BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
How to firm your skin: Expert tips and products
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 03 2026
I’m sure we’ve all had that moment (if you’re in your 40’s like me that is) when you catch your reflection and think, “Hang on… when did my skin start to sag?!” Well loss of firmness is one of the most common skin concerns we hear about at Beauty Collective, and it’s one that tends to creep up gradually, which makes it feel all the more alarming when you suddenly notice it! The good news is that skin firmness is something you can support, improve and maintain with the right approach (and we’re not talking about extreme measures!) A few targeted products, a handful of consistent habits and the right knowledge goes a very long way. Here’s everything we’d recommend, from the best tips for firming and lifting skin to the products that actually deliver!
Why is your skin suddenly sagging?
Here’s the honest truth about skin firmness, it doesn’t disappear overnight even though it might be all of a sudden that you are noticing your face looking less ‘lifted’ so to speak!
Our skin’s firmness relies on three structural elements. Collagen (the protein that gives skin its structure and strength), Elastin (the protein that allows skin to snap back into place after movement) and Hyaluronic Acid (the molecule that keeps skin plump, cushioned and hydrated). All three unfortunately decline with age. In fact collagen production drops by approximately 1% per year from our mid-20s, and the rate accelerates significantly around menopause when oestrogen levels fall!
But ageing is not the only driver. Here are the other factors that contribute to loss of firmness, some of which are entirely within your control!
UV exposure. Sun damage is the single biggest accelerator of collagen degradation. UV rays generate free radicals that break down collagen fibres and prevent new ones from forming. This is why daily SPF is the most impactful anti-ageing product you can use — every day, without exception.
Dehydration. Skin that lacks moisture loses plumpness and appears to sag more visibly. Well-hydrated skin looks firmer, fuller and more youthful. Hydration is not a luxury in a firming routine — it’s a foundation.
Repetitive facial expressions and sleep position. Years of the same expressions create permanent lines in the skin. Sleeping face-down or on one side compresses the same areas of skin night after night, contributing to loss of structure over time.
Weight fluctuation. Significant or repeated weight changes stretch and contract the skin, gradually reducing its elasticity and ability to spring back.
Lifestyle factors. Smoking, alcohol, a high-sugar diet and chronic stress all accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Conversely, good nutrition, adequate sleep and stress management actively support skin structure from the inside.
The two products we always recommend for firming
Phytomer Structurise Firming Contour Serum
This silky, milky serum with a beautifully subtle floral sent melts effortlessly into the skin, delivering an immediately comfortable, luminous result while working at a deeper level to visibly improve firmness, density and facial contour definition over time.
The hero active is a dual marine algae complex - Laminaria Digitata and Chlorella Vulgaris (which improves skin tissue density and elasticity with consistent use), Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract (which provides a tightening and lifting effect), Adenosine (which smooths fine lines) and Saccharide Isomerate that delivers long-lasting hydration that binds moisture directly to the skin. Finally Squalane and Squalene restore the skin’s lipid balance, support the barrier and keep the complexion supple and smooth.
Why BC customers love it as much as we do;
“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! – Kylie D
“I had my doubts about it being firming, but I actually feel like it's toning my skin--and gives a beautiful radiance too.” – Suzy
“I was starting to worry about my face dropping and so decided to invest in this serum and the Pevonia Lumafirm Cream from Beauty Collective. I use both together morning and night and have noticed results after only 3 weeks. My skin does feel firmer but it also looks more radiant too. Very happy with the results.” – Simone K
“Lovely lightweight textured serum that sinks into my skin. I use it every morning and night and have noticed a difference to my skin texture. It feels and I think looks more toned and is visibly brighter. I love this serums scent too!” – Kayla B
Pevonia Lumafirm Repair Cream Lift & Glow
If the Structurise Serum is your morning firmness treatment, the Pevonia Lumafirm Repair Cream Lift & Glow is your overnight transformation! While we sleep (when our skin is in its most active regenerative state) this luxurious cream works deeply to lift, repair, brighten and nourish, using some of the most sophisticated actives in the Pevonia range.
The standout ingredient is Kombucha (Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment). It’s rich in organic acids and vitamins and stimulates cell renewal while detoxifing and brightening skin. Oligopeptide-68 supports skin repair and has documented skin-brightening and anti-pigmentation effects. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3 is a signal peptide that reduces inflammation and directly improves firmness and elasticity. Resveratrol provides powerful antioxidant protection. And Diacetyl Boldine evens skin tone for a more radiant, uniform complexion by morning.
The cream’s texture is beautifully silky but rich enough to feel genuinely nourishing without any heaviness or residue.
And the results, as our customers consistently report, speak for themselves;
“This is truly a gem of a product! It delivers that youthful, lifting effect you're looking for. Even though it's positioned as a lifting cream, what I loved most was how it made my skin look incredibly smooth and refined.” – Bianca
“"I started to notice several changes within weeks of using 2 times a day of the Lumafirm cream. My face looked healthy, even toned, my wrinkles are smoothened out. And my skin continues to get firmer and firmer.” – Fiona F
“My facialist recommended this cream to use at night. I noticed an immediate difference. My skin was more luminous, alive and younger looking. Previously I experimented with other night creams but had never experienced the positive change that Lumafirm Lift & Glow provided. Im sticking with this one!” - Sarah M
“I love this product, I’ve been using this product for about three weeks, and I've already started to see great results. It really firms up my face especially the jaw line area and it smells very good too.” – Debra R
For even better results incorporate these steps into your daily routine
Facial massage
This is genuinely one of the most underrated firming habits there is. Daily facial massage (even just two to three minutes when applying your serum or cream) improves circulation, stimulates lymphatic drainage, encourages the skin to produce more collagen and helps sculpt and lift the facial contours over time. Use upward, outward motions and moderate pressure. If you have a gemstone roller, use it with your serum for an enhanced lifting effect.
Stay well hydrated
Skin that is adequately hydrated from within genuinely looks firmer, fuller and more youthful. Dehydrated skin exaggerates every sign of ageing, including loss of firmness. Aim for at least 2 litres of water daily, and more if you exercise or live in a dry or air-conditioned environment.
Wear SPF every single day
We will never stop saying this! UV exposure is the single greatest accelerator of collagen breakdown. Every day you skip SPF, you undo some of the work your firming products are doing. Apply SPF 30 minimum as the last step of your morning routine, every day, regardless of season or cloud cover.
Eat for your skin!
A diet rich in antioxidants (colourful vegetables, berries, green tea), essential fatty acids (oily fish, avocado, olive oil, flaxseed) and protein supports collagen synthesis and protects existing collagen from oxidative damage. Conversely, a high-sugar diet accelerates a process called glycation (where sugar molecules attach to and degrade collagen fibres, causing them to become brittle and less elastic.) Reducing refined sugar is one of the most impactful dietary changes you can make for skin firmness.
Manage stress actively
Chronic stress is consistently underestimated as a contributor to skin ageing. Cortisol (the stress hormone) directly degrades collagen. Stress management isn’t just good for your wellbeing, it’s genuinely good for your skin! Regular exercise, time outdoors, adequate rest and whatever brings you genuine calm (I love music and meditation) all make a significant difference to your complexion over time.
Prioritise sleep
The hours between roughly 11pm and 4am are when cell turnover and collagen production peak. Consistent, quality sleep (we are talking 7–9 hours a night) is one of the most powerful anti-ageing tools available! Poor or insufficient sleep elevates cortisol, increases inflammation, impairs the skin’s repair processes and accelerates the very collagen breakdown you’re trying to prevent. A very good night cream sadly cannot compensate for poor sleep!
If you stick to good quality professional and follow these daily tips, firmer, more lifted skin is absolutely achievable
Wrinkles: the best products to fight skin ageing
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 23 2024
Ageing is inevitable, we know that, but that doesn't mean we have to accept wrinkles and fine lines as our fate. With the right skincare products, you can help reduce your wrinkles and maintain a youthful glow too! Keep reading for our guide to the best anti-wrinkle products, as recommended by the BC pros!
The ampoule
Hubislab Premium Active B-tol Ampoule
This complex wrinkle reducing ampoule fights signs of premature ageing and protects the skin from external factors.
Formulated with a botulinum-derivative ingredient similar to Botox, it improves the appearance of fine lines, reduces the formation of wrinkles, and improves the elasticity and firmness of the skin. The complex emulsion also contains hyaluronic acid which provides the skin with deep moisturization to maintain a radiant complexion.
Suitable for all skin types, it’s the perfect solution for younger looking skin.
“I have been using this product for a number of weeks now and I LOVE it! My skin already looks smoother and younger. If you are looking for a deeply nourishing and soothing serum to help with fine lines and wrinkles give this a try! You will not be disappointed.” - Sally M
The serum
Pevonia Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Serum
Formulated with a high concentration of age-defying Caviar and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus Blend – a natural alternative to botox) this standout serum immediately increases skins plumpness and softens and smooths 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
The moisturiser
Vie Collection Time Control Deep Wrinkles Firming Rich Cream
Inspired by the professional benefits of EGF (Epidermal growth factor) injections to combat deep wrinkles, loss of elasticity and devitalization, this deeply nourishing cream - formulated with powerful cosmetic ingredients including EGF-like peptides and pro-collagen peptides - visibly reverses lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, lack of density and sagging of the face.
You’ll notice immediate results as skin feels and appears smoother, softer and more supple and after continued use wrinkles are visibly filled and skin is noticeably firmer. Outstanding!
“I have been using this firming cream for a month now and I can honestly say it has reduced the appearance of even my deepest wrinkles! I was even asked if I’d had botox the other day! Winning!” – Anne K
The night cream
Phytomer Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream
If you want to see a reduction in your wrinkles give this cream a go! Ideal for day and night (it has a beautiful rich formulation) it works by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles using a precise blend of outstanding marine ingredients – brown algae and red vegetal coral. What’s more the formulation has recently been revamped for more naturality and more effectiveness on all wrinkles! It’s a personal favourite of mine, in fact I use this product every night and the results are phenomenal! Smoother, clearer, nourished, youthful skin.
“I have been using this product for quite some time. No one EVER believes me when I share my age or mention my two grandchildren. I love this cream!!” – Diane
The eye cream
Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream
This skin around our peepers is in fact the most delicate on our face and the first to show signs of ageing so you want to make sure you protect them just as we would the rest of your skin!
Formulated with hyaluronic acid, injectables-like peptide, Phytosterols + Fatty acids, Vitamin C and Vitamin B3! This beautifully fine cream deeply nourishes the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Seriously! it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area, and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened my dark circles, and even smoothed my wrinkles! I’m testament to that! For the best eye cream ingredients and more products to maintain youthful eyes click here.
