BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
Hydration heroes – 5 products, sensational results
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 24 2022
Skin feeling a little parched? Suffering from sensitive skin or a lacklustre complexion? Or as you’ve aged you’ve noticed your skin becoming increasingly dry? No matter what the cause of your current complexion it’s imperative you keep it hydrated!You might be under the impression, like many though that worrying about skin hydration is something that only those who suffer from dry or dehydrated skin need to worry about. Well, you’d be wrong. Dry skin, dehydrated skin, lacklustre skin, sensitive skin, oily skin even - no matter your skin type or concern, hydration is key.But what, is hydration exactly? Is it the same as moisture? Why do we need it? And, with the huge multitude of products out there claiming to be the best of the best when it comes to smooth, supple, hydrated skin – from oils to creams to gels and more - how do you choose one that will actually work for you? Well, we are here to help! Read on as we reveal all! Including 5 hydration heroes that will deliver and I promise will set your skin apart from the rest.What is skin hydration vs moisturisingHydration refers to the water content within your skin cells. The more hydrated your skin’s cells – thanks to the likes of skin hydrators - the more they swell and become bouncy and plump. This is because of the ability hydrators have to penetrate deeper down, going beneath the skin’s barrier infusing water into the cells. Unfortunately ageing, coupled with daily aggressors such as changes in temperature, taking hot showers, heating, not drinking enough water and harsh products can all deplete our skin’s water content though, and when the water content inside our cells decrease, the cells become shrivelled and our skin dull, lacklustre, sensitive and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles!Moisturising on the other hand is about creating a seal on the surface of your skin, locking in moisture (and preventing it from escaping!) and creating skin barrier protection.Why does our skin need hydration?Skin needs hydration to give it strength and elasticity -- in other words, to look and feel healthy and protect it from signs of premature ageing and common skin sensitivities.As we age, hydration becomes even more paramount too, this is because our skin’s ability to retain moisture starts to diminish! Fewer natural oils, sun damage, and decreased cell renewal can all lead to dry, rougher skin and even the natural oil-producing sebaceous glands gradually lose their ability to moisturise our skin!What are skin hydrators?Hydrators are ingredients called humectants, they are known for their ability to draw moisture to the skin’s surface and retain water so the skin doesn’t dry out! The most powerful humectants (which you’re likely already familiar with) are glycerin. hyalouronic acid and collagen-boosting properties.5 of the best hydration heroes to try Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum This hydration hero is worth its weight in gold. Just a few drops of the super serum will not only help to rejuvenate skin cells but will bind any moisturiser you apply on top like a magnet too!Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Hibiscus Esculentus extract, it delivers immediate skin soothing results and deep hydration. It eliminates dryness almost instantly as it quite literally blasts even the most dehydrated of complexions with a surge of moisture, maintaining surface hydration throughout the day. Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream My personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 recommendation of the BC Pros too, the Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream – formulated with the best hydrating ingredients; Squalane, Collagen, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid – that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin super soft, supple and like it’s had that much-needed boost of hydration, a feeling that lasts all day! Pevonia Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & Myoxy Caviar This rich silky-smooth gel formula in concentrated Marine Collagen and Myoxy Caviar, has been designed to combat signs of ageing in multiple ways by nourishing, oxygenating and plumping the skin. Luminous skin surfaces as cells are repairs and fine lines and wrinkles diminished. Vie Collection Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Concentrate For amplified hydration, all you need to do is apply a pump of this deeply hydrating complexion under any moisturiser! It literally melts into skin on application creating an instantly rejuvenating effect. With both high and low molecular hyaluronic for deeper moisture-binding where your skin needs it the most – in the skin cells! Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Vitamin Mask This instant skin plumper reboots dehydrated skin in an instant! Apply it once or twice a week for a skin drenching treat and enjoy perfectly balanced moisture levels all week long – seriously!
Why you’ll want to invest in these two home beauty devices
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 17 2022
I’m sure we all have those beauty tools we can’t live without, from eyebrow tweezers and eyelash curlers to our beloved blush brush, after all, they help enhance our everyday look! But, in recent years, these tools of the trade have extended to a new craze – skincare devices – electrically powered gadgets meant to benefit your skin, we’re talking mechanical exfoliators, facial massagers, rotating makeup brushes, and more…but with so many now on the market it’s hard to know what is right and what’s just marketing hype! Some can be total scams, others can unfortunately cause damage to our skin (I’ve tried a few in my time!) but natural devices like gemstone rollers, and cleansing brushes such as Beauty Collective’s Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush are winners, and I am here to tell you why! Gemstone Facial RollersWhile there is nothing quite like indulging in a facial at your favourite salon or spa, with the abundance of beauty products for every skin type and this little massage miracle you can now master the perfect at-home facial yourself!What are Gemstone Facial Rollers?In layman's terms, a gemstone roller is a beauty tool that has a polished, rounded semi-precious stone attached to one end (as a roller) and is for use on your face. The roller can come in a range of gemstones including, amethyst, obsidian, rose quartz, jade and more.Why you’ll want to get your hands on oneThese little massage beauty’s (also touted as an “anti-ageing tool”) offer a multitude of benefits for the skin when used regularly and correctly. They can help fight wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, tighten skin and pores, increase blood circulation to the face, clear toxins, decrease puffiness under the eyes and around the face, and potentially improve inflammatory skin conditions. They even have the ability to release tension and are soo soothing and calming on the skin. Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all though, with a range of gemstone options, it’s important to look at their individual properties and benefits to best suit your skin’s needs. To find out more click there.When and how to use itBefore you reach for your roller, cleanse and then prep your skin applying your serums and oils. Just be sure not to rub it in completely so that the jade roller can get to work – simply roll outwards and slightly upwards on your face and neck. This is a great treatment to do with a serum or as a final step with your facial oil. Sonic Facial Cleansing BrushFor your best skin yet (we are talking cleaner, clearer, more radiant) you’ll want to get your hands on one of these beauties.What are Facial Cleansing Brushes?They are electronic or motorized facial brushes that act as a mini facial for our skin! Used in unison with your cleanser they provide skin with deeper cleaning and a more radiant complexion.Why you’ll want to get your hands on oneWe all know about the importance of cleansing, but with this little genius gadget you can get your deepest clean yet as gentle but powerful sonic massage works with ultra-hygienic silicone touchpoints and your chosen cleanser to thoroughly remove any build-up of dead skin cells, dirt, oil and sweat, preventing skin problems and resulting in clean & radiant skin, But that’s not all! It preps your skin perfectly for the absorption of your favourite skincare products for maximum effect and results, the tiny pulses help awaken the skin by stimulating the circulation of blood in the skin’s layers (when the blood is stimulated more oxygen is produced in the blood and this feeds the skin cells) and the cleansing brush will aid in keeping your pores clear from debris banishing breakouts!It also features a reverse side massage mode which can be used with your favourite concentrates and serums for deeper absorption of actives.When and how to use itDon’t know how to use it? All it takes is 2 minutes per day. Simply apply your favourite cleanser as normal and then use the Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush to massage all over the face. It should not be used however with any cleansers containing acids or granulated scrubs as this will damage the silicone touchpoints and potentially your skin too. The brush has multiple speeds though and is suitable for even the most sensitive skins.
From bold brows to skin ageing – the 12 best beauty tips for all ages
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 12 2022
Beauty is forever evolving and as a result has changed a lot in the 21 years I’ve been working in the industry. As I’ve witnessed, beauty trends can come and go, but many beauty tips are ageless, and having had the fortune to work with countless makeup artists, skincare experts, dermatologists, estheticians and more, over the years I have compiled a plethora of both skincare and makeup tips that the professionals swear by, and these are my top 12! The 12 pieces of beauty wisdom, which have impacted the way I personally care for my skin, and remain part of my everyday beauty routine! Prime your skin! Finding that perfect makeup primer and using it religiously is key when it comes to preventing your makeup from literally sliding off your face. Makeup primers are the one product that have the power to literally make your makeup stay put all day long!Simply apply it after you’ve cleansed and moisturised your skin, prior to your foundation and you’ll be good to go!We LOVE the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking flawless! Genius! Go easy with powder foundation My skin tends to sit on the dryer side, but it doesn’t stop me from loving my powder compact. Contrary to popular belief, that those of us with dry skin should never use a powder base you can, BUT it definitely depends on what type of powder you are using!Yes, if you slather your face in powder it can visibly age you (no thanks) showing up fine lines and wrinkles as the product seeps into those unsightly areas. But if you use a translucent mineral powder and in moderation it can actually do wonders for your skin, creating a beautifully smooth and natural base without feeling like you have any makeup on! Also, a good powder compact is great for soaking up oil and eliminating shine (which those of us with dry skin can get too!) but again you don’t want to go overboard and actually clog pores in turn causing skin to produce even more oil!I LOVE ELES’s Mineral Powder Foundation. The particles tend to absorb moisture, preventing shine and the Powder Foundation enables you to adjust your coverage from a translucent powder to a buildable coverage foundation with a richer, more opaque finish. What’s more, it’s formulated with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, so it’ll provide antioxidant protection as well as condition skin and the formula allows skin to breath freely (so not pore clogging in sight!) The way you apply your makeup is almost as important as the products you use. We’ve all heard it before, touch your face with your hands and you’ll likely cause a breakout so it comes as no surprise that you might well have heard that it’s best not to use your fingers to apply your makeup since even the oil and bacteria on your fingers can irritate skin. Instead, use a damp Beautyblender. It is the least irritating way to apply your product and honestly provides the most effective results! Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, but it also provides a more natural-looking coverage. Makeup brushes are another option but just beware that the brush bristles can irritate your sensitive skin, therefore opt for brush bristles made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Its smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean! Open up your eyes with a waterline eyeliner Investing in a waterline eyeliner will be a game changer for tired eyes. All you need to do is line your bottom waterline for an instantly wide-eyed effect. We promise you it’s worth the money as one swipe will truly create brighter, more awake eyes. And remember to always finish by applying lashings of mascara to your top lashes. Don’t forget your brows No matter our age, we all love a good foundation, will often use bronzer for that healthy glow, and mascara is a given if we want our eyes to stand out, but many of us are guilty of ignoring our brows. The thing is creating perfect brows can completely transform your face and make you look 10 years younger, seriously! but you need to know how.Just as the hair on our heads can thin with age, so do our eyebrows, so to look younger, we want to create instantly fake fullness and to do this we need to fill them in with the perfect brow pencil! Just be sure you don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh. Read more on how to create perfect brows. Choose skincare wisely Before choosing your skincare products, you really need to understand your skin. From facial redness to all our rosacea, acne prone skin to dry, there are products out there to suit every skin type and concern formulated with specific ingredients to calm, sooth, smooth, hydrate and more!Also, anti-ageing skincare, while not as fast as the effects of Botox, really can slow down ageing if you select the right products. So choosing serums and creams formulated with one or more of the top 5 skincare ingredients will have your skin looking smoother, firmer and plumper in next to no time. Use eye cream daily…if you don’t already With more time spent in the sun over the warmer months, it’s important to understand that you’ll be at higher risk of developing fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area. To minimise this, make sure you incorporate an eye cream or gel into your daily skincare routine. Eye treatments whether it be creams, gels or serums are specifically formulated to target and care for the delicate area around the eyes, the thinnest layer of skin on our entire bodies! In fact, the skin under our eyes is up to 1/10 thinner than other facial skin so it’s crucial to care delicately for this area to avoid any damage.Like a moisturiser, an eye cream’s main objective is to deliver brightening and anti-ageing ingredients, however in a milder, gentler, safer dose. Eye treatments also tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns – crow’s feet, under eye bags, dark circles and more.We highly recommend Pevonia’s “C” Evolutive Eye Gel to hydrate and protect our eyes. This soothing and cooling gel with high-tech time-release spherulites delivers protective and decongesting benefits to the delicate eye zone all day long. Always cleanse skin before bed! Sleeping with a face full of makeup and the days remnants of oil and grime can and will result in skin irritability and breakouts. Makeup not only traps dead skin cells it also blocks our pores and when pores are blocked the skin can’t breathe and therefore regenerate. Also, at night is when our skin switches from “protect” to “repair” mode which means it’s time to recover, skin regeneration is accelerated, and the production of collagen increased. So, make sure you commit to removing every inch of makeup before hitting the hay. For more on sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here. Get serious about sunscreen, it’s THE best anti-ageing tool there is The sun is THE no. 1 cause of premature ageing (amongst other serious issues) so you need to get serious about sunscreen from an early age! I’m talking about religiously applying it daily even when it’s cloudy! Just as you use a cleanser to wash your face, apply a sunscreen to protect your face! The harmful UV rays from the sun causes proteins in our skin to deteriorate, leading to the loss of our youthful appearance over time but a good sunscreen can help to prevent this!Fortunately, there is a myriad of products out there with SPF, from sunscreen to daily moisturisers, foundations and more, and many are now formulated to work with specific skin types, so if you are a sensitive skin sufferer and the idea of slathering on sunscreen scares you, worry no more! Look after your lips Often overlooked, lips can really show your age so it’s important to show them as much love as you would your skin starting from a young age. This means applying a lip cream daily. We are huge advocates for Pevonia’s LipRenew Plump & De-Age treatment which deeply moisturises and volumizes the lips, blurs imperfections, and, unlike other lip plumpers, also smooths the surrounding skin folds, lines and wrinkles!We also recommend using a hydrating lip balm to lock in moisture and get lips lipstick ready, after all applying lipstick to dry, chapped lips is a definite no no, as your lipstick won’t apply evenly, it’ll seep into any lip lines making your lips appear even more dry than they already are. Make sure you exfoliate you skin Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build up of dead, dull skin (which in turn can lead to skin irritation and acne!) Exfoliating helps to clear skin of debris and speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles while diminishing hyperpigmentation too! So if you’re not already a lover exfoliation it’s time to get onto it! Once or twice weekly with an exfoliator dependant on your skin type is perfect. For more on the beautifying benefits of exfoliation click here. Adapt your skincare dependant on the season & your skins needs Unfortunately, skincare isn’t a one size fits all. And over time our skin can change dramatically depending on our circumstances, from our lifestyle to the environment, our daily diet, to the stress we might be under! Also, with a change in season comes a change in our skin too so what worked for your skin weeks ago might now need some tweaking! You just need to recognise what your skin now needs and adapt your skincare to these needs.
