BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
Can Cleansing Your Face for a Full 60 Seconds Give You Amazing Skin? I Tried It
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 14 2019
It’s called the 60-second rule, and the internet is OBSESSED with it.As someone who is never completely satisfied with my skin’s texture, I live in hopes of one day finding a technique or product that miraculously makes my pores disappear. So when I stumbled on something called the 60-second rule - a simple method of washing your face for a full 60 seconds (instead of your usual, 10-20) to get beautiful skin – I couldn’t wait to get into the bathroom and get started. This could be the answer to my skin prayers!The 60-Second Rule The cleansing method comes from Nayamka Roberts-Smith of LABeautyologist, a beauty therapist who frequently tells her 43,000 Twitter followers to wash their face for 60 seconds straight to let the cleanser ingredients really penetrate the skin.“Cleansing your face for 60 seconds allows the ingredients in the cleanser to actually work. Most ppl wash their face for like 15 seconds max. It softens the skin & dissolves sebum blockages better…Makeup, dirt, and oil are a lot more difficult to remove from the skin most people realize, so not only do you want to give the cleanser a chance to break down and dissolve products and grime, but taking 60 seconds also makes you pay attention to your skin and what you’re doing—like remembering to cleanse around the edges of your nose, under your chin, and around your hairline."Ok, like me you may think this sounds pretty obvious, however, according to those that have tried it, it’s a bit of a game changer. So much so, that it’s earned the hashtag #60secondrule and a huge following of devotees who swear by it....So I Tested the TheoryFirstly I should tell you, I’m a firm believer in double cleansing (i.e. first using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and grime, then using a gentle cleanser to deep cleanse the skin), so I decided to split the difference in timing to 30 seconds each cleanse.I gently massaged my face with a pump of my favourite ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil for 30 seconds, before rinsing and then massaging the Phytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream for an additional 30 seconds and rinsing again. I followed this with my usual skin care routine being careful not to change anything so I’d get a true gauge.The first thing I noticed is that 60 seconds felt like an eternity: obviously I wasn’t spending enough time making sure every part of my face was makeup-free when I did my cleansing thing. The second thing I noticed was my moisturiser seemed to penetrate easier.So for two weeks, I performed the 60-second rule every night.The results?I did see a difference. My pores were much smaller, my skin felt a lot softer and strangely it also felt firmer. It was calmer and brighter and I found I didn’t need to wear foundation during the day, just a little concealer. It cost me nothing except an extra 50 seconds each day so yes, I’ll keep it up.But Will It Work for Everyone?Possibly, and possibly not. It can certainly give you softer skin as long as you use the right cleanser. It can also give you a bit of a glow since it’ll stimulate circulation. But sadly you won’t be able to wash away your hormones, or DNA, or any of your other acne-causing triggers.However, the 60-second rule could actually benefit your skin by making it cleaner. Left-on makeup will disrupt your skin barrier over time and this can lead to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. So taking that extra 50 seconds every day may actually make a huge difference in your skin.Regardless, this is one of those tricks that really can’t hurt to test out, because let’s face it, you have nothing to lose except 60 seconds.Do you have the right cleanser for your skin type? Here are some of our favourites; Medicalia Gentle Cleanser – it’s so gentle and soothing!Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser – loaded with Collagen and ElastinPhytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream – the gentlest wash off cleanser you’ll ever try.ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil – Ideal as a pre-cleanse makeup remover, literally dissolves it!
Natural Skincare Solutions – Introducing Pevonia
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 26 2019
If you are unfamiliar with Pevonia, we want to remedy that! This professional skincare company opened its doors in 1991 as the first of its kind to develop a comprehensive line of skincare exclusively for the professional beauty industry. Each of the products are made from only the most exquisite all-natural ingredients, and Pevonia prides itself on being a cruelty-free company.From anti-ageing to rosacea, acne to dry skin, eyes and lips and an easy to use regimen formulated just for men, Pevonia has developed an aesthetician-proven product line for every skin concern and what’s more some of these lines have been “firsts” in the industry including the Stem Cells Phyto-Elite® Collection. Using plant stem cell technology, Pevonia developed a process to reverse not only the signs of aging, but also the skins aging cycle! Featuring an Intensive Cream, Serum, Foaming Cleanser and a Body Corrector, if you’re looking to combat age, this is the collection for you!Looking to counteract wrinkles? Look no further than the Myoxy-Caviar® Collection. The elite collection of products, featuring a cleanser, lotion, serum, repair cream and eye contour is loaded with Caviar and vitamins to improve firmness and elasticity while effectively decreasing wrinkle breadth.If you are suffering from rosacea, you must experience the RS2 collection. 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 – a cream, a concentrate, a gentle cleanser and a lotion - visibly reduces redness and blotchiness while soothing any irritations.Has your skin lost its lustre and firmness? Then the Lumafirm collection will be your perfect solution. Restoring life and radiance back into your complexion, this line, comprising of a repair cream, eye contour and body moisturiser, has been designed to lift, firm, lighten, brighten and diminish dark circles.Concerned about hyperpigmentation? Uneven skin texture? Ageing? Let me introduce Micro Retinol - An easy to use 4 step range to keep skin looking porcelain-smooth and youthfully radiant. Featuring 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 appearanceAnd for men, Spa Care for HIM was developed to address the distinct differences of men’s skin. Precisely formulated, the range, comprising of a foaming cleanser, eye contour, face balm, shaving emulsion and after shaving balm, is effective in desensitizing the skin, soothing irritability, preventing folliculitis, smoothing wrinkles and rehydrating the skin.This is just a brief introduction to some of the Pevonia exclusive product lines. Pevonia also features the Organic Essentials collection, the Power Repair® collection, the Problematic skin line as well as a complete spa body line. No matter what type of skin concerns you have, Pevonia has the products for you.