“This is a wonderful eye cream, it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened by dark circles and even smoothed my wrinkles! It’s truly a fabulous eye cream that is well worth the price tag.” – Lisa M
Peptides: How this ingredient is transforming skincare
by Jo Boyden
on May 03 2024
You’ve probably heard about Peptides, another key ingredient we are told to incorporate into our everyday skincare routine! But when we are already slathering on Vitamin C, Retinol, Collagen, Niacinamide (and more!) in our quest to defy premature ageing and achieve healthy, glowing skin, why are peptides so essential too? Keep reading as we uncover all there is to know about peptides and how these unsung heroes can help to transform your complexion. Firstly though, what are peptides?Hailed as the key to achieving, youthful, radiant skin, peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, including collagen, elastin and keratin, crucial for maintaining skin structure and elasticity.What do peptides do for your skin?These small but mighty molecules are gaining recognition for their remarkable ability to address various signs of ageing, making them a coveted ingredient in skincare formulations.As we age, our production of collagen, elastin and keratin decline, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Peptides work by signalling the skin to produce more of these proteins replenishing what’s lost and in turn helping to restore a more youthful complexion! Clever stuff hey?Key benefits of peptides in skincare: Peptides boost collagen production Peptides stimulate collagen synthesis, promoting firmer, plumper skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides enhance skin elasticity By supporting elastin production, peptides help improve skin elasticity, leading to a smoother and more youthful-looking complexion. Peptides improve skin texture Peptides can help refine skin texture, minimizing the appearance of pores and promoting a smoother, more even skin tone. Peptides hydrate and nourish Some peptides have moisturising properties, helping to hydrate the skin and maintain its barrier function, preventing moisture loss and enhancing overall skin health. Peptides protect against environmental damage Certain peptides have antioxidant properties, defending the skin against free radicals and environmental stressors, which can accelerate skin ageing.How to incorporate peptides into your skincare routineLook for skincare products containing peptides, such as serums, moisturisers, and eye creams. These products are formulated to deliver peptides directly to the skin, maximizing their effectiveness. Incorporate them into your daily skincare routine, applying them after cleansing and toning, and before moisturising. Consistency is key to seeing visible results, so use peptide-rich products regularly to reap their full benefits.Can you layer peptides with vitamin c and other key ingredients?Overall, peptides work well with other key skincare ingredients including vitamin c, niacinamide, retinol, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, and can generally be layered with them to address multiple skin concerns and achieve optimal results.However, layering peptides with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) is not advisable as the AHAs will actually make the peptides work less efficiently.Are peptides good for all skin types including sensitive skin?Peptides can be beneficial for all skin types, including sensitive skin, when used in appropriate formulations and concentrations. Since peptides are generally gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types, they are less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity reactions. Peptides can offer valuable benefits for sensitive skin, such as improving hydration, enhancing skin barrier function, and promoting a more youthful complexion. However, it's essential to choose peptide products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and free from potential irritants such as fragrances, dyes, and harsh preservatives.The peptide skincare products we are loving:Naturys Anti-Age Multi-Peptide Serum - Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this product packs a punch when it comes to hydration but thanks to its additional combination of nourishing and anti-ageing ingredients including an array of peptides and vitamin C, it leaves your skin softer, smoother and visibly radiant too. Oh and its organic and vegan – we love that!HubisLab Premium Active Eternal Face & Eye Cream - I not only personally love how this product is a 2-in-1 – your moisturiser and your eye cream, but I also love how baby soft my skin is these days after religiously using it! It’s nourishing but light and has definitely made a difference to not only my face but to the delicate area around my eyes too! What’s more, it’s packed with a plethora of goodies from of course peptides to Hyaluronic acid and Botulinum-derived component, an Ingredient that is similar to Botox! No wonder the wrinkles around my eyes have practically disappeared!ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream. This outstanding BB Cream might be classed as makeup, but it’s packed with a powerhouse of skincare goodies including peptides, vitamin c, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin e!Multi-tasking it protects, primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen skin and its game-changing formula shields skin from not only from damaged UV rays but blue light from our devices too!Not just another BB Cream, this BB Cream will improve your skin's elasticity while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and will leave skin with a long-lasting radiant glow every time you apply. It's brilliant!By incorporating peptide-rich skincare products into your routine, you can rejuvenate and revitalize your complexion, revealing a smoother, firmer, and more radiant appearance.
Worried about sagging skin? The best tips to firm your face
by Jo Boyden
on May 03 2024
Ageing. We all know it’s inevitable, but no one wants to wake up one day and find gravity playing tricks on their face! Sadly though, sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles are all a natural part of the ageing process, but this doesn't mean we can’t do something to help slow down or improve their appearance. With the right preventive measures and skincare routine, you can prevent your skin from sagging prematurely and maintain firm and youthful-looking skin for years to come. Keep reading as we discuss the best tips for preventing sagging skin and achieving a more lifted, toned complexion. Firstly though what is sagging skin on the face?Sagging skin on the face refers to the loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin, leading to a drooping or sagging appearance. It occurs when the skin's supportive structures weaken over time. As a result, the skin loses its ability to bounce back, causing it to sag or droop, particularly in areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and neck. What causes sagging skin?You could be asking yourself why is your face suddenly sagging? Sagging skin on the face is actually caused by multiple factors. These include; Loss of Collagen and Elastin One of the main contributors to skin sagging is the decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, our collagen and elastin levels decline and as a result the skin loses its ability to bounce back, resulting in sagging and drooping.Decreased skin hydrationHydration plays a crucial role in maintaining the plumpness and suppleness of the skin. With age, the skin's ability to retain moisture diminishes, resulting in dryness and dehydration. Dehydrated skin is more prone to sagging and wrinkles, as it lacks the necessary moisture to maintain its elasticity.Reduction in Facial Fat and Muscle ToneAs we age, the fat pads in our face begin to weaken, causing the skin to lose volume and support. Additionally, weakening of the facial muscles over time can contribute to sagging and drooping of facial tissues. These changes in fat distribution and muscle tone can result in a loss of facial contour and definition.UV and Blue Light damageProlonged exposure to UV rays from the sun and Blue Light damage from our devices accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres in the skin. UV and Blue Light damage weakens the skin's structural support, leading to premature ageing signs such as sagging, wrinkles, and fine lines.Lifestyle FactorsCertain lifestyle habits, such as smoking, poor nutrition, and excessive alcohol consumption, can contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin. Smoking, in particular, has been linked to accelerated skin ageing and sagging due to its detrimental effects on blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the skin tissues.GeneticsThis one you can blame on your parents for! Unfortunately genetics can also influence the rate at which our skin ages and how saggy it becomes! Sadly some of us will develop sagging skin much earlier than others due to our genetic makeup! Eek. How to prevent sagging skinWhile some degree of face sagging is a natural part of the ageing process, there are various things we can do to help improve skin firmness and minimize the appearance of sagging skin. Stay Hydrated Hydration is key to maintaining the elasticity and suppleness of our skin. It’s nothing new but drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out is essential. Water helps keep your skin cells plump and hydrated which in turn promotes elasticity. Additionally, use hydrating skincare products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and plump up the skin. Always wear sunscreen Protecting our skin from UV rays and Blue Light damage with sunscreen and sun-protective measures can dramatically help prevent premature ageing and in turn sagging skin. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF every. single. day no matter what the weather, always consider wearing a hat and seek shade during peak hours when UV is at its most damaging. Follow a Healthy Diet Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support skin health and prevent sagging. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet to provide your skin with essential nutrients and promote collagen production. Including foods such as broccoli, spinach, sweet potato, avocado, nuts and blueberries will work wonders!! Exercise Regularly Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also helps keep sagging skin at bay! This is because it promotes circulation and muscle tone, which can contribute to firmer, more lifted skin. Incorporate strength training exercises targeting the face, neck, and body to keep your muscles toned and prevent sagging. Practice Good Skincare Habits Follow a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising, this will keep skin supple and looking younger for longer. Use Skincare Products with Active Ingredients As well as products formulated with Hyaluronic acid, you’ll want to use skincare containing active ingredients known for their firming and tightening properties. The most effective ingredients to help prevent premature skin sagging includes retinol, peptides, vitamin C, and niacinamide. These ingredients can help stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of sagging. Incorporate facial massage into your daily routine Gentle facial massage techniques can help improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting firmer, glowy and more lifted skin over time. Because it stimulates the facial muscles, a massage is like a mini-workout for your face. It engorges the muscles with blood to oxygenate the skin cells and gives “tone” to your muscles.Incorporate a gentle facial massage using your fingertips or a jade roller into your daily skincare routine.To learn more about the many benefits of facial massage click here Get enough zzzz’s We all know that getting enough sleep is important for our overall health, but did you know it can also improve your skin’s elasticity? During sleep, our body produces collagen and repairs any damage that’s been done to our skin throughout the day. However when we are sleep deprived, our bodies produce more cortisol, a stress hormone that can actually break down collagen!It’s best to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night to give your skin the rest it needs.The best skincare products to prevent or improve sagging skin on your facePhytomer Structuriste Firming Contour SerumNo one likes seeing their skin start to sag as we age thanks to the breakdown in collagen and elastin, but with this miracle firming face serum all is not lost! It’s beautifully lightweight and milky and effectively moisturises and improves skin tissue density by smoothing, firming and plumping the skin as well as enhancing the look of facial contours! Seriously!Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra SerumIt features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract for optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, softer, plumper, firming and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types!Pevonia Firming Marine Elastin CreamFormulated with hydrating superstars’ hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane and also elastin, this rich, nourishing, firming face cream, delivers powerful repairing and tightening benefits to the skin visibly increasing moisture while improving elasticity! Oh and it smells pretty divine too!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 should 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.Medicalia – Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light ShieldIf you’re a little reluctant to wear your sunscreen because quite frankly its smell and greasy texture puts you off, you are going to love this lightweight emulsion! This everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It also rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones!BC Jade facial rollerIdeal for those concerned with wrinkles and loose skin, jade helps raise the immunity of the skin. It’s known for its ability to help tone and firm skin cells, stimulate collagen production, increase elasticity, calm puffiness and promote cell turnover!Physically, this crystal has more resistance on skin than rose quartz and amethyst, so while it’s not as silky and glass-like in texture, it is better for achieving firming and lifting results including smoothing wrinkles, sculpting muscle, and tightening loose skin.It’s best to use this roller in the morning since jade has a revitalising energy that helps skin to feel fresh and invigorated.To learn more about jade rollers and why they are the perfect additional to your skincare routine click here. By following these steps, you can maintain firm, toned skin and enjoy a more youthful complexion for years to come. Remember, consistency is key, so make skincare a priority in your daily routine and reap the rewards of healthy, radiant skin.
