly recommend Pevonia’s Micro Emulsion Massage Oil Anti-Stress. It has a gorgeous aroma, is formulated with nourishing ingredients including Safflower, Geranium, and Orange Oils and it immediately releases pent up tension and fatigue. Bliss. Pevonia Tension Relief Gel If your legs and feet are feeling heavy and fatigued, Pevonia’s Tension Relief Gel is a must. It’s anti-inflammatory, cooling, and uplifting all in one and is amazing for relieving tension and tired, aching muscles and sore feet. Pevonia Limited Edition At Home Facial Kit While many of us might not be able to visit our beloved salon for a facial right now, we can try and put aside half an hour a week for an at-home facial ritual. Pevonia’s limited edition at-home facial kit has all the necessities to deep cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate and pamper your skin, you just need to follow these 5 simple steps on how to perform the facial.
Beauty Collective - Glow from Head to Toe

7 products to make you seriously glow from head to toe

by Jo Boyden on Jul 20 2021
If your complexion is feeling the funk, we feel you. Winter isn’t the kindest to our skin and then when you have a lockdown thrown in the mix all hell can break loose! That combination of the cooler weather, stress, perhaps being a little sluggish, as well as complacent with your daily diet and overall skincare routine, can impact both your skin and psyche and sadly the glow of the summer season has looooong since gone, but all is not lost. Treat yourself to one or seven! of these skin loving beauty essentials to soften, smooth and brighten your skin from head to toe. The glowing results will make it worth the invested money and time, we promise! Phytomer NEW Gentle Illuminating Shampoo and Gentle Detangling ConditionerIf your hair is looking a little drab you really need to banish your current shampoo and condition and up your game with these two marine must-haves! Formulated with all the goodness of the sea, this dynamic duo provides a luxurious washing experience with outstanding results! Get ready for silky-smooth hair that shines and has the perfect amount of volume too! Pricey yes, but oh so worth it! Pevonia ‘C’ ComplexeIf your skin is literally lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. We promise you when we say you haven’t experienced glowing skin until you have a vitamin c rich skincare routine!For the ultimate skin brightening boost, Pevonia’s ‘C’ Complexe is a must! 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! The perfect morning pick-me-up! Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling CreamSince visiting your local salon or spa if off the cards, why not treat yourself to a little pampering with an at-home peel? It’ll do wonders for your skin I promise. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! Pevonia’s Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this mini facial in a jar of goodness!! Trust me.NEW Pevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilThere is nothing quite like drifting off to sleep at night breathing in the soothing scent of this gorgeous aromatic oil. Full of skin rejuvenating properties and moisturising goodness including, squalane, vitamine e, safflower and rose, chamomile, grapefruit and lavender essential oils - this newly released organic must-have not only promotes an unequalled feeling of increased wellbeing and utter relaxation, it will also ensure you wake up to calm, nourished and gorgeous glowy skin no matter what your skin type. Heaven. Pevonia De-Ageing Saltmousse Papaya PineappleThis aromatic body scrub delivers an aroma-sensory experience thanks to its absolutely amazing tropical scent. Its fluffy lather removes impurities and toxins by gently polishing your skin and as the salt dissolves, negative ions and repairing tropical fruit extracts are quickly absorbed! The result? Your skin will emerge velvety-smooth and energised! Yasssss! Pevonia Dry Oil Body MoisturiserHands down my favourite body moisturiser (and a global bestseller), Pevonia’s Dry Oil Body Moisturiser feels like silk on application, is not greasy at all (despite it being an ‘oil’) and absorbs immediately, quite literally nourishing every inch of your body. Formulated with Lavender and Chamomile the scent is heaven, and it renders skin beautifully soft and supple with a radiant healthy glow. It will not disappoint, and the many customer reviews speak for themselves!
Beauty Collective - 5 new beauty buys

5 new beauty buys for skin hydration, hair, health and wellness too!

