BC Skin Journal

BC Blog

The best enzyme exfoliant for sensitive skin: Real reviews

by Jo Boyden on Mar 25 2026

If you have sensitive skin, the word “exfoliation” can be terrifying, we know! You’ve probably tried a few exfoliators before, only to be left with skin that feels tight, irritated, or worse… inflamed. The truth is, many traditional exfoliators can be far too harsh for delicate skin. But there is good news! There are gentler options out there, we promise! Enzyme exfoliators are specifically designed to work with sensitive skin, not against it. They deliver all the glow-boosting, skin-smoothing benefits of exfoliation, without the irritation, and once you find the right one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it (because let’s be honest, exfoliation is a non-negotiable for healthy skin!). Keep reading to discover the enzyme exfoliator BC customers can’t get enough of. Firstly though, let’s discuss why exfoliation matters (even for sensitive skin) Exfoliation is one of those steps that can make the biggest difference to your skin, but only when it’s done right, especially if you’re on the sensitive side. It helps remove the build-up of dead skin cells that can leave your complexion looking dull, uneven and a little lacklustre. More importantly, it allows your serums and moisturisers to actually do their job properly. But when you have sensitive skin, the type of exfoliation you use makes all the difference. The key is choosing a gentle approach that smooths and brightens without disrupting your skin barrier! The different types of exfoliators (and why some won’t suit your sensitive skin) Before we get into the enzyme exfoliator that BC customers (and our team!) absolutely love and why it’s perfect for sensitive, reactive or rosacea-prone skin, it’s helpful to quickly understand the three different types of exfoliators. Because while they all aim to do the same thing, they work in very different ways. Physical exfoliants These use grains, beads or brushes to manually buff away dead skin cells. They can work, and they can feel satisfying! But on sensitive or rosacea‑prone skin they often cause micro‑tears, redness and a disrupted skin barrier. Chemical exfoliants (acids) These exfoliators dissolve the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together by using active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs and PHAs (think glycolic, lactic, salicylic, etc.) They’re brilliant for many skin types but can be too strong for easily irritated skin, especially at higher strengths or with over-exfoliation. Enzymatic exfoliants (the gentle alternative and why they are perfect for sensitive skin) Often the safest and most effective option (they deliver glowing results without irritation), these exfoliators enzymes (usually from fruits or plants) to gently break down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, so they can be whisked away without friction or harshness leaving the fresh, healthy ones alone. No scrubbing, no burning, no barrier damage! Just a softer, brighter, smoother and calming complexion! Why enzyme exfoliants are so good for sensitive skin Enzyme exfoliants have a few major advantages if your skin is easily inflamed! No harsh scrubbing Because enzymes do the work, you don’t need gritty particles or intense rubbing. Less friction = less redness and irritation. Phew! Gentler action at the surface Enzymes mostly work on that top layer of built‑up dead cells, rather than penetrating aggressively, which can feel far more comfortable for reactive skin. Smoother texture, better glow By loosening dull, dead skin, they help reveal a brighter, more even complexion, and they also help your serums and moisturisers absorb more effectively. Great “bridge” for those scared of acids If acids freak your skin out or you’re just nervous to try them, an enzyme exfoliant can give you many of the same benefits, but in a more forgiving, spa‑like way. The key, of course, is choosing an enzyme formula that’s actually designed with sensitive skin in mind… which brings us to the one we and the BC customers can’t get enough! Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes Phytomer’s global best-selling exfoliator is the ultimate for all skin types and an essential for turning dull skin to dewy in minutes! It’s gentle, enzyme-based and effectively lifts dead skin cells without any friction, making it ideal even for sensitive skin. It really wont trigger redness or inflammation in the way many traditional exfoliators can. Instead, papaya enzymes work with your skin, helping to smooth texture, brighten dullness, and improve overall clarity while keeping everything calm and balanced. Over time, you’ll also notice your skincare working better too! Serums absorb more effectively, hydration levels improve, and your skin just looks… healthier. It’s the kind of exfoliation that feels almost effortless, yet the results are instantly noticeable. It’s outstanding stuff! Don’t just take my word for it though, this is what just a few of our customers think too! “I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” - Sarah R “Love this Vegetal Exfoliant, after using it twice a week I notice more clear skin without irritation or redness. I have very sensitive skin and are wary of exfoliants since most of them have chemical ingredients. No redness but fresh looking skin. My favourite exfoliant now.” – Phoenix “I have been using this product for over ten years because of my very sensitive skin. It isn’t gritty, which keeps my skin from getting irritated, and it very gently removes dead dull skin. Always leaves my skin glowing and even toned with no redness or irritation. I usually follow with Phytomer’s deeply hydrating Hydracontinue mask and it is like having baby skin again. Highly recommend!” – Laura K If you’ve been hesitant to exfoliate because of sensitivity, this is the product that can completely change your mind. Remember exfoliation is an essential skincare step for everyone but choosing the right one can make all the difference to the health of your skin.

Why your skin is suddenly sensitive and how to calm it fast

by Jo Boyden on Mar 06 2026

Has your skin suddenly decided to become sensitive overnight? One day it was fine, but now it’s red, tight, tingly or itchy perhaps? Unfortunately, sensitivity can come out of nowhere, and when it does it can feel confusing and frustrating when the products you’ve always loved suddenly make your skin flare! The thing is our skin barrier is delicate, and when it’s overwhelmed, it lets you know! The sudden sensitivity you are experiencing is actually incredibly common though and once you understand why it’s happening, you can calm it quickly and get your skin back to feeling like itself again! Keep reading for your guide and the best solutions to help calm sensitivity quickly and effectively! So why is your skin sudden sensitive? Before you can “fix” your suddenly sensitive skin, you need to know what happened! Skin doesn’t become reactive for no reason. When sensitivity appears out of the blue, it’s usually because something has disrupted your skin barrier (the protective layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out.) When that barrier weakens, everything feels like too much. The most common triggers include; Stress & lifestyle shifts When you're stressed, your body produces cortisol, which can increase inflammation and weaken your skin’s ability to defend and repair itself. Lack of sleep, travel, and even diet changes can also make your skin more reactive. Ingredient overload AHAs, BHAs, retinol, Vitamin C, scrubs, peels… all amazing, but all capable of tipping your skin over the edge if used too often or layered incorrectly. Sometimes, your skin just needs a break from "actives". Environmental stressors Sudden cold snaps, heatwaves, Sun exposure, wind, dry air, humidity, pollution can all weaken your barrier and increase reactivity. This is one of the biggest reasons people experience sensitivity during seasonal transitions. Without daily SPF and barrier support, irritation shows up fast! Product irritants Fragrances, drying alcohols and aggressive foaming agents can trigger stinging, redness and discomfort especially when the barrier is already compromised. What you need to do now Sensitive skin thrives on simplicity! While you might have been loving your lengthy morning and nighttime routine it’s time to press pause on any strong actives (so temporarily stop any exfoliating acids, retinoids and potent vitamin C serums you may be using. Your goal right now is comfort, not “glass skin.”) It’s time to keep your routine to just a few simple steps which includes; A gentle, non-stripping cleanser Harsh foams strip natural oils and disrupt the barrier. Switch to creamy or milky cleansers that soothe while they cleanse. A creamy, barrier-friendly cleanser melts away makeup and impurities without tightness, perfect for reactive skin! A soothing, nourishing serum When skin feels tight or inflamed, it needs hydration and calming actives, not more stripping. A barrier-support moisturiser Strengthening the skin’s barrier helps it handle irritation and reduces future flare-ups. Barrier-supporting moisturisers and prebiotic concentrates help balance microbiota and reinforce resilience. And of course, in the day your SPF Sun exposure can make sensitivity worse. A gentle SPF protects the skin and prevents further irritation. Even on cloudy days, daily mineral-based SPF calms and shields reactive skin. Introduce a mask at night At night, once a week while you get your skin back on track, including a sensitive skin mask. Keeping your routine simple but consistent is one of the best ways to reduce reactivity and strengthen your skin’s resilience over time. And remember always wash your skin in lukewarm water, this can make all the difference! The soothing sensitive skin solutions you need 1. Phytomer Accept Cica - Milky Cream Cleanser 125ml This beautifully nourishing, creamy cleaner gently cleanses skin, removing makeup, while soothing any discomfort and strengthening skin's protective barrier reducing tingling and tightness. It leaves a protective film on the skin too to provide comfort and nutrition! 2. Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate This is a literal "miracle in a bottle" for sensitive souls. Propolis is a bee-derived ingredient known for its incredible healing and antibacterial properties. It works to calm micro-inflammation and strengthen your skin's defences without any of the harshness found in traditional treatments. It’s light, silky, and works wonders on everything from hormonal breakouts to wind-chapped cheeks! Use a few drops on clean skin before your moisturiser, concentrating on areas that are red, reactive or prone to breakouts. 3. Phytomer Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum If you are suffering with sensitivity and facial flareups, we swear by this product! It helps calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin instantly. It contains anti-inflammatory Phycosaccharide to reduce stinging sensations and is infused with OLIGOMER® (seawater concentrate) which delivers 104 trace elements and minerals to heal and protect. It fortifies the epidermis & prevents cellular fatigue. Calm & soft skin is immediately restored. It really is a powerhouse for anyone struggling to balance hydration with extreme sensitivity. 4. Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Skin Cream This is one of BC’s all-time best-sellers for a reason. It’s a fragrance-free, therapeutic moisturiser that acts like a protective hug for your face. Using calming, soothing and antibacterial ingredients like Green Tea, Licorice and Chamomile, it helps to comfort, calm and desensitise the skin, reducing redness and making it less likely to react to environmental triggers. Don’t let the name ‘Rosacea’ put you off either. Of course, it was formulated with rosacea prone skin in mind but it’s the perfect calming, nurturing and nourishing cream for anyone with flareups, sensitivity and irritability! What’s more this March, when you purchase it, you’ll receive the matching RS2 Cleanser and Lotion 50ml for FREE. 5. Phytomer Accept Comfort Mask For those nights when your face feels hot, tight or reactive, a mask like this one can be a godsend. Think of this as a cool glass of water for your face. Specifically formulated for reactive and "intolerant" skin, this mask uses purified yeast extract and soothing marine ingredients to instantly lower the temperature of your skin. It helps to decongest redness and leaves your face feeling soft and most importantly comfortable again! What’s more it strengthens the barrier over time so skin reacts less and less! Tip: Use it 2–3 times a week, or as an emergency “my skin is freaking out” treatment. Apply a generous layer after cleansing, leave it on while you unwind, then gently remove any excess. It’s also good to keep this in the fridge for 10 minutes before applying for an extra-cooling "cryo" effect! With the right products, routine tweaks and a focus on calming instead of stripping, your skin can find its balance again. And when you treat sensitivity with care, you’ll notice not only reduced irritation but a healthier, more comfortable complexion overall.

The biggest skincare trends to watch in 2026

by Jo Boyden on Dec 24 2025

From countless ingredients to multi-step routines, we know skincare can be somewhat overwhelming! Well, 2026 has good news for you! This coming year skincare becomes smarter, simpler, and more intentional. The focus is on longevity-driven formulas, barrier support, and bio-intelligent skincare, delivering fewer steps with more meaningful results! It’s a refreshingly practical approach that puts skin health first! No more chasing quick fixes or viral trends. Read on to find out the skincare trends the experts predict will be big! 1. Exosome-infused products If 2025 was the year of skin boosters, 2026 is all about exosomes. These microscopic messengers, released by stem cells, carry growth factors, peptides, and genetic material that help skin cells “talk” to each other. Applied topically, they supercharge regeneration, boost collagen production, and accelerate recovery. Expect exosome serums to dominate, a true shift toward results-driven skincare that prioritises tolerance, performance, and long-term skin health. 2. Skinimalism 2.0 Skinimalism isn’t going anywhere, but in 2026 it isn’t about owning fewer products to declutter your bathroom. This year it’s all about using fewer products to protect your skin’s biology. We are talking smarter skincare formulations that protect the skin microbiome, reduce inflammation and support long-term skin resilience. Think nourishing face oils, hybrid moisturisers, and serums that deliver multiple benefits in one. Simple routines, smarter formulas, maximum impact. 3. Bio-intelligent skincare 2026 will see beauty and wellness come together like never before. Bio-intelligent skincare goes beyond surface-level results to focus on cellular health, energy optimisation, and skin function. These advanced formulas help your skin perform better under stress, rather than just masking symptoms. Concepts like “metabolic beauty” are set to reshape routines, giving consumers personalised, science-backed solutions that really work. 4. Sustainable, transparent and “Blue Beauty” formulations Sustainability continues to define the future of skincare. “Blue Beauty”, focused on marine ecosystem-friendly sourcing, waste-reducing packaging, and ethical formulations is becoming a standard. Expect more refillable, biodegradable, and waterless products, alongside full ingredient transparency. Beauty that looks good on you and the planet is officially non-negotiable. 5. Prejuvenation Why wait for signs of ageing when you can prevent them? Prejuvenation is all about early intervention. Think consistent SPF, antioxidant-rich formulas, and ingredients that protect collagen and fight oxidative stress, before wrinkles, dullness, or sagging appear. 2026 celebrates skincare that works proactively, not reactively. 6. Personalisation & tech integration 2026 takes personalised beauty to the next level. With AI tools, skin diagnostics, and adaptive formulas, products will be tailored to your unique biology, environment, and lifestyle. From smart apps to wearable devices, consumers can expect fully custom skincare routines that actually understand their skin, making every product personal, precise, and performance driven. From cutting-edge science to sustainable formulations, 2026 promises a new era of skincare that’s as intelligent as it is indulgent!