Want to reduce the appearance of your wrinkles? These are the best alternatives to injectables
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 02 2024
If you’re worried about wrinkles but the idea of putting filler in your face or using injectables is definite no no, you’ve come to the right place! We believe in ageing naturally, but of course also want to look young for as long as possible too! This is where the steps you take and the products you use are imperative. No point in putting creams on your face that are formulated with ingredients that aren’t going to have an impact on ageing. At Beauty Collective skincare is our passion, and we have hundreds of products to help reduce wrinkles and keep ageing at bay! Keep reading for our top tips for battling fine lines, and of course the best natural solutions - the products we swear by when it comes to prolonging our youth! Stay hydrated Yes, you already know this, but we can’t emphasize it enough, before you even think about what you put on your skin, you need to keep skin hydrated from within – it really is the foundation of youth!Why?Because ample hydration plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines while promoting a radiant complexion.How?Drink plenty of water throughout the day (8 glasses is sufficient) and incorporate herbal teas and water rich foods like cucumber and watermelon into your daily diet.Also apply nourishing and hydrating skincare rich in hyaluronic acid. Thanks to its sponge like effect, Hyaluronic acid has the ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in moisture, in other words, one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water! Crazy right? Making it THE super hydrator of the skincare world, especially more recently as advancement in technical innovation has changed it for the better! Now, thanks to its molecular structure Hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds! In fact, it literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant! The extra moisture also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!Try: Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. It features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract for optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, softer, plumper, firming and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types! Nourish with antioxidants Ah antioxidants, nature's defence against ageing as the experts say!Why?Antioxidants fight skin damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors like UV and pollution which cause visible signs of ageing!!They can dramatically slow skin ageing, lessen UV radiation damage and decrease the breakdown of collagen.How?Include antioxidant-rich foods like berries, dark leafy greens, and green tea in your diet, as well as apply antioxidants to your skin! The best antioxidant in skincare to help fight ageing is vitamin C. This 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 C Complexe with Oxyzomes. 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! Protect with sunscreen The ultimate shield against UV damage!Why?UV rays omitted from the sun and also our devices can accelerate skin ageing causing winkles and fine lines.How? Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days, all year around!Try; Medicalia – Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. If you’re a little reluctant to wear your sunscreen because quite frankly its smell and greasy texture puts you off, you are going to love this lightweight emulsion! This everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It also rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones! Incorporate retinol The ultimate ingredient for skin renewal! In fact, it is hailed as the holy grail of the skincare world.Why?Retinol offers a multitude of benefits. From stimulating collagen production, 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! How?Apply gentle retinol products topically to your skin. 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!Try: Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential Moisturiser. For those with advanced signs of aging – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser should 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. Massage skin for circulation And revel in the benefits!Why?Facial massage improves blood circulation, promoting a healthy glow and reducing tension.How?Incorporate a gentle facial massage using your fingertips or a facial roller into your daily skincare routine.To learn more about the many benefits of facial massage click here.Try: BC Jade facial roller. Ideal for those concerned with wrinkles and loose skin, jade helps raise the immunity of the skin. It’s known for its ability to help tone and firm skin cells, stimulate collagen production, increase elasticity, calm puffiness and promote cell turnover!Physically, this crystal has more resistance on skin than rose quartz and amethyst, so while it’s not as silky and glass-like in texture, it is better for achieving firming and lifting results including smoothing wrinkles, sculpting muscle, and tightening loose skin.It’s best to use this roller in the morning since jade has a revitalising energy that helps skin to feel fresh and invigorated.To learn more about jade rollers and why they are the perfect additional to your skincare routine click here. Eat healthy fats for skin elasticity Feed your skin with goodness!Why?Omega-3 fatty acids support skin elasticity, reducing the look of sagging and wrinkles.How?Include sources like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and avocados into your daily diet. Stay active Exercise for younger radiant skinWhy?Regular exercise releases endorphins and improves blood flow, delivering essential nutrients to the skin and promoting a youthful complexion.How?It doesn’t have to be about boot camps and hitting the gym 6 days a week! Find activities you enjoy and make them part of your daily routine. We are talking anything from walking, jogging, yoga, Pilates or even dancing! Get enough sleep Beauty sleep is real!Why?Lack of sleep can lead to premature aging and increased stress, contributing to the appearance of wrinkles.How?Everyone is different but you need to aim for a minimum of 7 years of sleep a night. If you have trouble getting to sleep try incorporating relaxation techniques before bed and remember to put down any devices at least an hour before bedtime!! Manage your stress Reduce the impact of how your skin ages.Why?Chronic stress can accelerate the ageing process and contribute to the formation of wrinkles.How?Practice stress-relieving activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness.Try; Apps like Calm and Headspace.
Crow’s feet: How to improve its appearance
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 03 2023
We’ve all heard of crow’s feet, many of us over the age of 40 have likely encountered them, but how do you reduce their appearance, or prevent them from forming in the first place?If you are on the lookout for natural ways to treat crow’s feet around your eyes, look no further! We've put together a list of top tips and natural remedies to help you treat your crow’s feet effectively, without the use of harsh products or invasive procedures (the idea of fillers terrifies me!) Keep reading as we reveal them all! Firstly what are crow’s feet? A common skincare concern, crow’s feet (otherwise known as expression lines) are fine lines and wrinkles that form on the outer corners of your eyes as you age. As the skin around our eyes is exceptionally delicate (and thin!) crow’s feet can start to form fairly early for some due to constant muscle use in this area, as well as a gradual reduction in skin's elasticity. What causes crow’s feet?Crow’s feet are caused by a combination of factors, including ageing (due to a decrease in skin's collagen and elastin production), sun exposure, and repetitive facial expressions. Diet and your genetics can also be contributing factors. How do you get rid of crow’s feet?While it’s impossible to stop your eyes from ageing, there are a number of natural ways to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and maintain a more youthful looking eye area. Here’s how; Hydration is key As we age the skin around our eyes becomes dryer, thinner and loses its elasticity which leads to fine lines and wrinkles! And unfortunately the dryer this delicate area, the more visible those unwanted wrinkles are!Keeping your delicate eye area well-hydrated can help plump up the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines. Use a hydrating eye cream or serum specifically formulated to target fine lines and crow's feet.Try Pevonia Age Correction Eye Contour. This power repair eye contour gives tired, ageing eyes the burst of hydration they need! Deeply nourishing thanks to its combination of marine collagen and marine elastin hyaluronic acid, it targets signs of fatigue, visibly reducing puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. What more could you want?“Reduces wrinkles and firms eyelids. It’s also cool and soothing to eye area. No oily film to interfere with applying eye makeup. Have seen reduction in fine lines in crow’s feet area.” Laura L Exfoliate Shedding dead skin and revealing a younger, healthier layer of skin beneath helps reduce the appearance of crow's feet, fine lines, and surface wrinkles. Stronger forms of AHAs may also help boost your skin's collagen production, thereby providing additional crow's feet treatment. Get enough sleep. When you don't get enough sleep, your skin can become dull and wrinkled and wrinkles around your eyes can become increasingly more obvious. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep minimum each night. Apply cucumbers over your eyes I’ve talked about this before and for good reason. Cucumber slices are known for their cooling and soothing properties. Place chilled cucumber slices over your eyes for 10-15 minutes to reduce puffiness and refresh the delicate skin around your eyes. Apply Green tea bags as an eye compress Green tea isn't just for drinking; it's also a potent antioxidant that can work wonders topically for your skin. Brew some green tea, let it cool, then soak a clean cloth in the tea and gently place it over your closed eyes for 15 minutes. The antioxidants in green tea can help reduce inflammation and promote smoother, firmer skin. Apply chamomile tea bags for soothing relief And finally as with green tea bags, chamomile tea bags can really help the eye area when applied topically. Chamomile is renowned for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Simply place two chamomile tea bags in hot water, let them cool, then place them over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce puffiness and inflammation, giving your eyes a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance. Manage stress Stress can also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation. How do you prevent crow's feet from forming in the first place?There are several lifestyle choices you can make to help fight the formation of crow’s feet. Wear sunglasses The delicate skin around our eyes is particularly susceptible to UV damage as it is thinner and more prone to wrinkling. By wearing sunglasses daily, you create a shield against the sun's harmful UV rays, protecting this sensitive area from sun exposure and thereby reducing the risk of developing crow's feet.Wearing sunglasses can also help to reduce squinting, one of the main contributors to crow's feet. Apply sunscreen every. single. day Wearing sunglasses isn’t the only thing to help shield your delicate eye area from sun damage. Actually wearing sunscreen daily is imperative too!The sun is hands down the no. 1 cause of premature ageing and therefore crow’s feet, and by wearing sunscreen religiously you can help prevent it! Go gentle on the delicate eye area Treat your eye area with the utmost care. Avoid harsh rubbing or tugging as this can damage your delicate eye area causing the tissue around your eyes to thin, making it more fragile and therefore be more susceptible to wrinkles. Practice eye exercises Performing simple eye exercises such as gentle massage can help improve blood circulation and reduce tension around the eyes potentially minimizing wrinkle formation. Incorporate retinol into your daily skincare routine Incorporating a retinol-based eye cream into your skincare routine can work wonders for your skin. Retinol helps boost collagen production and encourages cell turnover, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Drink plenty of water every single day Say no more. Water is life. We all know drinking plenty of water has an outstanding effect onour skin's health, so drink, drink, drink! Apply eye masks Treat yourself to some nourishing eye masks infused with hydrating and collagen-boosting ingredients. These can provide an instant plumping and brightening effect, giving your under-eye area a refreshed appearance. Eat a healthy diet If you’re looking for a simple solution for how to prevent crow’s feet, try to eat more of the following foods. Fish rich in omega-3s essential fatty acids such as salmon Avocados Nuts and seeds Extra virgin olive oil Berries Green leafy vegetables Foods high in antioxidants can help fight free radicals and pollution that contribute to lines and wrinkles. Avoid smoking Smoking it’s just bad for your health, it can seriously affect your skin's appearance too! This is because smoking can accelerate the ageing process quite significantly and contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Get yourself some reading glasses as soon as you need them! As we age, our vision can become impaired which causes us to squint, especially when we are trying to read or scroll through at our devices. Squinting is actually one of the main causes of crow’s feet, eek, so if you notice your eye sight deteriorating slightly go get your eyes tested immediately.Just remember, while crow's feet are a natural part of the aging process, taking care of your skin and following these tips can help minimize their appearance and promote a more youthful, radiant eye area.