7 reasons your skin is dehydrated and how to fix it
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 22 2019
Winter, darn winter! Yes it’s the time of year that your skin can look and feel seriously parched, think lack-lustre, inflamed, or just plain devitalized. Chances are your skin is simply dehydrated and in need of some serious moisture boosting love! And let’s not forget, even those with oily skin can be suffering from dehydration too! After all just because your skin is oily doesn’t mean you are immune to external factors and lifestyle choices that deplete your skin’s water content. Dehydration is in fact characterised by a lack of water not oil.Luckily dehydrated skin can be relieved with a combination of lifestyle changes and topical treatments. Below are 7 reasons you could be battling dehydrated skin and our recommendations for how to fix it. Water intake Yes we all know that the number one way to counteract dehydration is to drink plenty of water! But there is the when and the how! This water intake actually needs to commence as soon as you awaken from blissful slumber! It is suggested that drinking approximately 2 glasses of water first thing is hands down the most ideal way to bring back your hydration levels, after all you’ve not replenished fluid levels for a number of hours over night. Not enough ‘quality’ sleep Remember this as you will! Poor sleep leads to dehydration, dehydration causes poor sleep. Eek we have ourselves a vicious cycle here. Firstly before bed, prise that mobile phone out of your fingers (sooo guilty here!) and put it down! I don’t need to tell you the impact screen time has on you, secondly drink a glass of water prior to sleep, yes you may think bad idea as surely you’ll be up in the night stumbling to the bathroom but believe me your skin (and all other vital organs) will lap up that glass of water and you’ll be able to notice the difference in the morning! Finally turn off the light and get that precious shut eye as apparently those that sleep for an average of six hours a night are up to 59% more likely to be dehydrated that someone who sleeps for say 8 hours. That’ll be me then. Pass me a glass of water someone! Too much caffeine & alcohol I’m not saying go cold turkey or anything as like me I love a good cuppa and won’t say no to a glass of vino in an evening, but if dehydration could be something you are suffering from, significantly reducing your intake of both caffeine and alcohol will dramatically benefit your skin. And for every coffee or alcoholic beverage to do indulge in, drink a glass of water! Your skincare regime or lack of While it is necessary to hydrate your skin from the inside out it’s also very important to hydrate your skin at the surface level too. One of the best ways to achieve this is with a topical treatment to lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss.a) Use A Hyaluronic Acid SerumHyaluronic acid is the number one go to ingredient for effectively replenishing dehydrated skin, it helps bind and retain moisture, keeping skin soft and subtle and plump! We are in love with the Vie Collection Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Acid Concentrateb) Apply a rich moisturiser at nightWe all naturally lose moisture while we sleep so using a rich nourishing moisturiser prior to bed will stand your skin in good stead. We highly recommend both the Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream which is rich in both Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen the perfect combination to replenish devitalised skin. As well as the Phytomer Hydrasea Night Plumping Rich Cream, which provides optimum skin hydration during the night. From the very first use, the skin appears drenched in moisture!c) Don’t use harsh face Scrub but do exfoliate!As dead skin builds up, it can diminish the absorption of important skincare essentials like your serum and moisturiser, exfoliation is therefore an important skincare step in aiding the recovery of dehydrated skin, however be sure to use a gentle exfoliating cleanser and once or twice a week only. Hot water Hot water will strip your skin of its natural oils and those natural oils are what protect your skin against water loss by forming a barrier.Believe me I know how indulgent a simple hot bath or shower feels especially on a cold morning or evening but you will thank me by telling you to turn down that heat and opt for a more lukewarm temp. Your daily diet We already know that what you eat can impact your skin but did you know that our skin is reliant on essential fatty acids, think oily fish, nuts, and fresh green veggies to battle dehydration? So next time you decide to ‘diet’ consider how it might affect your complexion especially if you are depriving yourself of good fats. Heating/Air conditioning As much as many of us have become reliant on heating or revised cycle air con in the cold months, both can dramatically disrupt the natural moisture balance in your skin. Now while it’s highly unlikely we’d be prepared to suffer the consequence of not turning the heating on, brrrrr, just make sure you balance your day with fresh air and if your skin is feeling particularly dry, keep on hand a spritz to add a burst of rehydration when needed.Most of us understand the negative impact of dehydration on our overall health but who knew it could wreak havoc with our skin!