by Jo Boyden on Jul 07 2021
In the midst of a lockdown, here at BC we are still beavering away to bring you the best of beauty, and this month we have five new arrivals for skin, body and hair which provide not only optimum results but a feeling of increased wellbeing and relaxation too! So read on to find out all about these new favourites of ours, and we promise you, like us, you’ll want to give them a try immediately too! NEW Pevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilIf both you and your skin are feeling a little stressed thanks to #covidlife, or if your complexion is simply looking less than desirable - where has that summer glow gone you once donned? Then Pevonia’s newest launch will be a godsend! The NEW De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil’s name say it all. It quite literally takes you on a de-stressing journey (and yes I’m aware of how cheesy that sounds!) as it eases anxiety while instantly delivering intense hydration and total relaxation for glowing, healthy skin! How? Because of its amazing formulation which includes four pure essential oils; lavender, chamomile, rose and grapefruit to calm, sooth, and deeply rejuvenate mind and skin!Soothing, calming, relaxing, hydrating and brightening!! What more could you want from a product?To learn more about the amazing skin and mood boosting benefits of lavender, chamomile, rose and grapefruit essential oils click here. NEW Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Moisturizing Body Cream with Trace ElementsIf it’s your body that needs a little loving, I highly recommend you trying Phytomer’s newest addition to the Oligomer Well-Being Sensation family - Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Moisturizing Body Cream with Trace Elements. It’s a melt-away cream which intensely moisturises the skin while bathing it in a therapeutic seaside scent (lush) and It’s rich, soothing texture treats skin to all the benefits found in OLIGOMER® - a pure seawater concentrate that’s rich in minerals and trace elements.We all know that seawater is good for not only our skin but our soul too, thanks to the multitude of miraculous benefits and a treasure trove of skin-loving ingredients it holds! But let’s face it, we aren’t likely to be taking a dip in the ocean any time soon thanks to the cold weather the majority of us are experiencing right now!! Brrrrr so this product really is the next best thing! NEW Phytomer Gentle Illuminating Shampoo with Marine Plant AND Phytomer Gentle Detangling Conditioner with Marine PlantI feel the last few weeks haven’t been kind to my hair! And I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve had a cold, I’m not getting enough fresh air, being a little lazy thanks to lockdown or simply not consuming enough much-needed water (I need to practice what I preach more!) but until last week my hair was looking a little lifeless, that’s until I introduced Phytomer’s NEW haircare into my life! The NEW Gentle Illuminating Shampoo and Gentle Detangling Conditioner both with Marine Plant, Algae and Vegetal Oil (so all the goodness of the sea!) provides a luxurious washing experience and optimal results from the very first wash. Many shampoos and conditioners offer the results we all seek the first time you use them, but the test is whether wash after wash we still see the same showstopping results! Well with these two products you do! I’ve used them (together of course) three times now and my hair is soft, bouncy, shiny and silky smooth (as promised) and it doesn’t feel weighted which it can happen after using some heavy conditioners! Yes, they are pricey but for me worth their weight in gold.NEW Phytomer Structuriste Firming Contour SerumThis is a beautifully lightweight milky serum is designed to effectively smooth, firm and plump the skin, and boy does it do just that! This new love of mine (in just a few weeks) has noticeably improved my somewhat dull looking skin! It definitely feels firmer, plumper and looks like it’s got its radiance back! I’m also loving the subtle floral scent! It’s formulated with marine algae and squalane for deep moisturising but also Lily of the Valley, Jasmine and Peony! So if you are concerned about skin ageing including loss of elasticity and luminosity this could be your new go-to.I suggest using this product in the morning and the NEW Phytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum at night for fantastic results!Enjoy bathing in the benefits of all five beauty buys.
Beauty Collective - Moods

Skin care that affects your mood!