Loose skin? How to avoid turkey neck
by Jo Boyden
on Jan 18 2022
It’s never too early to start looking after the skin on your neck and if it’s still in great shape then wonderful, however I urge you to start right now! The good news is it’s never too late, some daily habits can help slow down further skin ageing and make your neck look a whole lot better in as little as a week.Some of these tips might seem obvious but do you follow them? Daily? Really?? Moisturising: don’t neglect your neck! Sadly your face moisturiser might not be enough for this delicate area, the skin is thin, tissue paper thin and has fewer oil glands than the skin on your face, and this means a compromised skin barrier. Moisture, and loads of it, is vital for keeping the tissue supple and elastic as well as preserving the skin’s natural collagen and elastin.We recommend Phytomer Parfait Neck and Decollete Renewing Care. It contains a miraculous ingredient called Glasswort Oil: a green seaside plant present in warm areas. Its Latin name, Salicornia, means “salt antler”, pointing to its toleration of salt. It is a halophilic species, meaning that it can survive in very high salinity when submerged during high tide – without becoming dehydrated. Scientists at PHYTOMER have discovered that Glasswort possesses carrying and regulating membrane channels, which allow it to control water evaporation in order to prevent dehydration.Following the principle of marine biomimicry, at PHYTOMER, these channels are used to stimulate the production of aquaporins, proteins that transport water and urea in the skin’s cells. Glasswort oil reinforces the role of our own natural moisturizing factors to reveal smooth, soft and supple skin. Exfoliate the neck once a week Exfoliate the neck and chest area at least once a week to keep the skin free of ingrained dirt and dead skin cells. This area is delicate, so avoid products that contain sharp particles, and use a gentle, non-abrasive exfoliant. This encourages cell turnover.We recommend Vegetal Exfoliant: a grain free, enzyme exfoliant that contains papain. Super gentle yet very effective this product eliminates dry dead skin cells and purifies the tissue. Not only does your neck skin look more vibrant and fresh it also aids the penetration of the actives in your neck cream. Lighten up! Fine lines and wrinkles can be ageing, but when coupled with hyper-pigmentation can make you look 20 years older!Not convinced? which looks better?So lighten your neck and chest area with nature’s latest skin brighteners.To remove any existing sun damage and prevent freckles and hyper-pigment of the chest area we recommend White Lumination Complexion Recovery. With Sea Lily extract, and Dictyopteris (algae) and Vitamin C, this marvel reduces pigmentation and brightens the skin. It also contains UVA and UVB sun filters. Use sunscreen A recent study revealed that older skin that hadn’t been exposed to the sun had about 3,800 genetic mutations whereas skin that had been exposed had around 10,000 mutations in the same genes (meaning the ageing process had happened more quickly). Sounds like a good argument for sun protection!We recommend Sun Solutions Sunscreen SPF30 High Protection, thanks to its UVA and UVB sun filters, this ultra-light, non-sticky cream offers effective protection. In addition to UVA and UVB filters it also contains Vegetal Coral Extract with a super powerful moisturizing capacity and OLIGOMER®, Phytomers own patented ingredient that delivers an optimum dose of trace elements and minerals, fortifies the epidermis and prevents cellular fatigue. Diet Keep your nutrition rich in anti-oxidants, especially Omega-3 acids, which are present in fish. These do wonders for skin rejuvenation by boosting collagen production. In addition stock up on anti-oxidants such as Pomegranates, acai berries, blueberries and green tea to protect your skin from ageing free radicals. Sleep on the right pillow This one is obvious right? The more scrunched up the skin the more those wrinkles will take hold. The perfect pillow supports the neck yet allows the head to remain in line with the body, so ditch the reading pillow when you put down the book! Do neck exercises Lastly, give your neck an exercise workout. Keeping your neck muscles toned will help to prevent sagging skin and wrinkles. Below are six neck exercises to get you started.Six exercises to prevent turkey neck: Jut out your chin and move your lower jaw forward. Repeat ten times. Look straight ahead. Now look up to the ceiling and hold for five seconds. Slowly return to your starting position. Repeat 20 times. Form an ‘O’ with your mouth. Pull down the sides of your mouth until you feel the muscles underneath your neck working. Repeat this three times in quick succession. Build up to 20 sets of threes. With your mouth open, pronounce the vowels A to U without closing your mouth at any time. Repeat ten times, three times in a row. Press the tip of your tongue against your palate for a few seconds and release. Do this throughout the day. Make circles with your tongue when your mouth is closed, first in one direction then the other. Repeat often. Place your lower lip over the top lip and hold for a few seconds. Repeat ten times. Finally, keep your chin up (no really!). If your chin is permanently tucked into your chest you are more likely to develop permanent creases in your neck, as well as putting your neck more at risk of injury.
Worried about wrinkles? How to minimise their appearance
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 23 2021
Starting to see signs of ageing on your face? Worried about wrinkles but not loving the idea of Botox or fillers? We hear you! Injectables are definitely not for everyone, nor are they a necessity thanks to the number of natural ways you can ward off or even minimise your wrinkles. Read on as we reveal what they are and pave the way to smooth, plump and radiant skin for as long as humanly possible! Wear sunscreen Yes, the NO.1 when it comes to premature ageing IS the sun and its harmful rays, so to overcome this rather hefty issue, wearing sunscreen, and wearing it religiously, day in day out is key. Nothing will warn away those wrinkles like a good sunscreen. Stay hydrated You and your skin need proper hydration to help defend against facial lines. As well as topical treatments, you need to hydrate your skin from within. You know the drill, drink your 8 glasses of water a day, skin cells need water or they will dehydrate and essential anti-ageing nutrients cannot be delivered to your system.Also including omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and mackerel in your daily diet, will really aid in skin health and hydration too! Apply topical vitamin C If there’s one particular vitamin that needs little to no introduction, it’s vitamin C. Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, the antioxidant powerhouse is known to help with your skin’s collagen production, tackle visible signs of ageing, brighten your complexion, lessen hyperpigmentation and shield skin from free radical damage! Amazing right?Try Pevonia’s Vitamin C Complexe. This product is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too! Moisturise A good anti-ageing, wrinkle fighting moisturiser will not only make skin feel more hydrated, it will also nourish and plump the skin making wrinkles less visible.Choose a daily and nightly moisturiser with high doses of collagen, retinol, hyaluronic acid and peptides that work to reverse the ageing process.Retinol is by far the most proven and effective way of bettering signs of ageing such as uneven pigmentation, roughness, and wrinkling. And one of the best wrinkle skincare ranges is Pevonia’s Micro Retinol line.Just be sure to start introducing it slowly and at night-time and get yourself in the know with this miracle ingredient. Exfoliate Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep older skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build-up of dead, dull skin. Exfoliating helps speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing hyperpigmentation so you want to be getting in on it stat!One of the best exfoliators for all skin types is Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes! It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. I promise you when I say it’ll make your skin appear fresher and younger! Give yourself a facial massage Massaging your face for just one minute per day can help combat those unsightly wrinkles. How? Because facial massage promotes oxygen and blood flow in our skin. Not only does this result in reducing puffiness, it will also increase collagen production, which prevents the formation of wrinkles too!For more information on the benefits of facial massage click here. Be aware of blue light damage from your electronic devices I’ve already preached about the damaging effects of the sun when it comes to premature ageing, but another cause of concern is our own electronic devices! Which let’s face it we all spend far too long going from mobile to laptop to tv every day! Did you even know though that this over excessive so called “screen time” can lead to skin damage? In fact, overexposure can actually prompt the formation of free radicals which break down collagen and cause inflammation, leading to redness, dark spots, and early onset wrinkles. What’s more, blue light has the ability to penetrate skin much more deeply that UV rays causing even more havoc and long-term damage! Scary right?So what should you do to protect your skin? Obviously reducing screen time is the best bet but if your job and lifestyle won’t really allow it, next best step is to apply a topical protective treatment like Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. It’s an everyday sunscreen with contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. Eat antioxidant rich food The diet you eat can visibly reflect on your skin, so instead of doubling down on the sugary treats that are in abundance this season, opt for antioxidant rich foods such as berries, leafy greens and whole grains. Add green tea to your daily diet too, which also provides natural antioxidants. Exercise daily We all know the numerous benefits of exercise but did you know how important it is for slowing down skin ageing too? Daily exercise increases the delivery of nutrients to skin's cells and provides optimum conditions for collagen production, in turn warding off early wrinkles and fine lines! Stop stressing Easier said than done for some of us I know but high levels of stress can prematurely age you! If life can sometimes seem like a little much, try and take 5 minutes out to simply listen to music, practice mindfulness, do some deep breathing exercises or meditate. Proven to induce a state of relaxation, all methods can decrease stress and anxiety and change mindset in minutes. Get your beauty sleep Haven’t we all heard this a million times! But sadly, it’s true. The quality and length of sleep you receive every night can have a profound impact on your skin’s overall health. When we sleep our bodies recharge. Not only do our bodies recharge, our skin does too. During sleep, we heal, restore and eliminate toxins from the skin and with enough sleep, our bodies are able to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid – the molecules that give the skin its youthful glow and elasticity.. Only getting 5 hours a night can lead to twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 would! Eek.Also, how you sleep can have a huge effect on your skin’s appearance! If you are a lover of sleeping on your front you might want to reconsider this position! When you sleep on your front, your skin is pushed up against the pillow for hours at a time which can reinforce lines, especially around the eyes, forehead and lips. The best way to prevent these wrinkles is by sleeping on your back. You can also reduce damage by using a silk pillowcase which allows for more movement, or a memory foam pillow which doesn’t compress the skin as much.