The dos and don’ts of cleansing your skin: 10 things you need to know now
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 15 2019
It’s the first step to your skincare routine and the step which creates the foundation for all other skincare products that follow so nailing it is imperative! But many are under the false impression that cleansing involves a little soap, water, a 10-second lather and voila, all the days’ makeup and remnants are removed and your face is thoroughly cleansed and good to go. Oh, how wrong they are! Below we have outlined ten things you need to know about cleansing, follow these and you’re on the path to healthy, clear and radiant skin in next to no time!DO work out what the right cleanser is for your skin type and stick to itFinding a cleanser to target your particular skin concern is a game-changer, whether you have sensitive skin, dry skin, aging skin or something in between there is a cleanser out there for everyone. But understanding the difference between cream and foaming gel cleansers will also stand you in good stead. Cream cleansers are typically gentle on the skin and more moisturising. Gel cleansers tend to provide a much deeper cleanse however as they foam they draw out oil, reduce excess oil production and as a result can be a little on the drying side so tend to work better for those with oily or combination skin types.DON’T wash your face with hot waterNo sireee, hot water can cause skin inflammation and irritation by upsetting the skin barrier function, stick to lukewarm water for best results.DO cleanse your face both morning and nightA lot of us tend to skimp on the morning cleanse, after all, we removed the previous day's makeup and grime the night before and all we’ve done is sleep, right? Correct! Alas what many don’t know is that while we sleep we still release impurities which wind up sitting on the surface of our skin, plus if you’re like me you would have layered your skin with goodies the night before so it’s important that any remnants are removed in the morning especially is you’ve applied potent ingredients like retinol or glycolic acid which can cause sun sensitivity.DON’T forget to cleanse your chin and neck too!Often forgotten (guilty as charged!) our jawline and neck are just as prone to dirt and grime as your face so make sure you pay them some cleansing attention too!DO double cleanseWe’ve all heard of the saying “double cleanse” but is it really necessary? The simple answer is yes! But only in the evening as over-cleansing in the morning can result in the destruction of the skin’s barrier function. One cleanse at night will indeed remove the day's makeup and grime but adding a second cleanse into your routine will work deeper, thoroughly cleansing pore and removing dead skin cells.DON’T use a generic bar soapThese soaps can dramatically alter the natural pH balance of your skin which can send your skin into overdrive – think blemish breakout!DO deep cleanse weeklyIntroducing a deep exfoliating cleanse once a week can work wonders for your skin as it encourages cell turnover, ultimately resulting in brighter, more radiant skin.DON’T use a flannelDaily use of flannels or face cloths as many might call them, although popular can actually irritate the skin if they are too harsh (scrubbing can strip the skin of its natural protective barrier) plus they can foster bacteria if not washed meticulously every day which can lead to pesky pimples! Best to stick to your loyal fingertips to cleanse effectively with no erm side effects!DO pat dry with a soft towelDrying your face correctly after cleansing is important! Be sure not to rub your face with a “crispy” towel (yup we’ve all had those from time to time!) rubbing can actually age skin, be sure you just gently pat dry, pay particular attention to the delicate eye area.DON’T be lazy and use just face wipesYes they are quick, easy and can be effective for some plus let’s face (pardon the pun!) it after a big night out quick and easy is what we want and hey at least you aren’t going to bed with your makeup on right? But it’s important to know that many face wipes contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that will strip your skin.The current 5 best-selling cleansers on Beauty Collective;Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing MilkPhytomer Accept Neutralizing CleanserELES Transformation Cleansing OilMedicalia Gentle CleanserPhytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream
Troublesome Skin? It might be time to strip back your routine!