Top tips to improve under eye crepiness
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 01 2023
If like me, you’re in your 40’s (or older), you may have fallen victim to under eye crepiness – that undesirable loose, wrinkled skin that can make you look tired, but also older than you actually are!This is because as we age the collagen and elastin levels in our skin starts to decline, as it does the delicate skin around our eyes (one of the first and most prevalent areas to show premature ageing) becomes dryer and thinner, and well crepey! Luckily all is not lost though! There are a number of steps you can take to improve its appearance, and we aren’t talking chemical peels, dermal fillers, laser and Botox, no siree, we are all about natural, non-intrusive alternatives. Keep reading as we reveal them all!Firstly though, why might you be more susceptible to under eye crepiness?The most common cause of fine lines, wrinkles and crepey skin under your eyes is unfortunately ageing, which can of course be influenced by genetics (thank you Mum and Dad!) But other common contributing factors which may be possible to avoid include;UV radiation – exposure to UV rays accelerates the breakdown of collagen leading to premature ageing, this is why it’s essential to protect our peepers! If you don’t wear sunnies every single day like you do your sunscreen, you should now!Smoking – smoking exposures your skin to extra oxidative stress, in turn damaging its collagen and elastin. Smoking also constricts the blood vessels under your eyes by blocking circulation to your blood vessels and depriving your skin of necessary vitamin A.Environmental factors - environmental factors, such as dry weather, wind, and pollution can all contribute to undereye ageing.Pulling repetitive expressions – well I’m definitely guilty of this! Facial expressions, like smiling, frowning, and furrowing your brow, can cause fine lines to develop prematurely around your delicate eye area. Eek!Even the way we sleep can have a negative impact on our eyes! What you might say? Yup, if you sleep with your face buried in your pillow (guilty as charged) you are likely to be more prone to premature fine lines, wrinkles and eye crepiness, than those that don’t! Aghhh.How can you improve undereye crepiness?Although crepey skin will not disappear overnight, it can be drastically improved with time, the right anti-aging products, as well as lifestyle changes. It can take weeks or even months to see results, but by following these top 10 tips you can bid adieu to that saggy, sullen, crepey skin under your eyes. Stay hydrated. All. The. Time. Yes, you’ve heard it a million times before, drink all the water. Hydration is key my friends. Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day (we’re talking 8 glasses minimum). When you drink water, it’s like giving your skin a drink from the inside out too (and that water has to nourish all your other vital organise too! Treat sunscreen like is your BFF Never underestimate the power of sunscreen. Those harmful UV rays are a major contributor to premature aging. So, slather on that sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days. Your future self will thank you!Not a huge fan of sunscreen? We get it. Soo many sunscreens feel greasy, don’t smell great or simply don’t sit well on our skin, and then there are those thick white sunscreens that look like a paste when applied too! That’s why we love the ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. It’s not greasy but instead silky soft, the scent isn’t unpleasant, and it applies beautifully to my skin. And thanks to its formulation its helps nourish and restore skins luminosity too, not to mention it’s high SPF of 50! Invest in an eye cream rich in hyaluronic acid and use it day and night Investing in a good quality eye cream that's packed with hydrating and skin-loving ingredients including hyaluronic acid and peptides will do wonders for ageing eyes. Gently pat the product around your eyes morning and night for that extra boost of moisture and optimal results.For more on the benefits of using hyaluronic acid under your eyes and our 3 favourite eye treatments click here. Add a gemstone facial roller to your daily beauty routine The roller will, not only help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, when used correctly, it can dramatically reduce puffiness by moving excess fluid around your eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out the toxins too. Cool right? To find out more about the facial rollers and how to use them click here. Introduce tea time for your eyes Tea isn’t just for drinking you know, it’s also good for soothing your eyes too! Try placing cold tea bags (caffeine free, herbal tea is best!) on your closed eyes for a few minutes. The tannins in tea can help tighten the skin and reduce puffiness too! Consider practicing eye massage Light massage with your ring finger can improve bloody circulation and actually help your skin appear smoother. Remember gentle, gentle though as applying too much pressure to already thin, delicate skin can have the adverse effect! Give your eyes a rest from screen time Increased time in front of your laptop and on your phone can reap havoc with your precious peepers. In fact, spending just two consecutive hours on a digital device can cause eyestrain or fatigue while overexposure to blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, therefore disrupting our normal sleep pattern. And we all know poor sleep can lead to premature ageing, especially around the delicate eye area! Make healthy lifestyle choices Your overall health reflects on your skin, including the delicate eye area. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. And if you're a smoker, consider kicking the habit – smoking accelerates skin aging like nobody's business. Using gentle cleansing is a must Be kind to your skin when you cleanse but also never skip on cleansing, it’s a must, just be sure to use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn't strip away your skin's natural oils. Harsh cleansers can contribute to dryness and crepiness. Try Medicalia’s Gentle Cleanser. Introduce cold compress magic Incorporate cold compresses into your routine. Applying a cold, damp cloth or chilled spoons over your eyes for a few minutes can help reduce puffiness and refresh your skin. Keep skin hydrated Invest in a good hydrating mist. A quick spritz throughout the day can give your skin the moisture it craves, helping to minimize crepiness. We love Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist. It’s one of my all time favourites. Make sure you get enough Zzzz’s Beauty sleep is real people! After all it’s not dubbed beauty sleep for nothing! Make sure you're getting enough restful sleep each night. Elevate your head slightly with an extra pillow to prevent fluid from pooling around your eyes, which can lead to puffiness and crepiness. Upgrade your pillow case If you are one for sleeping with your face in the pillow, you might want to consider switching up your cotton pillowcase to a silk or satin alternative instead.Silk has natural moisturising properties to retain moisture around the eyes. The dense weave of the silky-smooth fibres also keep moisture close to your skin, this extra moisture can help to reduce dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles.Just remember, Rome wasn’t built in day, and your under-eye skin won’t transform overnight either sadly (if only!) Be patient and be religious with these steps and you’ll be waking up to smoother, brighter and younger looking eyes soon!
9 tips for improving your skin’s elasticity
by Jo Boyden
on May 24 2023
We are all on the constant quest for youthful and supple skin, after all who doesn’t want to look that little bit younger for a long as possible right? Unfortunately as we age our skin does naturally loose it’s elasticity though (which is what makes it look younger and firmer!) and while there is no stopping this from happening, after all ageing is inevitable, there are several things we can do to improve our skin’s elasticity, and prevent premature ageing. Keep reading as we reveal 9 steps you should follow daily.Firstly though, what exactly is elasticity?Elasticity is our skin’s ability to stretch and then literally bounce to its original shape. It’s what gives our skin that smooth, supple texture.When we’re young, our skin is naturally more elastic, but as we age our production of both elastin and collagen (the proteins responsible for skin elasticity) slows down. This can lead to skin sagging, wrinkles and loss of firmness!What causes our skin to prematurely lose elasticity?Collagen and Elastin begins to decline prematurely due to a number of factors. These include genetics, sun exposure, poor nutrition, pollution and smoking.The good news is that there are a few things you can do to improve your skin’s elasticity, keep reading… Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! And I’m talking the surface of your skin and the water you congest Staying hydrated is crucial for overall skin health, including its elasticity. Drinking enough water helps to keep your skin cells plump and hydrated, which in turn promotes elasticity. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day and incorporate hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges into your diet.As well as ingesting water to hydrate your skin you also want to hydrate skin topically! The best way to do this is to use skincare products such as moisturisers and serums rich in hydration hero hyaluronic acid! Hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate skin to instantly deliver a supple, dewy complexion in a matter of seconds! In fact, it literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant! The extra moisture also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles! For everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid and the best hyaluronic acid skincare products, click here. Use skin firming products If you’re worried about ageing and want to improve your skin’s elasticity you need to make sure that your skincare routine incorporates skincare ingredients such as elastin, collagen, peptides, and vitamin c.And we mustn’t forget retinol! Touted the “holy grail of the skincare world” retinol has been shown to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. You can find retinol in many skincare products, from creams to serums to prescription-strength options. Just be sure to start slowly and follow the instructions carefully, as retinol can be irritating to some people's skin.We can’t recommend more highly the Pevonia Micro Retinol collection. The collection 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 all-natural micro-retinol®, sourced from green leafy vegetables, combined with a powerhouse duo of vitamin C and vitamin E. 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.To find out more about the many benefits of retinol, how to use it and the best retinol products click here. Exfoliate Exfoliating has many benefits including removing dead skin cells, clearing up clogged pores, and rejuvenating flaky skin. After long-term exfoliating, it will help to increase collagen production, resulting in better skin elasticity and a minimized appearance of fine lines. Massage skin regularly Massaging your skin helps to stimulate blood flow and collagen production. Because it stimulates the facial muscles, a massage is like a mini-workout for your face. It engorges the muscles with blood to oxygenate the skin cells and gives “tone” to your muscles.Massage your face with your favourite moisturiser or try massaging with a night oil before bed. You can massage with your fingers or better still use a gemstone facial roller. You won’t regret it! Nourish your skin from within with a balanced diet What you put into your body reflects on your skin. Fact. To improve skin elasticity, focus on a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Include foods high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, avocado and nuts, as they help protect your skin from free radicals that can damage collagen and elastin fibres, crucial for maintaining elasticity! And try to avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats, as they can contribute to inflammation and accelerate the aging process. Eek! Sun protection is key We can't stress this enough! Sun damage is one of THE biggest contributors to a loss in skin elasticity. Overexposure to the sun's rays can accelerate collagen breakdown, which leads to loss of skin elasticity and subsequent saggy skin - aghh Make sunscreen (with a broad spectrum of SPF 30 or higher) your best friend, and wear it every. single. day, come rain, hail or shine! Additionally, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to further shield your skin from sun damage. Get moving Exercise does wonders for your overall well-being, and it turns out, it's fantastic for your skin too! Engaging in regular physical activity boosts blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. This increased circulation aids in collagen production and supports skin elasticity. So, find an activity you enjoy – whether it's jogging, dancing, or yoga – and make it a part of your daily routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Get enough zzzz’s We all know that getting enough sleep is important for our overall health, but did you know it can also improve your skin's elasticity? During sleep, our body produces collagen and repairs any damage that's been done to our skin throughout the day. However when we are sleep deprived, our bodies produce more cortisol, a stress hormone that can actually break down collagen!It’s best to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night to give your skin the rest it needs, and consider sleeping on your back to prevent sleep lines and wrinkles caused by constant facial pressure on the pillow. However if you are a dedicated side or tummy sleeper you could invest in a good pillowcase made of silk or satin to reduce friction and prevent those creases while you sleep! Avoid smoking and try to limit alcohol consumption Smoking harms your skin and makes it more susceptible to wrinkles and age spots. Fact. This is because it damages collagen and elastin fibres, leading to accelerated skin ageing and reduced elasticity!So, if you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your skin's health. Excessive alcohol consumption can also dehydrate the skin and contribute to premature aging. We aren’t saying quit alcohol, like smoking, moderation is what’s key, so try to limit your alcohol intake and balance it with an increased water consumption.Just remember improving your skin’s elasticity requires consistency! By following these steps and sticking to them daily you’ll notice a positive change to your skin’s texture and firmness in next to no time (it won’t happen overnight though!)
