Summer is finally here! and if you’re anything like me you’ll be loving the longer sunny days, but with sunny days comes rising temperatures and let’s face the last thing any of us want is our carefully applied makeup melting away by mid-morning! The good news is you don’t need to forgo your daily makeup routine this time of year, you might just need to tweak it since the key to staying flawless lies in the right techniques and products you’re using! Keep reading as we reveal BC expert-approved tips to keep your makeup sweat-proof, smudge-free and picture-perfect all day long…seriously.   Prep skin for long-lasting makeup! The secret to long-lasting makeup begins with your skincare routine. And yes, you might be loving the products you’ve been using for months now, but you may find they’ll start to be a little too rich for your skin as the weather heats up. In summer, it’s best to switch to lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without feeling heavy. If your skin tends to get a little oily in summer due to the humidity you can also look for mattifying or gel-based formulas to control excess oil. Also, because I don’t say it enough, do not skip on your sunscreen. You just need to opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ that doesn’t feel oily and will protect your skin while acting as a barrier under your makeup. Try: Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield The one and only reason why so many people are reluctant to use sunscreen (despite knowing how important it is) is because they can’t stand the oily slick on their skin or the obvious sunscreen smell. Well with this outstanding tinted formulation there is no thick white paste, oily residue or unruly smell in sight! It feels like a lightweight moisturiser, smells divine, is loaded with anti-ageing goodies and it won’t cause itchiness thanks to its mineral formulation including both zinc and iron oxides. Very slightly tinted (though most of the tint disappears once it’s absorbed) it leaves your skin looking smoother and calmer. Oh and it protects skin against not only UVA and UVB rays (yes it provides skin with broad spectrum protection) but pollution and blue light damage omitted from our screens too! What’s more the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones too! Its outstanding!   Prime for perfection Primer is your best friend in hot weather. Trust me. People often forget to prime their skin but I’m here to tell you a good primer not only creates a beautifully smooth base for your makeup, helping it to stay put all day long, but it can also enhance the pigmentation of your makeup while targeting specific skin concerns! Be sure to choose a mattifying primer for oily skin or a hydrating primer if your skin tends to feel dehydrated and dry in the heat and simply apply it after you’ve cleansed and moisturised your skin and prior to your foundation and you’ll be good to go all day long! Try: ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer This primer is our go-to! Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking flawless! Genius!   Choose lightweight formulas when it comes to your foundation You might love your full coverage foundation, but sadly heavy foundations and heat don’t mix well. We recommend swapping your full-coverage foundation for a lightweight alternative like a tinted moisturizer, BB cream, or if matte is your formula opt for a breathable matte foundation, mineral is best. All these products will even out your skin tone without clogging pores or feeling cakey. Try: Mineral Sheer Tint For warm summer days, or those days when you want a no-makeup makeup look or don’t feel like wearing much makeup at all, this sheer tint is a winner. It offers a light, breathable coverage while providing sun protection. The mineral-based formula is gentle on the skin, making it perfect for everyday wear. Try: ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation For a beautifully flawless, matte finish, this best-selling breathable mineral foundation should be your go-to! It starts as a liquid and transforms into a velvety powder finish, providing the perfect balance between coverage and lightweight wear. It's enriched with vitamins A, C and E, making it ideal for those who want a foundation that cares for their skin and provide antioxidant, UVA and UVB protection. N.B If you need extra coverage because you’re concerned about blemishes, use a spot concealer only where necessary. Opt for creamy-based products Matte powder products can sometimes cake and settle into fine lines in humid conditions. Instead, go for cream-based or baked blushes, bronzers, and highlighters. These formulas blend seamlessly into the skin and give you a natural, dewy glow that lasts. Try: ELES Baked Blush, Bronzer and Finishing Powders This trio will highlight and contour while adding instant radiance to the face with soft, highly pigmentated creamy textured formulas.   