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 26 2019
Skincare isn’t one size fits all, everyone has a different skin type and different skincare needs. Some people like having an extensive skincare routine, and others want something quick and easy. Whatever your skincare routine is there are times when your skin needs nothing more than rebalancing.What is rebalancing?It’s focusing on the skin’s oil and moisture levels to find perfect harmony, what we call a “normal” skin. By doing this skin becomes more tolerant, less dry or oily and generally happier.Why Pevonia Essential Line is the perfect antidote to unbalanced skin.The essential lines; Dry, Sensitive and Combination are based on Essential Oils in perfect percentages to achieve optimum rebalancing. Essential oils are whole, complete plant compounds. They contain the life force of the plant, which not only makes them beneficial but also powerful!Here’s how they work…DRY SKIN LINEIt is commonly misconstrued that dry and dehydrated skin are one and the same, this is not accurate. Dry skin can also be dehydrated, but dehydrated skin is not necessarily dry skin. When your skin is dehydrated it needs more water, when your skin is dry it needs more oil.Pevonia Dry Skin Line contains hydrating Hyaluronic Acid as well is nourishing Micronized Vitamin E and Pear Seed Extract and the Essential Oils of Rose and Ylang Ylang to stimulate the skin’s oil production.SENSITIVE SKIN LINEThose with sensitive skin must choose products that contain ingredients that calm, soothe, heal, reduce redness and moisturise.Pevonia Sensitive Skin Line contains calming, soothing ingredients like Allantoin and Azulene to control sensitivity with healing ingredients like Aloe, Chamomile and Propolis to help repair and reduce redness and the discomfort felt with sensitive skin, but it is the exquisite French Rose essential oil that is gold in this collection, not only does it dramatically sooth the skin it balances the oil and moisture levels offering stronger protection against the elements.COMBINATION SKIN LINETreating and understanding combination skin can be confusing; nevertheless, being consistent with a clear, concise regimen will balance and hydrate this misunderstood skin type.The important thing to remember is Combination skin requires products that normalize skin deficiencies while combating dryness and dehydration.Pevonia's normal to combination skin line contains some of the most effective essential oils such as: Grapefruit, Rosemary Oil and Lemon Grass Oil for balancing skin's oily secretions. These oils literally “sedate” the oil glands. Add to this healing Arnica, Hazel Nut Oil and Vitamin E and the results are tightened pores, balanced, toned and refreshed skin.So if your skin is feeling less than “normal” or you are suffering from ingredient overload, it might be time to strip back your routine and enjoy the powerful rebalancing powers of the Pevonia Essential Lines.SPECIAL OFFERFor the month of July, purchase a Pevonia Essential Line Cream; Dry, Sensitive or Combination and Receive a Full Size matching Cleanser FREE!
Q & A - How Do I Choose The Perfect Foundation For My Skin?
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 26 2019
Oily, dry, combination, blemish-prone skin…it’s important when choosing a foundation to select what is right for your individual skin type, but with so many foundations promising to deliver an array of benefits as well as the multitude of formulations from liquid to powder, stick to tinted, it is a wonder how any of us manage to get it right, and that’s before having to wrap our head around selecting the correct shade too!Well you’ve asked us for our guidance and here we are to help! Read on to determine once and for all your perfect foundation match! UNDERSTAND YOUR SKIN TYPE This is fundamental when choosing your foundation as the last thing you want to do is invest in a formulation that is only going to exacerbate your dry skin or pesky pimples.Oily skinIf your complexion is prone to that 3pm shine, opt for a matte powder or oil-free liquid foundation and avoid dewy formulas. Mineral foundations work well on oily skin because the dry particles tend to absorb moisture and prevent shine.You can also try prolonging the wear of your foundation with a primer and then setting with a translucent lightweight powder.Try: ELES Mineral Powder FoundationDry SkinIf you tend to have dry skin, choose a hydrating liquid foundation. These have a creamy consistency which delivers moisture to the skin and offer great coverage too.Try: ELES Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20 for natural, radiant coverage or ELES Luminous HD Foundation for even more luminosity.Combination SkinAvoid powder formulations since they can make dry patches look even dryer, and treat extra oily spots with a mattifying primer before applying your base.Try: Liquid Powder Mineral FoundationSensitive SkinIf you struggle with blemished or sensitive skin, you really need to navigate the ingredients in a foundation. It’s best to avoid skin irritants like alcohol and fragrance which can be found in many a foundation and opt for a mineral formula every time. These contain no chemical nasties and will allow your skin to breath freely.Try: ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation or ELES Mineral Powder Foundation PREP YOUR SKIN It is important to have clean and well moisturised skin before trialling foundations, this will stand you in good stead for finding your perfect match! KNOW YOUR SKIN’S UNDERTONES You want to choose a foundation shade that has the same undertones as your skin. Either ‘cool’ or ‘warm’. If you have a warm complexion go with a shade that has yellow undertones, if your complexion is on the cool side, a foundation with a pink undertone will be best.To tell which undertones your skin has, look at your veins on the back of your arms. People with blue or purplish-looking veins usually have cooler undertones. If your veins, on the other hand, look a greenish colour, then you have warm undertones. FIND YOUR SHADE MATCH Finding the perfect shade is the single most important part of foundation shopping. The ultimate goal is to find a shade that looks like your own skin but better!Firstly select three shades that you think are a close match to your skin colour. Forget testing them on your arm and test directly on the face instead, swiping all three side-by-side down your cheek towards your jawline. The shade that seemingly disappears is the one you want!Make sure you test in good natural lighting. ADAPT TO THE SEASON In the winter months, our skin tends to be paler so you need to adapt your foundation shade accordingly. We recommend having one key shade for spring/summer and another for autumn/winter.Now go forth and be flawless!