The best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 17 2022
If you’re worried about ageing eyes you might well have stopped wearing eyeshadow in fear it will only exacerbate your fine lines and wrinkles. The thing is eyeshadow and all eye makeup for that matter serves a very important purpose no matter what your age! It can add depth and dimension to your eyes making them appear larger, it can complement your eye colour or simply draw attention to the eyes! And most importantly it will bring back life to your ageing eye area! Genius! So instead of forgoing eyeshadow, you just need to alter how, and which type you use! To get the lowdown, we talked to the experts at BC! Keep scrolling as we countdown 10 of the best eyeshadow tips for mature women. Start with a good eye cream It’s likely you’re doing this already, but if not, you’ll want (and need) the delicate skin around your eyes to be properly nourished! And we are talking both the eyelid and the undereye area! For a great eye cream for ageing eyes try Pevonia’s Age Correction Eye Contour. It’s formulated with Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and Green Team which not only provide eyes with powerful anti-ageing benefits, it smooths, first and deeply nourishing the fragile eye zone too. Use a primer As our skin ages, under-eye wrinkles and crows feet become more apparent – they are a fact of life for us all! A good primer however will help reduce their appearance while increasing the longevity of your eyeshadow! It’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing! Apply a good under-eye concealer This will make eyes appear bigger and brighter in prep for your eyeshadow. Concealer isn't just for brightening up your under eyes though. Prepping the eye with a concealer that's about two shades lighter than your actual shade will make your eyeshadow more pigmented and in turn pop a lot more.You’ll need to use one with has a hydrating formula as this will add additional nourishment to the eye area as well as prevent the concealer from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.Try ELES Cosmetics Dual Action Concealer. Use a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner You don’t want to get to lunch time and find yourself with panda eyes! No sireee. By using a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner, it’ll stay in place all day plus give eyes much needed depth and definition. Try ELES Cosmetics Superwear Gel Liner. Line your eyes with a waterline liner Eyes tend to look duller and tired with age. A waterline liner will open up your eyes instantly creating the illusion of bigger, brighter, more youthful looking eyes.Simply apply your normal eyeliner to your top lash line then apply your waterline liner to the inner rim of your lower lash line. (We recommend ELES Cosmetics Waterline Liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter. It works a treat I can vouch for that! Opt for matte eyeshadow and go mineral Eye shadow comes in many different colours and textures but for ageing eyes matte eyeshadows are the way to go. Those with mature eyes might find matte eyeshadow more longwearing and less likely to fade on their skin. Your best bet is to stock up on mineral matte eyeshadows that are pigmented without emphasizing fine lines but also packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C & E to pamper lids with crease-proof perfection. Try ELES Cosmetics Mineral Matte Shadows. Better still try the ELES Build your own Shadow Palette, you get to select which ever 3 shades of mineral shadow shades you want! A trio of colours on your eyes is always better than one, they will make your eyes stand out more and can also increase their size and let’s face it bigger eyes are more youthful! Choose lighter eyeshadow shades Opt for a lighter, natural eyeshadow shades rather than dark, smoky shades on your eyelids and around the eyes. Using neutral colours like shades of light browns, light pinks, beiges, or greys are best. Also add a light colour eyeshadow shade to the inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid. Apply eye shadow correctly Don’t take your base eyeshadow shade and simply plonk it on the centre of your lid. Using a small eyeshadow brush, start from the outer corner of the eyes and work inwards, so that the colour gets gradually lighter. This will help give your eyes a bigger, wide-eyed look. Finish with mascara No matter your age, mascara will always be a go-to product. A good mascara (we are talking smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-lasting) adds volume and strengthens brittle lashes to keep them looking full and luscious. Fuller-looking lashes can also help to give a more youthful appearance to the eye area. However, it’s best not to wear mascara on the lower lashes as this can make your eyes look droopy as well as draw attention to dark circles and under eye wrinkles. Use a setting spray or powder Finally, to prevent eyeshadow fallout (after all we want it to stay in place all day or night long!) use a setting spray or if setting sprays aren't your thing, opt for a setting powder instead! Both work to lock your makeup in place. Try Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.
7 products that’ll turn dull, devitalised skin to radically radiant
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 09 2022
Have you found yourself staring in the mirror lately wondering “why does my skin looks so dull and old?” If so, you wouldn’t be alone! We all deal with the occasional bout of dull skin. But if you’re regularly waking up to a tired, lacklustre complexion, you’ll likely be wondering what you can do to improve it!Unfortunately, the winter months only exacerbate this skin condition thanks to the cooler weather and constant need for indoor heating which, let’s face it, sucks the life out of our already depleted complexion! but this doesn’t mean we can’t take action and turn our dull, devitalised skin to radically radiant in next to no time! Chances are your skincare routine could just be missing a few key elements that are vital for beautifully brightened skin - if your skin is lacking life, you’ll want to choose skincare with hydrating and skin brightening benefits. Look for products formulated with vitamin c, hyaluronic and/or retinol as these superlative ingredients will help skin appear more hydrated, plumped and radiant!Keep reading as we countdown 7 products that will breathe life back into your lifeless skin, the products I personally swear by and come highly recommended by our customers and the BC experts too! THE CLEANSERPhytomer Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing CreamWhen you have dull skin cleansing should be the first step in your skin care routine. So, look for a cleanser that is formulated to help brighten the appearance of your complexion, like Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream. This rich, velvety cleanser literally melts on contact with your skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities!Organic Orange water delivers vitamin C for skin radiance and optimal glow while Cyfolia Algae enhances the glow by providing a reflective effect! Like a burst of radiance to the complexion, skin is soft, supple and glowing after every cleanse!“I love this new cleanser from Phytomer. I’ve been using it for a few months now and can say my skin is definitely softer and more radiant after use and I love the scent too.” – Sarah M THE MOISTURISERPhytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energising CreamAfter cleansing dull skin, it’s important to reach for the right moisturiser - a skin-brightening cream like Phytomer’s Hydra Continue Radiance Energising Cream. Thanks to its beautifully lightweight texture, this radiance cream helps keep that outer layer of skin perfectly nourished without feeling too heavy. Rich in vitamins, it revitalizes, activates your skin’s cellular activity to promote natural regrowth, hydrates, softens and smooths skin for a radiant youthful appearance. Goodbye dull, devitalized skin!“I am in love with this product, it’s become my go-to moisturiser this summer since it’s silky and light yet keeps my skin moisturised all day long! It has a lovely subtle scent, and the products name definitely reflects the results – it’s energising and radiance inducing that’s for sure!” – JoJo B THE SERUMPevonia “C” Complexe with OxyzomesAnother tip for reviving dull skin? Adding a vitamin C serum to your daily routine! It can totally transform your skin I’m telling you!We love Pevonia’s “C” Complexe. Vitamin C, hyaluronic and oxygen work together in this amazing product to enliven dull skin leaving it visibly brighter and more youthful after every single application! It’s a truly powerful anti-oxidant that not only delivers immediate luminosity but protects the skin from premature skin ageing too! Yesss! Oh and if smells and feels amazing too!“This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” – Deborah THE EXFOLIATORPevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserThe most common cause of dull, lacklustre skin is a build-up of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. This happens when we neglect to slough them away. So if your skin is looking dull and lacklustre, chances are you need to up the ante and exfoliate properly! No matter what your skin type, exfoliation is paramount when it comes to removing those skin dulling dead cells! They need to be removed in order to allow new, glowing cells to come forward. Look for an exfoliator that will help brighten your complexion as well as smooth your skin.Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is not only ideal for all skin types, it’s a creamy, granular, exfoliating cream formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and Chamomile that very gently polishes away dul, dead skin cells, impurities and toxins to reveal instant radiance and softer, smoother skin too! You’ll love the immediate gratification you’ll get from this formidable favourite of ours. Use 1-2 times weekly.“I love this exfoliator, my skin always feels so smooth and hydrated after using it. It also makes my skin look a lot brighter.” – Orielly R THE FACIAL MASKVie Collection Photo C Bright Radiance MaskTreat yourself to an at-home spa day with a facial mask. It will help draw out any build-up of impurities, dirt and pollution, reduce the appearance of dull skin and increase the look of luminosity! So to brighten a dull complexion, you’ll want a glow mask like Vie Collection’s Photo C Bright Radiance Mask which delivers radiant skin by morning! It is power packed with vitamin c, exfoliating papain, marine minerals and more and we promise after the very first application an incredibly radiant and brightened skin appearance will be revealed!“Love this mask, I use it once a week and what a difference it makes! I leave it one for about 20 minutes and when I rinse it off my skin is literally glowing! Highly recommend.” – Sarah M THE NIGHT CREAMPevonia Micro Retinol Essential MoisturizerThis light and gentle moisturiser increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen and elastin production (essential for youthful, plump skin), fades hyperpigmentation and helps skin stay hydrated and glowing without irritation. It’s a multi-tasking wonder!You should introduce it slowly though and at night. This is because Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays and sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product. To find out more about retinol and this Pevonia’s Micro Retinol range click here.“This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non-greasy, non-shiny. Changes in my skin are an increased smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. It appears luminous and more refined. So, I am going to purchase the whole range. It’s a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age. (60)” – Annie THE FACIAL OILPevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilTo complete your skincare routine introducing a facial oil specifically designed to brighten dull skin is key!Pevonia’s De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil is the ultimate barrier warrior featuring a blend of premium and delicate natural oils including safflower, squalane, lavender, chamomile, grapefruit and rose to instantaneously deliver intense hydration while soothing, calming, relaxing, brightening and protecting the skin barrier for ongoing optimal skin health!“I love this face oil! I’ve been using it for a month now as a night-time treatment for my dull, dry skin and the results next morning are fantastic! Smoother, plumper, brighter skin! The scent is also heavenly and definitely transports me into a relaxed state of mind. Such amazing stuff!” – Amy K
Want smaller pores? Here’s how
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 03 2022