Your travel skincare: The 3‑step hydra routine you’ll love

by Jo Boyden on Dec 19 2025

Whether you’re hopping on a short-haul flight or embarking on a long-overdue adventure (who doesn’t love a holiday!), travel can unfortunately be notoriously tough on our skin! Recycled cabin air, changing climates, and disrupted routines often lead to dreaded dullness, dehydration, and even fine lines! This is why being armed with the right (travel size) nourishing skincare essentials is imperative! Cue Natùrys Hydra Kit Travel Set. We’ve basically condensed a professional-grade, high-performance skincare routine (that’s natural and vegan friendly too!) into one compact, travel-friendly kit. It’s three steps to refreshed, smooth, and glowing skin, no matter where in the world you wake up! Designed for normal to dehydrated skin, or for anyone noticing dullness, fatigue, or a rougher texture, this compact trio takes care of cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration for the face, neck, and décolleté in just a few minutes a day! Each product is formulated with bioactive, plant-derived ingredients like camellia sinensis leaf water, soybean oil, sodium hyaluronate, and peptides, which work together to hydrate, soothe, and protect so your skin. So what exactly is in the Naturys Hydra kit? The set of 3 products includes a multi-tasking cleanser and makeup remover in one, a gentle exfoliating cleanser and your nourishing moisturiser with long-lasting hydration (24 hours to be correct!) Your 3 step routine Step 1: Cream Oil Cleanser Travel often means layers of sunscreen, makeup, pollution, and recycled air. This is where the Cream Oil Cleansing and Make-Up Remover is your go-to! It’s a luxurious cream-oil hybrid that melts away everything, even waterproof mascara! (So no need for a separate makeup remover!) all whilst respecting your skin’s barrier. One product, multiple jobs, minimal space! And the 30ml size is TSA-approved and lasts surprisingly long (a little goes a long way). What’s more, it’s packed with a plethora of natural goodies. The trusty hydration hero hyaluronic acid coupled with panthenol add a burst of hydration and comfort, so you never feel dry after cleansing. While Camellia sinensis leaf water helps calm and protect with antioxidant support. And sesame, avocado, argan, and sea buckthorn oils nourish and soften, preventing that tight, “stripped” feeling of some cleansers. Use it morning and night by massaging onto face, neck, and décolleté in circular motions, including gently over eye makeup, then rinse. Skin feels clean, calm, and ready for the next step! Step 2: Enzymatic Peeling Cream Most people skip exfoliation when travelling, but here's the truth! Travel dulls your complexion faster than almost anything else! Dead skin cells accumulate, your natural glow disappears, and suddenly you're looking tired in every photo eek! The Enzymatic Peeling Cream is your glow restorer! It takes 2 minutes, delivers immediate radiance and keeps your complexion glowing throughout your entire journey! Instead of harsh physical scrubs, it uses papaya and pineapple enzymes to gently dissolve dead skin cells and refine texture. Lemon, apple, grape, and wheat bran extracts all support radiance and help improve overall tone. And after every application your skin feels smooth and comfortable rather than sensitised. Apply to clean, dry skin on the face, neck, and décolleté, massage lightly, then rinse thoroughly. Use a few times a week (or as your skin needs) to keep your complexion bright, smooth, and more receptive to your moisturiser, even when your sleep schedule and environment are all over the place! Step 3: Hydra Cream 24H After cleansing and exfoliating, your skin is perfectly prepped and desperately needs the deep, lasting hydration that only a superior moisturiser can provide. The Hydra Cream 24H isn't just a moisturiser, it's an intensive hydration treatment and protective barrier all in one! It’s basically the “big drink of water” your skin craves when you travel. It’s a silky, comforting cream that delivers lasting hydration while helping to support firmness and elasticity. The "24H" in the name isn't marketing speak, this cream genuinely provides 24-hour hydration. When you're traveling across time zones, experiencing different climates, and maybe not maintaining your usual routine perfectly, having a moisturiser that works around the clock is a godsend for your skin. Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid) is the star hydrator, capable of holding up to 1000 times its weight in water. It draws moisture into your skin and holds it there, creating that plump, dewy, well-hydrated appearance even when you're on a 14-hour flight! Acetyl tetrapeptide-5 is a sophisticated peptide that does double duty, it reduces puffiness (goodbye, travel bloat face) and smooths fine lines by supporting your skin's natural collagen and elastin production. While organic soybean oil and rice bran oil provide essential fatty acids that support your skin's barrier function, crucial when environmental changes are constantly challenging that barrier. Avocado oil, olive oil, and grape seed oil create a nourishing yet never-greasy texture that absorbs beautifully. The consistent base of camellia sinensis leaf water ensures anti-inflammatory, antioxidant protection with every application. Use it morning and evening on face, neck, and décolleté, massaging until fully absorbed. It’s rich enough to comfort dehydrated skin, yet balanced so it sits beautifully under makeup and SPF. The Natùrys Hydra Travel Set is proof that travel skincare doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. With just three steps, it keeps skin cleansed, smooth, and beautifully hydrated so you can focus on enjoying your trip, not fixing your skin when you get there!

BC’s top selling products of 2025: Why they’re worth the hype

by Jo Boyden on Dec 19 2025

If you’re looking to treat yourself without compromising on results, or you feel like your current skincare just isn’t quite delivering anymore, you’ve come to the right place! With over 500 professional skincare and makeup products, Beauty Collective has you covered! We know it can feel overwhelming to decide where to start though, which is why we’ve rounded up 12 top‑selling products of 2025. These are the tried‑and‑true favourites loved not only by our customers but also by our own team here at BC! From glow-boosting serums and skin-repairing treatments to complexion-perfecting essentials, keep reading to discover why these bestsellers truly deserve the hype! The cleanser Phytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream This beautiful cleanser has been flying off our shelves all year, and honestly? We get it. If your skin ever feels a bit “meh” at the end of the day, this cleanser is the reset button you’ll love! It’s a soft, creamy foam that melts away makeup, pollution, and daily grime without stripping your skin (which we all know many cleansers can do!) It’s formulated with marine ingredients including Oligomer®, which delivers 100% pure seawater concentrate packed with 72 minerals and trace elements that remineralize and energise your skin while you cleanse! Think of it as a breath of fresh ocean air for your face! Leaving your complexion clean, soft, and beautifully refreshed. “This is an excellent cleanser for my skin that is normal to oily in the warmer summer months. It has a mild exfoliant in it, lactic acid, that helps keep my pores purified. I am very happy with it.” - Brianna RS2 Rosacea Gentle Cleanser If your skin freaks out at basically everything, you might have been one of the many to have this outstanding cleanser as your saviour this year. The RS2 range is specifically formulated for rosacea-prone and ultra-sensitive skin, and this cleanser is gentle enough for the most reactive complexions while still actually cleaning your face (a surprisingly rare combo!). The formula features chamomile and green tea extra to calm inflammation and reduce redness, while french rose oil nourishes without triggering sensitivity. What makes it brilliant is what's NOT in it—no harsh sulfates, no fragrance, no essential oils that can irritate delicate skin. It's just pure, gentle cleansing that respects your skin's compromised barrier while supporting its natural healing process. Customer reviews consistently mention how it's the first cleanser that doesn't make their skin angry, which is basically the dream for sensitive skin sufferers. “Amazing Cleanser! I’ve been using this for over a year now to relieve my severe Rosacea (pustules and dry red itchy skin across my nose and cheeks) can’t believe the difference in my skin I’ve tried so many different products this has been a game changer highly recommend anyone who has Rosacea ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” - Linda Andrews The gentle exfoliator Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser This exfoliator is so brilliant and gentle, it’s the ultimate for all skin types! The exfoliator for people who thought they couldn't use exfoliators! It's a 2-in-1 that cleanses AND gently buffs away dead skin cells without any harsh scrubbing or irritation. The secret? Natural jojoba beads provide physical exfoliation (they're perfectly round so they won't create micro-tears like some scrubs) for that soft, supple smoothness! Chamomile, safflower seed oil, aloe and calendula keep things soothed, calm and hydrated, so you're never left with that tight, over-exfoliated feeling. Use it 1-3 times weekly (dependant on your needs) and watch your skin transform from dull and congested to smooth and glowing. It's been a consistent bestseller because it delivers professional-grade exfoliation results! “This is the BEST gentle exfoliator I have ever used. I have been using Pevonia for 5 years plus. I have sensitive skin and this exfoliator is perfect for my skin type. HIGHLY recommend.” - Annalisa Robinson The serums Pevonia C Complexe with Oxyzomes This is one of those “if you know, you know” products, a cult favourite for a reason! The Oxyzomes technology is what sets this serum apart from the millions of others. Oxyzomes are specialized micro-carriers that deliver stabilized vitamin C deep into your skin while simultaneously boosting cellular oxygenation (hence the "oxy" in Oxyzomes). You're getting powerful brightening, collagen-boosting, and antioxidant protection without the irritation that plagues so many vitamin C formulas. The result? Brighter skin, improved firmness, and a noticeable boost in radiance. It’s also fantastic for protecting against environmental stressors, making it a must‑have for anyone serious about anti‑ageing and glow. Customers rave about how it brightens dark spots, evens skin tone, and gives that healthy, lit-from-within glow without any stinging or redness. “This serum has the ability to make my skin brighter and smoother as soon as I put it on and it just gets better and better the more I use it. I tend to have sensitive skin with it becoming drier during the cooler months. This serum is the perfect solution and sits easily under my daily moisturiser.” – Lene Hubislab Premium Active B-tol Ampoule A new one to the top-sellers list this Korean skincare ampoule is like a skin‑smoothing powerhouse in a tiny bottle! Powerful It’s formulated with Botox-like peptides acmella oleracea extract, and hyaluronic acid (3 types to be specific!) to quite literally mimic the results of botox…naturally! The texture is this beautiful, silky essence that absorbs instantly and layers perfectly under other products. People love it because it delivers serious anti-aging results, visibly smoother texture, reduced fine lines, more even tone. “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 Naturys Multi-Peptide Serum If you’re chasing firmer, smoother, more youthful‑looking skin, peptides are your best friend, and this serum is packed with them. It combines multiple bioactive peptides with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to boost collagen, improve elasticity, and soften fine lines. It’s lightweight, silky, and gives your skin that “plumped from within” look. A gorgeous everyday anti‑ageing staple oh and it’s 100% natural and vegan friendly too! Yes! “My new favourite serum! I love the texture, it's light enough to soak into my skin easily, yet rich enough to leave my skin feeling plumped and moisturised. I use it under which ever cream I'm using and it makes the cream work even better.” – L.S The moisturisers Pevonia Age Defying Marine Collagen Cream This one never leaves BC’s top selling list and for very good reason! In fact, it is Pevonia’s global best-selling cream! It’s beautifully rich, but not heavy! And is packed with anti-ageing essentials including of course marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, squalane and vitamin e to deeply hydrate while helping firm and smooth the complexion. It’s ideal for anyone noticing early signs of ageing, think fine lines, dehydration, or loss of bounce. “There is a reason that this cream is a best seller. I have found no better moisturiser for my skin. My skin can get a bit red with some moisturisers but not with the Pevonia Marine Collagen Cream. it really is a beautiful cream to apply and leaves skin soft and supple. Highly recommended.” – Lisa Parkes Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream If you prefer something a little lighter (but still just as nourishing) this is the cream for you! It’s perfect for people who want hydration without heaviness and glow without grease! The "continue" in the name refers to continuous hydration as this cream quite literally keeps your skin moisturised for hours! It’s formulated with marine-sourced vitamins and minerals including Oligomer® seawater complex that energizes tired, dull skin at the cellular level. What makes it special is how it manages to be lightweight and fast-absorbing while still delivering serious moisture and radiance. It's that rare day cream that works beautifully under makeup, never pills, and genuinely makes your skin look more awake and glowing. Perfect as an everyday moisturiser for normal to dehydrated skin that wants both comfort and glow in one step! “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 Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Care Cream For anyone dealing with rosacea or chronic redness, this cream has been life-changing! The reviews don't lie. It's formulated with green tea extract, chamomile and licorice root for powerful anti-inflammatory and redness-reducing benefits, while vitamin E and squalane help repair the skin barrier. It’s gentle, comforting, and ideal for daily use to keep sensitivity under control. What customers love most is that it doesn't just temporarily cover redness, it actually helps improve the condition over time by strengthening your skin's barrier and reducing overall reactivity. “AMAZING CREAM! I absolutely love RS2 Rosacea care cream. It's the only cream my face loves & does not break out in rashes since I've hit the post menopause aga. It's so hydrating & id be lost without this face cream 🩵” – Cherie Christie The eye cream Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream This eye cream is for people who want it all: less puffiness, softer lines and brighter under-eyes. It combines peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin c and niacinamide to target dark circles, bags and early wrinkles in one go. The formula helps smooth and firm the delicate eye contour while improving microcirculation, so eyes look more open and awake. The texture is rich but never heavy or greasy (crucial for eye products that need to work under concealer), and it absorbs quickly without causing milia or puffiness. People report visible improvements in all three concerns, less morning puffiness, brighter under-eyes, and smoother texture around the orbital area. It’s basically eight hours of sleep and a good concealer’s best friend, minus the makeup!! “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 The sunscreen Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield This sunscreen has been an absolute phenomenon, and it's because it addresses a concern most sunscreens ignore, blue light from screens. Yes, your phone and computer are ageing your skin, and this sunscreen is specifically formulated to protect against it. Beyond the blue light shield, it's just a brilliant daily SPF, lightweight, tinted (so no white cast ever), hypoallergenic, reef-safe, and packed with natural SPF (Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide), hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and antioxidants like vitamin E and green tea. The subtle tint evens your skin tone enough that many people skip foundation entirely and just use this as their base. It's non-comedogenic, absorbs instantly, works beautifully under makeup, and genuinely doesn't feel like sunscreen. For anyone working from home or spending hours on devices (so, everyone), this has become the non-negotiable daily SPF. The 150ml size means it lasts forever, making the cost-per-use incredibly reasonable for the protection you're getting. “Love this product it gives all day sun protection doesn’t mark clothing and gives my skin a healthy glow I’m hooked!” – Jan Carlisle The multi-tasking foundation, primer and sunscreen in one! ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30 Speaking of blue light protection, this BB cream takes it a step further by combining SPF 20, blue light defence, AND buildable coverage with genuine skincare benefits. It's basically foundation, sunscreen and primer in one elegant tube. The formula contains hyaluronic acid for hydration, peptides for anti-ageing and vitamins A, C & E for antioxidant protection. The coverage is sheer to medium and buildable, perfect for that "your skin but better" finish. What makes it a bestseller is how it simplifies your routine without compromising results. You're getting sun protection, blue light defence, coverage, AND active skincare in one step. Customer reviews consistently mention how it evens tone, provides a natural glow, and actually improves their skin with continued use. It's multitasking at its finest, which is exactly what modern skincare should be! “If you're looking for a multi-tasking product that protects, perfects, and enhances your skin, look no further than this miraculous BB cream. Highly recommended!” – Nikki L