The effects of stress on your skin and how to reduce them
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 26 2019
Stress happens to all of us, fact, but what we often don’t realise is the effect it can have on not only our mood but our skin too!Daily stressors such as insufficient sleep, an unhealthy lifestyle, a demanding job…can unfortunately manifest as blemishes, wrinkles, and skin inflammation.Below are 5 ways stress can affect our appearance but also 5 ways to reduce it! Phew I hear you say…. Under-eye bags Who hasn’t been blessed with those delightful under-eye bags many a morning!? We all know how important beauty sleep is but sadly late/sleepless nights due to work commitments or stress can lead to dark circles and under-eye bags when we awaken.Prevent dark, puffy peepers Say no to that extra glass of vino, or another catch up episode of MAFS and get yourself to bed stat! Giving yourself as much shut-eye as possible will only stand you in good stead. Forget climbing into bed and reaching for your phone! (Guilty as charged!) Instead, opt for a book or simply unwind and relax in preparation for peaceful slumber (think meditation, soft music, dim lights) Try elevating your head (so no tummy sleeping with your face on the bed unsupported by a pillow please!) this will reduce fluid naturally draining to the skin under your eyes. Finally arm yourself with a good eye cream and concealer. Our current favourites are Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream and ELES Dual Action Concealer Premature ageing When you’re stressed your body releases cortisol (the stress hormone). Sadly it’s infamous for breaking down collagen, the protein which keeps your complexion supple and firm! If like me, you’ll also be guilty of frowning, which unfortunately can lead to deeper, permanent wrinkles in these areas over time. Eek.Minimise lines and wrinkles Use anti-ageing products specifically targeted at your problem area. Products rich in Retinol and Vitamin C will help boost collagen production. We are in LOVE with Vie Collection's Retinopur Wrinkles Imperfections Fluid Eat a healthy balanced diet rich in superfoods as these really do assist in counteracting premature ageing. Think green veggies which help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and oily fish which induces telomere growth. Oh and regular exercise increases levels of endorphins which effectively fight the effects of cortisol (the darn stress hormone we mentioned earlier!) Dry skin As well as breaking down collagen, Cortisol also decreases the skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturiser we all need, so skin becomes dry and damaged.Maintain hydrated skin Firstly (yes we’ve all heard this before!) drink plenty of water, every single day! The more you drink, the more hydrated your skin will look and feel! Set this as your daily mantra. Secondly, ensure your skin care routine includes product rich in hyaluronic acid to deeply nourish the layers of your skin. We are currently lusting after the Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask Also using gentle products rich in antioxidants and soothing ingredients can support the skin during stressful times. Breakouts Dealing with a sudden breakout? You’ve awoken to a chin full of pesky pimples? Chances are your body is producing the dreaded cortisol at a mighty rate which in turn tells your sebaceous glands to produce more pore-clogging oil! Stress can also cause an imbalance of good bacteria versus bad bacteria in your gut which can present itself in acne.Reduce spots and blemishes Exfoliate: This will unclog your pores, drawing out any oil or congesting reducing spots. It’ll also remove dead skin cells resulting in clearer skin while increasing blood circulation for a brighter, radiant complexion. But be careful not to over exfoliate! A couple of times a week it plenty otherwise you can risk stripping your skin of its natural healthy oils! We recommend Phytomer Marine Scrub Creamy Exfoliant. Moisturise: There is the misconception that moisturising oily skin will make spots worse but this is definitely not the case! By not moisturising daily, skin will become dry which in turn can stimulate excess oil production to compensate for the loss of moisture. Clever but not helpful! Conceal: If you want to cover blemishes try using a mineral concealer which is formulated with skin protecting ingredients that allow the skin to breathe freely. Eat a well-balanced diet. Fruits, vegetables, and high-quality proteins like grass-fed meats are also crucial (they keep a balance between the good and bad bacteria in your gut), as is cutting down on sugar. Rosacea & Eczema Whether you are prone to rosacea and/or eczema or not, stress can trigger skin irritation. When we are stressed our bodies release more neuropeptides and neurotransmitters than usual. This causes inflammation and dilates the blood vessels within our skin.Redness relief Invest in rosacea specific skincare products, formulated with skin nurturing and relieving ingredients which reduce flushing, erythrosis, couperose and rosacea while hydrating and soothing the skin. We highly recommend Vie Collection’s Rosa Control Relief Concentrate. And to conceal use a CC Cream which will mask the redness while calming the skin.