You might not think it, but enlarged pores is one of the most common skin concerns and how to reduce them, one of the most googled skincare questions too – in fact How do I reduce the size of my large pores? has almost 3 billion hits! Crazy right? But not really when we are a nation obsessed with pore size!Well, if you are one of the millions, billions even, that need help with your pores, keep reading, as we have the answers. Firstly, though what exactly are pores and what is their purpose?Essentially pores are an opening on the surface of our skin. In fact, they are tiny openings around our hair follicles and oil glands that help sebum (our body’s natural oils) move through the surface of your skin. When the sebum is released to the skins surface it helps keep it naturally moisturised, so while their appearance, if enlarged, can be frustrating, pores are actually helpful for maintaining skin health! What causes enlarged pores?Believe it or not, our pore size is genetically determined (thanks parents!) but, oily skin, sun damage and aging are other factors that can make your pores look bigger. For instance, if oil, toxins, dirt, and makeup collect in the pore, they can weigh it down and stretch it! And as we age the skin around our pores become less elastic as our bodies start to produce less elastin and collagen (the proteins that actually strengthen the walls of our pores making them tighter), so the already stretched pores can stay stretched as well as sag, this in turn can cause pores to expand and therefore become much more visible!Also, when we are hormonal our bodies can produce more oil, this can make pores appear larger than they really are because the excess sebum collects on the skin’s surface magnifying these small openings. How can we shrink our pores?While you can't actually get rid of your pores or change the size of them even – eek! You can minimize their appearance by following a specific skincare routine, making a few lifestyle changes and introducing pore minimizing products and/or treatments. Keep reading to learn more… Choose makeup wisely – opt for mineral formulations Unfortunately, our makeup can make pores seem bigger than they actually are. Products like our powders and foundation can settle into our pores over the course of the day, making them appear larger, so your best bet because, let’s face it we aren’t going to want to forego our miraculous makeup, is to opt for mineral products! A huge benefit of using mineral makeup is that it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores! We love ELES Cosmetics range of mineral formulations. Try the best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation or if you’re a lover of powder foundations we highly recommend the Mineral Powder Foundation. Use a makeup primer A makeup primer not only helps your makeup stay in place all day, but it also smooths and fills the surface of the skin which can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. We love ELES Cosmetics Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s a game changer for those with large pores! It’s oil-free, perfectly lightweight and seems to combat shine almost instantly. It contains a natural Dermat Complex which enables it to absorb oil and effectively reduce pore size in one hit Genius. Cleanse your skin morning and evening If you want to help minimise the appearance of your pores it’s essential to keep your skin clean by cleansing morning and night to remove any excess oil, dirt and makeup. Be mindful of what type of cleanser you choose though as the best ones will get rid of dirt and grime without stripping your skin of moisture. If your skin is oily look for gel-based cleansers like Pevonia’s Phyto-Gel Cleanser. It deeply cleanses the skin with a luxurious foaming consistency. It works by removing the excess and unnecessary oil from the skin’s surface, unclogging pores and ridding it of impurities and surface toxins.If you have a normal to dry complexion, you’ll benefit best from creamy cleansers. Try Phytomer’s Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk, it’s creamy texture melts on your skin to gently remove makeup and impurities without disturbing the skin’s protective barrier.Just remember too much cleansing can actually cause your pores to produce more oil though and we don’t want that! Exfoliating your skin is a necessity Exfoliating 1-3 times a week in order to remove dead cells and unclog pores is a must! Exfoliators with AHA’s and BHA’s (hydroxy acids) such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid and salicylic acid are best. These are the holy grail of ingredients when it comes to penetrating and cleaning out your clogged pores, and clogged pores look bigger, fact. So by unblocking them you are already halfway there in terms of reducing their size.While all four acids exfoliate on a cellular level, Glycolic, Citric and Lactic works on a more surface level to brighten and smooth your skin, whereas Salicylic Acid penetrates much deeper to effectively remove dead skin cells clogged in pores. Minimise sun exposure UV radiation breaks down our collagen and elastin, which in turn leads to saggy pores which expands pore size! So minimising your exposure to the sun is a must. Never skip wearing your sunscreen, even on cold, cloudy days Sunscreen is a necessity for everyone no matter your skin type! Overexposure to the sun is not only the cause of premature ageing and cancer even, it can also dry out skin making pores look bigger.You can also choose foundations that contain SPF in them like ELES’s Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15. Make sure you do a weekly face mask Clay masks are best. They can help remove oil, dirt, and dead skin deep inside your pores to make them look smaller. Phytomer’s CityLife Radiance Reviving Mask is our go-to. This unique cream-mousse mask instantly counters dehydration, signs of fatigue, dark spots and enlarged pores. Combining 100% natural red and white clays, blue microalgae, red algae and a comprehensive depolluting complex of 3 marine sugars, it reveals luminosity, radiance and refined pores after just one application! Never fall asleep with your make up Falling asleep with your makeup on is detrimental to your skin, fact. Failing to remove makeup at the end of every day is a major missed opportunity for skin to be able to regenerate while you sleep, you see not removing your makeup means the skin ceases to breathe freely and pores clog. This can make them look larger than life the next day when you awake!That’s why it’s so important to wash your makeup off at night, no matter how tired you are or how late you get home. For added benefit, you can also use a makeup-removing product before cleansing, such as Vie Collection’s Micellar Water. It purifies, conditions and cleanses your complexion in one easy step gently removing makeup from your lips, eyes and face for a fresh and flawless appearance.. Make sure you moisturise daily even if your skin is oily Those who have oily skin tend to suffer from oversized pores. The problem is though that one of the most common mistakes people with oily skin make is to skip out on moisturiser for fear that it will add more oil to their face. Moisturising actually helps your natural sebum penetrate into the deeper layers of your skin though. This not only reduces the appearance of oiliness, but it also helps to condition your skin effectively. Without it, your skin could produce even more oil. And finally use a pore perfecting moisturiser When it comes to large pores, the key is to choose a pore-minimizing moisturiser as they work by stimulating and plumping the collagen that surrounds pores.Yes it’s a thing! If you aren’t already using one, you simply must now. Formulated to quite literally refine pores for a smoother, flawless complexion free of shine you won’t believe the results. Our go-to is Pevonia’s Age Correction Micro-Pores Refine Cream. It’s a mattifying treatment cream which radically reduces oil production and pore size, while providing long-lasting hydration at the same time.“I have seen the difference in my pores since using the micro pores range, my pores have slowly minimise. The moisturizer is hydrating and mattifying on the skin”. Sally S “I've only started using this cream as I am now in my 40's and need a cream to suit my skin's needs. It really helps to reduce pores (particularly on my nose).” Rhiannon K “It did exactly what it's formulated to do. I saw great improvement in reducing large open pores....Thank u Pevonia.” Anne K
9 tips to improve hooded eyes naturally
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 30 2022
Dealing with hooded crepey eyelids? Is the skin above your eyes suddenly sagging and you need natural solutions to fix this because surgery just isn’t an option right now? We’ve got you! While sadly surgery is the only way to totally correct this condition, there are a number of steps you can take to improve your sagging eyelids naturally, so read on as we count them down.Firstly though, what exactly are hooded eyelids? And why are you the one dealing with them!?“Hooded crepy eyelids”, “droopy eyelids” “baggy eyelids” or dermatochalasis as it is technically referred to, are when the skin above the eye sags and hangs over the eye. The excess skin occurs between the brow and the upper lash line and in some situations can affect your eyesight.They are caused by a number of factors including genetics (thanks parents!), allergies, dehydrated and nutrient deprived skin and….age, this is because as we get older the collagen and elastin in our skin (which keeps it smooth, supple and youthful) starts to diminish, decreasing firmness and elasticity as well as weakening skin tissue, making it unable to support the weight of our eyelid skin.So what can you do to improve this, before heading down the surgery route? Lots! Look for eye creams and treatments that contain collagen and elastin We love Pevonia’s Lumafirm Eye Contour Lift & Glow! Rich in Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and super hydrator – hyaluronic, this powerhouse product provides powerful anti-ageing benefits to the very delicate eye area – visibly soothing puffiness, reducing signs of fatigue and diminishing crepey eyelids. Use products rich in retinol Retinol you say? Yes, don’t be scared of this superhero ingredient. Indeed, you need to apply with caution, and start off introducing it to your daily skin ritual slowly, but retinol works on both the upper and lower eyelids to improve the skin barrier function and increase the collagen content of the skin! This increase in collagen tightens the skin and visibly reduces any fines lines and sagginess of the eyelids. Yess!Try Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Line. The 4 outstanding products in the line contain all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables. To create each product, Pevonia have used 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. Lay two chilled cucumber slices over your eye lids every day for 20 minutes Yes, this old wives tale actually works! Cucumbers contain ascorbic and caffeic acids, both of which reduce saggy eyelids. They decrease inflammation and naturally tighten skin too!Also, if you wear makeup, opt for a remover formulated with cucumber like Pevonia’s Eye Makeup Remover. It’s beautifully calming and decongesting, soothing and calming sensitive eyes while effectively removing makeup without pressure or friction. Boil two Chamomile tea bags, cool them and place them over eyelids every morning You might not have heard this one before, but Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory so it’s great for strengthening skin and reducing puffiness, swelling and skin irritation around the eyes. As with your cool cucumbers, you can apply two chamomile tea bags to your eye lids. Firstly though, you’ll need to actually make the tea! Place two tea bags into a cup with the boiling water. Next cool them in the fridge for 30 minutes until nice and chilled and then place over your eyes for 20-30 minutes. Do this every morning when you make your cup of tea of coffee and reap in the results! Eat grapes if you aren’t already doing so! A bowl a day will do! Grapes are not only delicious, but they also offer a multitude of benefits! One of them is helping counteract drooping eyelids! How? You may ask! Grapes are full of resveratrol, a natural element that slows cell ageing, so eating more grapes while it won’t necessarily improve your already hooded eyelids it will help slow down skin ageing, preventing excess fine lines and further skin slackening and sagging. Keep skin hydrated and drink plenty of water!! Yes, that old piece of advice! You know those 2 litres (8 cups) of water you are supposed to drink a day for optimum skin health? Yes! do it! Reel in on the smoking If you smoke and you are worried about your baggy eye lids, try to give it up! Tobacco smoke can affect the tissues around the eyes. It can cause puffiness and disorders of the eyelids, such as irritation and inflammation! Get enough shut eye That’s right lack of sleep as we know can affect our eyes. Who hasn’t woken up with saggy, puffy eyes of a morning when they haven’t had enough sleep? It’s time to make sleep a priority. I know easier said than done for some, but I also know myself that I need to practice what I preach, and if I wanted to, I could put down that book or turn off the tv or close my laptop an hour before I actually do each night! Make sure you slip, slop, slap every. single. day, all year around Just as you want to protect your face and body against sun damage you need to remember to protect your eyes too! You might have concerns about applying sunscreen to your delicate eye zone, but don’t! Most sunscreen is safe to use on and around your eyelid region (just don’t accidentally put it in your eyes of course!!)Also wear your sunglasses religiously! After all, you want to protect those sensitive peepers of yours as much as possible. Blue light omitted from our devices can also negatively impact your eye area. So put down those devices! To learn more about blue light damage and how it affects your eyes, click here.If the idea of going under the knife terrifies you, try these solutions first.