How to master radiant skin: 7 products you need now

by Jo Boyden on Nov 28 2025

If a well-rested, lit-from-within complexion is what you’ve been wishing for, you’re in the right place! Achieving gorgeously glowing skin isn’t about luck, it’s about knowing the right steps and choosing the products that genuinely make a difference! We’ve rounded up 7 beauty essentials that smooth, hydrate, and brighten, giving your complexion that effortlessly luminous finish. From boosting radiance to restoring firmness and evening skin tone, these BC favourites deliver the nourishment, protection, and glow every skin type craves. Cleanser 1. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing Cream Getting the “glow” starts from the very first step in any beauty routine – with an essential cleanser, and this one doesn’t disappoint! Formulated with organic orange water rich in vitamin C, this luxurious, creamy cleansing cream delivers an instant burst of radiance while gently melting away makeup, oil, and impurities. The star ingredient, Cyfolia Algae, enhances your natural glow by creating a light-reflecting effect on your skin's surface, while Phytomer's revitalizing seawater concentrate (Oligomer) floods your complexion with marine minerals. It purifies, softens and brightens in a single step. Expect skin that feels supple, refreshed, and instantly more radiant, never tight or stripped! Exfoliator 2. Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes Phytomer’s best-selling exfoliator is the ultimate for all skin types and an essential for turning dull skin to dewy in minutes! It’s gentle, enzyme-based and effectively lifts dead skin cells without any friction, making it ideal even for sensitive skin. Papaya enzymes refine texture, brighten tone, and create the perfect canvas for skincare that follows! It’s outstanding stuff! Moisturiser 3. Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream This isn't just a moisturiser, it's a radiance-activating treatment that revitalizes your skin's cellular activity to promote natural regeneration and glow! Think of this as your daily drink of water for the skin. Lightweight yet deeply hydrating, it’s rich in vitamins and marine actives, that keep your skin's outer layer perfectly nourished while activating that coveted luminosity from within! I personally can’t get enough of it in the warmer months and I know you won’t either! Skin instantly looks plumper, fresher, and more energised! Eye Cream 4. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Eye Contour Radiance Smoothing Eye Cream Your eyes are often the first place to show fatigue and dullness, which is why this targeted treatment is essential for a complete radiance routine! Silky and nourishing, it smooths fine lines, reduces puffiness, and restores much-needed brightness around the delicate eye area. Organic Cyfolia algae and natural botanical extracts work to illuminate and soften, leaving your delicate eye area fresh and luminous, quite literally. Face Mask 5. Vie Collection Photo C Bright Radiance Mask Weekly (or twice-weekly) masking is the secret weapon for maintaining that enviable glow, and this vitamin C-packed treatment delivers dramatic brightening results! Inspired by phototherapy and power-packed with a highly stable vitamin C derivative, exfoliating papain (papaya) enzyme, and marine minerals, this luxurious cream-mask works overnight to revive dull skin and dramatically enhance radiance. It's like a professional brightening treatment you can do at home! Yes please! Simply apply before bed, and wake up to incredibly radiant, brightened skin. The time-release formula ensures actives work throughout the night when your skin's natural repair processes are most active, maximizing the glow-boosting benefits. Night Oil 6. Phytomer Radiance Replenishing Oil Facial oils have become skincare superstars, and this radiance-focused formula is exactly why! it's the final step that locks everything in while adding an extra dimension of luminosity. And we aren’t talking heavy, greasy oils! Phytomer’s best-selling oil is a perfectly balanced blend of nourishing botanicals and marine actives that absorbs beautifully while imparting serious glow. The oil creates a protective veil over your skin, sealing in all the radiance-boosting treatments you've applied while delivering its own brightening benefits. All you need to do is apply 2-3 drops to your entire face after your moisturiser (or mix a drop into your moisturiser for added radiance if you’d prefer). The silky texture melts into skin, leaving behind a subtle, healthy-looking sheen, not grease or shine! Makeup illuminator 7. ELES Satin Illuminator Your skincare routine has created the perfect radiant canvas but now it’s time to enhance it with this champagne-like highlighter that delivers luminosity without any glitter or obvious shimmer.Its ultra creamy and features micro-fine pearl pigments that create natural, multi-dimensional radiance. Unlike glittery highlighters that can look obvious or artificial, the Satin Illuminator mimics the way light naturally reflects off healthy, glowing skin. The formula melts into skin, never sitting on top or looking powdery. It accentuates your high points (cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of nose, cupid's bow) with a subtle sheen. But it isn’t just makeup! it's talc-free, microplastic-free, and formulated with skin-loving ingredients. No pore-clogging, no irritation, just pure luminosity that enhances your natural radiance. To use it correctly, simply sweep over cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, on your brow bones, and anywhere you want to enhance your natural glow. It can also be applied to shoulders and décolleté for overall luminosity. The buildable formula means you control the intensity, from subtle daytime glow to all out evening glamour. Whether you’re rebuilding your routine or simply elevating it, these seven essentials deliver the hydration, smoothing, and brightening your skin needs to look its most naturally luminous yet.

The best beauty buys on BC right now, according to you

by Jo Boyden on Oct 30 2025

Want to update your skincare but not sure where to start? Wondering which beauty products everyone is raving about right now? Well wonder no more! We have done the work for you and asked you, our customers the products you currently can’t get enough of! From cult-favourite serums that deliver serious glow, to that gift set everyone is talking about, here are the best beauty buys on BC right now. For when your skin in dull and lacking life Cyfolia Organic Radiance Ritual Gift Set This gift set including not one but two glow boosting products to really transform your skin from dull to radiant! Including the Hydra-Comforting Radiance Cream, and a FREE Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream (the perfect accompaniment) this duo exfoliates, hydrates and restores skin with powerful get gentle marine ingredients organic cyfolia algae, oligomer which delivers a supply of trace elements to the skin stimulating cells and organic orange water for a burst of vitamin c. “I recently purchased this duo as I’d heard amazing things about Phytomer and boy am I happy I did as my skin is all the better for it. Softer, smoother and brighter! Love.” – Shelly R For those worried about ageing Micro Retinol Essential Gift Box The Pevonia Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser has been a big seller for some time now. After all it’s packed with anti-ageing ingredients (not just the no. 1 anti-ageing – retinol!) including marine collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamin c to deliver deep hydration, repair and age-defying results! What’s better news is that this Christmas it comes in a beautifully packed gift box with a FREE Micro Retinol Essential Foaming Cleanser and Toner. What more could you ask? Each product works in perfect unison to reveal visibly smoother, brighter and more youthful looking skin with advanced Micro-retinol technology which enhances cellular renewal and collagen synthesis with less irritation that most retinol products out there! So, if you are already a retinol lover but looking to extend your retinol routine or have been a little scared to try retinol, now is the time to invest in this affordable gift set! 3 outstanding products, one gift set, great price and of course raving reviews! “I have been using Pevonia products for 2 years now, the improvement in my skin has been fantastic! I love the micro retinol and stem cells range. These products are lovely to use and I am so happy with the results. I would recommend these products to anyone wanting younger and smoother looking skin.” – Alicia Y For skin on the ultra-sensitive side Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Care Cream For those suffering with sensitivity or rosacea this product comes highly recommended at all times! The reviews speak volumes from the soothing and calming feel to the way it makes a huge difference to rosacea, sensitive and hormonal skin. It really is a gentle yet powerful cream that’s lightweight, nourishing and delivers deep comfort and hydration with the help of antioxidant green tea, calming licorice root, and soothing chamomile. In short this cream helps reduce visible redness, irritation, and flare-ups! If this product sounds like the one for you why not get it in the RS2 Ultra-Sensitive Skin Gift Set which comes with a FREE RS2 Gentle Cleanser and Lotion 50ml! Or if you are after a complete sensitive or rosacea skin routine to really transform your skin why not upgrade to the luxury RS2 Rosacea Skin Essential Gift Box? You’ll get a full size RS2 Gentle Cleanser and RS2 Gentle Lotion so all you are paying for is the Cream and the outstanding Concentrate for optimal results! “Absolutely love RS2 Rosacea care cream. It's the only cream my face loves & does not break out in rashes since I've hit the post menopause aga. It's so hydrating & id be lost without this face cream” – Cherie C For when your skin is in need of a mini facial Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream Do not let the word “peel” as I always say put you off! This gentle exfoliating cream is a gem and it looks like many of our customers think so too! combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this mini facial in a jar of goodness!! Trust me. “Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It's gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft.” – Lisa W For when skin is in urgent need of a pick-me-up Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mask All hail this hydrating mask! Rich in hyaluronic acid (and we are talking Ultra low-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronic Acid O.5 kDa) which is in fact the world's smallest so it can cleverly penetrate between skin cells for maximum absorption, long lasting deep hydration and plumpness! Cool right? But it not only nourishes and plumps the skin, it also improves elasticity, brightness, the appearance of wrinkles and overall complexion! All while strengthening the skin’s barrier! Brilliant mask! I bought this a month ago as it’s a new product on Beauty Collective so have only used it a few times but the results after you remove the mask are instant! Skin looks plumped, fresher and brighter! Love it.” – Sally M

From sea to skin: What is Blue Beauty and why is it trending

by Jo Boyden on Sep 05 2025

You’ve likely heard of clean beauty. You may have even embraced green beauty with its focus on natural ingredients and eco-conscious formulas. But now, there’s a new beauty trend creating serious buzz across the skincare world! Cue Blue Beauty. And no, it’s not just another fad, it’s a transformative movement that’s changing how we care for our skin and our planet’s oceans. But what exactly is Blue Beauty, and why is everyone talking about it? Keep reading as talk all about the new skincare trend taking centre stage. What is Blue Beauty Blue Beauty goes beyond traditional clean or green beauty by focusing on the impact that skincare products have on the planet’s waterways, oceans, and marine life. It is the next evolution of sustainable skincare. While green beauty is focused on being eco-conscious in a broader sense, blue beauty is about creating products that are safe for our oceans and marine life. Think reef-safe sunscreens, biodegradable formulas, sustainably harvested marine ingredients, and packaging that won’t end up polluting the sea. At its core, Blue Beauty is about balance, giving your skin the nourishment it needs while ensuring the ocean (the source of many skincare super-ingredients) remains healthy and protected. Why Blue Beauty matters The ocean covers over 70% of our planet and is vital to climate health, biodiversity, and even the air we breathe. But it’s also where skincare and beauty have had an impact. From plastic packaging to harmful ingredients that wash down our drains and end up in the sea. Think microbeads, oxybenzone, and other chemicals that harm our marine life and coral reefs. Blue Beauty aims to reverse that impact by: Using biodegradable ingredients Avoiding reef-harming chemicals Prioritizing sustainable harvesting of marine botanicals Reducing plastic waste through eco-packaging Blue beauty isn’t just about looking good, it’s about doing good! Phytomer, a pioneer in Blue Beauty When it comes to true Blue Beauty, Phytomer is leading the way. For over 50 years, this French marine skincare brand has been harnessing the power of marine biotechnology while respecting the ocean through eco-responsible practices. From their use of sustainably cultivated algae to reducing water waste in production and developing eco-friendly packaging, Phytomer is proof that luxury skincare and sustainability can coexist beautifully! How marine ingredients benefit your skin One of the reasons Blue Beauty is gaining momentum is that marine-based ingredients are skincare powerhouses. They don’t just sound luxurious, they work! Seaweed and other marine botanicals provide hydration that penetrates deeply, helping to lock in moisture and soothe inflammation. Their antioxidant-rich properties protect against pollution and fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and the appearance of premature ageing. The natural polysaccharides found in these plants also help to exfoliate gently, revealing smoother, more luminous skin. And seawater minerals such as Phytomer’s OLIGOMER effectively strengthens the skin barrier, energising cells, and supporting long-term skin health. These natural treasures not only deliver incredible results, they’re also renewable when harvested responsibly, making them the best when it comes to the sea and your skin! The Blue Beauty products we highly recommend Embracing Blue Beauty doesn’t mean you have to change up your entire routine, it’s about making mindful swaps that benefit both you and the ocean. From reef-safe formulas and marine actives to and biodegradable blends and sustainable packaging. If you’re ready to make a change, simply start by replacing a few everyday essentials with Blue Beauty versions for the biggest impact. Here are some top Phytomer picks we, and our customers love: Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream This is one of the gentlest foaming cleansers you’ll ever try. On contact with water the silky cream transforms into an airy foam, beautifully cleansing your face while offering your skin all the benefits of the seaside! (it’s formulated with lots of marine goodness!) Don’t just take my word for it though… “Simply amazing! I have been using this cleanser for a while now and am hooked for life. I have extremely sensitive skin and have spent YEARS looking for a cleanser that is just right for me. This light, fluffy cleanser is the perfect answer with the perfect consistency while still holding cleansing strength that is not too harsh.” - Kristen F Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes This seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant for all skin types, eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) It encourages cell turnover, revealing beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes! So if you aren’t a lover of physical exfoliators (the ones with the bits!) this Vegetal Exfoliant is for you too, even if you have very sensitive skin!“I bought this after reading the reviews and it makes my skin glow and feel silky. Totally worth it!!” - Justine P Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum This silky soft, lightweight serum coats the skin in pure oxygen providing the cells with vivid rejuvenation. Formulated with marine extracts, this serum protects against environmental pollution and free radical damage, so it’s outstanding for dull, devitalized skin or skin that is in real need of a pick-me-up! If your skin is lacking life at the moment (which can especially be the case for many of us in winter!) I promise you this is the perfect go to for youthful, radiant looking skin! “This is a fabulous product! My skin used to look dull all the time due to stress and pollution. After using this product it improved my skin with overall radiance. It makes my skin look brighter, fresher and younger looking ....! Love it.” – Joanne Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream Oh how I love this cream! It’s rich, creamy, beautifully (and subtly) scented and it really works!! If you want to see a reduction in your wrinkles I’m telling you, give this blue beauty essential a go! It works by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles using a precise blend of outstanding marine ingredients including brown algae and red vegetal coral. “If you are looking for a beautiful nourishing moisturiser to help with fine lines and wrinkles while being soothing and nourishing for ageing, dry and sensitive skin, then give this a try! I highly recommend!” - Sally W Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream This cream literally cocoons skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning! It’s formulated with the best in marine ingredients including D-Tox Microalgae (designed to promote the elimination of free radicals, toxins, and pollutants detoxifying the skin while you sleep), Marine Mannitol (an active ingredient which helps to re-oxygenate tired and "asphyxiated" cells) and Laminaria Digitata Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract and Jojoba & Sunflower Seed Wax to deeply nourish, revitalise and strengthen the skin! I simply love how my skin looks and feels when I wake up (I’m talking glowy, plumper and just more youthful looking!) and I know you will love it too! “I am in love with this product! I've been using it for a few months now and every morning after I've applied it the night before my skin feels smoother and looks so much more radiant! It's texture is silky and rich and the scent is subtle but wonderful!” – Rillie Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil This gorgeous, lightweight oil is the secret to dewy, luminous skin! It glides onto the skin, sinks in quickly, and leaves behind a healthy glow (no greasy feel, promise). Packed with marine oils, natural antioxidants and vitamin E, it nourishes, smooths, protects and boosts radiance like nothing else. A must-have and the perfect final step for sealing in hydration and glow. “I love this product it makes my skin feel soft and subtle and gives it a beautiful glow. I suffer from redness and this helps to soothe my skin. Amazing product.” – Jenni As we become more conscious of our environmental impact and more demanding of our skincare results, Blue Beauty offers the perfect solution. It's the rare beauty trend that delivers on both effectiveness and ethics, providing visible results while supporting ocean conservation.