Skincare Makeup - What’s in your foundation? The top 5 ingredients to look out for
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 16 2021
Almost every day there’s a new skincare superstar set to transform your complexion, the latest and greatest skincare ingredients that promise to deliver outstanding results, and while some become just passing fads, others remain true ingredient classics that we all look for when selecting products for our specific skincare needs. But have you ever really considered what ingredients you should be looking for in your foundation?Foundation, 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? It seems crazy to spend so much time and money on perfecting your morning skincare ritual, using the best of the best for your specific skincare needs, only to undo all the good by applying makeup that’s full of toxic ingredients on top.From clogging pores, causing blemishes to more serious skin irritations what you are putting on your face can have a less than desirable effect! So what ingredients should you be looking out for in your foundation for your best skin yet?If you ask any expert, there are five key ingredients which we’ve highlighted below, and fortunately the clever people at ELES Cosmetics have ensured they feature in their entire range of foundations! Vitamin EThis nurturing, powerful antioxidant offers a heap of skin benefits. It works to nourish and protect skin from the effects of pollution and free radical damage, as well as help block blue light rays (all of which are known to speed up the ageing process eek). It is also helps maintain healthy skin by assisting in the repairing of damaged cells.Zinc OxideThis outstanding mineral is hypoallergenic which means it’s ideal for all skin types even those with the most sensitive of complexions. When applied topically in makeup, it offers several important benefits for the skin; it protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays preventing skin damage, it helps to reduce skin inflammation and repair skin cells, and finally it keeps excess oil at bay.Titanium DioxideOne of the cosmetics industry’s best kept secrets, this mineral, like Zinc Oxide is ideal for those suffering from sensitive prone skin. It helps soak up oils in the skin, reducing any unwanted shine while absorbing and scattering both UVA and UVB rays thus preventing sun damage and premature ageing. Finally it is prized for its long-lasting and waterproof properties.Sodium HyaluronateOtherwise known as Hyaluronic Acid it works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much of it as possible so that your skin feels and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.A single gram of hyaluronic acid has the impressive ability to hold up to six litres of water. Add to that, a super smart ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them and you've got one genius ingredient.Vitamin AVitamin A is essential when it comes to the health of your skin. It’s involved in the production of fresh, new cells, which keeps your skin both functioning and looking its best. It can also minimize fine lines and wrinkles by boosting the production of collagen, fight signs of UV damage and slough away dead skin cells helping to prevent clogged pores.
Why you need a serum: The best anti-ageing serums for every skin type
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 15 2021
I’m a self-proclaimed skincare buff and for good reason. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in the industry for 20 years now (oh my!) and as a result, try many an amazing product during this time. But the one product I swear by (aside from my daily moisturiser of course!) and know my skin hugely benefits from, is my serum.Now you might well have your reservations when it comes to serums (or concentrates as otherwise known) because a) how does it really differ from your moisturiser I hear you say and b) because let’s face it keeping up with your daily skincare ritual can be costly and since you are already using a cleanser, exfoliator, moisturiser, eye cream and face oil, surely a serum isn’t necessary as well? Well if you want your skin to live its best life, I’m here to tell you it really will be worth that extra investment, but firstly, it’s important you understand why. So what exactly is serum and what is its purpose?Serums are like a shot for the skin. Firstly they tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products, this is because they are developed with a higher concentration of targeted active ingredients. Secondly, the purpose of a serum is to target a specific concern.Most often, serums are clear, gel-based or liquid formulations and are applied before moisturisers to help lock in moisture. Packed with potent anti-ageing ingredients, they have the ability to hydrate more effectively than even the heaviest of creams because the molecules are able to truly penetrate the skin and hydrate on the deepest level, while your cream tends to sit on and nourish the top layers of your skin. Serums do not however replace your moisturiser, but instead boost the effects of your moisturiser. What serum is right for me?There are a multitude of serums out here ranging from anti-ageing to anti-acne, hydration to skin brightening and more, so in order to work out what will be best for you, you need to decipher what it is your skin really needs from the serum. For dry complexions, look for formulas that incorporate hydrating proteins such as hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin. While ageing, dull or combination skin will benefit from serums with both vitamin C and retinol.Below we have selected our most loved serums for each common skin type and concern so read on to see which could be a game-changer for your complexion! Best serum for photo-damaged and lacklustre skinPevonia Optimal C ComplexTargets: Dullness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Vitamin C helps to stimulate collagen production for younger-looking skin, Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and drenches skin with repairing antioxidants while Chitosan Ascorbate accelerates tissue regeneration.This unique microemulsified gel boosts skins radiance and renders it bright, smooth and revitalized. “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps, and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” - Deborah WBest serum for dry, thirsty skinPevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra SerumTargets: Dehydration, lack of suppleness, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus extract which relaxes harsh wrinkles similar to that of Botox), to deliver immediate skin soothing results and deep hydrationThe ultimate for seriously thirsty skin, this serum eliminates dryness almost instantly as it quite literally blasts even the most dehydrated of complexions with a surge of moisture, maintaining surface hydration throughout the day. By adding moisture back into your skin, this serum immediately boosts skin’s suppleness and combats ageing in multiple ways thanks to its skin-plumping properties.“I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” - Marie C Best for sensitive and breakout prone skinPevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateTargets: Inflammation, rosacea, acneHero Ingredients: Propolis, lavender and vetiver oil to desensitize, decongest, heal and strengthen fragile skin.With anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, Pevonia’s Soothing Propolis Concentrate is the perfect elixir for inflamed, sensitive or acne prone skin.“I love this product, I bought it while i was pregnant and had severe hormonal acne and it seemed to calm, soothe and reduce the “angriness” of my skin! Since having baby I have continued to use this product and it has since reduced my pore size and also made my skin more evenly toned. I recommend to anyone who has skin problems as it also contains anti-microbial properties and antibacterial to keep those yukky breakouts to a minimum!” – Melinda L Best serum for mature, ageing skinPevonia MyOxy – Caviar Timeless Repair SerumTargets: Fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticityHero Ingredients: Formulated with a high concentration of age-defying Caviar and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus Blend)An all-rounder for tackling advanced signs of ageing Pevonia’s Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair serum works to immediately increase skins plumpness, softening and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Skin’s texture and elasticity is noticeably improved, resulting in a tighter, finer, resurfaced complexion and an unequivocal youthful radiance.“I LOVE this stuff. Pricey yes but I noticed a dramatic decrease in my wrinkles as well as a smoother texture in a matter of weeks.” - Tanya L Best serum for mature, photo-damaged and hyperpigmented skinMedicalia Retinol ConcentrateTargets: Uneven skin tone, dark spots, lines and wrinkles, sagging skinHero Ingredients: Micro Retinol, Vitamin E, Vitamin CFormulated to amplify results, this serum’s innovative ‘age-reversing’ Micro-Retinol® technology normalizes mitosis, boosts cellular performance, and restructures skin layers for visible rejuvenation. Skin appears dense and supple with a smoothed surface and diminished wrinkles resulting in brighter, more youthful looking complexion.“This is the best product for ageing skin I have found.” - Heather Best serum for oily skin with enlarged poresPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Micro-Pores Bio Active SerumTargets: pore size, oil excess, uneven skin textureHero Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Red Clover and pseudoalteromonas ferment extract; a ground-breaking peptide that contains three skin perfecting amino acids; Glycine, Histidine and LysineDeeply hydrating microemulsified gel with a light texture. Formulated with bio-active breakthrough ingredients that work deep within hair follicles to normalise sebum production, reduce pore size for a matte and even complexion.“This is a wonderful product, it does exactly what it says. It minimises large pores and reduces oily skin around my nose and cheeks. Highly recommend!” - Rhiannon K Best serum for dehydration and signs of ageingPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and Myoxy caviarTargets: Fine lines, lack of suppleness, damaged skin cellsHero Ingredients: Marine Collagen Polypeptides, Caviar Extract Hibiscus Esculentus extractThis rich silky-smooth gel formula in concentrated Marine Collagen and Myoxy Caviar, has been designed to combat signs of ageing in multiple ways by nourishing, oxygenating and plumping the skin. Luminous skin surfaces as cells are repairs and fine lines and wrinkles diminished.“I absolutely LOVE this serum. It gives my dry skin an instant boost! My skin is immediately hydrated and looks smoother with renewed luminosity.” - Jo BBest New Serum for firming and plumpingPhytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum Targets: loose, slackened, uneven skinHero Ingredients: Marine Algae, Squalane, Lily of the Valley, Jasmine, PeonyThis beautifully lightweight milky serum effectively moisturises and improves skin tissue density by smoothing, firming and plumping the skin as well as enhancing the look of facial contours! “I was recommended this serum by a friend and am so glad I was! I’m in my 60’s and have been concerned about my skin getting looser as I age. This serum smells divine and feels light and silky on application and in the month I’ve been using it, it has definitely made a difference to my skin. It is now more supple and visibly firmer too!” wonderful! - Kylie D
Botox in a bottle? 5 ways to effectively treat your frown lines and wrinkles
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 03 2021
Are the effects of covid playing havoc with your skin thanks to stress? Feel like you are looking 10 years older? And then to make matters worse those furrowed frown lines and forehead wrinkles are reappearing since your Botox is wearing off, but beauty salons and cosmetic institutes are unlikely to reopen any time soon due to lockdown!The thing is you can effectively treat them naturally without the need for cosmetic injectables by following a few simple steps! And thanks to the advancement in both technology and skincare ingredients, there are now a number of excellent alternatives to treating your lines, which can seriously achieve similar smoothing and plumping results to Botox, and while you are unlikely to see life-changing results overnight (even Botox takes a week to have effect don’t you know) these non-invasive topical alternatives give you more control over the change in your appearance (no poker-face in sight), provide a much more natural look, plus you will achieve outstanding on-going results when used as part of your daily skincare routine. Yess!So if you are looking for ways to address those pesky frown lines and wrinkles, keep reading as we reveal 5 simple steps to truly treat them naturally. Treat with topical skincare specifically designed to combat wrinkles In the quest to eliminate the furrowed frown and fine lines, going under the needle reigns supreme, but if you are like me and needles are a formative no-go, or you simply can’t get to your salon because #lockdown, there are pain-free, natural and relatively inexpensive topical solutions that will help reduce those early signs of ageing. For our recommended natural alternatives that actually work, click here. Eat a healthy diet that includes lots of water You and your skin need proper hydration to help defend against facial lines. You know the drill, drink your 8 glasses of water a day, but also eat a diet rich in essential fruits and veggies and omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and mackerel as these will really aid in skin health and hydration. Get enough sleep to allow your skin to recharge Haven’t we all heard this a million times! But sadly, it’s true. The quality and length of sleep you receive every night can have a profound impact on your skin's overall health. When we sleep our bodies recharge. Not only do our bodies recharge, our skin does as well. During sleep, we heal, restore and eliminate toxins from the skin. Only getting 5 hours a night can lead to twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 would! Eek.Also, how you sleep can have a huge effect on your skin’s appearance! If you are a lover of sleeping on your front you might want to reconsider this position! When you sleep on your front, your skin is pushed up against the pillow for hours at a time which can reinforce frown lines, especially around the eyes, forehead and lips. The best way to prevent these wrinkles is by sleeping on your back. You can also reduce damage by using a silk pillowcase which allows for more movement, or a memory foam pillow which doesn’t compress the skin as much. Use sunscreen every, single day And no using sunscreen isn’t going to reduce the wrinkles you already have, but it will help prevent you getting more.Ah sunscreen, the product that no one likes to wear but is truly amazing stuff! Why? Because sunscreen can not only protect your skin and help prevent premature skin ageing caused by the sun, including wrinkles, sagging and age spots, it can also actually reverse common signs of photoaging such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation! Genius!I’m not a lover of the feeling of SPF on my face but I can highly recommend Medicalia’s new Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. It not only protects skin against the harmful rays of the sun, but also blue light damage omitted from our devices!! And I’m sure many of us are having a little too much screen time at the moment!I also religiously wear my Age-Defying ELES BB Cream SPF 30 daily. It’s an amazing multi-tasking and benefit-packed cream that primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen and protect skin on contact! It’s just perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger with a gorgeous subtle glow.Also wearing sunglasses are imperative! Not only will they stop you from squinting (which doing so repeatedly can equate to wrinkles!) They’ll protect those precious peepers and the delicate skin around them too! Exfoliate your face one to two times a week Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep older skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build-up of dead, dull skin. Exfoliating helps speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing hyperpigmentation so you want to be getting in on it!One of my favourite exfoliators is Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture and my skin always looks clearer, brighter and smoother after every use! But if granules scare you, I also LOVE Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It's a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin types and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. I promise you when I say it’ll make your skin appear fresher and younger!