Lock in your look While cream products are ideal for a natural look, a touch of translucent setting powder is key to locking your makeup base in place. Focus on oil-prone areas like your T-zone to prevent shine without over-powdering your face. Try: Try ELES HD Translucent Powder This loose setting powder doubles as a photo filter, blurring the appearance of pores, uneven texture and imperfections for an air-brushed, soft-focus effect on the skin. It provides sheer, natural coverage without any “caking” to lock in your look, plus it reduces the appearance of shine too thanks to its formulation of 100% mineral silica powder, perfect for absorbing that unwanted excess oil! And that’s not all! Using silica topically will also improve skin’s elasticity, texture and hydration, reducing visible signs of ageing over time. Oh, and it’s vegan, gluten free, paraben free, sulphate free and talc free! Win, win, win in our books!   Waterproof is the only way to go Waterproof and smudge-proof formulas are essential for summer, after all no one likes to look in the mirror at the end of the day and be confronted by horrendous panda eyes! From mascara and eyeliner to brow gels, these products resist sweat and humidity, ensuring your features stay defined all day! For mascara try: ELES Lash Fortify Waterproof Mascara The ergonomic brush and fortifying formula coats lashes to quickly lengthen, curl, volumize and lock them into place for all day wear. The result is instantly impressive eyes with lashes that are lusciously conditioned and protected all day long! For eyeliner try: ELES Superwear Gel Liner This eyeliner is not only super smooth to apply thanks to its moisturising and hydrating ingredients, but it’s also a long-wearing liner with intense colour pay-off! For eyebrow pencil try: ELES Precision Brow Pencil It’s easy to blend formula last for up to 10 hours and creates polished, better defined and filled in brows!   Use Setting Spray A good setting spray is like an invisible shield for your makeup. Choose one with hydrating properties and spritz it over your finished look to keep everything in place—even through sweat and heat. Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist This beautifully nourishing spray is a multi-tasking wonder, not only rehydrating skin with a burst of hyaluronic but also doubling up as a setting spray to keep makeup at bay all day long.   Embrace minimalism As much as many of us might like a full makeup look, it’s important to remember that less is more when it comes to summer.   Keep blotting papers or a powder compact handy Even with the best products, a little shine might break through. You can either keep blotting papers in your bag or use a mineral pressed power company to quickly absorb oil without disturbing your overall makeup look. They’re both a lifesaver for touch-ups throughout the day. Try: ELES Mineral Powder Foundation It’s the perfect product for any touch-ups, as well as eliminating shine I tell you! Unlike other heavier powders which can clog pores and in turn, lead to excess oil production (no thanks!) the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation is a translucent formula which not only looks beautifully natural but allows the skin to breathe freely too. The particles in the powder tend to absorb moisture, preventing shine and what’s more, it’s formulated with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, so it’ll provide antioxidant protection as well as condition skin!   Cool down your makeup tools Pop your beauty blender or makeup brushes in the fridge for a few minutes before use. Applying makeup with cool tools can help reduce redness and make your application feel refreshing!   Beating the heat doesn’t mean sacrificing your beauty routine. By choosing the right products and techniques, you can stay radiant and melt-proof no matter how hot it gets. Experiment with these tips to find what works best for you, and enjoy a flawless, summer-ready look all season long.

The festive season (or silly season as some of us like to call it!) is here! And with it comes a whirlwind of events, so nailing your makeup look (especially if you’re time poor like me) really is paramount! But how do you get that flawless, party-ready look that is simple to do and lasts all night? Well we’ve got you covered! Whether you are off to your work christmas party or have an upcoming gathering with friends, we have the perfect makeup look for you! Keep reading for our step-by-step guide, expert tips and product recommendations to make sure you’re party ready this festive season!   How to get a “soft glam” makeup look There’s definitely a time and place for a smouldering smokey eye, sharp contouring, or a striking red lip, but this silly season we are focusing on a more understated “soft glam” look. This style keeps the essence of glam while dialing it down for a look that’s lighter, softer, and effortlessly polished and it’s easy for everyone to achieve!   