How to rescue your post-summer skin
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 04 2022
Ah summer! My favourite season! With it comes lighter evenings, warmer weather, blue skies, beach days, this list goes on! I must admit I love all things synonymous with the warmest months of the year, even the humidity doesn’t phase me that much, but the one pet peeve I do have is the toll it can take on my skin!While summer might seem like a distant memory thanks to good old La Niña currently raining on our parade! Our skin will still be suffering the consequences of the past hot, humid months. And while it might only be the first day of autumn today (it definitely feels like it all of a sudden!) it’s never too soon to rescue that post summer skin of ours. Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, inflammation, hyperpigmentation or some other sun-induced skin condition, now is the time to put yourself thought beauty rehab and we are here to tell you how! Read on as we count down 6 post summer skincare concerns and how to solve them! Skincare Concern – DEHYDRATION AND DRYNESS Our skin can easily become dehydrated in the summer months even if we are religious about moisturising, this is because hot weather increases water loss from our body, which can cause skin to feel itchy, irritated and dry.SOLUTIONMake sure to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Drink plenty of water (your skin will thank you for it), eat a diet high in collagen-rich foods such as fish, eggs, garlic, citrus fruits and berries and make sure you add a rich oil or deeply nourishing night treatment into your daily skincare routine. Look for formulas with powerhouse ingredients such as ceramides, collagen, retinol, and hyaluronic acid to help increase moisture and restore your skin to its once heavenly glow! We highly recommend Pevonia Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser. It uses glycerin, retinol, hyaluronic, marine collagen and many other skin nourishing and anti-ageing ingredients to protect and cocoon the skin. It literally drenches the skin with hydration, so you wake up to glowy, beautifully renewed by morning. Want to know more about retinol and when and how to apply it? Click here. Skincare concern – BREAKOUTS AND PIMPLES Summer heat tends to mean more sweat, more oil and speedier skin cell production too. When dead skin cells mix with this excess oil and sweat, acne breakouts can occur!SOLUTIONEating a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, can do wonders for skin. They can serve to regulate the skin's oil production, improve balanced hydration and subdue breakouts!Also treating mild to moderate acne with topical treatments is a must. We love Medicalia’s Clarifying Cream. This powerhouse blend of effective actives: Glycolic and Salicylic Acid, Sorbitol, and other soothing and protective ingredients, works to prevent hyperkeratinization while controlling bacteria and promoting a healthier, and more hydrated complexion. Skincare concern – ENLARGED PORES After a few months of being hot and sweaty and continuously applying sunscreen all summer long, there is a good chance your pores might be clogged. This is because you’ve undergone months of accumulating oil, makeup, sweat, and dirt, and being exposed to environmental impurities can negatively affect your complexion. So make sure you invest in a good cleansing mask to help draw out impurities and minimize pore size!SOLUTIONUsing products containing retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids and salicylic will improve cell turnover to minimize the look of your pores. Try Pevonia’s Micro-Pores Bio-Active Mask. It is exceptional for those with enlarged pores and oily skin. Formulated to control sebum production, it visibly minimizes pores, delivers a more matte complexion while hydrating and soothing skin for a younger looking and more even-toned complexion. Skincare concern – DARK SPOTS By now you’ll likely have noticed any additional freckles or dark spots you maybe have accumulated over summer months. Dark spots occur when your skin produces excess melanin stimulated by the sun! Anyone can develop them on their skin and unfortunately once you get them even the tiniest of dark spots will keep growing! So, it’s best to get ahead now and start to treat them!SOLUTIONTo help counteract this sun damage, it is important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C too – the must-have treatment for dark spots!!Vitamin C when applied topically not only boosts our skin’s natural tolerance to the sun, but it is able to help control the formation of pigmentation as well as significantly lightening its appearance too! Make sure you’re armed with a great vitamin C serum and use it daily! I can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complex with Oxyzomes. The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equals radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh, and it feels a-mazing too thanks to its combination of vitamin c and hydrating dynamo hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. Skincare concern – LOSS OF ELASTICITY We all know too much sun, can damage your skin’s moisture barrier, leading to loss of elasticity and even premature aging. Eek!SOLUTIONMake sure you add a skin firming moisturiser into your everyday routine like Pevonia’s Age Correction Firming Marine Elastin Cream. Formulated with Hyaluronic acid and elastin, it delivers powerful repairing and tightening benefits, visibly increasing moisture while improving elasticity. When used in unison with Age Correction Intensifier Elastin and Sorghum, this power pair have outstanding results!What’s more for the month of March 2022, when you purchase this cream, you’ll receive a 50ml Hydrating Cleanser and Lotion for FREE! Skincare concern – REDNESS AND BROKEN CAPILLARIES Sun exposure can aggravate skin redness and increased heat and humidity can bring on facial flushing and exacerbate skin condition rosacea, this is because heat dilates blood vessels.SOLUTIONWhile there is currently no cure for rosacea and facial redness sufferers, you can effectively manage your symptoms by a combination of lifestyle changes, and specific skincare products. Phew! You’ll want to introduce an effective skincare program, such as Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 line. The entire range will help soothe the skin as well as successfully alleviate symptoms but our go-to is the RS2 serum. Soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients work deeply to strengthen capillaries, control blotchiness and restore calmness. Follow this with Pevonia’s RS2 Care Cream for a deeply nourishing protective blanket. Heaven.And remember just because autumn is here and the sun might be hiding behind a thick band of cloud, it doesn’t mean those powerful UV rays can’t penetrate and damage our skin! Keep up the daily sunscreen. It’s imperative!
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.
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.
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!
13 skincare habits that are ageing you
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 16 2020
Let's face it, we are all on the quest to radiant, youthful skin and many of us will invest both time and money perfecting our daily beauty routine, but there are still a number of mistakes or bad habits should I say, that we are likely doing daily that can and will make us look older than our years! Eek.So read on to find out what they are, and if you are currently committing any of them, you know to stop now! Not updating your skincare as your skin changes You might have been loyal to the same moisturiser for many years but sadly the skincare you've used in your 20's really won't cut it in your 30's, 40's and beyond. This is because as we age our skin's needs dramatically change. Skin becomes thinner, drier, more sensitive, and loses elasticity as collagen and elastin start to deplete, while fine lines and wrinkles start to form. Therefore anti-ageing skincare rich in ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C become essential. For more info on this read about the top 5 skincare ingredients as recommended by the experts and adjust your products accordingly. Going to bed with makeup on Well here's one you've heard many a time before! Right? From a few too many wines to being just plain old exhausted, sometimes it hard to peel yourself off your bed to go and remove your makeup but remove your makeup you must!Cleansing your face especially at night to remove not only your makeup but any remnants of the days sweat, dirt and grime is imperative for healthy skin. Not removing your makeup means your skin is unable to regenerate effectively while you sleep, pores clog, and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear. For a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer's Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast!To read more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here. Skipping on your moisturiser It's that time of the month and a few pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or you are often prone to adult acne or simply suffer from oily skin, so think it best to lay off the moisturiser which must be exacerbating the issue right? Wrong.While you are likely not alone in thinking lathering up on moisturiser seems counterproductive, everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern, needs to apply a moisturiser daily! This is because moisturiser maintains skin hydration throughout the day and therefore assists in fighting premature fine lines and wrinkles too. In fact, applying moisturiser will greatly reduce your chance of developing extreme dryness, skin sensitivity, or oiliness! Why? Dehydrated skin can lead to issues like inflammation, premature skin ageing, and even breakouts. When your skin becomes dry, your body responds by making more oil! And we all know excess oil can clog pores leading to more of those darn pesky pimples.When searching for the right moisturiser for your skin type they do tend to be categorised by skin concern so you just need to research and find the right one for your skin's needs. Just be sure to opt for lighter moisturisers by day, especially in the warmer months, and richer creams at night.For oily skin types, we highly recommend Phytomer's Oligopur Hydra Matifying Control Cream. It's an ultra-light cream that controls oil and breakthrough shine throughout the day. No shine, no greasy feeling, no heaving feeling!If your skin is prone to pimples try Phytomer Acnipure Blemish Solution Fluid, it's a lightweight gel-cream that fights acne without clogging pores or irritating skin. It also helps eliminate shine, diminishes the appearance of blemishes, and prevents future breakouts!! Wearing SPF only during the summer Hands down the no. 1 contributor to skin ageing is skipping your SPF.Yes, it's easy to remember to apply it when you're headed to the beach, or out and about on holiday, but so many of us skip this vital step in our everyday lives and not because we are necessarily lazy but because we don't understand the long term affect not wearing it will have on our skin! Being exposed to UV rays will make your skin age quicker, creating fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and more...Applying sunscreen daily all through the year will assist in keeping skin looking younger. Just remember the higher the factor the better especially in the warmer months. Thinking that the SPF in your makeup is enough to protect your skin Unless your makeup has an SPF factor of 30 or above it's unlikely to ward off premature ageing if worn alone. This is because the majority of makeup will protect against UVB rays but won't block UVA rays which is what causes skin damage. Layering your skin with a high factor SPF moisturiser and then foundation will give you the best chance of maintaining skin's youthful appearance, but if you are in love with your daily moisturiser which doesn't contain sun protection, still use it and then apply a lightweight SPF like the ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. Not only does it protect skin against the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent discolouration while diminishing existing dark spots and calming and brightening your complexion at the same time!Still be sure you use a foundation with SPF for that extra protection and coverage though, as chances are when you apply sunscreen, you'll skip vital spots that you won't do with your foundation. The ELES best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF15 is an institution. It's a silky, mineral-enriched liquid formula with broad spectrum sun protection that literally glides on to skin and sets to a soft powder finish. Loved by everyone who tries it you won't be disappointed! Focusing only on Wrinkles While we are all concerned about fine lines and wrinkles as we age, dark spots and pigmentation can actually give our complexion a dull, devitalised and in turn much older appearance too! In fact, dark spots and uneven skin tone can make us look 10 years older! So if you suffer from hyperpigmentation ensure you introduce products specifically to help with this like concern. We promise it'll positively impact your complexion and protect your