Winter skin beauty: 5 essential steps you may be missing

by Jo Boyden on Aug 01 2025

Wondering why your skincare routine isn’t delivering the results you expect? You could be unknowingly skipping a few crucial steps. From smart layering techniques to moisture-boosting must-haves, discover 5 skincare essentials your complexion could be missing, but definitely needs! 1. Effective skin barrier repair Our skin can really suffer in winter when it comes to cold temperatures, low humidity and constant artificial heating. Adding products to your beauty arsenal that are rich in ingredients like ceramides can make a big difference and help support skin barrier repair. By restoring and strengthening our skin’s outer layer, we can help reduce moisture loss and better protect our skin against external factors and potential irritants. Your moisturiser is likely no longer cutting it, so it’s time to introduce a serum rich in hyaluronic acid, shea butter, glycerin and niacinamide. Serums absorb more deeply into the skin helping to replenish lost moisture and lipids. At night add a face oil as the last step to your routine. A good face oil not only locks in moisture, but also strengthens the skin barrier, and prevents winter dryness sealing in all your other skincare for lasting hydration and glow! Try: Hubislab Derma Max Brilliance Serum 2. Exfoliating your skin We all know exfoliation is important, but does it mean we are doing it weekly? Likely not. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you don’t need to remove those dead skin cells of yours! Exfoliation is essential all year round as it helps sweep away those dull, dead skin cells, allowing fresh, new ones to surface, and more importantly, it preps your skin to better absorb the serums, oils, and moisturisers you’re applying. Since skin tends to be more sensitive in winter, it’s best to choose a gentle enzyme or chemical exfoliant rather than a physical one (which often contains gritty beads that can be too harsh). Enzyme and chemical formulas work by dissolving dead skin rather than scrubbing it off, making them far kinder to dry or fragile winter skin. Try: Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes 3. Wearing sunscreen In the winter months many of us get lazy when it comes to our SPF. Surely, we don’t need to wear sunscreen every day since it’s cold and cloudy? Wrong. Wearing sunscreen throughout the year no matter the weather is an essential. This is because sunscreen is an important step in protecting your skin barrier even in winter. UVB indexes differ significantly throughout the year, but UVA rays are present all year round come rain, hail or shine! And it’s UVA rays that accelerate signs of ageing causing wrinkles, sagging, and uneven texture! Try: Hubislab Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF50+ PA+++ 4. Looking after your body We get it, you're bundled up in layers during winter, not lounging beach or poolside in a swimsuit. But just because your skin isn’t on show doesn’t mean it should be forgotten. In fact, colder months can be tougher on your body, often leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation. That’s why winter is the perfect time to give your body some extra TLC. Treat your body like you do your face: hydrate daily and pay special attention to typically dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels. The more love you give your skin now, the smoother and more radiant it’ll be come spring! Pro tip: Apply a rich, nourishing body cream right after a warm (not scorching hot!) shower or bath. Your pores will be open, making it the ideal time to lock in long-lasting moisture. Try Pevonia Preserve Body Moisturiser 5. Your hands Your hands are the unsung heroes of your daily routine, constantly exposed to harsh winter elements, frequent washing, and sanitizing, yet they're often the last to receive proper care and in winter they are likely completely forgotten by many of us! The thing is your hands age faster than almost any other part of your body because the skin is thinner, has fewer oil glands, and gets more environmental exposure than your carefully pampered face. Those dry, cracked knuckles and paper-thin skin aren't just a winter inconvenience, they're signs that this hardworking part of your body needs some serious TLC. Adding proper hand care to your winter routine takes mere seconds but makes a dramatic difference. From choosing the right hand cream to protecting them from the elements, small changes can keep your hands looking as youthful and healthy as the rest of you. Because nothing gives away your age faster than neglected hands, no matter how flawless your facial skincare routine might be! Try: Pevonia Collagen Hand Cream

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7 game-changing ingredients the experts always recommend

by Jo Boyden on Jul 14 2025

Want smoother, brighter, tighter and generally better-looking skin? Who doesn’t right? Well, I’m here to tell you it is actually possible to have all this and more, you just need to make sure your daily skincare favourites are rich in a number of game-changing ingredients! That’s right, there are 7 key ingredients your skincare should include, the ones the experts swear by! Curious as to what they are? Read on as we count them down. Vitamin C Good for skin brightening This benefit packed powerhouse ingredient is a potent anti-oxidant that helps reduce skin inflammation and irregular pigmentation. It also protects skin against pollution, sun and free radical damage, as well as promoting healthy collagen production! Oh and it’s the no. 1 glow-getter! So, if your skin needs some serious brightening vitamin c should be your go-to!Our recommendation: Pevonia Optimal C ComplexeSkin is drenched with repairing antioxidants every time you apply! The result? Instantly brighter and dewier skin! Retinol Good for repairing and refining This hero ingredient multi tasks like no other. Known for its ability to empower and enhance skin cellular performance it dramatically improves fine lines and wrinkles while repairing sun-damaged and mature skin. It’s also a free radical fighter! Who wouldn’t want to introduce this multitasking miracle ingredient into their daily life! Just be sure to introduce it slowly though. To find out more about retinol click here.Our recommendation: Pevonia Micro Retinol CreamThis 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. Caviar Good for nourishing and revitalizing The ultimate nutrition and nourishment for mature skin cells, caviar brings vitality and life back to tired and depleted skin and encourages cells to function more efficiently. Moisturising, repairing and brightening in one for softer, supple and radiant skin!Our recommendation: Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair CreamDrenched with potent actives to effectively counteract aging, this luxurious silky textured and easily absorbed cream provides outstanding rejuvenating results, smoothing wrinkles while increasing suppleness and oxygenation. Hyaluronic Acid Good for deep hydration This super hydrator is considered to have greater capacity to hold moisture than any other polymer. In fact, one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water! What exactly does this mean you might ask. Well, it has the ability to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds! It literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant But, this skincare-wonder doesn’t stop there, not only does it benefit those with dry, dehydrated skin, it’s also a must for anyone with signs of premature ageing.So be sure you include this in your daily routine if you suffer from a dry, devitalised complexion or if you are simply in need of gentle anti-aging skincare. We are hands down in awe ofOur recommendation: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. It features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market! Kombucha Good for firming Not familiar with Kombucha, you should be! Not only does this ingredient detoxify, but also hydrates the skin as it improves skin elasticity, skin tone, texture and clarity! So it brightens and combats the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in one fell swoop. Outstanding!Our recommendation: Pevonia Lumafirm Repair Cream Lift & GlowThis outstanding cream (the name speaks for itself!) works deeply and quickly, infusing your face, neck and décolleté with the best anti-free radicles, the latest generation of repairing peptides, and outstanding lightening actives! What brighter, firmer skin? You’ve got it! Collagen Peptides Good for Hydrating, firming and plumping Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for your skin (and bones, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments!!) It is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look! This is because it supports the skin by improving skin firmness and strength. It assists with skin elasticity, skin hydration, improves collagen density of the skin and also helps to preserve and protect skin from collagen degradation! Pretty amazing stuff right? The thing is collagen naturally occurs in our bodies, however as we age our natural collagen levels begin to decline and the more collagen we lose, the more fine lines and wrinkles appear so you understand why collagen peptides in skincare is essential!Our recommendation: Pevonia’s global best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamThis superstar cream, is a gorgeously rich, yet fine moisturiser that feels amazing on application (it’s so nourishing!) and leaves skin super soft, supple and gorgeously glowy. Stem Cells Good for skin plumping, repairing and regenerating Plant (Argan and Comfrey) Stem Cells work at both are epidermal and dermal level (so surface and deep) to repair and regenerate new skin cells. They also densify and fill lines and wrinkles while giving the skin healthy radiance.Our recommendation: Pevonia Stem Cells Intensive CreamThis revolutionary de-aging moisturiser combines Argania Spinosa (Argan Stem Cells) and Symphytum (Comfrey Root Stem Cells) with Retinol, Vitamins C and E, and Marine Collagen, to deeply hydrate and repair the skin from the inside. It softens the appearance of fine lines, gradually lightens discoloured areas and encourages the skin’s natural stem cells to function properly, in order to increase dermal density and effectively minimise the most common signs of premature ageing! Yup it’s that good!

Winter wellness: Your spa-at-home body ritual

by Jo Boyden on Jun 19 2025

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of stepping out of a spa, skin glowing, body and mind utterly relaxed and rejuvenated, well what if you could capture that luxurious experience without even leaving your home? And you don’t need copious amounts of time either! In fact, all you need is the right routine and a few indulgent essentials! Sound good? Keep reading to discover how to transform your daily shower or bath into a blissful spa-at-home full-body ritual. What you need We often focus so much on our facial skincare, but our bodies deserve that same love and attention too! Well, this simple, spa-inspired, feel-good body ritual features 3 expert approved (and loved) products from Pevonia - Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel, Silky Skin Body Scrub and Preserve Body Moisturiser. Packed with plant and flower extracts they do more than just pamper! They are designed to work in unison to transform skin from dry and dull to radiant and silky smooth, all whilst indulging your senses and melting stress away too! 3 simple steps Step 1: Cleanse & de-Stress with Pevonia’s Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel Start your ritual with the Pevonia Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel, a beautiful aromatherapy body cleanser that will turn your shower or bath into a relaxing spa-like escape. Simply add a few drops to your bath and sit back relax and soak or apply to your body as you shower breathing in the beautiful essential oils. Infused with Hazel Nut Oil, Chamomile, and Lavender, this beautifully scented and nourishing aromatic gel gently removes impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Mood-boosting, it calms tension and soothes stress helping you to totally relax and unwind. Heaven! “WOW. This product is amazing. The smell totally relaxes you and it doesn't leave your skin feeling like rubber like soap does.You're left feeling silky smooth for a long time and the scent lingers. Beautiful product, highly recommend!” – Lisa Tregenza Step 2: Exfoliate & renew with Pevonia Silky Skin Body Scrub Next, polish away dry, patchy skin with the Pevonia Silky Skin Body Scrub. Simply apply a small quality of scrub to your body and with wet hands or a wet body brush work gently into skin. Use upper circular movements for maximum results concentrating on the forgotten areas like your elbows, knees and heels that can get particularly dry! This delightfully creamy, non-irritating exfoliator blends Chamomile, Sage, Rosemary, Allantoin and Jojoba Beads to gently buff away dead skin cells. It activates blood circulation too (without harming fine capillaries) and smooths, refines and softens the skin revealing a gorgeously glowy, youthful complexion free of dry, rough patches! “This product is like using a very fine sandpaper all over your body, it's therapeutic, relaxing and best of all leaves your skin so smooth and clean that you feel like you are a newborn again! It has a great texture, the scent is beautiful, and you don't need too much to get a thorough body wash.” – Narelle Rock Step 3: Hydrate, smooth & protect – Pevonia Preserve Body Moisturiser Now it’s time to seal in moisture with the indulgent Pevonia Preserve Body Moisturiser, a lightweight, yet deeply nourishing formula packed with repairing Vitamins B and E, and Alpha Hydroxy Acids. Gently massage into skin and see how it instantly improves your skin’s texture! Wonderfully hydrating it locks in goodness, restoring elasticity while repairing imperfections, leaving skin silky-soft and radiant. “This moisturizer is beautiful to use. It's completely hydrating and is absorbed into your skin instantly so that it doesn't leave any film or residue. I have very dry skin, particularly on my legs, and this moisturizer straight away rejuvenates my skin and removes all dullness. Not only does it actually work, but it also smells beautiful leaving you feeling pampered even at home. Can't recommend enough!” – Bridie This three-step ritual isn’t just about pampering! It will ensure your skin stays hydrated, smooth, and glowing, even in the coldest winter months! So, light a candle, play some soothing music, and turn your bathroom into a spa retreat because you and your skin deserves it!

Winter-proof your skin: 12 expert beauty tips

by Jo Boyden on Jun 06 2025

Cold winds, harsh heaters and low humidity - winter can cause havoc when it comes to our skin! But with the right seasonal switch-up, you can avoid the dullness, dryness and a little extra sensitivity that winter can bring. From hydration hacks to skincare swaps, keep reading as we share 12 expert beauty tips that will ensure your skin remains healthy and hydrated this season. 1. Overhaul your cleansing routine This is often the first and most critical step when it comes to your skincare. Your foaming cleanser that felt refreshing in summer might be too harsh for your skin come winter so it’s time to switch to a creamy or milky cleanser that’s hydrating and non-stripping! Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or nourishing oils. These types of cleansers remove impurities without stripping away your skin's vital natural oils. And be sure you avoid cleansing skin with hot, hot water! While as tempting as it can me (and I most certainly have been guilty in the past!) scorching hot showers and baths strip your skin of its natural protective barrier! Instead stick to lukewarm water for both face and body cleansing. Top tip: Pat, don't rub, your skin dry after cleansing to retain as much moisture as possible 2. Up the ante with your hydration Winter calls for a little extra TLC when it comes to your skin. As temperatures drop, you might notice your skin becoming a little dry and fragile and the products that were working wonders in the summer months might no longer be enough, this is where layering your skincare correctly becomes an essential. After cleansing, and before applying your moisturiser, apply a good hydrating serum to your still damp skin (for optimal absorption). Serums are a must-have in any skincare routine because they deliver high concentrations of active ingredients deep into the skin. Lightweight and fast absorbing, they target specific concerns like dehydration, wrinkles, or dullness, boosting results and enhancing the effectiveness of your moisturiser. Look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Panthenol (Vitamin B5). These ingredients draw moisture from the air (and from subsequent products) into your skin. Next apply your moisturiser. Subsequently followed by your sunscreen if your day moisturiser doesn’t already include SPF. 3. Upgrade your moisturiser You might need to up the ante with your day moisturiser by choosing one that is a little richer and nourishing that the one you’ve come to love over the sizzling summer months. 4. Keep using sunscreen Just because it might be cold and cloudy doesn’t mean the UV rays are gone! Use an SPF 30 or higher daily, especially if you’re using active ingredients like retinol. Just remember UV radiation contributes to dryness, collagen breakdown, and pigmentation, regardless of the temperature! 5. Use a night cream if you aren’t already At night, using a good night cream (as opposed to your day moisturiser) can make all the difference to how your skin both looks and feels. This is because night creams are designed to deeply nourish, repair, and hydrate your skin while you sleep, the time when our skin naturally goes into intense regeneration and recovery mode. Unlike your lighter day moisturiser (which focuses more on protecting the skin’s barrier from external stressors like UV rays and pollution), night creams are usually richer in texture, packed with a higher concentration of active and restorative ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and essential vitamins and oils and work to replenish lost moisture and strengthen your barrier overnight so you wake up to soft, smooth and healthy looking skin! 6. A face oil can be essential After applying your night cream, apply a face oil too. If you don't already use one, winter is the ultimate time to introduce these skin-loving elixirs. While night creams hydrate and repair, face oils, rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, act like a barrier, strengthening the skin and sealing in all the moisture and active ingredients underneath so your skin gets maximum benefits. They basically provide an extra layer of nourishment and protection that your skin craves during colder months. Plus, they add a beautiful glow and can calm redness or irritation often caused by harsh winter weather. Think of it like this, your serum and night cream feed your skin, and your face oil protects that nourishment, ensuring your skin wakes up soft, supple, and well-hydrated. Look for: Oils rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants like Jojoba, Mandarin, Argan, Squalane, Rosehip, Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract or Grapefruit Oil. 7. Exfoliate wisely In winter, exfoliation is just as important as you’ll still need to remove dull, dead skin cells, but the approach needs to be gentler than before. Instead of exfoliating the 2-3 times a week, that you do in summer, once a week should be sufficient. You’ll also want to switch from any harsh physical scrubs with large particles to chemical exfoliants with milder acids like Lactic Acid or PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids). Enzyme exfoliants are also a great gentle option. If you prefer a physical scrub, ensure it has very fine, uniform particles. Top tip: Listen to Your Skin! If it’s feeling tight, red, or irritated after exfoliating, you're overdoing it. 8. Apply a mask Another little luxury for your skin, invaluable all year around but extremely beneficial in winter is a mask! A good hydrating face mask acts as an intensive treatment, replenishing lost moisture, soothing sensitivity, and reinforcing the skin barrier. Packed with nourishing ingredients, it helps restore softness, glow, and resilience! 9. Winter hair care Just like the skin on your face, your hair and scalp can also suffer from dryness and static in winter so make sure you are using gentle, hydrating and sulfate-free shampoos and rich conditioners and incorporate a weekly hair treatments to replenish moisture and strengthen strands. 10. Don’t forget your hands! Unfortunately, the harsh winter weather can leave our often-neglected hands dry, cracked, and uncomfortable! A quality hand cream restores and locks in hydration, creates a protective barrier against environmental stressors, and nourishes skin with ingredients like shea butter, squalane, or natural oils. Regular use not only keeps your hands soft and smooth, but also helps prevent premature ageing and soothes irritation, ensuring your hands stay healthy and resilient throughout the colder months. 11. Stay hydrated from within Drinking enough water (and herbal teas) helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Eating healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and fish can also boost skin hydration. 12. Treat yourself to at-home spa sessions Warm, relaxing baths with aromatic bath oils or stress-relieving gels are not only calming but deeply nourishing for your skin and soul. Treat yourself to weekly spa-at-home sessions and let your skin (and you!) reap the benefits. For the best beauty buys this winter for soft glowing skin click here.