Skin prep (for perfection!) Before you start any makeup application your skin needs to be properly prepped. It’s the secret to flawless makeup I’m telling you! You know the drill, make sure you cleanse your face to remove any impurities, before applying a hydrating serum and moisturiser to create a smooth, plumped canvas. Using a primer can be game changing too as it will help makeup last all day as well as blur any imperfections!     Pro Tip: For even better results make sure you exfoliate a day before your big event to remove dead skin cells for a smoother application and follow with a hydrating sheet mask to plump and hydrate!   Ace your base! A long-lasting foundation is key for party makeup. Choose one with a luminous finish for a radiant glow or a matte formula for a more polished look. For our soft glam party ready look we used the NEW ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation.  Impeccably crafted to transform you skin into a flawless canvas, this innovative formula rich in antioxidants and firming and soothing ingredients, is your secret weapon against imperfections. Its luxurious creamy texture glides on effortlessly, camouflaging blemishes, evening out skin tone and masking minor flaws with precision. Packed with a powerhouse of pigments, it creates a second skin effect without the weight, offering air-like coverage that lasts! To apply use a damp beauty blender sponge to blend it seamlessly into your skin. Next you’ll want to conceal dark circles and blemishes with a creamy concealer like ELES Dual Action Concealer. Pro Tip: Set your foundation with a translucent powder for an all-night flawless finish.   Skin perfection Now you’ve aced your base, you’ll want to perfect your skin with a dusting of ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light. This amazing multi-tasker combines coverage, bronze and highlight and leaves skin looking perfectly airbrushed – no joke!   Elevate Your Eyes The eyes are the focal point of any festive makeup look but for this look we want to keep them soft and subtle although it does include perfecting a winged eyeliner! Do not fear though, while nailing the winged liner might well appear a little tricky at first, with a little patience and practice, you’ll master this iconic look in no time! At BC we love a good, winged eyeliner look, (I personally do it every single day) It not only elongates your eyes but makes them appear more lifted too! Plus it suits any eye colour and can be as subtle or as stand out as you want it to be. But before applying our eyeliner, we want to focus on our eyeshadow first. This party ready soft glam look involves neutral shades with very soft shimmer. We have used the ELES Earthly Glow Palette. The palette includes 3 neutral shades, although for this particular look we have used just two. Take the lightest shimmer shade and apply a wash over your entire eyelid and inner corner of your eyes to brighten. Next apply the middle neutral shade to the outer corner and crease for depth. Blend seamlessly for a radiant eye-catching finish! Now its time for the winged liner! For beginners, a felt-tip liquid eyeliner or gel eyeliner with an angled brush is easier to control. We highly recommend using the ELES Felt Tip Liner, it draws a high-pigment, flawless line and features a super-fine felt tip for precise application. Now to start look straight into a mirror and decide the angle of your wing. Use your lower lash line as a guide, extending the line upward toward the tail of your eyebrow. Draw a small line outward to create the wing’s base. Then, connect the tip of the wing back to your lash line, forming a triangle. You now need to line your last line! Start from the inner corner of your eye and draw a thin line along your lash line, connecting it to the wing. Keep the line thinner toward the inner corner and thicker as it moves outward. Now you need to fill in the triangle you’ve created for the wing and any gaps along the lash line. If you’ve made any mistakes do not fear, simply use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover or concealer with a brush to sharpen the edges or fix any mistakes. Pro Tip: if you have a bit of an unsteady hand you can always use tape or a card to help create the perfect wing. Simply place it at the angle you want your wing to help create a sharp line. You can also practice with a pencil eyeliner first by tracing the shape lightly before going in with your liquid or gel liner. Next using a pencil liner (we’ve used ELES Superwear Gel Liner) you’ll want to line the lower last line and complete your eyes with Lush mascara for a wide-eyed effect.   Perfect your brows Well-defined brows frame your face and elevate your makeup so you’ll want to fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder. We love ELES Precision Brow Pencil. It enables controlled brow filling and lining to quickly and effortlessly create fuller, natural looking brows that will last the distance! Go for a natural look by following your brow’s natural shape.   Keep lips neutral and glossy Choose a lipstick that complements your look but remember a nude lip pairs beautifully with dramatic eyes. Firstly use a lip liner to define your lips and prevent feathering. We love the ELES Lipliner in Naked. Follow with a gloss for lips that stand out from the crowd. We love the ELES Pucker up Lipgloss in Lingering its natural but adds depth to lips with a subtle hint of colour, plus this lipgloss not only looks super glassy and glossy, it conditions your lips and doesn’t feel sticky!   Seal the deal Set your makeup with a setting spray to ensure it stays put through dancing, toasts, and holiday feasts. Not only does it lock in your look, but it also adds a natural finish to your makeup.   Voila! You look is complete, it’s time to shine!