Plump up the volume: 5 ways to maintain skin’s youthful plumpness!
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 06 2021
Unfortunately, as we get older, our skin loses its perky plumpness! You know that beautiful bouncy skin we were born with and donned throughout our younger years.Why? Because sadly the natural collagen and elastin that forms in our skin and keeps it young, perky, and plump starts to diminish as we age! And when I say as we age, I mean after the age of 20, yes TWENTY!Lucky for us, while ageing isn’t avoidable, you can combat sagging skin! Read on to reveal 4 ways to improve and maintain your skin’s elasticity, firmness and plumpness! Ensure your daily diet includes lots of collagen-boosting goodness Even though our natural collagen production reduces dramatically as we age, we can boost it by eating certain foods. Think foods rich in vitamin C like your dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale, foods rich in sulphur including beans, cabbage and garlic, foods high in essential fatty acids, like salmon, tuna, flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts, and your everyday staples such as eggs, carrots, avocado and also soy! Cut down your sugar intake Sugar in the bloodstream attaches to collagen and elastin molecules via a glycation process to form harmful new particles called “advanced glycation end products” or AEG’s. The more sugar you consume, the more AGE’s you will develop, and in turn the more collagen and elastin fibres will get damaged! Eek! So ditching a diet high in saturated sugar and alcohol will dramatically help! Take your supplements Just as you might take a daily multi-vitamin you can also ingest collagen supplements. Supplements can get to work deep in the dermal layers of your skin and strengthen your collagen from inside out, you just need to take rather a few to see the results though so be sure to be patient! Use skin plumping products rich in hydrating and collagen producing ingredients The key to achieving radiant, plump skin is to choose products with ingredients that will dramatically increase hydration as well as collagen production. These ingredients include;Collagen – It’s important to supplement the collagen our body produces since we produce less and less as we get older. Collagen is what keeps our skin firm and bouncy-looking after all, the problem is applying collagen topically is easier said than done. The collagen molecule can’t actually penetrate our skin, therefore you need to choose a product with collagen amino acids that are small enough to get to the deeper layer of the dermis to deliver that plumping effect.Try: Pevonia’s best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. Personally, I can’t get enough of it! I swear this jar of anti-ageing goodness has hugely benefited my skin over the years keeping it soft, supple and firm!Hyaluronic Acid – one of the most crucial ways to keep skin soft and supple as we age is to keep it moisturised! And Hyaluronic Acid is THE ingredient that has the ability to instantly deliver supple dewy skin! It binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm and plump, and thanks to its sponge-like effect every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water so when topically applied it’s like a burst of intense hydration to the skin.Try; Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. I’m hands down loving this super hydrator! Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, it penetrates deeply into the skin delivering the ultimate hydrating and skin smoothing results. My skin is all the better for it - softer, plumper, and firmer! Retinol – Hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world and for very good reason, retinol counteracts ageing like no other! A derivative of Vitamin A, this ‘superhero’ ingredient offers a multitude of benefits including boosting collagen production and erasing dark spots. It can also increase your cell turnover rate making cells function like that of a child! Amazing right? I couldn’t recommend this ingredient more but you do need to be sure to understand how and when to use it first! And which retinol product will be right for you according to your skin type.Try; Pevonia’s Micro-Reinol Moisturiser and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about! For those with advanced signs of ageing – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, it will be your go-to! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with Retinol, Hyaluronic, Squalane, and Marine Collagen, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms! Best results when used in conjunction with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Serum.Hydrafusion – This high-tech concentrate of Oligofurcellaran (extracted from the red alga Furcellaria Lumbricalis) is hydrolyzed and made into a complex with marine minerals. It blends with the epidermis to provide the skin with a moisturising infusion and plumps up and intensively hydrates the epidermis from its deepest layers right up to the surface. Phytomer scientists actually discovered that Hydrafusion was faster and more effective than hyaluronic acid to plump-up the skin with moisture! No mean feat!Try: Phytomer Hydrasea Night Plumping Rich Cream. If you are feeling your skin is looking a little lack-lustre, sallow or like you’ve aged a few years (so me at the moment!) try this outstanding night cream (you can thank me later!) it literally envelopes your skin with ultra-comfy marine goodness and provides optimum skin hydration throughout the night. Even when you wake in the morning it appears to still be working its magic as skin look beautifully hydrated, revitalized and definitely plumper! And no it is not an optical illusion! Stimulate your skin with massage By massaging your face (you can either use your fingers or a facial roller) frequently, you can naturally stimulate collagen production and strengthen muscle memory. This stimulation can plump your skin and tone and tighten your face – love me a natural facelift I do! Just remember keeping your existing collagen is easier than producing new ones so make sure you are vigilant with your skincare routine, wear sun protection daily and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Anti-ageing beauty tips 8 celebrities swear by
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 02 2021
It's not just genetics that grant our favourite celebrity’s beautifully bright, Benjamin Button-esque skin. Many A-listers have their go-to beauty regime which they believe keeps their complexions radiantly youthful. From daily exfoliation to drinking plentiful amounts of water, never for-going the SPF, to anti-ageing must haves, read on to discover the anti-ageing beauty tips 9 celebrities swear by and whether they’d really work for us all. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow“I drink a lot of water, it is full of healing powers”While drinking water daily is without a doubt imperative for your overall health and well-being, there is little research to support the idea that it will make a huge difference in your skin’s appearance. This is because when you drink water it doesn’t automatically go to the skin, in fact, it hydrates cells once it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and is filtered by the kidneys.So rather than relying heavily on water to boost your complexion, like Gwyneth, the best way to effectively hydrate skin is topically using products rich in hyaluronic acid. When it comes to getting dewy, hydrated skin, few ingredients deliver the way hyaluronic acid does. This is because it holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water meaning it attracts and holds on to moisture in skin cells, enabling skin to both feel and look hydrated and plump. Genius!We LOVE Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus extract which relaxes harsh wrinkles similar to that of Botox), it immediately boosts skin’s suppleness and combats ageing in multiple ways thanks to its skin-plumping properties. Actress Jennifer Aniston“I stay out of the sun”While it’s next to impossible to completely stay out of the sun (in fact 10 mins of sun a day will help with vitamin D production which is essential for health), limiting your time spent in it and definitely not bathing in it!! Will do wonders for your skin including keeping its smooth, even-toned texture. This is because the number one cause of wrinkles IS sun damage. Sunscreen is the most effective anti-ageing product going. Fact. So wearing an SPF daily come rain, hail or shine, whether inside or out is imperative for protection.For sunscreen that won’t clog your pores, look for formulas that contain zinc oxide. We highly recommend Medicalia’s NEW Sunscreen SPF30 with Blue Light Shield. This smooth tinted sunscreen formulated with zinc and iron oxides will not only protect your skin from UVA and UVB but also from the harmful effects of blue light caused by not only the sun but screen time too! What’s more, it rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind (which let's face it we all loathe ‘those’ sunscreens!) and its formula is reef safe!!And for extra protection and flawless-looking skin try ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 20 Actress Kerry Washington“I wear minimal makeup so my skin can breathe”Sure, sure, you might be one of those blessed celebrities that look just as fabulous without makeup on as they do with, but I’m pretty sure the majority of us aren’t going to forgo our favourite makeup must-haves in the hope it will preserve our age by a few years! What we can do though is invest in makeup that will allow your skin to breathe freely, so no clogged pores, reactions and premature ageing! ELES Cosmetics range of mineral foundations allows just that - your skin to “breathe” while shielding it against age aggressors.We can’t get enough of their best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF15! It’s a silky, mineral-enriched liquid foundation which sets to a soft, powder finish when applied. Its skin-safe formula rich in vitamins A, C & E, contains no chemical ‘nasties’, heavy fillers or potential pore-clogging irritants, such as fragrance, talc, oil and dyes. And it is also formulated with titanium dioxide which is UV-protecting! Victoria Secrets Angel Candice Swanepoel“I’m religious about going for facials”Of course, a monthly, even weekly facial, as many celebrities will admit to having, can do wonders for your skin, and wouldn’t we all love to be in the position to indulge ourselves in weekly treatments at our therapists’ hands! But sadly, we can’t all afford to frequent our local spa! Good skin maintenance is however something we can all manage daily! Being armed with the right skincare products for your skin type is a start and why not give yourself a facial at home? Socialite and Entrepreneur Kim Kardashian-West"I wash with a hot cloth... then use it to exfoliate"While hot water washcloth exfoliation may be a thing, it is unlikely to be extremely beneficial in the long run. In fact, while washing your face with a hot cloth and hot water can be seen by some as a little luxury, it does come at a cost! Firstly, you want to be gentle when washing your skin. Using a washcloth can cause friction if used vigorously or too often which can lead to inflammation, irritation, and damage to your skin barrier, in turn leading to premature skin ageing!! Eek.Secondly, hot water can strip the skin of its essential moisture and deplete its natural protective barrier which can lead to impairments in the skin’s moisture. I’m sure the majority of us aren’t going to stop washing with hot water but it’s a good idea to turn the heat down a little and ensure you replenish skin immediately after with a good hydrating moisturiser! I’m currently loving Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream it’s deliciously rich and delivers intense and lasting hydration to my skin!And finally exfoliating your face with a washcloth doesn’t come close to using a skincare exfoliator which will effectively remove the days impurities. Try sticking to a face scrub or enzyme exfoliator specific for your skin type. Actress Cate Blanchette“I remove stress where possible, this will give you a better glow”Research has found that stress can have a major impact on our bodies and our skin too, leading to inflammation, skin sensitivities and even early skin aging! As stress can aggravate skin conditions, taking time to indulge in a little self-care, in turn, helps your skin stay clear and smooth. Practice self-care at home with team BC’s beauty recommendations and experience better skin health. Supermodel Christie Brinkley“I start every day by exfoliating my face”Exfoliation is key as it helps increase cell turnover and unclog pores, preventing breakouts and helping other products in your skincare routine absorb more easily for optimal results. But while Christie advocates for daily exfoliation, it’s definitely not a recommendation for everyone! Here at BC we recommend you exfoliate once or twice a week – as long as your skin can handle it. For those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions, it’s essential to start slowly (minimum of once a week) and steer clear of physical exfoliators which contain eg. grains or microbeads to buff away dead skin cells as these can be too harsh and lead to further reactions. Instead, opt for an enzyme exfoliator such as Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft, gentle exfoliant for even the most sensitive skin, and effectively eliminates impurities and dead skin cells using natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without any scrubbing!Supermodel Jessica Hart“I change up my products depending on how my skin reacts to the changing seasons.”Unfortunately, skincare isn’t a one size fits all. And over time our skin can change dramatically depending on our circumstances, from our lifestyle to the environment, our daily diet, to the stress we might be under! Also, with a change in season comes a change in our skin too so what worked for your skin weeks ago might now need some tweaking! You just need to recognise what your skin now needs and adapt your skincare to these needs.And then there are those of us that are self-isolating because of #lockdown. Here’s why it’s time to change up your skincare routine!