The best beauty buys this winter for soft, glowing skin

by Jo Boyden on May 30 2025

With winter just days away (how did that happen!) it’s time to prep skin for the cooler months ahead! Unfortunately, that radiant, dewy complexion we rocked in summer can quickly give way to dryness, dullness, and a tight, uncomfortable feeling so it’s important to up the ante by giving skin a little extra TLC to keep it hydrated and healthy. From glow-getting skincare to the best body solutions, keep reading as we countdown the best winter skin essentials for a soft, glowing complexion, 9 products both we and our customers can’t get enough of! Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk - All Skin Types You might love a good foaming cleanser (I know I do!), but they can unfortunately leave your skin feeling squeaky clean (and stripped!) with it comes to the cool months. Winter calls for gentle, nourishing cleansers that help protect the skin's natural barrier rather than strip it of the essential oils you really need! Phytomer’s Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk is beautifully creamy and formulated with OLIGOMER® (Phytomer's signature seawater concentrate) to cleanse gently while remineralizing and fortifying the skin. Your skin will feel soft and hydrated after every use (and of course perfectly cleansed!) not tight. It really is a true winter skin saviour! “The best cleansing milk that I have ever tried! I just love it. My skin feels so soft, clean and refresh, not dry at all... Highly recommend!” – Deb “Hands down the best facial cleanser I've ever used. Always leaves your face feeling clean while hydrating. Use in the morning and at night, with the Rose Visage Toner. Don't know If I could ever move on to a different product!” – Lisa Pevonia Power Repair Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum If you want serious hydration that goes beyond the surface, a hyaluronic serum is your non-negotiable winter ally and Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum is our go-to every time! This powerful serum is packed with hyaluronic acid (in fact it features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market at 12%). Combined with the powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract it delivers an intense surge of moisture that plumps, smooths, and leaves your skin feeling incredibly supple. It's like a big drink of water for your face! “Instant youth and hydration! This stuff makes my skin look hydrated, glowy and refreshed. LOVE!” – Ceslie R “I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” – Mary C Pevonia Rejuvenating Dry Skin Cream You might well love your daily moisturiser, maybe you’ve been using it for some time now, but I’m here to tell you that if it’s lightweight and was perfect for summer it’ll likely not cut it as the temperatures drop! And this will visibly reflect on your skin too! It’s time to transition to a richer formulation rich in hyaluronic acid, shea butter and ceramides that will lock in moisture and protect your skin just like Pevonia’s Rejuvenating Dry Skin Cream. Don't let the "dry skin" in the name fool you though, this cream is a dream for anyone needing extra comfort and nourishment in winter. Packed with natural goodness including hyaluronic acid, collagen, squalane, pear seed oil, honey, aloe, shea butter and glycerin, It provides intense hydration and helps to restore the skin's youthful glow. “This is the most beautiful cream. It’s hydrating and nourishing without feeling heavy or clogging and the smell is amazing.” – Ellen R “I have tried numerous products whose purpose is to hydrate and soften dry skin but this is the only product that I have found that actually accomplishes this goal. – Sarah S Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate For an extra boost of glow and nourishment, especially at night, facial oils are a game-changer. They work with your skin's natural lipids to strengthen its barrier and deliver potent ingredients. This luxurious oil is not only incredibly nourishing and combats dehydration and dryness like no other, but it’s gorgeous mandarin aroma also helps to soothe your senses, making it the ultimate beauty buy for a relaxing winter evening routine! We LOVE it and we know you will too! “This oil is one of my favourites... I love the smell and it feels light as a feather on your skin. I wear it alone in the am and with a moisturizer at night through the winter.” – Pamela G “This serum is worth its weight in gold. I have searched everywhere to find something that delivers moisture that stays. This is it. It is on the pricey side but it's worth every penny. Only a little bit will cover the whole face nicely.” - Changing Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream Winter is the perfect time to introduce a nourishing night cream! Skin cells do their greatest renewal and repair whist we sleep, so applying much needed hydration at night is essential to maximise absorption and to enhance your skin barrier. In the winter months I personally use Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream because my skin really needs that extra layer of rich moisturiser! The cream literally cocoons my skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning. It’s formulated with the best in marine ingredients including D-Tox Microalgae (designed to promote the elimination of free radicals, toxins, and pollutants detoxifying the skin while you sleep), Marine Mannitol (an active ingredient which helps to re-oxygenate tired and "asphyxiated" cells) and Laminaria Digitata Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract and Jojoba & Sunflower Seed Wax to deeply nourish, revitalise and strengthen the skin! I simply love how my skin looks and feels when I wake up (I’m talking glowy, plumper and just more youthful looking!) and I know you will love it too! “I am in love with this product! I've been using it for a few months now and every morning after I've applied it the night before my skin feels smoother and looks so much more radiant! It's texture is silky and rich and the scent is subtle but wonderful!” – Rillie “Love my phytomer products. Bought and tried this for the first time the other night. It is beautiful and rich and gave me a recharge overnight. Phytomer never disappoints me.” – Cass Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser While it might seem counterintuitive to exfoliate dry winter skin, gentle exfoliation is crucial to remove dead skin cells that can build up and make your complexion look dull! This is because cold weather can leave your skin flaky and rough. Pevonia’s creamy exfoliating scrub gently buffs away dead skin cells, impurities and toxins with jojoba beads while Saponaria and chamomile, calm and soften skin, leaving your it velvety, glowy, smooth and ready to absorb moisture. 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.” – Oreilly “I love this cleanser! I have never been able to exfoliate with anything else as it has just been too harsh for my skin. This gentle exfoliating cleansers is exactly that! Leaves my skin feeling beautiful and soft and definitely makes a noticeable difference in my texture. I use once a week and it has been a game changer for my skin.” – Stacey H Phytomer Oligomer® Well-Being Sensation Body Cream Your face isn’t the only thing that needs winter care! Your body deserves some love too! You’ll want to opt for a rich, nourishing body cream packed with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or marine extracts to keep your skin silky smooth and we LOVE Phytomer’s Well-being Sensation. It’s deeply moisturising without being greasy, delicately fragranced for spa-like vibes (ahhh) and it’s infused with trace elements and marine minerals so you can image how amazingly soft and supple your skin feels after every use! “This body cream is so moisturizing and has a light spa scent that is so gentle. I have used many hand/foot/body creams from other French brands and this is the one that is best for me!” - Verity “This great smelling product moisturized my skin all day long without having to reapply. It was exactly what I've experienced in Salons.” – Reg Pevonia Tropicale De-Aging Saltmousse Papaya-Pineapple Just as it’s important to use a good exfoliator for our face, we mustn’t forget to exfoliate the skin on our body either! This outstanding body exfoliator is as indulgent as they come delivering an aroma-sensory experience while gently exfoliating your skin! Luxuriously foaming and formulated with French sea salt, papaya and pineapple extracts, it also nourishes and detoxifies the skin. As the salt dissolves, tropical fruit enzymes work their magic, leaving your skin velvety-smooth, radiant, and refreshed. And yes we know it carries a hefty price tag but we promise you it’s worth it! “This is not in the class of a typical exfoliant. This is a high end spa product. The scent alone will take you to the spa experience but most importantly any rough skin will feel silky after the very first treatment and look visibly smoother.” – Khristine B “I just love everything about this product. The smell is absolutely Devine and it leaves my skin so very smooth. A brilliant product.” – Jewel Phytomer Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream A good hand cream is an absolute essential for me in winter and hey why shouldn’t we look after our hands as we do our face and body? The thing is before I discovered Phytomer’s Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream I hated the feel of wearing hand cream and I’d want to wash my hands immediately after I’d applied it, so instead I used to bear the brunt of dry cracked skin! Not anymore! My favourite hand cream (and I’ve tried many) absorbs into skin immediately and intensely nourishes, soothes and softens my dry, damaged hands. I take it everywhere I go! “I love this hand cream! It really helps my chapped hands. It is not greasy but very hydrating. It smells great too!!” – Nicole “Just as the name of the cream suggest, this is a really rich and moisturizing hand cream! It sinks in to the skin and leaves my hands soft. I just love it.” – Maryanne V Want to know what our top picks are when it comes to makeup essentials for Winter too? Click here. A few other tips to remember to get your skin through the winter season; - No matter how tempting it is (and I have been guilty in the past!) try not to have your shower set to HOT. Unfortunately, it will strip your skin’s natural oils leaving you feeling tight and dry! - Don’t forget to hydrate from within too! Topical skincare is essential to nourish the skin from the outside in, but you also need to drink plenty of water to hydrate from within! - And remember even in winter you need to wear your sunscreen!! The UV rays are always there!

Experiencing burnout? 7 self-care beauty buys you should try

by Jo Boyden on May 23 2025

Dealing with constant deadlines? Endless to do lists and responsibilities? You’re definitely not alone! But when you feel like you’re running on empty it’s time to hit pause and put yourself first with a little self-care, essential for your wellbeing! Whether you’re dealing with daily stress, experiencing burnout, or simply craving a little pampering, incorporating stress-relieving skincare into your daily routine can help you unwind, recharge, and reset. From aromatherapy-infused skincare to calming bath rituals, keep reading to discover the best self-care beauty buys for burnout recovery, 7 products not only loved by the BC team, but our customers too. 1. Pevonia’s De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil An essential oil for mind and body reset A favourite of ours and for very good reason, this multi-sensory oil is like serenity in a bottle! Infused with lavender, chamomile, grapefruit, rose flower oil and squalane, it instantly melts stress on contact, calming your senses, deeply hydrating, and cocooning your skin in a soothing, spa-like aroma. It’s nourishing, aromatic, and totally mood-lifting! Simply warm a few drops between your palms, inhale deeply, and gently massage it into your face, neck, and décolletage. Remember massage is one of the best stress relievers and no it doesn’t need to be at the hands of someone else, just a few minutes massaging a facial oil into your skin can induce endorphins and help relinquish stress. For an even more nurturing experience massage the oil into your skin with a gemstone facial roller. They help boost circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance the absorption of your favourite serums and creams. Plus, the cooling sensation feels absolutely heavenly. “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 2. Phytomer Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath A beautifully soothing bath soak for stress relief There’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm bath to wash stress away. Add a bath soak enriched with magnesium, essential oils or minerals to help relieve tension in your muscles and mind. For added indulgence, light a candle, play soft music, and just let go. Phytomer Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath is an amazing lightly foaming bath ‘sensation’ enriched with Phytomer’s iconic OLIGOMER®, a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater to remineralize, strengthen, and energize the skin, releasing all pent-up tension and promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Outstanding stuff! “I’ve been using the seaweed soap in the shower for almost a year and I wanted a marine based treat to savour a bit longer, in a nice late night bath. After a very challenging day, both physically and mentally; it made me feel like I could float away. It’s so soft, you feel weightless and after I’d used up all the hot water I still wanted to stay and soak. The scent is still on my skin as I am getting ready for bed and my tired legs feel so relaxed now. Sweet dreams for me I think.” – Lisa D 3. Pevonia Anti-stress Bath & Shower Gel A self-care shower sensation If you don’t have time for a bath (or perhaps you don’t have a bath) Pevonia’s Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel is the perfect product to lather your skin while showering your angst away. This naturally foaming shower gel is infused with calming sweet almond, chamomile, and lavender turning every bath or shower into a blissful escape. It gently cleanses without drying, leaving your skin soft, refreshed, and delicately scented. Whether you need to unwind after a long day or simply crave a moment of self-care, this stress-relieving beauty buy is your ticket to instant relaxation and radiant, healthy-looking skin “WOW. This product is amazing. The smell totally relaxes you and it doesn't leave your skin feeling like rubber like soap does. You're left feeling silky smooth for a long time and the scent lingers. Beautiful product, highly recommend!” – Lisa T 4. Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask Your glow-inducing face mask Face masks aren’t just for your skin, they're for your psyche, too and when your skin looks as stressed as you feel, this ultra-hydrating mask is the perfect remedy! Creamy and nourishing, it delivers a big burst of moisture to the skin while helping restore radiance thanks to its potent cocktail of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, vitamins C, B5 and E. It’s perfect for a tired, dull complexion and brings that post-facial glow while plumping and smoothing the skin in minutes! “Another product I have been using for years, which I can’t go past! A luxurious product that just does something amazing to my skin. Skin feels plump and toned after using. A little goes a long way…” – Eric C 5. Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist The ultimate facial mist to calm and refresh Sometimes a refreshing spritz is all you need to reset. Cue Pevonia's Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist, a little bottle of hydration heaven! This deeply nourishing mist instantly quenches dry, tired skin boosting moisture levels while soothing and calming irritation. Keep it by your desk or bedside for a cooling burst of calm whenever you need it. It really is an instant skin and mood booster when you’re feeling the 3pm slump I can vouch for that! “Consider me hooked on the Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist! The product scent is exquisite. My skin absorbs the product nicely and I feel more hydrated, as well as a sense of calm & well-being, after a spray of this product on my face, neck, and décolleté. I will be purchasing another bottle to keep at the office to refresh my skin & help relax during the workday.” – Anne E 6. Pevonia Tension Relief Gel Your muscle tension and stress reliever This cooling gel is a saviour for sore feet and tired shoulders, neck tension, and sore muscles! With soothing menthol and natural extracts, it provides instant relief and a tingly sensation that feels so satisfying. “Love this product. It really does what it says! It releives tension and aches in the muscles while cooling. I use it on my feet and legs but but have used on my wivess shoulders too. Works a treat! Highly recommended.” – James B 7. Phytomer Oligomer® Well-Being Sensation Moisturizing Body Cream with Trace Elements Wrap yourself in calm This silky, mineral-rich body cream doesn’t just hydrate, it heals. Infused with Phytomer’s OLIGOMER®, it replenishes your skin with trace elements, smooths dryness, and leaves you feeling restored, inside and out. It’s like a hug in a jar!