Having worked in the cosmetics industry for many a year now, one of the questions I’m constantly asked (as are my co-workers) is what products we personally use. Working for Beauty Collective, we know we are beyond fortunate to have access to hundreds of the best professional beauty products on the market (yes, we are biased!) but there those skincare and makeup must-haves that, we either come back to time and time again, feature as a constant in our beauty routine, or are a new launch that we are trialling and loving right now! From the best in anti-ageing skincare to multi-tasking makeup classics, these are the products the team at Beauty Collective are raving about right now and we are certain you’ll love them too!   The Skincare Essentials Phytomer XMF Serum “I have always LOVED Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and Myoxy Caviar (and still do!) but a few months ago I felt like my skin needed a bit of a change so I decided to try Phytomer’s XMF Radiance Retexturing Serum. This serum - and yes it does carry a hefty price tag but for very good reason – is outstanding! If feels heaven to apply and within just a few uses my skin looked smoother, younger and glowier, and it’s not just me saying that, I have been told a few times now that my skin is looking flawless. I love Phytomer products, and I’ve talked about the Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream in many a blog (because I’m also obsessed), but am I glad I introduced this serum into my skincare arsenal too!” - Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager Hubislab Derma Max Brightening Clinic “Since using this product over the last month I've noticed a pretty significant change in both the texture and tone of my skin.  My pores are much smaller and my hyperpigmentation has faded by half in just a few weeks.  It is barely visible now and overall my skin just looks much brighter and healthier.  I've also noticed the fine lines around the eye area have improved which is a huge bonus.  I use it at night and love the unctuous texture, it literally melts into my skin leaving it feeling soothed and replenished.  This is my new dream cream.” - Liane Scior, Director of Marketing & Education   Pevonia CleanRefreshTM Foaming Oil Cleanser “We all know it’s important to cleanse our skin every day, so I’ve tried rather a few cleansers in my time, but this one is THE best cleanser I have ever used.It has a gel-like texture but as soon as you add water it foams up beautifully on my face, which I love as it feels like it’s really purifying my skin and removing the day's grime and makeup. Plus it leaves my skin feeling really clean, super smooth and not dry at all (which many foaming cleansers can do). What’s more, since I’ve been using it my skin has been smoother and blemish free.” - Elaine Palapag, Social Media and e-Marketing Co-ordinator   Hubislab Moisture Max Hyaluron Complex 65% Ampoule “My skin is naturally thirsty, so hyaluronic is always a key ingredient I look out for. The 50ml bottle is an insanely generous size for a serum and really great value for a product so packed with quality ingredients. Its micro-emulsified which means it penetrates much deeper into the skin, nourishing it at a cellular level. Keeps my skin looking plump, hydrated and gives a youthful glow and really is like giving your skin a huge class of nutrient filled water.” - Tary Gray, Brand Co-Ordinator Phytomer Souffle Marin Oxygenating Serum “This is my go-to product to energise and oxygenate my skin especially after long flights, and I fly a lot! It peps up my skin and gives it a youthful glow each time I apply it.  It has a beautifully silky texture that goes under any cream morning and night. It’s also perfect for skin under stress due to pollution, lack of sleep or toxins like smoking or late nights. It’s been a staple of mine for a while and I simply love, love, love it!” - Kellie Deveney, International Educator & Business Development Manager   Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing Cream “I’m usually a foaming gel cleanser person but I fell in love with this silky-smooth cleanser that not only cleans my skin but leaves it soft, plump and radiant too! Oh and it also smells divine with spiced pink peppercorn and cedar wood.” - May Scior, Operations Assistant   The Makeup Must-Haves ELES Mineral Powder Foundation “I have been using this power foundation for YEARS and will never sway. Yes, I use