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 26 2019
It’s so easy to feel overwhelmed in the constant changing world of skincare, with new ranges hitting the market every day, telling us what is good and not good for our skin.Skin science has moved in leaps and bounds as new delivery systems and ways to modify ingredients can make it seem more like a Star Wars battle than the exciting world it really is. It’s like most things; sometimes a lot of choice is just too much!So we are here to bust just a few of the common myths of this mystifying topic!MYTH #1 – TREAT YOUR SKIN ACCORDING TO SKIN TYPE For years we’ve been conditioned to believe that skin is oily, dry or combination and most of us have used skin care products accordingly. However, your skin type is just a grain of sand on a beach when it comes to getting the most out of your skin care.It’s very important to address the health of the skin and not just the external factors such as “not enough moisture”. Sure we can the moisture however it’s going to be a short-term fix if we are not addressing the cause; i.e. dehydration of the body and compromised skin function. Maintaining a good diet, getting plenty of sleep, staying hydrated and looking after your health is an obvious fix, and when it comes to skin care, look for products that stimulate the bodies own healing processes i.e. stimulate collagen formation, sedate oil glands, repair cell mitochondria etc. Ingredients such as AHA’s, Retinol, Anti-Oxidants, Hyaluronic and Sunscreens should be on the top of your list.We recommend: Vie Collection - Retinopur Wrinkles Imperfections Fluid, it stimulates collagen and elastin and helps rejuvenate skin cells.MYTH #2 – I’LL USE ANTI-AGEING SKIN CARE WHEN I’M OLDERUnfortunately there is no wonder ingredient that completely repairs the passage of time; prevention is No.1 when it comes to youthful skin.Every day we are exposed to factors that damage our skin and cause skin ageing; the sun’s rays, pollution, stress, unhealthy lifestyles all work together like a super-villain team and attack our skin at a deep and cellular level. It may not show immediately but it’s happening.Keeping the skin deeply hydrated is important in our early years and ingredients such as Hyaluronic help our fibroblast cells (the ones that make collagen and elastin) to work more effectively and more collagen and elastin means less wrinkles and sagging.Also make sunscreen application part of your daily routine, everyday! Not only to reduce your chances of skin cancer but to reduce about 90% of visible skin ageing.We recommend: ELES - Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection 50, its super light and gives the skin a lovely pearlescent glow!MYTH #3 – THE ONLY WAY TO LOOK YOUTHFUL IS WITH BOTOX Not true! There are so many effective products and treatments that will help to plump and firm the skin without a needle. As we age the lower layers of our skin lose volume. By reducing cell build-up on the outer skin (this acts like a wall to great ingredients getting in where they are needed) and increasing the volume of the deeper layers of the skin on a daily basis with ingredients such as retinol, peptides and essential fatty acids you can enjoy bouncy, firm and radiant skin. You’ll also find many skin care products contain neuropeptides (Botox substitutes) that do a wonderful job relaxing and softening wrinkles.We recommend: Phytomer - Pionniere XMF Perfection Youth Cream, a firm favourite this exceptional cream adds density to the skin giving it volume and bounce.MYTH #4 – WE ALL NEED TO PEEL AND EXFOLIATE DAILYThis will look amazing for the first week or even month, however you’ll soon discover the damaging effects of over-exfoliating as you remove your protective acid mantle. This barrier protects the skin from moisture loss, from bacterial invasion and when it’s gone you’ll be left with dry, sensitive skin with breakouts.Exfoliation is an important part of any good skin care routine, however moderation and gentle when it comes to peels and scrubs is always best.We recommend: Phytomer - Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes a gentle but effective exfoliant that leaves skin fresh and refined.MYTH #5 – DRY SKIN NEEDS RICHER MOISTURISERSQuite often a super-rich moisturiser can exacerbate the problem. The oils in rich creams can act like a glue to dead skin cells that prevent hydrating ingredients from penetrating the skin, so while it might feel soft and supple on the surface, deep down it’s drying out!Layering is your best defence against dry skin. Apply a hydrating serum that will sink into the lower layers and then seal it with a protective cream, something that contains shea butter or light oils is ideal.We recommend: Phytomer - Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturizing Polarized Water Serum, it drenches the skin with pure moisture leaving it dewy and supple.
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 28 2018
When it comes to ageing, nothing reflects it more than our skin.From the silky smoothness of a baby’s complexion to the lines and wrinkles of mature lady, here’s what to expect through the decades, and what you can do to help prolong your youth and prevent premature ageing!20’sOnce you reach your twenties it’s easy to fall under the false pretence that since your teens are behind you, so are those pesky pimples! Wrong! While your skin may have settled (as have those hormones) it’s still producing oil. Also news flash! Your body actually stops producing collagen once you hit 25! You know collagen, the protein which provides elasticity to the skin helping it to appear youthful, glowing and vibrant! So it’s important to exfoliate daily to continue daily collagen renewal.What you may need: Opt for natural extracts in light-textured, non-greasy formulations in order to keep pores clean and clear. Also, use a broad spectrum UVA & UVB daily sunscreen – just remember you're never too young to start wearing sunscreen!Try; Organic Essentials Line; Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 3030’sAgeing really begins at 30. Fine lines develop as collagen and elastin start to break down, and our delicate skin under the eyes