Mature skin? The forgotten steps you need in your routine

by Jo Boyden on Apr 24 2025

When it comes to beauty and our daily routine, we all know the basics – cleanse daily, nourish skin with a quality serum and moisturiser and never skip SPF in the morning! But if your skin is starting to age, sticking to just the essentials simply isn’t enough. To support your skin as it matures, it’s important to up the ante with a few extra targeted steps. These often-over-looked additions will make all the difference in how your skin both looks and feels! Want to know what they are? Keep reading as we count down 7 additional steps you need in your routine and our expert approved product recommendations. 1. Eye cream The area around your eyes is the most delicate on your face, and sadly the first to show obvious signs of ageing! Unfortunately, many of us get a little lazy though when it comes to applying eye cream or simply think our moisturiser will be sufficient which is sadly not the case! Eye treatments tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns – crow’s feet, under eye bags, dark circles and more, and have the ability to penetrate deep into the skin for optimal results keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay! For the best eye creams for ageing eyes. We highly recommend trying one of these! 2. Exfoliator As we age our skin's natural ability to shed dead cells declines, and 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! To learn more about the benefits of exfoliation and which exfoliator will be best for your skin click here 3. Lip cream Just like our eyes, our lips are one of the first areas to show signs of ageing because the skin is thinner and more delicate and quickly loses volume, moisture, and elasticity, leading to thinning, fine lines, and dryness. Eek! So it’s important to show them as much love as you would your face. This means applying a lip cream daily. We are huge advocates for Phytomer’s Youth Contour Smoothing Eye and Lip Cream which deeply moisturises and volumizes the lips, blurs imperfections, and, unlike other lip products, also smooths the surrounding skin folds, lines and wrinkles! 4. Neck and decollete cream This is usually the #1 forgotten area but 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. We love (and I personally use!) Phytomer's Decollete Parfait Neck and Decollete Renewing Care, it 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! 5. Hand cream We often focus all our anti-ageing efforts on our face but like with our delicate eye area or neck and chest, our hands can give away our age since the delicate skin is often exposed to the sun and environmental damage! And I can bet your bottom dollar that many of us are not using a good hand cream daily! I know I am guilty of missing this step! Start by applying sunscreen to the back of your hands and then moisturise them as you would your face daily. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Collagen Hand Cream, it's divinely nourishing and gives hands an instant lift in appearance and texture thanks to its Vitamin C, Marine Collagen Polypeptides and hyaluronic acid formulation! 6. Primer A good primer can work wonders for mature skin by filling in fine lines and wrinkles, blurring imperfections, and ensuring longer-lasting makeup. In fact, I’d safely save it will become your secret weapon when it comes to prepping mature skin for makeup since it’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing too! It’s best to look for a silicone-based primer that offers a smoothing effect without clogging pores. Apply it evenly to your face after moisturizing, focusing on areas prone to fine lines, such as around the eyes and mouth. Try ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer. It hydrates, soothes, calms and plumps skin with Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel & Marigold. 7. Concealer As we mature and our face loses its youthful “plumpness”, shadows start to really appear under our eyes, around the nose, and at the corners of our mouth. It’s tempting to reach for a heavy duty, foundation to hide these dark areas. The problem is that they just make the dark shadows look grey as opposed to concealing them! Instead opt for peachy toned, lightweight concealers that won’t cake on the skin and counteract the blue in the shadows. ELES Dual Action Concealer is an excellent option.

This self-care ritual will transform your skin and psyche

by Jo Boyden on Apr 24 2025

Feeling stressed? In desperate need of some time out but you’re simply too time poor? We know that feeling all too well. But we are here to tell you that something as simple as a quiet evening, a few luxurious beauty products, and some well-deserved “you” time can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing. So, dim the lights, queue up your favourite calming playlist, and get ready to unwind with this indulgent beauty ritual your skin (and psyche) will love. Step 1: Set the mood Setting the mood for any self-care ritual is essential because it helps shift your mindset from daily stress and distractions to a state of calm. When you create a soothing environment (think soft lighting, soothing sounds, calming scented candles or burning essential oils) you signal to your brain that it’s time to relax, recharge, and focus inward. This sensory shift not only enhances your overall experience but also allows your body and mind to fully benefit from the ritual. Step 2: Start your ritual with a replenishing face mask Of course you’ll need to cleanse your skin first, but a face mask is the perfect opportunity to pause, breathe and treat your skin to something special! It’s a great way to not only address our skin's needs but also make us feel amazing in little to no time! This is because a face mask can lift your spirit by stimulating your senses and allow you a moment (or few moments should I say!) of indulgent comfort. Ahhhhh. It really is the ultimate way to reset tired, dehydrated or stressed skin. For the perfect mask for your skin click here. Or if it’s a sheet mask you love, we can highly recommend those too! Step 3: Now it’s time to indulge in a therapeutic bubble bath Who doesn’t love a bubble bath? Such a simple yet indulgent way to totally unwind and enjoy a little “you time”. Now wearing your mask (or not if you’ve chosen to already remove it!) simply slide into a bath infused with aromatic salts or essential oils for the ultimate relaxation. Remember this is your well-deserved time to let go of the day and totally unwind for those few minutes (or longer if you have!) Self-Care Tip: Add a few drops of marine bath salts and let the steam open your pores—prepping your skin for what’s to come. Phytomer’s Oligomer Well-being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath really is the ultimate mineral bath. This amazing lightly foaming product is enriched with OLIGOMER® - a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension. Its gorgeous Green Tea and Jasmine fragrance is also diffused throughout the duration of your bath leaving a trail of freshness and lightness on your skin. Bliss. Step 4: Elevate your routine with a facial massage Once you’re out of the bath and your mask has worked its magic, it’s time to lock in all that goodness with a nourishing facial oil or cream and a facial massage! We love Pevonia Aromatic Oil. With all the benefits of 4 mood enhancing essential oils – lavender, grapefruit, chamomile and rose, combined with squalane and vitamin e, this soothing and indulgent face oil combats dehydration and dryness while soothing, calming and brightening skin. It also promotes an immediate feeling of increased wellbeing and total relaxation from the moment you apply it! Heaven. How to:Use your fingers or a facial roller to gently massage the oil into your skin using upward strokes. Not only does this boost circulation and lymphatic drainage, but it’s also deeply relaxing (and so good for softening fine lines!). We love gemstone facial rollers. These little massage beauty’s (also touted as an “anti-ageing tool”) offer a multitude of benefits for the skin (and mindset) when used regularly and correctly. They can help fight wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, tighten skin and pores, increase blood circulation to the face, clear toxins, decrease puffiness under the eyes and around the face, and potentially improve inflammatory skin conditions too! Oh, and they even have the ability to release tension! (And did I mention are soo soothing and calming on the skin.) Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all though, with a range of gemstone options, it’s important to look at their individual properties and benefits to find which one will work best for you! To find out more about their benefits as well as how to incorporate them into your daily skincare routine click there. For a detailed account of how to achieve a salon-style facial at home click here. Step 5: Seal it with moisture Finish with a velvety moisturiser that will cocoon your skin in lasting hydration throughout the night! Try Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream - Skin cells do their greatest renewal and repair whilst we sleep, so applying much needed hydration at night is encouraged to maximise absorption and enhance your skin barrier. I personally LOVE Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream and use it religiously because my skin demands that extra layer of rich fluffy moisturiser. The cream literally cocoons my skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning. Step 6. Don’t forget your body! Now it’s time to focus on your body with a gorgeous moisturising body cream like Oleocreme Ultra Moisturizing Body Milk. It’s a melt-away body moisturiser which intensely nourishes the skin while bathing it in a therapeutic seaside scent (lush) and It’s creamy, velvety texture literally envelopes skin treating it to all the benefits of the sea! Step 7: Finish with a little foot care loving When my feet are feeling fatigued (which is often these days) there is nothing better than a pampering foot massage with Pevonia’s Tension Relief Gel. This cooling and uplifting, anti-inflammatory foot treatment literally alleviates tension and heaviness in an instant! And if my legs are sore and achy massaging Phytomer’s Cryotonic Soothing Leg Gel is a must too!

Breaking out at 40 and beyond? How to fight adult acne

by Jo Boyden on Mar 14 2025

Waking to breakouts when you thought acne was behind you? Feeling frustrated but not sure what to do? Believe it or not, adult acne is more common than you think, and it can be just as frustrating, if not more, than those pesky teenage pimples we all endured! From hormonal changes and stress to skincare mistakes and environmental factors, there are a number of reasons why blemishes can return in adulthood. The good news? With the right targeted skincare routine and lifestyle changes, you can achieve clear skin once again! Keep reading as we discuss what’s causing your breakouts and, more importantly, our expert approved tips and solutions on how to treat them! Why you’re getting breakouts - the most common triggers for adult acne Unfortunately, adult acne can be caused by a number of factors, often different from the breakouts we experienced in our teens, so it’s important to try and identify your specific root cause. Everything from hormonal imbalances, stress, diet, and even the medication you might be taking can contribute to your breakouts. Here are the most common triggers: 1. Hormonal Imbalances If you are experiencing blemishes and acne in your 40’s and 50’s, chances are it could be to do with perimenopause and the menopause. And if you had a history of pimples and acne as a teenager, you’ll more likely to be susceptible to getting acne flare ups now too! Unfortunately, fluctuations in our hormones, particularly androgens (like testosterone), can increase oil production, this excess oil can then mix with bacteria, dead skin and debris leading to clogged pores and breakouts! This is why acne also often flares up around the menstrual cycle, and during pregnancy, as well as due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 2. Stress When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can stimulate oil glands and worsen acne. Stress-induced inflammation can also slow healing, making breakouts last longer. 3. Skincare & Makeup products Using the wrong skincare or makeup or simply overloading your skin with it, can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Too many products, as well as heavy, oil-based, or comedogenic products can worsen acne, while harsh cleansers can strip your skin and in turn cause it to go into overdrive and overproduce oil, which is where the cycle comes into play! 4. Diet Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods (like white bread, potatoes, rice, cereals), dairy, and processed sugars can trigger acne by increasing inflammation and oil production so if you are ingesting much of these foods it could be one reason for your increased blemishes! 5. Lifestyle It can be hard to get that 8-9 hours of sleep a night believe me! But lack of sleep, as well as other lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking alcohol and sugary drinks can and will affect your skin in one way or another and it’s usually through the increase in blemishes. 6. Environmental Factors Pollution, sweat, and even your phone screen or pillowcase can harbor bacteria that contribute to breakouts. Regularly cleaning your phone and changing pillowcases can help reduce bacteria exposure. 6. Medications Certain medications, including steroids, birth control pills, and antidepressants, can disrupt hormones or increase oil production, leading to breakouts. 7. Over-Exfoliating or Harsh Skincare Too much exfoliation or harsh acne treatments can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to more oil production and irritation, making acne worse instead of better! How to treat breakouts and adult acne 1. Cleanse gently (but effectively!) Many people with acne-prone skin make the mistake of over-cleansing or using harsh scrubs, which can strip the skin and lead to even more breakouts. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. We highly recommend Hubislab A.C Clearing Purifying Cleansing Gel. It’s a soothing gel-based cleanser which has been especially formulated (salicylic acid and powerful antioxidant green tea) for congested and acne prone skin to completely but gently clear pores, removing makeup, dirt and grime from the skin without over-drying, all whilst protecting the skin against oxidative damage. 2. Don’t skimp on moisturiser It’s a common misconception that oily or acne-prone skin doesn’t need moisture! The truth is, when your skin is dehydrated it can actually produce even more oil to over compensate, leading to further breakouts, eek! You do need to be careful about the moisturisers you choose though! When looking for the best moisturisers for acne prone skin, you’ll want to choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without clogging pores, like the ProCorrective Clear-Control Moisturiser for balancing hydration and oil control. It’s carefully selected non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) super skin-clearing, calming and hydrating ingredients (we are talking Zinc Chloride, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Cinnamon, Thyme, Mallow, Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Glycolic and Salicylic Acids, Microcitrus Australasica, a.k.a. Caviar Lime and Hyaluronic Acid!)combine to deeply target acne by rapidly clearing away blemishes and clogging, while moisturising and smoothing uneven texture. It’s so good! In fact the whole Pevonia ProCorrective line is outstanding for the management of adult acne! 3. Exfoliate regularly (but don’t overdo it!) Exfoliation is key to unclogging pores and preventing breakouts, but doing it daily can damage your skin barrier. Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs (like glycolic or salicylic acid) two times per week to keep your skin smooth and clear. We love Pevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. Do not let the name ‘peeling cream’ put you off though! Papaya and Pineapple have been selected for their enzyme peeling action, an action that gently digests away impurities, sebum, toxins and the dead skin cells, instead of abrading or burning them off. So, it’s gentle, really gentle, and it’s effective too! Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, lighter or more purified than this jar of goodness and it’s easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer on cleansed skin, wet the fingertips with warm water, this will help to “wake up” the enzymes, then leave them to do their thing for 5-10 minutes, then rinse away. 4. Spot treat your skin When a breakout appears, resist the urge to squeeze it please! And yes, I know how tempting it can be, but squeezing spots can spread bacteria and exacerbate your acne! Instead, use a targeted spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, or tea tree oil to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. 5. Manage your stress Easier said than done we know, but there are some amazing aids and coping mechanisms when it comes to stress. Try to give yourself a little “me” time. This might feel like an impossibility especially if you are a busy, working mum! But we are simply talking even a few minutes a day to soak in a bath, read your book, listen to a podcast, meditate, exercise or simply listen to music! Breathing exercises can also be game-changing and I know have seriously helped me! One of the main symptoms of perimenopause is anxiety and being in my mid 40’s I have definitely been hard hit. I find music and breathing has helped no end. I’m telling you just a little time out can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s clarity. 6. Choose your makeup wisely Heavy, oil-based foundations can clog pores and worsen acne so you’ll want to opt for non-comedogenic, breathable makeup formulas, and always remove your makeup before bed to prevent buildup and irritation! Mineral makeup is the best makeup for acne prone skin, its free from common irritants such as fragrances, preservatives, and synthetic dyes, making it less likely to cause breakouts or allergic reactions plus so many formulations are lightweight and breathable, so you literally feel like you aren’t wearing makeup (even though it will help conceal those blemishes) and will literally allow your inflamed skin to breathe and not be clogged! I know I am biased but I have been using ELES Mineral Makeup for YEARS. And I will never use anything else. I can hand on heart say their products have helped my skin, prevented me from getting spots even! I personally love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Mineral Powder Foundation, but the no. 1 ELES best-seller is the Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation, and the reviews speak volumes! All three products are mineral, filled to the brim with skin friendly, anti-ageing ingredients and do not ever clog pores! Brillant stuff. 7. Watch your diet If you are struggling with adult acne, you should try and cut down on high-glycemic foods which have been linked to acne flare-ups. Also try reducing your intake of processed sugars and dairy products. Instead eat a diet rich in antioxidants (like leafy greens, nuts, and berries) and healthy fats (like fish, avocado and unsalted nuts), and increase hydration to help balance skin. 8. Try to get enough sleep Sometimes getting that 7-9 hours of solid sleep a night can seem like an impossibility, I know! But sleep really is essential for skin health because it allows for cellular repair, collagen production, and hydration balance. During deep sleep, our body boosts blood flow to the skin, helping to reduce inflammation, prevent premature ageing, and promote a radiant complexion (crazy right?) 9. Stay kind to your skin and consistent with your routine From spots to adult acne, we know how frustrating breakouts can be! But constantly switching products can often make things worse! Remember to treat your skin with gentle, nourishing care and give products time to work their magic. Clear skin doesn’t happen overnight! Sticking to a consistent skincare routine with the right products for your skin type really is key to preventing breakouts in the long run. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can take control of adult acne and enjoy a clearer, healthier complexion, we promise!