the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint in the evenings for a more glowy complexion (also one of my favourites) but like a loyal friend the ELES Power Foundation is my go-to for day to day makeup. I’m now in my mid 40’s so was a little worried since it’s power that it might start ageing me (power can dry out your skin and accentuate fine lines) but not this one! You can apply as much or as little as you like and it provides the perfect base. I can honestly tell its due to its mineral formulation and anti-ageing ingredients, it protects your skin too, allows it to breath freely and I haven’t seen a blemish in sight for years. I love it! Can’t rave about it enough. If you like a light, natural finish to your skin, this should be a go-to too!” - Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation “I'm currently loving the ease of this foundation which you can apply in seconds.  I use the Pro-Blender Sponge and bounce it into the skin and the sponge that comes with it for quick touchups on the go.  You can apply it as light as you want for a "your skin but better" daytime look or layered up for a perfected nighttime look, and it lasts well without moving and caking through the day.  The finish is what I really love though, neither too glowy or too matte but more like a satin finish that feels light as air on the skin.” - Liane Scior, Director of Marketing & Education   ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30 “This product is a total game changer! I was looking for something that could protect my skin while giving me a natural glow, and this product delivers on both. The texture is smooth and lightweight, and it evens out my complexion. The coverage is great without feeling heavy. My skin feels hydrated and looks radiant all day long no jokes! It really is perfect for those busy mornings when I want to look good but don’t have much time. It's a skincare and makeup in one!” - Elaine Palapag, Social Media and e-Marketing Co-ordinator   ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light “I love how this product is soo quick and easy to apply! It’s light yet gives the best coverage and totally transforms your skin! When my skin looks like it needs a pick-me-up, I apply this and it makes a HUGE difference. It gives my skin that beautiful natural healthy luminosity. I can’t see myself ever not using this must-have!” - Taryn Gray, Brand Co-ordinator ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation “I love this new product! I usually steer clear from powders, but this one provides the perfect coverage when on the go. Its creamy texture applies to skin effortlessly and hides any blemishes and imperfections all day long without any caking in sight! I also love that it’s packed with antioxidants. It’s definitely a new favourite of mine.” - Kellie Deveney, International Educator & Business Development Manager   ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30 “I love the convenience of this product and wear it whether working in the office, hanging out at home or heading out. Its my primer, sunscreen and foundation in one and because it’s so lightweight and silky soft on application you really don’t feel like you are wearing makeup! I also love how it’s packed with anti-ageing and skin nurturing ingredients so it’s doing good for my skin as opposed to just concealing it! If you are looking for multi-tasking makeup that’ll leave your skin looking flawless and glowy (with a subtle matte finish) this could be your new go-to.”  - May Scior, Operations Assistant

Let's face it, we are all on the quest for radiant, youthful skin with many of us investing both our hard-earned money and time into perfecting our daily beauty routine as a result, but I’m here to tell you, that despite our best efforts the majority of us will still be making daily beauty mistakes, or following bad habits should I say, that actually add years to our face by making us look older than we actually are! Eek. From over-exfoliating to skipping sunscreen, keep reading as we count down 24 common beauty habits that could be ageing you! Remember it’s not too late to remedy this once you know the ones you are guilty of!   Wearing SPF only during the summer Let’s start with the most important habit of all, sunscreen. Not wearing SPF daily all year round is one of the biggest mistakes you can make for your skin. The suns harmful UV rays is hands down the no. 1 contributor to skin ageing so skipping your SPF is a no no. Yes, it's easy to remember to apply it when you're headed to the beach, or out and about on holiday, but so many of us skip this vital step in our everyday lives and not because we are necessarily lazy but because we don't understand the long term affect not wearing it will have on our skin! Even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors, UV rays can cause premature ageing, leading to wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging. Sun damage is cumulative, so every time you skip sunscreen, you’re speeding up the ageing process. How to fix it: Make