Your guide to the best vitamin skincare – essential for skin health
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 23 2021
I’m sure we’ve all taken vitamin supplements in our time. In fact, I’m pretty sure the majority of us still take them daily, or if not at least stock up on those vitamin rich fresh fruits and leafy green veggies to get our vitamin intake! Vitamins are after all, essential for our body’s functionality! Did you know though that not only do they make sure that everything is working on the inside, they also play a major role in the appearance of our skin, hair and nails too! Yes, that’s right, without sufficient vitamins our skin can be prone to dark spots, redness, wrinkles, rough patches, excessive dryness and more!The great news is that aside from taking supplements and looking after our daily diet, one of the most effective ways to nourish our skin is to apply vitamins topically with skincare!Knowing which vitamins to look out for and how they will best benefit your skin is a great way to carefully select the best vitamin skincare products for your skin's needs though. So read on for our guide to the best vitamins in skincare and our favourite products that you need for optimum skin health! Vitamin CIf there’s one particular vitamin that needs little to no introduction, it’s vitamin C. Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, the antioxidant powerhouse is known to help with your skin’s collagen production, tackle visible signs of ageing, brighten your complexion, lessen hyperpigmentation and shield skin from free radical damage! Amazing right?Try: Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe. This product is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!Vitamin AVitamin A (otherwise known as retinol in the skincare world) is another highly acclaimed skincare ingredient. In fact, it is hailed as the holy grail of the skincare world! Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child!If you’re new to vitamin A however, we recommend introducing it slowly to build up a tolerance. To learn more about retinol and when best to apply click here.Try: Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential MoisturiserFor those with advanced signs of aging – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser is your go-to! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with Retinol, Hyaluronic, Squalane, and Marine Collagen, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms! Best results when used in conjunction with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Serum.Vitamin EThe most nourishing of all the vitamins, Vitamin E is deeply moisturising and anti-inflammatory so it’s ideal for those suffering from sensitive, dehydrated, dry and lacklustre skin.It is also one of the most powerful natural antioxidants so it helps to protect our skin from harmful free radicals caused by pollution, UV rays, excessive alcohol, smoking and other environmental nasties.Try: Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate. Rich in Vitamins E, A and Mandarin Essential Oil, this 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.Vitamin DVitamin D is one of, if not THE best vitamins for your skin, problem is the best source comes from the sun and we are all taught from an early age to shield ourselves from said sun due to the daily damage it can cause. Thing is the sun isn’t all bad. Just 10–15 minutes of daily exposure helps manufacture vitamin D throughout the skin. Then make sure you apply your SPF after that!
The Truth about Stem Cells Skin Care: Does it really reverse skin ageing?
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 16 2021
We’ve all heard of “Stem Cells” right? Those “special” cells in our body which have the ability to self-renew and repair (so clever). So it may come as no surprise to hear (if you haven’t already!) that one of the newest and most popular high-tech ways to counteract skin ageing is stem cell technology in skincare! Yes beauty experts and scientists alike, are turning to stem cells in the form of creams, serums and even cleansers, to fight wrinkles and improve skin turnover! But the big question is, can these stem cells really stimulate human cell production because many skincare companies are claiming they do!Here we dish the dirt on the truth about stem cells in skincare!A significant challenge for any skin care brand is to provide functional, trendy, innovative AND safe products with a long shelf life. Today, most of us are simply not prepared to use human or animal products in the name of beauty! And not just because of testing, because simply put the idea of slathering some other person or animals stem cells all over your face is well a little creepy!Enter plant stem cell culture!Plant regeneration at the cellular (and tissue) level is a unique process. Like humans, the stem cells in plants have properties that help stimulate and regenerate after the plant is injured. What is interesting however is that plants are more advanced as they are equipped with a robust mechanism for regeneration of their tissues under stress. In other words, cutting the branch of a tree also results in a new bud/branch growth!Plant stem cells are adaptive. A protein in a plant can turn regular plant cells into stem cells. Magical! So, can we use this unique mechanism in plants for improving tissue regeneration in humans? Here is what we know so far:Plant stem cells in skin care is still in its infancy.Stem Cells skin care is not about putting “live” stem cells into a cream to help you produce new stem cells, the beauty industry is simply not advanced enough for this yet. So it’s hard to believe many companies are claiming this when it simply can’t be true! Unless a system capable of keeping live stem cells alive in a cream is created, live stem cells in cosmetics would be next to useless, they would die before the cream hit the market.Most stem cells skin care lines use stem cell extracts, and while they do not stimulate human stem cell production there have been enough clinical studies to support the fact that they greatly improve the health of our own skin cells and do many other great things, including; 1. They increase fibroblast activityThis is a definite plus in age-management as it helps the production of the vital proteins of collagen and elastin whose degradation is hugely responsible for the signs of skin ageing. 2. They increase cell production and growthAgain, a huge plus as the rate of new healthy cell production slows down dramatically as you get older. 3. They decrease the depth of lines and wrinkles From approximately 8-15%, which may not sound a lot, but this is after only 4 weeks use. In the long term you could expect to see much more. 4. They reduce the breakdown of Collagen and Hyaluronic in our bodiesWe know that Collagen and Hyaluronic are vital for healthy, youthful skin so a reduction in their breakdown is great news. 5. They have strong antioxidant propertiesStem Cell Extracts help to prevent “free-radical” damage to healthy skin cells. 6. They are very nutritious for our skinThey contain high concentrations of lipids, proteins, amino acids and phytoalexins (antimicrobial and often antioxidative substances). 7. They increase the skin’s level of filaggrin proteins A deficiency in filaggrin proteins leads to dryness and problems with eczema. When the skin lacks this protein, its ability to shield against pollution and topical toxic substances is reduced. So have we sold you on Stem Cells skincare yet? Cue Pevonia’s Stem Cells Phyto Elite line.Hailed for its ability to stimulate the reversal of the ageing cycle of the skin, the line, powered by two ground-breaking plant cell sources – the reparative Moroccan Argan Tree and European Comfrey Root – combined with anti-ageing super stars Retinol, Vitamins C and E and Marine Collagen, works deep within the skin to radically reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while firming and deeply hydrating the skin at a rapid rate too!So whether you are looking to introduce a new anti-ageing cleanser, serum or moisturiser into your daily routine, this line does it all! What’s more, for this month of June if you purchase a Stem Cells Moisturiser or Stem Cells Serum you’ll receive the full size cleanser for FREE.
The 5 best-selling moisturisers on BC and why we love them too!
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 01 2021
Applying moisturiser daily is one of the keys to achieving healthy, supple skin, no matter what your skin type or concern. So it's little surprise that the most common question we get asked at Beauty Collective is what is our best moisturiser. While there is no ONE moisturiser that can be plucked from the hundreds we have, there are a number which have received gold star status and for very good reason. So read on to find out the 5 Pevonia best-selling moisturisers on BC and which skin type they are best suited to. Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream Best for dry, dehydrated, ageing skin My personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 favourite of many of the BC crew too, the Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream 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! I swear my 40-year-old self has less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream Best for oily, combination and hormonal skin With a subtle lemongrass scent to die for and a soothing, silky texture which literally melts into skin on application, this moisturiser it top 5 for every good reason! Perfect for those with combination skin, prone to oily t-zones or susceptible to the odd blemish and pesky pimple, it effectively refines pores and controls oil and shine with skin nourishing ingredients including vitamin e, arnica and aloe. Get ready for smooth, soft and supple skin minus the excessive oil and congestion that it brings! Yes! Pevonia RS2 Care Cream Best for seriously sensitive or rosacea prone skin Formulated with calming, skin-caring ingredients including Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, this beautifully textured, nourishing cream is soothing like ice on seriously sensitive skin. It provides skin with vaso constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits to effectively reduce redness and inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associated with Rosacea. We love the great results for rosacea prone skin but also love its natural signature scent of French Rose. It’s one heavenly product so not hard to see why it’s loved by so many! Pevonia Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream For normal to sensitive skin There is nothing not to love about this product if you are a sufferer of sensitive skin. This cream will quite literally calm and control hypersensitivity. Formulated with soothing and healing propolis, aloe, shea butter, and chamomile, it alleviates and harmoniously corrects skin’s blotchiness and irritability. Skin sensitivity be gone with you! Pevonia Firming Marine Elastin Cream Best for those concerned with skin slackening or simply wanting a richer, more nourishing cream for winter Formulated with hydrating superstars’ hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane, this rich, nourishing anti-ageing cream dramatically increases moisture to the skin while improving overall texture and elasticity. Get ready to feel the difference! Oh and it smells pretty divine too!