by Jo Boyden on Jul 07 2021
It is not new, and has been part and parcel of natural and holistic skincare for centuries. It is of course Essential Oils, the medicinal properties of plants that make natural skin care products more than just plant fodder. From the luxurious skin-softening properties of the Rose (used famously by Cleopatra to maintain her beauty) to the wound-cleansing benefits of Myrrh (used by ancient Roman soldiers going into battle), these potent oils harness a wide range of botanical therapeutics to address both our skin care AND our mood!There are now approximately 2000 known plant species in the world which contribute to different essential oils! Amazing right? And the importance of essential oils in cosmetics and skincare relate to their diverse benefits.Unlike synthetics, the impact of an essential oil can be huge! Since they have the ability to relax our senses, uplift our spirits and support our physical and psychological well-being for a truly holistic sense of wellness. Another feature that lends these all-natural oils to enhanced skincare is that they are absorbed easily through the skin, thereby being very receptive to simple topical remedies and applications. Sold yet? Keep reading! How do they affect our state of mind?In aromatherapy, inhaling essential oils is thought to transmit messages to a brain region involved in controlling emotions. Known as the limbic system, this brain region also influences the nervous system. Aromatherapy proponents suggest that essential oils may affect several biological factors, Including: Heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, our breathing rate, and our immune function. 4 Essential Oils with some serious skin benefits; Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)For your mood: Deeply relaxing, soothing, and upliftingFor your skin: Also known as 'True Lavender', this species produces the most recognized Lavender aroma. It is also the species most celebrated by aromatherapists and researchers and is considered to be highly therapeutic. Topically it supports skin rejuvenation and is known to help heal scars, burns, insect bites, and inflammation. Grapefruit OilFor your mood: Uplifting, reduces stress, stimulates circulation, increases energyFor your skin: Extracted from the peel of the fruit, grapefruit peel oil contains naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that help promote smoother, younger looking skin by increasing the rate of cell renewal. It also has astringent and tightening properties that relieve congestion and limit excess sebum (oil). Because of the potent antibacterial and antimicrobial effects, it's the perfect ingredient to treat and protect breakout-prone skin. Chamomile OilFor your mood: Deep relaxation, a natural sleep aid, anti-anxietyFor your skin: Chamomile extract is reputed to help manage feelings of discomfort from inflammation and irritation. For this reason, it is a common ingredient in products that address a variety of skin conditions, including eczema, dermatitis, dryness, soreness, and itchiness.It is also valued for its cleansing and moisturizing properties and is often added to soften and brighten the skin and hair, to help balance oily skin, and to help manage the appearance of blemishes and acne. Finally, this multi-purpose oil is also rejuvenating, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars due to a rich concentration of phytochemicals and polyphenols. Rose OilFor your mood: Calms and Soothes, anti-anxiety, anti-depressantFor your skin: Rose Oil visibly helps refine your skin’s texture, which aids in age-management and dry skin. The therapeutic compounds present in the oil also help control many skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis. Bonus: the antioxidants in Rose Oil will absorb deeply into the dermis layer of the skin, which is especially beneficial for mature skin. It has anti-inflammatory, cooling and soothing properties which can help with stress-related conditions in more mature skin types. It is also excellent for treating broken capillaries and scarring to help skin tone appear more even. And now, all the benefits of these four essential oils have been combined with Safflower Oil, Squalane and Vitamin E to create Pevonia’s NEW De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil!This multi-tasking wonder oil not only effectively reduces skin dryness and dehydration while soothing, calming and brightening the skin, it also promotes an unequalled feeling of increased wellbeing and utter relaxation as soon as you apply it! Heaven in a bottle.
Beauty Collective - Stress and Fatigue