SPF 30 or higher your daily must-have. Apply it generously every morning, and don’t forget to reapply throughout the day—especially if you’re spending time outdoors. And we understand that many sunscreens can feel oily on your skin or leave an unruly white residue that’s why we highly recommend Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. Thinking that the SPF in your makeup is enough to protect your skin Unless your makeup has an SPF factor of 30 or above it's unlikely to ward off premature ageing if worn alone. This is because the majority of makeup will protect against UVB rays but won't block UVA rays which is what causes skin damage. How to fix it: Layering your skin with a high factor SPF moisturiser and then foundation will give you the best chance of maintaining skin's youthful appearance, but if you are in love with your daily moisturiser which doesn't contain sun protection, use a foundation or BB Cream with a high enough SPF. We highly recommend ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream SPF 30. Formulated with potent ingredients including peptides, beta-carotene, amino acids, vitamin c, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin e and vitamin c, it nourishes, brightens and protects skin against UVA and UVB, as well as blue light and free radical damage! Genius. Not updating your skincare as your skin changes You might have been loyal to the same moisturiser for many years but sadly the skincare you've used in your 20's really won't cut it in your 30's, 40's and beyond. This is because as we age our skin's needs dramatically change. Skin becomes thinner, drier, more sensitive, and loses elasticity as collagen and elastin start to deplete, while fine lines and wrinkles start to form. How to fix it: Understand your skin type and needs and choose products accordingly. Anti-ageing skincare rich in ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C become essential as we get older. For more info on this read about the 7 super ingredients in your skincare that are all the rage and adjust your products accordingly.   Skipping on your moisturiser It's that time of the month and a few pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or perhaps you are often prone to adult acne or simply suffer from oily skin, so suddenly you think it best to lay off the moisturiser which must be exacerbating the issue right? Wrong. While you are likely not alone in thinking lathering up on moisturiser seems counterintuitive, everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern, needs to apply a moisturiser daily! This is because moisturiser maintains skin hydration throughout the day and therefore assists in fighting premature fine lines and wrinkles too. In fact, applying moisturiser will greatly reduce your chance of developing extreme dryness, skin sensitivity, or oiliness! Why? Dehydrated skin can lead to issues like inflammation, premature skin ageing, and even breakouts. When your skin becomes dry, your body responds by making more oil! And we all know excess oil can clog pores leading to more of those darn pesky pimples. How to fix it: Don’t skip moisturiser ever. Simply find the one that will be best for your skin type. Search BC by your skin concern and then look for the moisturiser that will be right for you. Just be sure to opt for lighter moisturisers by day, especially in the warmer months, and richer creams at night.   Focusing only on Wrinkles While we are all concerned about fine lines and wrinkles as we age, dark spots and pigmentation can actually give our complexion a dull, devitalised and in turn much older appearance too! In fact, dark spots and uneven skin tone can make us look 10 years older! How to fix it: If you suffer from hyperpigmentation ensure you introduce products specifically to help with this skin concern. We promise it'll positively impact your complexion and protect your skin too. Try Vie Collection's Mela White Radiance Brightening Essense, a triple-action daily cream that effectively acts against dark spots, free radicals, and UV. The results will speak for themselves. Ignoring eye care Unfortunately our eyes are the first area of our face to show ageing, so you need to show it love just as you would the rest of your face! 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. How to fix it: Applying a good eye cream daily is essential in keeping fine, lines and wrinkles at yay! You can also buy eye creams targeted to specific eye concerns such as crow’s feet, under eye bags and dark circles. We highly recommend Vie Collection's Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream. A mouthful to say I know, but a product that does exactly what it says. It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Seriously! Want younger looking eyes? Start wearing eye cream or eye gel today!   