Why retinol is the anti-ageing ingredient your skin needs
by Jo Boyden
on May 10 2021
With so many anti-ageing skin care products on the market, choosing what will be right for your skin can be baffling so say the least. However, when it comes to reducing the visible signs of ageing, retinol is the “super-ingredient” every beauty professional hails as the holy grail of the skincare world. Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child! What exactly is retinol?Retinol and retinoic acid are both forms of vitamin A used in skincare products. The stronger of the two, retinoic acid, is only available via prescription while retinol can be sold over the counter. What does it do?It is a cell communicator that can help damaged skin cells return to their normal function.When skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun it absorbs free radicals, which attack healthy cells. Retinol interrupts this process by attaching itself to damaged cells and communicating with them, helping them to act like healthy cells again.It also helps your skin slough dead cells and creates new ones, which in turn creates new collagen. Over time, this can lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Finally, because retinol helps to slough away dead skin cells and reveal new growth underneath, continuous use can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperpigmentation by peeling away the top layers of skin and slowing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Who is it suitable for?While the cosmetic and medical industries are almost united in their love for retinol, some with sensitive skin will go through an inevitable adjustment period, up to six weeks of red, flaky skin. Still, sensitive skin can be trained to tolerate vitamin A derivatives, so really, the only women who shouldn’t use retinol are those who are pregnant or nursing.So what about the adjustment period? There will be some dryness, maybe flakiness and sometimes the skin may feel sensitive. Why? Upon application, the retinol binds to DNA, and immediately instructs the skin’s proteins and enzymes to do certain things, firstly to expel the piled-up dead cells from your skin’s surface. Refining that top layer causes some water loss initially, which can make sensitive skin seem drier and more irritable. But push through and it will become less sensitive over time and leave you with a fantastic glow and reduced fine lines.If however, you have underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, using a high strength retinol product could enhance the inflammation. When is the best time to use it?It is best to introduce retinol products slowly – apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Retinols are best applied at night, particularly because it makes your skin more photosensitive and should be used in conjunction with sunscreen in the day (although you should be using SPF daily, round around anyway!).When applying your retinol cream, allow the product to fully absorb into the skin (this could take up to 30 minutes) before layering any other products. Just make sure to use any acne-fighting products (i.e. anything that includes benzoyl peroxides or salicylic acid) on the nights you don’t use your retinol product.Prepare for the inevitable adjustment period your skin will go through before you see the results you want. Because retinol causes the skin to shed cells faster than normal, you’ll likely experience a few weeks of change to your skin including some flakiness and dryness.And finally, give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months but the results WILL be worth it. We promise!Why Pevonia Micro-Retinol range?Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Line contains all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables.The Micro-Retinol Line utilizes a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and immediate results.Every product in the Micro Retinol Line contains a powerhouse trio of vitamin C, vitamin E, and Micro-Retinol® The addition of vitamins C and E not only ensures Micro-Retinol®’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved.
From me to…me. 5 beauty treats you’ll love this Mother’s Day
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 23 2021
While we should show our love and appreciation for our amazing mums year round, I have to admit I do love a dedicated day to buy that special something for mum, and while I’m spending my pennies on her, why not make it into a day to gift and indulge myself too? Cheeky maybe but I’m guessing my 5 and 8 year olds aren’t going to know what mummy might love this Mother’s day! And whether you are a mum or not, we all deserve to pamper ourselves from time to time right?So whether you are on the quest for that perfect gift for your mum, looking for ideas to give to your hubby, or simply wanting to spoil yourself, because why not? It’s time to forget the flowers, friends and copious amounts of chocolate (because hey if you’re like me, you might still have enough to feed an army after Easter! Eek) this year why not spend your hard earned money on makeup and skincare treats that’ll not only last longer than a few days but will make you and your mum feel fabulous too! And what woman doesn’t love a good beauty buy! Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath Nothing induces relaxation at-home quite like an indulgent remineralizing bath. Coupled with a little music to set the mood and a candle here and there it could be said to be nearly as good as a pamper session at your favourite spa! We are loving Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath. This little gem really does create an unparalleled stress-relief experience. It’s lightly foaming and 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. I need me one of these baths’ stat! Phytomer Marine Mist Scented Water with Oligomer This totally indulgent marine mist is the perfect spritz to cover your body from head to toe when you’ve stepped out of your relaxing remineralizing bath (or after a shower for that matter!) It’s an all-purpose skincare mist that quite literally soothes the mind and the senses for a moment of pure calm and relaxation, whilst showering your body in all the beautifying benefits of the sea, thanks to Oligomer, Phytomer’s emblematic seawater concentrate. Rich in natural ingredients it hydrates, brightens, and recharges skin cells. Usually reserved exclusively for the spas at the start of each Phytomer treatment, it’s available in retail for a limited time only and comes presented in a gorgeous blue Phytomer pouch! Yes, please! Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream If no one else is going to treat you, why not treat yourself to 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 eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins revealing silky soft, smooth and glowing Acids skin. You can thank me later! ELES Custom Palette As a busy mum the words makeup palette is music to my ears! Containing a slot for bronzer, blush and two eye shades, this super convenient compact is the perfect way to add subtle colour and radiance to your everyday look, but it’s also great for little touch-ups when on the go! What’s better with the ELES Custom Palette, YOU call all the shots. Whether you’re creating an everyday look, a look for nights or going for the perfect travel collection, this palette will be your go-to. Pevonia Home Facial Gift Set Everything you need to deep cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate your skin, this gift set is the holy grail of pampering and skin perfection in one! Containing four of Pevonia’s best-selling products; Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydrating Cleanser, Hydration Lotion and Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream, and samples of three skin brightening and perfecting masks; Collagen, Green Apple and Charcoal, each product will ensure you feel truly indulged while donning excellent results after every application and who doesn’t want soft, glowing skin every day of the week?
Love your lips – 8 tips for your best lips yet
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 31 2021
If lip filler isn’t your thing but you find you are forever on the quest for the perfect plumped lips I’m here to tell you, you can achieve the perfect pout by using a few key products and following a few simple steps. So read on and experience your best lips yet… Prep your lips Exfoliate Just as we prep our skin each morning before applying our makeup base, it’s essential to prep our lips so they don’t end up all cakey and flakey post lippie application!Creating a smooth canvas is a necessity when it comes to perfecting your pout and the best way to achieve this is to remove any dead skin cells that are subtly sitting on the surface of your lips with a lip scrub. Don’t have a lip scrub per say? No worries, a gentle face exfoliator such a Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser will do the job perfectly and means you save on the pennies too. Moisturise Next, it’s important to moisturise your lips just as you would your eyes. Moisturising is important as many lip products can be drying and our lips, like our eyes can be particularly vulnerable to showing signs of ageing. They have an especially thin outer layer which gets even thinner with each passing year thanks to a breakdown in collagen. Choosing a good lip cream can be paramount. I personally use and love Pevonia’s Lip Renew Plump and De-Age treatment. Its name speaks volumes as it quite literally deeply moisturises, renews, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and volumizes lips! How? It is rich in powerhouse, anti-ageing duo Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid, as well as sesamin from sesamum indicum seed extract – the latest hero ingredient proven to plump the lips with natural lipo-filling action form dramatic results. Simply apply and massage a small quantity on your lips and around your lip contour and laugher lines morning (and night.) Hydrate and set Finish by applying lip balm to lips and let it sit for a few minutes to soak in. After all, you don’t want your lipstick literally sliding off minutes after application.Now lips will be silky smooth and lipstick ready, no dry or flaky spots in sight. Don’t forget to line those lipsDon’t wear lipliner? You should now. Lip liner is to lipstick what a primer is to foundation, it’ll make your lipstick last longer as well as look better too!As we age our lips start to thin and lose their colour. Lip liners will not only define and shape your lips, they act as primers to boost the colour and longevity of your lipstick too. Simply line the lips or draw it on all over your lips before your lipstick and you can turn virtually any lipstick into a “longwear” formula. Try ELES Gel Lipliner for ultimate waterproof, transfer-proof, long-lasting staying power! The formula helps lipstick adhere to your lips better without any bleeding or featuring.If you have thin lips, using a lipliner will enable you to overline your lips just a little which will add both shape and fullness. You want to overline on the cupid’s bow and the fullest part of your bottom lips (but never overline the corners). Begin by applying a fine line just outside your natural lip line starting from the centre of your lips and working out to the corners keeping it light and fine, then blend it inwards.N.B If you find (like me) that once you’ve worn in a brand new lipliner it’s next to impossible to get that perfectly sharp tip again no matter how much you sharpen it! Well all is not lost! Instead of using it straight out of your makeup bag simply pop it in the fridge overnight or even for a matter of minutes and when it comes time to apply your lip liner should be hard enough to create those perfectly lined lips we all want!Finish with a lipstick or lip tint a similar shade to your natural lip colour. Dark lipstick will only make thin lips look thinner.We LOVE the new ELES Velvet Satin Lipsticks. 12 stunning chic and sophisticated shades with subtle satin finish and formulated with a lip-loving blend of emollient oils and butters to help keep lips soft, smooth and super hydrated throughout the day.Make sure you match your lip liner to your lip colour though!Even if your lips tend to be on the paler side you should match your lip liner to the colour of your lips, not your darker (or lighter!) lipstick shade. A natural-toned liner will make it easier to correct shape (especially if your top lip is uneven or has lost definition so fades into skin) as well as add fullness. Keep lip colour in place all daySo you’ve got yourself a long wearing lipstick and you’ve applied your lipliner but after eating you find your lips aren’t looking a peachy perfect as they were at the start of the day. Blotting your lippie with a tissue, then dusting some translucent powder of top will help set the pigment without dulling your lip colour as well as making it instantly last longer not matter what your lipstick formula.Another option is to give a lip stain a go! The ELES Lip Stain imparts lips with long-lasting vibrant colour that protects the lips and stays in place for hours even after eating, drinking and kissing! Plump lips that little bit moreAfter applying and setting your chosen lippie, be sure you brush either a little shimmer eyeshadow in an ivory shade or some concealer in light to the middle of your lips. This creates a 3D effect that makes lips look fuller and no lip plumping products are required! The same goes for your lip gloss – for a little extra lip plumping apply in nude to the centre of your lips, just remember gloss is fluid so it’s not designed to wear all day. Cleanse lips as you would your faceWant to remove your lippie at the end of the day without any rubbing or pulling? Use a lip specific cleanser designed to be gentle on lips while removing stubborn long lasting lip products. Try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup remover.