How to achieve glowing skin in 8 simple steps

by Jo Boyden on Dec 13 2024

Who doesn’t want radiant, glowing skin? After all that lit-from-within look is the ultimate sign of a healthy, well cared for complexion, right? But how can you achieve truly glowing, sun-kissed skin without well having to well, “sun” yourself? In 8 simple steps that’s how! That’s right, anyone can achieve beautiful, glowy skin in next to no time, you just need to use the right products! Keep reading as we reveal the products we can’t get enough of right now, a complete skincare range of glow inducing products that will transform your skin into its most radiant skin yet! Seriously. Introducing Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance range If you are in search of hydration, radiance, and relief, I’m here to tell you this is the range for you! and its certified organic too, using the best of the best when it comes to skincare ingredients! Formulated with the exceptional skincare benefits of organic Cyfolia algae (nicknamed ‘rainbow algae’) its iridescent fronds have optimal light diffusion which works on the skin for an intensely radiant complexion which deeply hydrating and smoothing skins texture. Rich in antioxidants, this certified organic range also soothes, balances, and revitalizes, while being kind to the environment. Its outstanding! How to get glowy skin Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing Cream Glowing skin starts with a clean canvas. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities that can dull your complexion. You’ll want to use a gentle cleanser rich in radiance inducing and hydrating ingredients to help maintain the natural moisture barrier while keeping pores clear. The super-soft, velvety and creamy Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream is formulated with so many clever ingredients including; the formidable Cyfolia algae, revitalising seawater – oligomer, organic orange water, organic vegetal oils, rose, cedarwood, spiced pink peppercorns, and aloe vera which envelope the skin with a beautiful, fresh fragrance. And on application, this rich cleansing cream quite literally melts into skin to very gently (but also very effectively!) remove makeup, oil, and any impurities while nourishing and soothing skin! 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! Seriously! Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Toning Cleansing Lotion Toning your skin if often a step that gets skipped but I’m telling you this essential step can make all the difference when it comes to glowing skin! A good toner (or lotion) not only removes any excess dirt or grime left behind after cleansing, but it also corrects your skin’s pH balance (needed for optimal skin health), helps to reduce pores size, helps your skin to absorb other products (making them more effective), soothes and refreshes skin, restores hydration and helps limit oil production to give skin a healthy, matte appearance! Combining organic Cyfolia algae with organic orange water for maximum radiance, Phytomers Cyfolia Radiance Toning Cleansing Lotion hydrates, refreshes, gently removes make-up and tones the skin leaving you with a glowing complexion. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream Exfoliation is key to glowing skin, stat. By removing dead skin cells, you reveal fresh, new skin underneath. Choose a gentle chemical exfoliant like AHAs for smoother texture and an even tone. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream is rich in AHA’s, two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, orange water and Cyfolia algae, and does exactly what the name says! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! Each ingredient works together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application. Just be sure to limit exfoliation to 2–3 times a week to avoid irritation. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Hydra-Comforting Radiance Cream Hydration is non-negotiable for radiant skin. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid into your routine. Follow with a moisturiser to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin barrier. Thanks to cyfolia algae, orange water, oligomer, and seaside flower, the Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Hydra-Comforting Radiance Cream is super hydrating, soothing, calming, and brightening all rolled into one beautifully silky cream to promote optimal radiance when it’s most needed. Pro Tip: Apply your hydrating products while your skin is slightly damp for better absorption. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Moisturising Mask A face mask is essential for radiant, glowing skin as it delivers concentrated nutrients, deeply hydrates, and targets specific concerns like dullness or dryness. Masks boost skin's brightness by removing impurities, enhancing texture, and promoting circulation, leaving your complexion refreshed, rejuvenated, and luminous with regular use. Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Moisturising Mask combines natural red clays and organic cyfolia algae to deeply nourish the skin leaving it fresh, visibly plumped and with optimum radiance! Its creamy and comforting texture envelops the skin with a fresh, vegetal accord of aloe vera, rose, and cedarwood enhanced by a spice accord formulated with pink peppercorns. Every time you use it (once or twice a week is ideal) the complexion is revived, and the skin is visibly more radiant! Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Youth Glow Renewing Wrinkle Cream A nourishing cream at night is a must. It really is vital when it comes to radiant, glowing skin as they works overnight to repair and rejuvenate skin. Packed with hydrating and restorative ingredients Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Youth Glow Renewing Wrinkle Cream boosts collagen, locks in moisture, and combats damage from daily stress. The result? A refreshed, plump, and luminous complexion by morning! Phytomer Sun Solution Sunscreen SPF 30 Sun protection is the most important step for healthy, glowing skin. UV damage is a leading cause of dullness, discoloration, and premature ageing, eek! Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen like Phytomer Sun Solution Sunscreen SPF 30 every day, come rain or shine, and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors! A good sunscreen that doesn’t leave some sort of white residue or greasy sheen can be hard to come but this one is a gem! Thanks to its UVA and UVB sun filters, this ultra-light, non-tinted, non-sticky nourishing sunscreen offers effective sun damage protection and helps to keep the skin youthful. It leaves skin incredibly soft and supple. It really is good for lighter skin types who need maximum protection! Phytomer Sun Radiance Self-Tanning Cream Self-tanning creams can help you achieve a glowing, sun-kissed look without the risk of UV damage from the sun! They not only provide you with a gorgeously glowy natural looking tan but they can also minimize imperfections! Phytomer Sun Radiance Self-Tanning Cream has a beautifully light satin texture which makes it so easy to apply and does not leave any unwanted streaks!! it quickly absorbs into the skin and within a few hours, you’ll have the most perfect long-lasting natural tan! Result. Remember what you put in your body reflects on your skin too so include plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and foods high in omega-3s in your diet. These nutrients help reduce inflammation and support skin health from the inside out! Some of our favourite glow-boosting foods include; Berries, oranges, and kiwis (high in vitamin C), avocados and nuts (rich in healthy fats) and salmon and flaxseeds (packed with omega-3 fatty acids). And finally your skin repairs itself while you sleep, making rest essential for a glowing complexion. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Stress can also take a toll on your skin, so incorporate relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or a calming evening skincare routine to keep your mind and skin in balance.

12 steps to minimise large pores: Your ultimate guide

by Jo Boyden on Dec 06 2024

If you’re one of the many blessed with oily skin, you might find your struggling with large pores too, especially as the weather is heating up and oil production can go into overdrive! That said, large pores are one of the most common (and searched) skin concerns affecting people of all ages and skin types (not just oily skin). They can make your skin appear uneven, textured, or oily, leaving many of us wondering what exactly is causing them and how we can reduce their size stat! Keep reading as we reveal the reasons behind your large pores and, more importantly, how you can minimize their appearance with targeted products and expert tips too! So, why do you have large pores? Believe it or not there are actually many reasons your pores might be a lot larger than you’d like! Excess oil production Pores are essential for releasing oil (sebum) to keep your skin moisturised. However, overactive sebaceous glands can cause pores to stretch, making them appear larger. Oily skin types are particularly prone to this issue. Clogged pores When oil mixes with dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells, it can clog pores, causing them to expand. This can lead to blackheads and a bumpy skin texture Loss of collagen and elastin As you age, your skin loses collagen and elastin, which are responsible for keeping it firm and tight. With less support, pores may appear more prominent. Sun damage Prolonged exposure to UV rays breaks down collagen and thickens the skin, stretching out pores over time. Genetics Yes you can thank your parents for those unruly large pores of yours! Your skin type and pore size are largely determined by your genetics. If your family has visible pores, chances are you will too. Improper skincare routine Using the wrong skincare products or skipping essential steps like cleansing can exacerbate the appearance of enlarged pores. How to minimize large pores While you can’t actually change your pore size completely (thanks to genetics), you can take steps to minimize their appearance and achieve a smoother, healthier-looking complexion; 1. Cleanse thoroughly Keeping your pores clean really is the first step to minimising their appearance. This means using a gentle cleanser specific to your skin type both morning and night to effectively remove oil, dirt, sunscreen and makeup. If your skin is combination to oily, it’s best to opt for gel or foaming cleaners, if your skin tends to be on the sensitive side, there are some amazing sensitive skin cream cleansers for that too! Specific ingredients will make a big difference to the appearance of your pore size too. Cleansers formulated with AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) such as Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid, and/or BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids) such as Salicylic acid can make all the difference! 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. We highly recommend Vie Collection Cleansing Gel with Glycolic, Lactic and Salicylic Acids. This foaming cleansing gel combines glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to stimulate cellular activity, break the intercellular glue between dead cells and thoroughly cleanse skin. Remember harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing your pores to become larger so do consider which cleaner is right for your skin! 2. Exfoliate Regularly When it comes to large pores, exfoliation is paramount! You want to ensure pores are unclogged to prevent further stretching, and exfoliating effectively removes dead skin cells and prevents pore-clogging buildup. Try Pure Balance Papaya Enzyme Peeling Wash. This plant enzyme-based deep cleanser formulated with natural papaya extract dissolves easily in cold water and eliminates dead skin cells without irritation, breaking down proteins to produce peptone, which washes away dirt and sebum within the pores without irritation. Tip: Exfoliate 1–3 times per week based on your skin type. 3. Incorporate retinol into your routine Believe me when I say retinol is a game-changer for pore refinement. A good retinol serum will boost cell turnover and collagen production, which tightens the skin around pores. Just remember though if you haven’t used retinol before you’ll want to introduce it slowly and at night to avoid any irritation. For more information on retinol click here. 4. Use Clay Masks Who doesn’t love a good mask and clay masks are no exception. In fact clay masks will absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from pores when applied. For a real deep clean use your clay mask once or twice a week. And look for masks that specifically have kaolin or bentonite clay. We love Phytomer CityLife Radiance Reviving Mask 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! 5. Hydrate Wisely Dehydrated skin can overcompensate by producing more oil, in turn worsening the appearance of your pores! Be sure to use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers rich in hyaluronic acid, not heavy, greasy creams that could potentially clog your pores. We love: Hubislab Moisture Max Hydro Cream. It’s a powerful, fast-acting moisturiser that quickly locks in hydration while soothing skin. Formulated with a unique blend of hyaluronic compounds that work to form a protective moisture barrier, its lightweight texture provides a primer-like finish without any greasiness! 6. Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen UV damage breaks down collagen and makes pores look larger so you need to be armed with a good broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply every single morning. Try to minimise sun exposure too and always wear a hat! 7. Use pore-minimizing products As well as your hydrating moisturiser and retinol serum, we recommend you invest in products specifically designed to refine pores too like Pevonia’s Age Correction Micro-Pores Refine Cream. it’s a mattifying treatment cream that minimizes pores by combining cutting-edge natural actives like red clover extract and retinol to regulate oil production and refine skin texture. This lightweight cream also hydrates while delivering antioxidants, leaving your skin smoother, balanced, and visibly clearer with regular use. 8. Avoid squeezing or picking pimples from clogged pores It’s tempting to squeeze clogged pores, but this can damage the skin and make pores appear larger. Use proper skincare tools or visit a professional for extractions. 9. Use a primer before applying makeup A good primer will become your lifeline if you are prone to enlarged pores. Not only will it stop your foundation from sliding off your face quite literally, it’ll keep your base smooth while reducing the appearance of pores (and fine lines!) if you are a sufferer of oily skin and pores on the, let’s say slightly larger side! Our recommended go-to is the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s oil-free (of course), 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. 10. Choose your makeup wisely 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 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. 11. Give professional treatments a go if you are really concerned about your pore size, professional in-salon treatments can deliver dramatic results. Treatments such as chemical peels exfoliate intensively and deeply to unclog and refine pores. Microneedling boosts collagen production for firmer, smoother skin. And laser therapy reduces oil production and tightens skin. 12. Be Consistent Achieving smoother skin takes time. Stick to a routine and give products time to work, remember consistency is key to long-term improvement! While you can’t change your pore size, you can control how they look by keeping them clean, unclogged, and supported with the right skincare routine. With a mix of at-home care and professional treatments, your pores can go from prominent to practically invisible.