Rubbing Your Eyes The area around our eyes is the most delicate on our face, fact. When we are tired it's easy to fall into the trap of rubbing our eyes, but rubbing, tugging, or pulling at your eye area can cause tiny blood vessles to break resulting in dark circles that make you look tired All. Of. The. Time. How to fix it: Be mindful of your eyes. When youre tired try to leave them alone! And if you haven’t already get a good anti-ageing eye gel and eye cream for morning and night and start applying then stat!   8. Ignoring Your neck and decolletage Oh, the forgotten area! And the area of your skin which can actually age you the most! Exposed to sunlight just as much as your face, if your neck and decolletage aren't cared for daily or protected with SPF, they can end up crepey and wrinkly so much earlier than they should! Whatever you do for your face you should do for your neck and decolletage too. How to fix it: There are neck and chest specific products you can use, 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! Forgetting your hands! We often focus all our anti-aging efforts on our face, but areas like hands can give away your age just as quickly. And I can bet your bottom dollar that many of us are not looking after this delicate area! The back of your hands have thinner skin and are often exposed to the sun and environmental damage, yet they’re frequently overlooked in our skincare routines. How to fix it: Whatever you do for your face, do for your hands! Its simple! Apply sunscreen, moisturiser, and anti-ageing products daily. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Collagen Hand Cream, its divinely nourishing and gives hands an instant lift in appearance and texture. Avoiding exfoliators It's not just fine lines and wrinkles that make you look older, having a dull uneven skin tone can easily add years to your face as well! As we age our skin's natural ability to shed dead cells declines, so without weekly exfoliation skin can become uneven, dull and lacklustre. This is why exfoliation is so imperative, and not a step that should be ignored. How to fix it: Many people are scared of exfoliation because they think their skin is too sensitive, and it will just aggravate an existing issue, but that's where natural enzyme exfoliators can be the answer. Hubislab's Pure Balance Papaya Enzyme Peeling Wash, Phytomer's Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes and Pevonia's Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream are formulated with natural enzymes which basically melt away dead cells so no scrubbing is needed. Just remember removing dead skin cells helps your skin properly absorb moisturiser which in turn keeps fine lines and dehydration at bay, as well as brightening skins radiance. Now, who wouldn't want that!! Or simply going overboard with exfoliating If you tend to sway the other way and love to exfoliate your skin a little too much i'm here to tell you stop it now! Over exfoliating can actually slow cell turnover and lead to irritation and inflammation. Over time, this can weaken your skin’s barrier, causing fine lines and wrinkles to appear more quickly. Your skin needs time to regenerate, and over-exfoliating can strip away essential oils and moisture, making you look older. How to fix it: Stick to exfoliation once, maybe twice a week for the best results. If you like to use an exfoliator with grains or microbeads but skin tends to be a little on the sensitive side give Pevonia's Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser a go. it’s great for those who love physical exfoliators with granules but want to steer clear of facial scrubs which could be a little harsh on the skin. It gently polishes your complexion with its unique creamy yet granular texture, formulated with jojoba beads, saponaria and chamomile, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion every time! Not drinking enough water As I'm sitting here writing this, I can hold my hands up and say today so far I've only drunk 2 glasses of water when I should have in fact consumed at least a litre by now! Yes, it's fact, water, or lack of should I say is a real skin ager!! And I know I must practice what a preach! The thing is I do, but some days I will admit it's easy to forget! And when I do, I get cross with myself as I can see it in my skin! It's drier, duller and devitalised. This is because drinking 'enough' water helps the body to flush out toxins while increasing blood flow to the skin which gives it an even tone and dewy appearance! And dewy skin equals youthful skin after all! How to fix it: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Adding water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon to your diet can also give your skin an extra hydration boost. Not a huge fan of water? Try a good herbal tea instead.   Yo-Yo Dieting Constantly fluctuating between losing and gaining weight can wreak havoc on your skin. Yo-yo dieting can cause your skin to stretch and lose elasticity, making it more prone to sagging and wrinkles. The loss of essential nutrients during restrictive diets can also lead to dull, unhealthy-looking skin. How to fix it: Focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports overall health, including your skin. Healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins will keep your skin nourished and resilient.   