begins to thin. Skin generally becomes drier, quicker. Broken veins may start to show up as tiny red dots, and towards the end of this decade, age spots and brown pigmentation marks, or 'sun spots', may appear. Under-eye puffiness may become a problem, taking longer to subside after you wake.What you may need: Effective youth-prolonging skincare to strengthen, smooth and rejuvenate. Hydrating Moisturisers formulated with marine collagen, Eye Creams & Gels.Try; Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream & Intensifier, Age Correction Eye Contour, “C” Evolutive Eye Gel. 40’sDeeper lines begin to etch around the mouth and eyes, furrows appear on the forehead and circles under the eyes may grow into pouches. Most women's skin becomes noticeably drier. In the run-up to the menopause, and during this phase, skin may also become more sensitive. What's more, skin loses its resilience due to a breakdown of elastin and collagen.What you may need: Your daily regime should embrace products that offer specific benefits to counteract skin problems such as: anti-aging, sensitivity, hyper-pigmentation, Eg. Soothing serums to protect capillaries, lip and eye care, deeply repairing and resurfacing products.Try; Micro-Retinol Line; Eye Renew Conceal & De-Age Treatment, Lip Renew Plump & De-Age Treatment, Propolis Concentrate 50’sBy now, skin starts to acquire true 'character' in the form of fine wrinkles, and the lines you develop in your 50’s and 60’s may deepen into folds. This is because, post-menopausal, there's much less oestrogen being produced and without oestrogen, skin becomes thinner and more fragile. It is also less able to retain moisture and the production of collagen and elastin slows down significantly. In your 50’s skin tone is also likely to become more uneven, with an increasing number of 'sun spots'.What you may need: Products that minimize the appearance of lines, contain phyto-estrogens and protect the skin from the sun or even fade sunspots.Try; Stem Cells Phyto-Elite Line, RS2 Line, Lip Renew Plump & De-Age Treatment, Lumafirm Eye Contour Lift & Glow, Renewing Glycocides Cream 60’sYour skin has a hard time retaining moisture and natural oil production slows down so skin is very dry. Cell turnover continues to slow - a process that started in your forties so skin is generally duller than before. Between the lack of oil, the loss of collagen and elastin, and the dryness, dark spots can really start to stand out. Areas of scaly roughness often seen on fair-skinned women that can be a precursor to skin cancer.What you may need: De-ageing products with wrinkle relaxers such as vegetal botox, exfoliating products with aha’s, products rich in collagen and elastin, sun protection and pigment fading productsTry; Myoxy-Caviar Timeless Repair Line, Renewing Glycocides Cream, Lumablanc Cream
Sleeping in makeup – what it really does to our skin
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 26 2018
What girl doesn’t love makeup! It can literally transform the way we look and feel! But sadly with every good, comes bad, and makeup is no exception to the rule!There is a downside to wearing makeup - the affect it can have on our skin if it’s not property removed at the end of the day. I’m pretty sure the majority of us could admit to sleeping with makeup on at some stage of our lives. I know I’m guilty of it, perhaps one time to many! But after learning these simple facts, like me, you might think twice about doing it again!What makeup does to your skin while you are sleeping... Eye irritation and sensitivity Neglecting to remove eye makeup whether it be the entire shebang or just a little layer of mascara, can cause dryness, irritation, redness and even infection! This is because the particles from mascara can harbour harmful pathogens and if it gets into the delicate eye area can cause havoc.No thank you. Dry, dull complexion Our skin is covered in pores which allow us to sweat and secrete sebum, a natural lubricant that moisturises skin and removes dead skin cells. Makeup can trap these dead skin cells, preventing them from shedding and leaving us with a dry, dull complexion. Just remember sleep is the body's time to repair itself from the stress of the day. While you sleep, new healthy skin cells are created. Spots Even if you're not normally prone to spots, you'll soon see that sleeping with a face full of makeup can and will result in breakouts. Eek! Makeup, unfortunately, clogs pores, and when your pores are blocked, your skin can't breathe, and therefore it can't regenerate. The oil in your pores builds-up and transform itself into spots. Fact. Premature aging Sleeping in your makeup can trap dirt and pollutants inside the skin, therefore increasing your exposure to free radicals. This is turn can lead to collagen breakdown. If collagen can’t be produced properly, your skin will age faster.Scary right? Fear not, if you have only been subject to sleeping with makeup on a few times there is no long term effect but it’s definitely not something you want to make a habit of. Yes sometimes it’s hard not to just want to climb into your comfy bed after a long day or a big night out even, but if that’s the case and your usual cleansing routine seems like way to much of an effort, opt for a quick, easy and effective cleanser that you can even use from the luxury of our bed!Try;ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil. Packed full of anti-aging and nourishing ingredients, it literally melts away makeup and impurities without stripping skin’s natural moisture, all while helping it maintain a balanced and hydrated complexion.Also ensure you use sensitivity tested or breathable makeup free of potential irritants such a fragrance, talc, oil, dyes and parabens.Try;ELES Liquid Powder Foundation. Its ‘non-occlusive’ long-lasting formula allows the foundation to enhance the complexion without covering up the skin, allowing it to “breathe” freely.ELES Sensitive Eyes Mascara. Hypoallergenic and sensitivity-tested, this fragrance-free water based mascara is perfect for the most sensitive of eyes. It lengthens, separates and darkens lashes without clumping. It dries quickly and resists smudging under eyes.