You’ve not experienced glowing skin until you’ve tried this
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 23 2021
Just as we are told to keep up our daily intake of fresh fruit and veggies, thanks to the multitude of vitamins they contain, it’s equally as important to apply vitamins topically to our skin for optimum skin health. While vitamin E helps increase nutrient levels and inflammation and vitamin A is a real wrinkle fighter, it is wonder ingredient - vitamin C that receives all the beauty buzz and for very good reason.Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, this notorious glow-getter not only radially brightens skin, lessening hyperpigmentation, it also increases collagen production (which diminishes with age) and protects skin against pollution and sun damage by effectively neutralising free radicals (which can wreak havoc by harming healthy skin cells as well as promoting premature ageing – we are talking fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and more…eek!)So if you suffer from hyperpigmentation or 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 routine, and these 5 BC favourites will help you achieve just that. For those who need the perfect pick-me upPevonia Vitamin C ComplexeFor the ultimate skin brightening boost, this product 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! For those with maturing skin concernsVie Collection Vita C SolutionWe can’t recommend this skin-smoothing serum enough! It provides rapid revitalising for maturing skin, brightening and enhancing skin tone like never before with boosted (10%) vitamin C to truly promote a healthy, beautiful glow. For those with blemish-prone skinPhytomer White Lumination Brightening Serum This ultra-light serum which visibly lights up the complexion helps reduce the appearance of blemishes to achieve an even tone and skin that literally glows from within! For a flawless baseELES Cosmetics Luminous CC Cream 20The ultimate skin correcting cream, ELES’s Luminous CC not only adapts to skin tones for a flawless foundation, its skin nourishing and brightening ingredients help even tone and diminish imperfections too. It’s not one of ELES Cosmetic’s best-sellers for nothing! One for the eyes….Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye GelIf you love the feeling of a cooling eye gel to soothe and depuff your peepers, this product is the one for you. Anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C is the star ingredient in this eye gel. The skin saviour coupled with hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo Biloba is a sure thing for cooling tired eyes and effectively decongesting and de-puffing them in one swift application.
Why and how you should switch up your skincare routine this autumn
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 17 2021
With summer now officially behind us (boo), and the cooler days of autumn here, you might well have started to notice a slight change in your skin? From dehydration to hyper-pigmented patches, seasonal changes can reap havoc on our complexion, but with just a few simple changes to your daily skincare routine (and some dry skin remedies thrown into the mix), we promise you can calmly transition your skin from summer to autumn, seeing it happily and healthily through the cooler months ahead. So read on for our 8 top tips on how to get glowy autumn skin. Exfoliate away dead summer skin cells Even though skin becomes drier and more sensitive in the cooler months, exfoliation is not a step that should ever be missed! Those dry dead skin cells that sit on the surface of your skin are not only dulling it, they are also blocking the hydrating ingredients from every other skincare step in your routine from getting in! Just be sure not to overdo it though. If your skin tends to be on the more sensitive side, we recommend exfoliating no more than once a week and opting for natural enzyme exfoliators rather than physical ones where rubbing and scrubbing can cause irritation.Both the Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes and Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream are formulated with natural enzymes which basically melt away dead cells so no scrubbing is needed and the results speak for themselves – brighter, more radiant skin after every application.For all other skin types, exfoliating once or twice a week is a must. Try Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it’s one of the brands global best sellers and for good reason! Switch your cleanser to an oil or balm As the temperature starts to drop your skin will start to produce less oil, as water loss from skin is increased, this means it’s time to forgo the gel or foaming cleanser which has been your go-to through the warm summer season, and opt for gentle cream, milk or oil-based formulas that will thoroughly cleanse your skin without stripping it of much-needed moisture. Try Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream. It’s formulated with Organic Orange water, Oligomer, Organic Vegetal Oils and Cyfolia Algae which literally melts on contact with the skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities. Bliss. Know what skin survival ingredients to look for It’s important to look for skincare formulated with ingredients that will not only hydrate but also assist the skin in retaining that moisture all day long. Ingredients rich in essential fatty acids such as squalane (olive oil) and vitamin E as well as superstar hydrators including hyaluronic acid, marine collagen and Glycerin, will keep the skin plump and hydrated, while ingredients such as shea butter and argan oil will ensure cells function optimally allowing them to maximise the skin’s water retention. Give your skin a moisture surge Early autumn can see skin depleted of moisture which leads to a dry, devitalized complexion. So be sure to up the ante and incorporate dry skin remedies into your daily routine. If you aren’t already, be sure to apply a hydrating serum each morning under your daily moisturiser and a replenishing oil at night.Don’t forget your body too! After your shower, smother your damp skin from neck to toes with a rich body balm or body oil. Did you know the skin’s outer layer swells open when it’s damp allowing products to penetrate better? Reduce hyperpigmented patches While you can’t undo the damage that the UV rays have caused while you’ve been sunning yourself by the sea, you can help minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation. To help fade the look of dark spots and even skin tone click there. Don’t forgo your sunscreen Yes, it’s easy to remember to apply your sunscreen when you’re headed to the beach, or out and about on holiday, but so many of us seem to skip this vital step as soon as the cooler, cloudier months arrive! Still the biggest offender of premature ageing, UVA rays are prevalent all year round and can penetrate clouds, glass and even some clothes! Scary right? So make sure you continue this vital step in your daily routine and keep skin looking younger! For a daily moisturiser to die for, try the ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection.If you aren’t a huge lover of sunscreen on your face, opt for a foundation with a high SPF. Try ELES’s Age Defying BB Cream 30, I promise it’ll become your go-to all autumn long. It’s multi-faceted and benefit-packed, and primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen and protect the skin on contact! Genius. Use an antioxidant-rich cream at night At night, your skin switches from ‘protect’ to ‘repair’ mode. It’s when it can finally recover from the day’s stresses so applying a rich night moisturising cream will offer no end of benefits. I LOVE Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. The rich texture of the cream literally cocoons skin in nourishing hydration while it boosts your skin’s renewal, so your complexion gets all the benefits while you slumber. Adding a few drops of rich nourishing oil to your night cream, or immediately after applying will give skin that extra boost too. Try Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. This soothing, silky oil has the most amazing mandarin aroma (it’s formulated with Mandarin Essential Oil) and is quite literally worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically hydrating! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning. I kid you not. Give your eyes and lips a little extra TLC Our lips lack melanin so they are especially susceptible to sun damage and after several months of hot weather are also prone to deep dryness. Squinting, sweating and the sun can also cause damage to the fragile eye area. So give these areas some TLC. Reach for nourishing lip colour instead of drying mattes, apply SPF over your lips and at night offer some much-needed repair. Phytomer – Youth Contour Soothing Eye and Lip Cream is our favourite because it is formulated to calm, soothe and replenish delicate skin.
Which skincare range is right for me? Discover Pevonia
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 24 2021
Last week my good friend entrusted me to order her lots of skincare goodies from BC based on my expert advice. I’ve been encouraging her to turn to professional skincare for years for many a reason, and finally, since her current skincare wasn’t providing her with the results she’d hoped, she said it was time. That and turning 40 …!She had her heart set on Pevonia, partly because I’m a huge advocate but also because she loved the idea of all-natural, cruelty-free skincare that actually delivers. But with so many products in the collection she wasn’t sure what the right products or range was for her, a question the BC team have been asked many a time before.The amazing thing about Pevonia is that there is a range that caters for pretty must all skin types and concerns, from anti-ageing to anti-acne, hydration to skin brightening, sensitivity, hyperpigmentation, and more. So read on to find out more on each of Pevonia’s key skincare ranges and discover the best for you and your skin's needs. Trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed in investing in a range that provides optimum results every time. The Essentials – Dry Skin LineWho’s it for?Those suffering from dry and dehydrated skin.What does it do?Dry skin often lacks lustre and vitality. This effective program provides your skin with immediate nourishment and protection. Formulated with super nourishing ingredients including hyaluronic acid, pear seed extract, royal jelly, rose, ylang ylang and vitamins A, E & C, it visibly renders skin rejuvenated with increased suppleness and elasticity.Products in the range;Dry Skin Cleanser, Dry Skin Lotion, Vitaminic Concentrate, Rejuvenating Dry Skin CreamBC’s pick: Vitaminic Concentrate“This soothing, silky oil has the most amazing mandarin aroma and is honestly worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats my dryness. Every time I apply at night, I wake up to smooth, supple and seriously glowy skin in the morning.”The Essentials – Combination Skin LineWho’s it for?Those who tend to suffer from both dry and oily skin at the same time.What does it do?This range normalizes an oily T-zone while combatting dehydration at the same time. Formulated with ingredients such as Grapefruit, Rosemary Oil, Arnica and Lemon Grass Oil it delivers a wonderfully balanced and toned complexion with tightened pores.Products in the range;Combination Skin Cleanser, Combination Skin Lotion, Combination Skin CreamBC’s pick: Combination Skin Cream“I love this product. Before discovering it I always suffered from hormonal skin with blemishes and shine. Not anymore! It’s beautifully light, absorbs quickly, keeps my oily skin under control, and doesn’t cause me to breakout! Plus, it smells simply divine!”The Essentials – Sensitive Skin LineWho’s it for?Those whose skin reacts to anything and everything. Sensitivity, irritability, blotchiness…What does it do?It effectively calms and controls hypersensitivity. Formulated with ultra-gentle ingredients such a propolis, shea butter, bisabolol, allantoin, chamomile and neroli oil, it alleviates and harmoniously corrects irritability, redness, and blotchiness.Products in the range;Sensitive Skin Cleanser, Sensitive Skin Lotion, Soothing Propolis Concentrate, Soothing Sensitive Skin CreamBC’s pick: Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream“This is by far my favorite Pevonia product. The cream isn’t heavy but light and smooth, which absorbs immediately into my skin. My skin feels stronger, smoother, calmer and hydrated. Both sensitivity and dehydration is a key concern of mine and the Sensitive Skin Cream works it magic throughout the year. Nothing I have used in the past compares to it.”Power Repair Age Correction LineWho’s it for?Caters for all ages, specifically those concerned with premature ageing, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.What does it do?Pevonia’s global best-selling range and for good reason. It provides your skin with a truly effective youth-prolonging system to strengthen, smooth and rejuvenate skin. Prevents and visibly repairs fine lines and wrinkles.Products in the range;Hydrating Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Marine Collagen Cream, Firming Marine Elastin Cream, Micro-Pores Refine Cream, Micro-Pore Bio Active Mask, Intensifier – Collagen & Myoxy Caviar, Intensifier Elastin & Sorghum, Eye ContourBC’s pick: Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream“My absolute can’t live without product is the Marine Collagen Cream. I use this both morning and night religiously! It’s a gorgeous rich yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and leaves my skin soft, supple, and like it’s just had a boost of moisture! Lastly, it has the most luxurious texture yet doesn’t leave my skin greasy and smells gorgeous! In a nutshell, it’s everything I look for in a moisturiser.”Stem Cells LineWho’s it for?If you are looking to combat ageing, this is the collection for you!What does it do?Using plant stem cell technology Pevonia developed a process to reverse not only the signs of ageing, but also the skin’s ageing cycle too! Each product works deeply within the skin to radically reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while firming and intensely hydrating your complexion!Products in the range;Multi-Active Foaming Cleanser, Intensive Cream, Intensive Serum, Intensive Body CorrectorBC’s pick: Intensive Cream“Nature’s answer to Botox! I absolutely adore this product, packed with Argan and Comfrey Stem Cells perfect for dramatically plumping and smoothing out my fine lines