Skin suffering from stress and fatigue? 11 products to battle the blues

by Jo Boyden on Jun 29 2021
If you weren’t already feeling the stress that daily life can bring, I bet your bottom dollar, many of us are now! With the ever-growing covid numbers (here we go again) and two weeks of lockdown for Sydneysiders in full swing, it’s a wee bit hard to maintain a zen-like attitude to life (Oh and I do but try!) Then throw in a few kids under your feet 24-7 while working a full-time job from home, and it’s enough to send anyone a little bit batty (pardon the covid pun!)Unfortunately, stress, anxiety and fatigue, can impact not only your mind and body but your skin too!The good news is, a little beauty TLC can make all the difference, you just need to make sure you’re armed with the right products! So if your skin is suffering the consequences of stress, your anxiety has reared it’s head, or you're simply feeling fatigued, here’s what your skin needs; Stressed skinWhen you are tense, your body releases stress hormones including cortisol, which can increase the skin's oil production, leading to clogged pores and making you more prone to pimples (great!) Thankfully, there’s skincare. And spot-specific skincare at that! So if you’re waging war on spots, opt for blemish-busting ingredients like glycolic and salicylic acid.Try; Pevonia Spot Treatment. It’s a fab anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, soothing spot cream formulated with Glycolic and Salicylic Acid, Betaglucan and Aloe, which combine to provide a beautifully clean, clear, and bacteria-free complexion.Try; Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser. Perfect for those with breakout-prone skin, this foamy cleanser formulated with a balanced blend of Lactic and Salicylic Acid, provides antiseptic and keratolytic benefits while effectively cleansing skin eliminating toxins, impurities and surface bacteria (as well as makeup of course!). Extra bonus – it combats any skin inflammation which can go hand in hand with those pesky pimples!Try; Medicalia Clarifying Cream. This is a wonderfully light-textured, oil free cream which really does control acne while magically preventing futures blemishes too! Containing a powerhouse blend of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sorbitol and other soothing and protecting ingredients, it promotes a healthier and beautifully hydrated complexion.And let’s not forget the body! Try; Pevonia’s Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel morning and/or night! Relaxing and soothing, it will enhance your bath and shower with its aromatic foaming gel. Hazel Nut Oil, Chamomile, and Lavender combine to cleanse and hydrate. Soothing and de-stressing, your entire being is transported to an aromatherapy oasis.Suffering from anxietyMore than ever due to these times of increased uncertainty and adjustment, our skin will be experiencing the results of anxiety – think skin sensitivities, facial redness, rosacea. It’s important to try and relax and hopefully dial down those unwanted feelings of unease. Much-loved calming scents include the likes of lavender, ylang ylang and chamomile. And if you are suddenly suffering from facial flare ups ensure you use (or introduce) nurturing and relieving ingredients into your daily skincare program.Ingredients such as Green Tea, Licorice and French Rose Essential Oil will effectively reduce flushing, skin irritation and rosacea while hydrating, calming and soothing the skin.Try; Pevonia RS2 Care Cream. One of our most loved skincare ranges (and a global favourite) is the Pevonia RS2 line. It has been specifically formulated for those with ultra-sensitive skin to desensitize and decongest, while effectively relieving Rosacea discomfort.Try; Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate. Bathe your skin in this soothing, magical serum combining calming lavender with a high concentration of healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France, and really enrich your skin! Antibacterial and decongesting, it alleviates microcirculation problems and strengthens fragile skin.Try; Phytomer Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath. Little instantly reduces anxiety quite like switching off our on button and relaxing in a remineralizing bath. Throw in some soothing sounds and calming candles and see how your entire being relaxes. Phytomer’s Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath will create the unparalleled soothing spa experience you need! It’s an amazing lightly foaming bath ‘sensation’ enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension. Yassss.Feeling fatiguedIf you’re feeling fatigued your skin will visibly reflect it. You know that pale, dull and devitalized complexion, dark, puffy peepers and exacerbated fine lines we all love to hate. This is because when we are tired the blood in our body is not flowing efficiently which normally results in a lack of oxygen in the blood.Like with most skin conditions, there are ways to tackle this. Nourishing face oils, miracle masks and brightening serums will be your best friend! Packed full of skin loving ingredients, they’ll give your skin the glow it so desperately seeks.Try; Phytomer Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum. This light serum literally coats the skin in pure oxygen, providing the cells with the vivid rejuvenation they need. Formulated with marine extracts, the invigorating, moisturising blend, ensures fresher, more youthful skin with an overall increase in visible radiance.Try; Phytomer Citadine Citylife Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. Formulated in a refreshing sorbet texture and suitable for face and eye contour, this cream is just what you need to reoxygenate your tired skin. A combination of three marine sugars create the active ingredient, CITYSAFE®, to depollute, cleanse and oxygenate the skin. CITYSAFE®, along with blue and red algaes and Phytomer’s patented seawater concentrate - Oligomer®, reset skin repairing damage caused by signs of fatigue, dark spots and a dull complexion. CITYLIFE not only sweeps away toxic micro particles but provides an ultra moisturising facial experience too!Try; Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask. Combining 100% natural red and white clay with the best of marine ingredients, this mask instantly unclogs pores and counters the signs of fatigue, dark spots and dullness! After every application, the appearance of tired skin is diminished and replaced with a radiant and renewed complexion. LOVE.Try; Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate. The radical treatment oil for skin lacking lustre, combats dullness and dehydration with a burst of vitamins A and E and Mandarin Essential Oil, so your complexion will look beautifully brighter and rejuvenated by morning. What’s more it has the most amazing aroma which alone helps calm the senses, and even though it’s an oil, it’s fast absorbing so you know it’s doing great stuff to your skin!