Exfoliate Your Skin and Achieve a Radiant Glow
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 23 2018
Exfoliate for a Radiant GlowSummer is almost over and we have a few days to go until it’s officially autumn. The weather will be cooler and friendlier. If you’re a beach bum like most Aussies are, you seized every weekend strolling along the beaut seaside. Some have patches of sunburnt skin all over, and some just look like they had a very relaxing holiday! Want to know their secret? EXFOLIATE!Do you know how good exfoliation is for your skin? Rubbing it with granules help remove dead cells from the surface, revealing a softer, smoother, and youthful you. It is important that you know what exfoliant to use as there are plenty of products in the market that are too abrasive and do more harm than good. We’re proud to say that Pevonia exfoliants are gentle on the skin but do a great job in getting rid of the dead skin cells. Pick the right exfoliant for you:ALL SKIN TYPESYour skin needs a little help every once in a while. A regular cleanser cleanses your face but Pevonia's Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser has exfoliating jojoba beads, saponaria and chamomile that wash away impurities and toxins. A true bonzer! The beads are finer than what you’ll usually find in regular exfoliants so it’s gentle but truly effective in refining texture and adding glow to your skin.PROBLEMATIC SKINIt’s easier to clear the skin of acne with a cleanser that has powerful anti-bacterial properties. Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser combines Soapwort, Triclosan, Grapefruit Oil, and Citric Acid to gently remove impurities. It helps control breakouts, brightens the skin tone, and refines your skin.DRY, DULL SKINAnd for a more intense solution to dry, dull skin, the Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream is a must-have! Experience the cutting-edge technology of this cream’s unique enzymes entrapment. The encapsulated Pineapple and Papaya enzymes eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells, sebum, and toxins as you work this cream into your skin. Using this once a week will help you gain a bright, smooth complexion with ABSOLUTELY ZERO DOWNTIME.Regular exfoliation with one of Pevonia's refining exfoliants promotes a brighter, satiny texture. Get rid of unwanted impurities and dead cells, and prevent follicular clogging and surface accumulations. Your skin becomes luminous and revived.
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 02 2017
You may have heard of the ingredient Hyaluronic Acid. Beauty editors, bloggers and skin care aficionados are currently having a serious love affair with it. It’s not a new ingredient, in fact, it has been a staple in skin care and makeup for the last couple of decades. However technical innovation has changed it for the better.Once described as “ineffective” by the medical profession as an ingredient that does little for anti-ageing due to its large molecule, recent advances in cosmetic manufacturing have resulted in lower molecular structure which can penetrate the skin and help stimulate your own collagen production.With all that said, the more hyaluronic acid you put into your skin, the more youthful you'll look—and now there are a number of ways to load up from lotions to serums to creams.Hyaluronic acid is a bit of a misnomer. First, it's not actually an acid. It's a sugar. Also, it's a sponge. Every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. But one thing about hyaluronic acid that’s absolutely true: It's a skin-care wonder. PEVONIA POWER REPAIR LINEAny Pevonia fan will tell you this is the “go to” line for rehydrating the skin and smoothing away dehydration lines.Abundant in Hyaluronic and Collagen, the serums and creams are like a moisture magnet, plumping and firming the skin.POWER REPAIR COLLAGEN CREAMWith hyaluronic, vitamins and marine extracts to plump the skin with moisture.Ingredients:Water (Aqua), Squalane, Collagen, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Corylus Avellana (Hazel Nut) Oil, Titanium Dioxide, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Tocopherol, Arnica Montana Flowerhead Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Capryl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Narcissus Jonquilla (Jonquil) Flower Extract.REVIEWS“A skin care professional introduced me to the Pevonia line several years ago. I am often complimented on my skin and always credit my use of Pevonia. It has contributed to keeping my skin toned and beautiful.”By M.M.“Great product. Does exactly what it says it will do. My skin feels awesome and looks awesome.”By Noni“I have tried so many products on the market and this cream is the first one that I really saw a difference with. After a week, I actually had friends ask me what I was using. There is a serum that goes with it that I want to try.”By SusanPOWER REPAIR MARINE ELASTIN CREAMIt enhances skin's elasticity with the aid of elastin while infusing it with soothing hydration. The non-greasy texture sinks into the skin without feeling heavy.Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Squalane, Elastin, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Corylus Avellana (Hazel Nut) Oil, Titanium Dioxide, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Gel, Arnica Montana Flowerhead Extract, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Capryl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Oil.REVIEWS“I've been using this product for 2 years now and can't live without it! It's wonderful... a little goes a long way, and it's not greasy or heavy! Love, Love it!”By RM“Love it. The smell is amazing!”By Jhalber“This product is perfect for me. It is difficult for me to find a night-time moisturizer/anti-aging serum that fits my unique skin. I'm turning 44 this month, but still tend towards oily skin and occasional breakouts every once in a while. I've finally found something that gets the job done without feeling greasy nor clogging my pores and causing breakouts. It has a nice smell, too! It only takes a few small dabs dotted around your face and massaged in, so the small container actually lasts a good while - a good buy.”By Mosaicgirl
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