and Royal Jelly a powerful collagen booster. This lightweight super formula leaves my skin feeling silky smooth, young and beautiful. I love knowing that I’ve given my skin a distinct advantage in preventative aging.”Caviar LineWho’s it for?Looking to counteract wrinkles? Look no further.What does it do?This range is loaded with anti-ageing superstar ingredients including Caviar, Pearl, Vitamins and Escutox (natural botox) to improve firmness and elasticity while effectively decreasing wrinkle breadth.Products in the range;Timeless Balm Cleanser, Timeless Repair Lotion, Timeless Repair Serum, Timeless Repair Cream, Timeless Eye Contour.BC’s pick: Timeless Repair Serum“I LOVE this product! It’s pricey yes, and a huge investment, but I noticed a dramatic decrease in my wrinkles as well as a smoother texture in a matter of weeks. Coupled with the Timeless repair Cream I continue to see amazing results. My skin looks and feels healthy and hydrated, smoother and more toned!”Micro-Retinol LineWho’s it for?Concerned about hyperpigmentation and uneven skin texture as well as ageing? Then this is the line for you.What does it do?This easy to use 4 step range keeps skin looking porcelain-smooth and youthfully radiant. Featuring Pevonia exclusive Micro-Retinol technology, it allows immediate and easy absorption as well as targeted delivery within the deeper epidermal layers, rapidly re-stabilizing the skin’s normal function. It smooths wrinkles, “densifies” the skin, strengthens elasticity, increases moisture, evens skin tone and pigmentation, provides radiance and glow and rejuvenates overall skin appearance. Impressive hey?Products in the range;Essential Foaming Cleanser, Essential Toner, Essential Moisturiser, Essential SerumBC’s pick: “I’m completely in love with the Micro-Retinol line. I noticed the most dramatic change to my skin after the very first treatment and over time my skin just keeps getting better. My favourite product in the line is the Micro-Retinol Serum; it gives my skin a glow and seems to make the pores disappear. Ive noticed a great improvement to firmness, moisture levels, skin texture and a reduction in hyper-pigmentation. What more could I want? I¹ve used Retinol based products before but find them irritating and unpleasant to use, this line however feels great, smells great and works!Problematic skin and Acne LineWho’s it for?Those prone to blemished skin and acneWhat does it do?It effectively deals with intense skin problems such as acne by controlling bacteria and preventing inflammation while calming and soothing irritated skin.Products in the range;Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser, Spot Treatment, Problematic Skin Care CreamBC’s pick: Spot Treatment“Even though I’m approaching my 30s my skin still gets easily irritated and spots appear. I’m so glad I discovered this Spot Treatment! It immediately takes away the redness in my skin and when using on specific spots, they always disappear within a few days after application.” RS2 Rosacea LineWho’s it for?For those suffering from facial redness and rosaceaWhat does it do?Formulated with some of the most nurturing and desensitising ingredients including French Rose, Licorice, and Green Tea, each of the four products in the collection visibly reduces redness and blotchiness while soothing any irritations.Products in the range;RS2 Gentle Cleanser, RS2 Gentle Lotion, RS2 Care Cream, RS2 ConcentrateBC’s pick: RS2 Care Cream“I suffer from Rosacea so my skin is very reactive, sensitive and red. Since using this, my skin feels so much calmer and has seriously improved over time. I wish I’d had this product years ago as nothing I used before seemed to help. I now use the entire RS2 line and my skin feels pretty great for an oldie.”Special LineWho’s it for?For those with dull, devitalized skin which needs a serious pick me up.What does it do?Seasonal changes, lifestyle variances, pollution and other key factors visibly affect our skin’s texture. You can invigorate your skin with these skin specific products for specialised care. Thoroughly desquamating toxins and boosting overall skin health, your complexion resurfaces luminous and revived.Products in the range;Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, “C” Complexe, Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream, Renewing Glycocides CreamBC’s pick: “C” ComplexeMy fave Pevonia product is the “C” Complex Concentrate. I love that it's hydrating, collagen stimulating and extremely brightening in one! Makes me look like I've had a great night's sleep after just one application.
These were the best BC products of 2020 – as voted by you!
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 17 2021
Ever wondered what everyone else is buying when it comes to skincare and make-up must-haves on BC?When a product achieves best-selling status it’s usually a sign that it’s a well-loved and proven effective product, as well as being the most-shopped. So whether you are shopping BC and looking for recommendations or are simply wondering if your favourite product made the cut, here we count down the best-selling beauty buys from 2020. From super serums to everyday moisturisers, there is something on the list for everyone. The soothing serum Pevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateIf you’re a sufferer of reactive or sensitive skin this could be your go-to! It’s a beautiful rich gel-like serum formulated with calming lavender and soothing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France to soothe, nourish and decongest irritable skin with its antibacterial and healing powers. The calming cream Phytomer Douceur Marine Velvety Soothing CreamAn absolute dream for sensitive skin, this luxurious, melt-away cream is rich in marine ingredients which act to reduce redness and calm uncomfortable skin while strengthening the skin’s natural defences against stress, weather and pollution. The hydrating cleanser Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser If you are concerned about premature ageing, skin’s a little on the dry side and you love yourself a creamy cleanser, then you are simply going to love this! It removes daily grime effortlessly but what’s more it replenishes skin’s moisture by combining deeply nourishing and anti-ageing duo, marine collagen and elastin. The creamy exfoliator Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserIf you’re looking for proof that fellow BC shoppers are serious about exfoliation (not just cleansing and moisturising!), Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliator is ranked #7 on the list. This creamy exfoliator is a game-changer for those with sensitive skin….well for anyone really! It very gently polishes away dead skin, impurities, and toxins with jojoba beads, Saponaria, and chamomile to reveal a beautifully smooth and brightened complexion. The balancing cream Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin CreamThere is nothing not to love about this product if your complexion tends to lean towards the shiny, oily, hormonal side. This extra light yet nourishing moisturiser feels smooth and soft on application but effectively controls oil and shine while reducing congestion! Oh, and it smells pretty fab too! The multi-tasking beauty balm ELES Cosmetics 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 this BB Cream 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! The redness-be-gone calming cream Pevonia RS2 CreamFormulated with soothing, sensitive skin loving ingredients including Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, this beautifully textured, nourishing cream provides your skin vaso constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits to effectively reduce redness and inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associated with Rosacea. We love the great results for rosacea prone skin but also love its natural signature scent of French Rose. It’s one heavenly product! The super sensitive comforting cream Pevonia Soothing Sensitive Skin CreamThis cream will quite literally calm and control hypersensitivity. Formulated with soothing and healing propolis, aloe, shea butter, and chamomile it alleviates and harmoniously corrects skin’s blotchiness and irritability. The formidable foundation ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation Especially great for those with oily or combination skin but also fab for those that love a matt finish that isn’t heavy, this foundation literally glides onto skin effortlessly thanks to its silky liquid formulation yet sets to a soft powder finish. It looks natural on application yet covers up blemishes beautifully, and its SPF and skin-loving ingredients mean it not only conceals skin but protects it throughout the day too! The global best-seller Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamTo keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines (seriously) we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no.1 global best-seller!This moisturiser has an international, star status for good reason! It is deeply nourishing without feeling heavy or oily, it’s formulated with marine collagen and hyaluronic acid, two anti-ageing wonder ingredients and the results speak for themselves – radiant, plumped skin after every application. Say no more.Want to know more? Head to the products pages to read all of the amazing reviews!
Looking tired? 8 beauty tricks to fake a good night’s sleep
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 10 2021
Holidays are over, schools are back and the daily juggle of work, kids, well life, in general has you once again looking like you haven’t slept for days. Fear not, while 9 hours of blissful slumber might be something of yesteryear you can fake a seriously good night's sleep if you are armed with a few key products! So read on to learn about our top beauty tips that’ll have you looking fabulously fresh in next to no time and with minimal effort….we promise! Breath life back into tired eyes First things first, after cleansing your skin, applying a soothing and cooling eye gel immediately to your undereye area is a must. 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! Invest in a gemstone roller From rejuvenating jade to calm and soothing rose quartz, detoxifying Obsidian to purifying amethyst, we highly recommend introducing one of these rollers into your morning ritual. As well as their many medicinal benefits, they have the ability to dramatically reduce puffiness by removing excess fluid around the eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out toxins! So clever! To find out more click here. Use a collagen-boosting serum Lack of sleep has the ability to cause your body to produce the stress hormone cortisol which in turn breaks down collagen and leads to premature ageing (great!) so make sure you start your morning skincare routine armed with a collagen-boosting serum AND moisturiser to nourish and restore stressed and dehydrated skin.Pevonia’s best-selling Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and MyOxy Caviar and Marine Collagen Cream are both a must. Not only are they loved by so many around the world, but they have also been a staple of mine for years and I’d highly recommend the duo to everyone. Used in unison they effectively nourish and oxygenate skin, repair cells, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. You can thank me later. Be armed with a good concealer With exhaustion comes black undereye circles and red bloodshot eyes so you need to reduce the darkness and brighten the area at the same time. The best way to do this is arm yourself with a really good concealer specifically for the delicate eye area. Simply dot the concealer using your pinky finger (the warmth of your fingers will help the concealer to melt into your skin creating a smooth, natural application). My go-to concealer is the ELES Dual Action Concealer. Its an anti-ageing wonder rich in Vitamins E & C, caffeine, collagen, hyaluronic acid and Tetrapeptide 5 which works to depuff, smooth, brighten and conceal the eyes, neutralizing dark circles. Its moisturising formula also provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! Bonus! Line the eyes with nude You do not want to exacerbate the look of blood shot eyes, so steer clear of lining eyes with dark eyeliners especially on the bottom lash line. Instead transform tired eyes by applying a white or nude liner to the bottom lash line AKA your waterline. Here at BC, we love the ELES Waterline liner. Using a white or nude eyeliner extends the whites of your eyes making them look bigger and in turn more awake. Don’t forget your eyeshadow You’ve lined your eyes with a good waterliner pencil but another true hero to creating wide-awake eyes is eyeshadow! A nude shadow palette with just a few shades will be your new best friend. Check out the new ELES Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trios, with a choice of four palettes in gorgeous neutral shades there is an option to suit everyone.Start by applying the lightest shade (the white or nude) from your chosen palette over your entire lid all the way to the inner corner using a base shadow brush. You really need this light shadow as it’ll help open up your eyes and really make them ‘pop’. Next, use a tapered blending brush to apply the medium shade into your crease (the curve above your eyelid) blending from the outer corners inwards. Using the same brush, now apply the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Applying this darker shadow slightly beyond your crease is the key to adding real dimension to your eyes. Bronze and blush for a healthy glow. We all know lack of sleep can have us looking a little on the pasty side even if we are donning a bit of a tan! To instantly enhance said pasty skin apply a good bronzer for that much-needed healthy look, as well as a little rouge blush on the apples of your cheeks. We love the ELES Baked Bronzer and Blushes. These super-fine powders are baked to a lightweight, silky and subtle pearl finish that imparts a brilliantly radiant glow. Add a little colour to your lips We might not all be a fan of the red lip all year round, but a little rouge lip colour to perk up pale lips will go a long way in transforming a tired, sallow complexion. If lipstick isn’t your thing, opt for a little gloss instead. I apply my ELES Colour Balm in Siren every single day. It combines the payoff of a sheer lipstick with the superior shine of a gloss. You won’t be disappointed! So go forth and try these top tips and enjoy never being told you look tired again!
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