skin too. Try Vie Collection's Mela White Radiance Brightening Essense, a triple-action daily cream that effectively acts against dark spots, free radicals, and UV. The results will speak for themselves. Rubbing Your Eyes The area around your eyes is the most delicate on your face, fact. When we are tired it's easy to fall into the trap of rubbing our eyes, or when applying eye makeup with precision. We've all been guilty of pulling at our eyes I'm sure, but tugging, rubbing or pulling at your eye area can cause tiny blood vessles to break resulting in dark circles that make you look tired All. Of. The. Time. Instead, start applying an anti-ageing eye cream morning and night pronto! I am currently loving Vie Collection's Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream. It's a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles! Seriously! Ignoring Your Neck and decolletage Oh, the forgotten area! And the area of your skin which can actually age you the most! Exposed to sunlight just as much as your face, if your neck and decolletage aren't cared for daily or protected with SPF, they can end up crepey and wrinkly so much earlier than they should! Whatever you do for your face you should do for your neck and decolletage too.There are neck and chest specific products you can use, I personally use Pevonia's Age Correction Rapid Restore Neck and Chest religiously, it's a 2 in 1 serum and cream which hydrates, nourishes refines and brightens skin for a more youthful appearance while smoothing wrinkles too! But there is also nothing wrong with using your daily moisturiser or a hydrating body cream instead! Just start doing it now! Avoiding exfoliators It's not just fine lines and wrinkles that make you look older, having a dull uneven skin tone can easily add years to your face as well!As we age our skin's natural ability to shed dead cells declines, so without weekly exfoliation skin can become uneven, dull and lacklustre. This is why exfoliation is so imperative, and not a step that should be ignored. Many people are scared of exfoliation because they think their skin is too sensitive, and it will just aggravate an existing issue, but that's where natural enzyme exfoliators can be the answer.Both Phytomer's 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. Just remember removing dead skin cells helps your skin properly absorb moisturiser which in turn keeps fine lines and dehydration at bay, as well as brightening skins radiance. Now, who wouldn't want that!! Or simply going overboard with exfoliating If you tend to sway the other way and love to exfoliate your skin a little too much i'm here to tell you stop it now! Over exfoliating can actually slow cell turnover, cause chronic skin irritation and inflammation which can lead to accelerated ageing. Stick to exfoliation once a week for the best results. If you ilke to use an exfoliator with grains or microbeads but skin tends to be a little on the sensitive side give Pevonia's Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser a go. it’s great for those who love physical exfoliators with granules but want to steer clear of facial scrubs which could be a little harsh on the skin. It gently polishes your complexion with its unique creamy yet granular texture, formulated with jojoba beads, saponaria and chamomile, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion every time! And in the month of September if you purchase Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe (the perfect skin-brightening summer serum) you'll receive a full size Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser for FREE Not drinking enough water As I'm sitting here writing this, I can hold my hands up and say today so far I've only drunk 2 glasses of water when I should have in fact consumed at least a litre by now! Yes, it's fact, water, or lack of should I say is a real skin ager!! And I know I must practice what a preach! The thing is I do, but some days I will admit it's easy to forget! And when I do, I get cross with myself as I can see it in my skin! It's drier, duller and devitalised. This is because drinking 'enough' water helps the body to flush out toxins while increasing blood flow to the skin which gives it an even tone and dewy appearance! And dewy skin equals youthful skin after all!Not a huge fan of water? Try a good herbal tea instead. Extreme water temperatures How many of us are guilty of indulging in a hot shower or simply washing our faces with water set to a high temp. But really for best and healthy results we should be washing with lukewarm water. This is because extreme water temperatures will strip healthy natural oils from your skin quickly, making it dry and therefore age much faster. Water that's too hot can also dilate your capillaries leading to spider veins. Not getting enough sleep....when you could get more If I had a dollar for every time I said to my husband I must get to bed early tonight because I need more sleep and am fed up of looking old and tired, I'd be a rich woman. While they say practice what you preach, I am a testament that not getting enough sleep (when I could indeed fit in another 1-2 hours a night (darn netflix!) literally does age you.Poor sleep is quite literally to blame for premature ageing, dermatitis, eczema, acne, loss of collagen and more! Scary right? So let's make a pact and try for that 8 hours + we really do need nightly.Now be sure to follow our advice to be sure you slow down the signs of ageing naturally!
9 things you need to stop doing to your skin now!
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 19 2020
You might well think you are following protocol and doing all the right things for your skin – applying SPF daily, using the best products for your specific needs, drinking your two litres of water a day, exercising but not too excessively, getting enough shut-eye… the list goes on, yet still, your skin isn’t where you want it to be, but why? Most of us spend each day taking the right steps, all the while damaging our skin without even realising it! Read on to find out nine things you might be doing which could well be impacting your skin’s overall health; Touching your face If COVID-19 has taught me one thing, it’s to be vigilant about touch! And I have to admit I did not realise just HOW often I touched my face!! Eek.Each time you touch your face, you're exposing your skin to bacteria, so repeatedly touching it with your fingertips, resting your face on your hands, or simply rubbing your head can introduce dirt directly to the skin and in some cases cause pesky pimples and worse! So try to be more wary of your actions, and thoroughly clean your face with a good cleanser at the end of every day! Hitting the pantry at night! Yes it happens to the best of us! You’ve been healthy all week, diligently consuming your super foods but this evening you caved and hit the panty for those sugared treats, surely it’s not that big a deal? Unfortuantely it can be! This is because consuming sugar affects our bodies' collagen stores. Collagen is the magical protein that our bodies produce which helps our skin to remain supple and well, simply look younger. Unfortunately the sugary foods we consume break down both the collagen and elastin in our skin, causing dullness and wrinkles over time, so if it’s possible, it’s best to cut down sugar intake where you can, especially at night, which happens to be the worst possible time! There goes my late night feasts. Going to sleep with makeup on I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of having one too many in our time, or simply hopping into bed exhausted only to realise you haven’t removed your makeup and have little to no energy to get back up to cleanse your face, so to bed with a full face of makeup we go! But I can’t stress enough how failing to remove makeup at the end of every day is a major missed opportunity for your skin to be able to regenerate while you sleep! Not removing your makeup means the skin ceases to breathe freely, pores clog and fatigue signs start to appear. Two of my favourite makeup removers, which both effectively and effortlessly melts away the day's makeup and grime, are Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover and ELES Cosmetic’s Transformation Cleansing Oil.Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, Phytomer’s ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast! While the ELES Transformation Oil literally melts away makeup with jojoba oil, safflower oil, olive oil, squalene and vitamin E! What’s more for the month of August when you purchase the Transformation Cleansing Oil, you’ll receive a set of 3 muslin cleansing cloths (for swift and easy removal) for Free!To read more about sleeping in makeup – what it really does to our skin click here. Not getting enough shut-eye If you are like me and one for being guilty of going to bed too late, or simply not getting enough sleep (we are talking the recommended 8 hours a night) know that your skin WILL suffer. This is because it affects the moisture levels in your skin, depleting them, as well as lowering your complexions pH levels, and when your skin’s pH levels drop, they create an imbalance which means your skin isn’t able to produce the moisture it needs, resulting in dry, lacklustre skin. It can also create unnecessary redness, leave skin uneven and even trigger breakouts. To understand more about what really happens to your skin while you sleep click here. Having a hot shower Ok, so no one in winter is going to say no to a hot shower right? It’s one of life’s little luxuries but it does come at a cost to your skin believe it or not. Unfortunately, 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. We know you aren’t going to stop having those steamy showers of a morning but try and turn the heat down a little, limit shower time and ensure you replenish skin immediately after with a good hydrating moisturiser! I’m currently loving Phytomer’s Hydra Original Thirst Relief Melting Cream, it’s deliciously rich and delivers intense and lasting hydration to my skin! Not frequently changing your bedding We are accustomed to washing our clothes after every wear but why is it at the end of every day, we fall into bed without giving our sheets a second thought? Unfortunately clogged pores can occur when we don't wash our bedding weekly. This in turn can lead to blemishes and breakouts. Why? Because there is a build up of bacteria and oil on our sheets, especially pillowcases caused by sweat, saliva and dead skin cells. Yuck. Over exfoliating You are doing as you think is right and exfoliating your skin once or twice a week but could you be over exfoliating? Using exfoliators with AHA’s and BHA’s when it’s not necessary can cause your skin to become dehydrated and dry. If you notice you are developing dry patches or flaky skin you could well be over-doing it. This is why it's important to use the correct exfoliator for your skin type and always follow exfoliation with hydrating and moisturising creams. Spending too much time in front of a screen I know I speak for so many of us when it comes to too much screen time these days. Whether it be our laptop, tv, iphone or ipad, screen time does effect our skin and here’s why; All devices (now labeled the silent anti-agers of our generation!) emit ‘blue light’. This light creates a free radical that damages our DNA, by penetrating all the way to the dermis where our collagen and elastin live causing loss of firmness, increase in visible lines as well as inflammation and dark spots! Scary stuff. Your best defence? Try to cut down your time and use targeted skincare and makeup products!Using products containing iron oxide can help neutralize and repair blue light damage. Try Pevonia's Youth Renew Tinted Moisturiser or ELES Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20.The skin naturally contains antioxidants. These are quickly damaged and depleted when exposed to free radicals. By applying a topical antioxidant containing Vitamins C and E you can assist in counteracting the damaging effecting of blue light. Try Medicalia's C Serum with Oxyzomes which protects and infuses the antioxidant deep within the skin for maximum anti-free radical benefits and collagen-boosting effects.I also love Pevonia's Stem Cells Phyto-Elite Intensive Cream. It is rich in Vitamins C, E, Marine Collagen and Retinol! It deeply repairs any damage caused to the skin, effectively minimising the most common signs of premature ageing. And if you purchase this cream in the month of August, you'll receive the full size matching Stem Cells Foaming Cleanser for Free! Using dirty makeup brushes Your makeup tools are meant to be washed. Besides bacteria, both brushes and sponges also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to skin irritation and pesky pimples! Also if you apply your makeup with a dirty bush the end result can be a streaky and patchy complexion! Clean brushes definitely make for a smoother makeup application so get cleaning them at least once a week! For “green” and allergy-free brushes, opt for taklon bristle brushes, this smooth synthetic fibre is ideal for makeup application as it does not absorb or trap pigment, making it so much easier to keep clean too!
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