How to keep skin looking youthful: 8 skincare essentials

by Jo Boyden on Nov 08 2024

When it comes to maintaining youthful, glowing skin, choosing the right beauty products can make all the difference! While genetics and lifestyle of course play a role, your skincare routine is key to keeping signs of ageing at bay! Investing in high-quality beauty buys, packed with proven ingredients, can help to smooth, firm, and brighten your complexion, giving you that truly coveted, youthful glow. But where do you start? With so many options out there, knowing which products to choose can be a little overwhelming! That’s why we have curated a list of the most effective beauty products we know will help keep your skin looking young. Keep reading to discover our top recommendations, the anti-ageing essentials we know you’ll love. Vitamin C Serum Using a Vitamin C serum is hands down one of the best steps you can take to achieve bright, even-toned, youthful looking skin. The powerful antioxidant is known for its ability to neutralize free radicals that cause premature ageing, helping to protect your skin from environmental damage, such as sun exposure and pollution. Vitamin C also supports collagen production, which is essential for maintaining firm, youthful skin. Try; Pevonia C Complexe with Oxyzomes We can’t get enough of this best-selling serum from Pevonia! Its nourishing but beautifully light on application, has the most divine scent and is rich in not only Vitamin C but hyaluronic acid, that work together to hydrate, correct photo-damage, and drench your skin with repairing antioxidants for a revitalized, youthful appearance. “I can't say enough good things about this product! My skin looks terrific. Apparently vitamin C is one of the best things you can 'feed' your skin. My skin looks fresher and more alive. I am 63yrs old, so am thrilled to find a product that takes a few years off my face.” – Pamela Retinol Cream Retinol is a skincare superstar when it comes to anti-ageing. Aside from SPF it is the no. 1 for maintaining youthful skin. Why? Because it boosts cell turnover, reduces fine lines, and improves skin texture. Try; Medicalia Retinol & “C” Care Cream Aside from Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, Retinol has long been worshipped by beauty professionals as the hero ingredient in the fight against wrinkles! Some even say nothing fights the signs of ageing better! Designed to stimulate your skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid and collagen which depletes with age, as well as improve its overall texture, Medicalia’s Retinol & “C” Care Cream delivers potent retinol deep within the skin to enhance cellular performance. Micro Retinol micro particles, combined with anti-agers Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Elastin peptides tighten, revitalise, resurface and rehydrate skin! “This is the best product for aging skin I have ever found.” - Heather Anti-ageing moisturiser Using an anti-ageing moisturiser is key to keeping your skin hydrated, smooth, and more resilient against the signs of ageing. Unlike regular moisturisers, anti-ageing formulas are packed with active ingredients like peptides, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, which work together to target wrinkles, loss of firmness, and dullness. By deeply hydrating and plumping the skin, an anti-aging moisturiser can minimize the appearance of fine lines and create a smoother texture. Additionally, these moisturisers help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it from environmental damage and boosting elasticity. Regular use not only keeps your skin looking fresh and youthful but also helps to prevent future signs of ageing, making it an essential step in any skincare routine for long-lasting, healthy, and radiant skin! Try; 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. “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 Vitamin enriched mask Using a vitamin-enriched mask is a fantastic way to keep skin youthful and glowing. Vitamins like C, E, and B3 (niacinamide) are powerful antioxidants that protect skin from environmental stressors, brighten dullness, and reduce signs of ageing. These masks also infuse your skin with intense hydration and essential nutrients, boosting elasticity and promoting a healthy, radiant complexion. Regular use helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and maintain a fresh, revitalized look. Plus, masks are easy and effective additions to any routine, delivering concentrated benefits to keep your skin feeling its best. Try: Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask This revitalizing and nourishing mask takes its inspiration from mesotherapy to visibly revitalize the skin. Its formula contains a cocktail of vitamins along with hyaluronic acid that ensure beautifully nourished, plumped and radiant skin after every application. “Another product I have been using for years, which I can’t go past! A luxurious product that just does something amazing to my skin. Skin feels plump and toned after using. A little goes a long way…” - Erin Crawford Hyaluronic rich facial mist Hydration is key to youthful skin, and hyaluronic acid is a master at retaining moisture. It plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and giving your complexion a dewy, youthful glow. Try; Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist All hail this beautiful mist rich in not only hyaluronic acid but cooling and calming chamomile, lavender, green tea and aloe too! It is heaven! Feels soo refreshing on application and really does rejuvenate skin, plump fine lines and alleviate dry and sensitive skin too. Want to maintain youthful skin? Keep this must-have in your handbag! Perfect to refreshen your skin throughout the day and apply at night for that added burst of moisture. “My skin was instantly hydrated and glowing! Plus the scent is amazing.” - Deanne Sunscreen If you don’t already know this, because I don’t tell you enough! Sunscreen is your best defence against premature ageing caused by UV rays. If you want to keep your skin looking youth, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential every day, even on cloudy days! For more information on SPF and choosing the right one for you click here. Try: Hubislab Post Rays Derma Perfect Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ -50g Non irritating, soothing and nourishing, this sunscreen not only provides complete UV and antioxidant protection, but it is also formulated with peptides and hydrolysed collagen to combat premature ageing and hyperpigmentation. The invisible matte formula applies smoothly and stays on all day! Nourishing eye 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! Try: Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream 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 Antioxidant-rich night cream An antioxidant-rich night cream is a powerhouse product for maintaining youthful, resilient skin. During the night, our skin enters repair mode, making it the ideal time to deliver nourishing ingredients that help counteract the daily damage caused by environmental stressors, like UV rays and pollution, which we know leads to premature ageing. Antioxidants in your night cream, work to neutralize free radicals that accelerate ageing, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. Additionally, these potent ingredients support the skin’s natural regeneration process, promoting a smoother, brighter, and more youthful complexion by morning. With an antioxidant-rich night cream, you’re giving your skin the tools it needs to wake up looking refreshed, healthy, and radiant. Try: Vie Collection Night Balm Rich Multi-Youth Cream This new cream really is the ultimate solution for those seeking radiant, youthful skin! It’s a beautifully rich, comforting cream infused with potent peptides, vitamins and minerals, designed to deliver a visibly younger looking complexion. What really sets this product apart though is its innovative formulation backed by Vie Collections cutting edge research. It’s not just about slathering on another product, this anti-ageing night cream uses potent ingredients, coupled with the best technology to deliver powerful actives deeper into the skin for maximum efficacy making a noticeable difference to your skin by morning! Clinically proven to comfort, regenerate and firm skin while you sleep, it also addresses a multitude of other ageing concerns including sagging skin, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, dullness and dehydration! In consumer clinical testing, a whopping 88% experienced a visible reduction in wrinkles in a matter of weeks! 79% where raving about their firmer skin while 96% talked about how their skin was more luminous than ever before. Now these are the results we want to hear!

Skincare layering: How to maximize your skincare results

by Jo Boyden on Oct 18 2024

Achieving healthy, glowing skin isn’t about relying on just one miracle product, it’s about mastering the art of skincare layering! By carefully layering the right products in the correct order in your daily routine, you will not only maximise each products efficacy, you’ll achieve your best skin yet too! But how do you get it right you might be asking? With so many lotions and potions and treatments, we know mastering your skincare routine can be somewhat overwhelming, but that’s why we are here to help you build a routine that works for your skin. From cleansing to SPF, keep reading as we count down the essential steps of skincare layering and how each step plays a vital role in maintaining a truly flawless complexion. Why skincare laying is important Skincare layering isn't just another beauty trend! It's a science-backed approach to maximizing the benefits of your products. When you layer the essentials in the correct order, the lighter, thinner ones (like serums) can penetrate deeper into your skin, allowing the heavier products (like moisturisers) to seal in the benefits for maximum results. Layering also allows you to target multiple skin concerns at once, plus, it ensures you get the most out of those high-performance ingredients! Step 1: Cleanse your skin I’m sure we all know that the first step to any skincare routine is to cleanse your skin. You want to make sure you start your day (and night!) with a clean canvas! Cleansing helps remove excess oil, dirt and impurities preparing your skin for the subsequent steps. If you don’t cleanse, the products to follow will simply not work their magic as they won’t be able to penetrate your skin effectively for optimal results. You need to be savvy with which cleanser you choose though. For more information on cleansing and the best cleanser for your skin click here. Additional tips: Make sure you use warm water when cleansing, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils causing havoc. Gently pat dry when finished, you don’t want to rub your skin! And double cleansing at night can help remove stubborn sunscreen and makeup, ensuring your skin is perfectly prepped for your nighttime ritual! Step 2: Exfoliate This isn’t a step you should be doing daily as you can over exfoliate skin and cause damage. Once or twice weekly is usually sufficient. And make sure you choose a product that suits your skins specific needs. If you have sensitive skin you are best to opt for a gentle exfoliant or enzyme exfoliant which doesn’t use abrasive granules. As the name would suggest, they exfoliate using enzymes which help to break down the keratin in the skin's upper layers, which helps lift off dead skin cells. The enzymes literally digest the dead skin on your face!! No matter what your skin type, you are going to fall in love with Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream, one of our favourites at BC! This little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) does wonders for the skin. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me. Remember like cleansing, exfoliating will help remove oil, dirt and impurities from your skin but by penetrating deeper into the pores. Exfoliating will slough away dead cells revealing the newer cells underneath for a smoother and brighter complexion. Step 3. Don’t forget to tone! A toner is often a step that many of us miss from our routine, but it really is a key step as it helps balance your skin's pH after cleansing. A good toner will remove any lingering impurities or makeup, and prep your skin for the next steps. Toners can also provide hydration, minimize the appearance of pores, and improve the absorption of serums and moisturisers! Additional tips: If you have sensitive skin exfoliating after toner may be gentler and less likely to cause irritation. The same goes for dry skin, exfoliating after toner can help remove dead skin cells without over-drying your skin. Also when searching for the right toner, look for ones with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or soothing agents like rosewater. Hands down one of our favourites when it comes to skin toning is Phytomer's Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion. It’s perfect for all skin types and ensures any leftover signs of residual makeup or oil is completely removed to reveal what I would describe as perfectly clean, glowing skin! Oh and its formulated with rosewater! We also highly recommend Pevonia’s best-selling Hydrating Toner. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice, and Vitamin E, it works to hydrate, revive and fully refresh the skin. Great for anyone with worried about ageing, dehydration or devitalised skin. Step 4: Apply a serum Ask any skincare expert and they’ll tell you that a really, really good serum is an imperative step in your daily skincare routine. In fact, these treatment powerhouses packed with active ingredients address specific skin issues more effectively than both moisturisers and lotions because they are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper into the skin and effectively deliver maximum results. Their job is to literally repair the skin at a cellular level and act on a wide range of skin concerns like fine lines, dark spots, dullness, rosacea and more! in fact there is a serum for every skin type and condition! Additional tips: We love a good vitamin C serum in the morning as it will not only brighten you skin but it’s the perfect product to protect against free radical damage and using a retinol serum at night will boost cell turnover and fight ageing. Just remember if you’re layering multiple serums (which is ok too), apply the water-based ones first, followed by oil-based serums. For more information on the multiple benefits of serums and our anti-ageing favourites for every skin type click here Step 5: Lock it in with moisturiser We ALL know moisturising is crucial to keeping our skin hydrated, but moisturisers also act as a sealant to lock in the benefits of that serum you just applied! And remember moisturiser is a must for all skin types, even if you have oily or combination skin! Simply use a lightweight oil free moisturiser or lotion for oily skin, or a rich cream if your skin tends to be dry. Same applies for other skin conditions or concerns, choose the right moisturiser suited to your specific needs. Additional tips: Moisturisers with hyaluronic acid are especially great at pulling moisture into the skin, giving you that plump, glowing look we all love! Step 6: Do not forget your eyes! The delicate skin around your eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so be sure to treat this area with love and care as you do the rest of your face! But using your everyday face moisturiser will not suffice. Eye treatments whether it be creams, gels or serums are specifically formulated to target and care for the delicate area around the eyes, the thinnest layer of skin on our entire bodies! In fact, the skin under our eyes is up to 1/10 thinner than other facial skin so it’s crucial to care delicately for this area to avoid any damage. Like a moisturiser, an eye cream’s main objective is to deliver brightening and anti-ageing ingredients, however in a milder, gentler, safer dose. Moisturisers tend to have a much richer consistency in comparison to their counterpart which if applied under the eyes can prove too much, resulting in irritation, allergic reactions and milia. Eye creams also tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns such as crow’s feet, under eye bags and dark circles. Additional tips: Using an eye cream packed with peptides, caffeine, or hyaluronic acid can help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. We highly recommend Pevonia Age Correction Eye Contour. It gives tired, ageing eyes the burst of hydration they need! Deeply nourishing and decongesting thanks to its combination of marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, green tea and marine elastin, it targets signs of fatigue, visibly reducing puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. What more could you want? If you prefer the feeling of a cooling eye gel to soothe and depuff your peepers though we also LOVE Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel. Anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo Biloba work together to deliver not only decongesting and brightening benefits but they also affectively target dark circles and wrinkles too! The results speak for themselves. Renewed, rejuvenated, refreshed and visibly brighter eye contour with visible reduction in wrinkles. Step 7: Now it’s time for your SPF! (Morning only) The last and arguably most important step in your morning routine is SPF. The non-negotiable! Why? Because sun exposure is the number one cause of premature ageing, from fine lines and wrinkles to hyperpigmentation, so protecting your skin from UV rays is crucial. Just be sure to opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen (to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, with at least SPF 30. Additional tip: If you’re using a product like retinol at night, SPF is even more important during the day, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. And even if you're indoors or it's cloudy, UV rays can still affect your skin. Step 8: Get masking Face masks can offer many physical and therapeutic benefits, from hydrating your complexion to improving the appearance of pores, to creating an overall sense of wellbeing and relaxation, but first and foremost masks provide cleansing on a deep deep level benefiting your skin in multiple ways. Don’t get me wrong your daily cleansing is imperative to your skincare routine, but applying a mask once or twice a week takes this process to a whole new level by removing any remaining makeup, excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities on the skin’s surface as well as beneath the upper layers of the epidermis. By removing the dirt and bacteria from deep inside your skin, face masks will refine pores, they can also help to stimulate blood circulation causing the blood vessels to expand. The result is softer skin with greater elasticity and a glow that’s instantly noticeable. Yes, please! For the best face masks for every skin concern click here. Step 9: Use a nighttime treatment At night, you have the chance to truly pamper your skin with a face oil. These can be added a couple of times a week to give your skin an extra boost of hydration, or repair, depending on your needs. Think of them as a way to supercharge your routine! Using a face oil at night helps lock in moisture, repair the skin barrier, and nourish your skin while you sleep. Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, face oils boost hydration, smooth fine lines, and leave your skin radiant and rejuvenated by morning. For more on the benefits of face oils and the best ones for your skin click here. Skincare layering might seem like an art, but once you understand the steps and how to combine them, it becomes second nature. The best part? As you refine your routine, you’ll start seeing the results you want! We are talking healthier, more radiant skin that looks and feels its best.

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