Ignoring Stress Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can take a toll on your skin too. Stress increases cortisol, which breaks down collagen and leads to wrinkles. How to fix it: Make stress management a priority with mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques. Indulging in hot showers and baths How many of us are guilty of indulging in a hot shower or simply washing our faces with water set to a high temp. Unfortunately extreme water temperatures will strip healthy natural oils from your skin quickly, making it dry and therefore age much faster. Water that's too hot can also dilate your capillaries leading to spider veins. How to fix it: For best and healthy results you should be washing with lukewarm water! Easier to achieve in the warmer months!   Not getting enough sleep....when you could get more If I had a dollar for every time I said to my husband I must get to bed early tonight because I need more sleep and am fed up of looking old and tired, I'd be a rich woman. While they say practice what you preach, I am a testament that not getting enough sleep (when I could indeed fit in another 1-2 hours a night (darn netflix!) literally does age you. Poor sleep is quite literally to blame for premature ageing, dermatitis, eczema, acne, loss of collagen and more! Scary right? So let's make a pact and try for that 8 hours + we really do need nightly. Now be sure to follow our advice to be sure you slow down the signs of ageing naturally! How to fix it: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to give your skin the time it needs to recover and rejuvenate.   Over doing your brows Yes, we need brows to look youthful, after all they frame the eyes and lift the face. Many of us tweezed our brows to thin lines in the 80’s only to find they never grew back so what to many of us do! Fill out our brows, but often with harsh, red toned pencils which im afraid can make us look hard and older! How to fix it: The goal is to create natural looking thicker brows like the ones we used to have. Opt for taupe colour brow products instead of warm browns, these will frame your eyes beautifully without taking over your face. Apply the brow product in soft stokes to create the illusion of natural hair. Be sure not to overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. We recommend using the ELES Precision Brow Pencil. The soft, fine pencil allows you to perfectly line and fill your brows and the formula lasts for us to 10 hours! It’s amazing. Using the wrong tone of foundation Many foundations and BB Creams come in both warm and cool tones but remember for many of us cool tones can exacerbate signs of age! This is because they often have blue, pink, or ashy undertones, which can accentuate fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. As skin ages, it tends to lose its natural warmth and radiance, so using a foundation with cool tones can make the complexion appear dull, flat, or even greyish too! Which in turn can also highlight dark circles or any sallowness in the skin. How to fix it: Opt for warmer tones that help counteract complexion pinkness that comes with thinning of the skin and exposure of fine capillaries. Warmer tones also conceal shadows better which means you need less concealer. We recommend using ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30, it’s packed with nature’s anti-ageing actives and leaves the skin glowing.   19. Overloading on foundation powder Face powder, when used correctly and frugally can be a fantastic makeup staple (I have been I’m in love with the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation for years!) however, no matter your skin type, too much face powder can actually age you! That’s right, it can highlight fine lines and wrinkles instead of helping to conceal them! How to fix it: Im not saying you have to totally forgo your trusty powder foundation compact, but it’s best to use powder sparingly – on your t-zone, or for quick touch-up’s, Or better still make sure you opt for a lightweight powder!   Using the wrong concealer or concealer shade As we mature and our face loses its youthful “plumpness”, shadow 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, ultra-light shade concealer to hide these dark areas. The problem is that they just make the dark shadows look grey as opposed to concealing them! How to fix it: Opt instead for peachy toned, lightweight concealers that won’t cake on the skin and counteract the blue in the shadows. We recommend ELES Dual Action Concealer, it acts like 8 hours of sleep in a tube! We love it! Applying eye makeup that makes the eyes droop Who doesn’t love makeup! After all it can boost our confidence, enhance our natural beauty and help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles! But sadly certain eye makeup techniques and products can make our eyes appear droopy as well as emphasize ageing signs as we get older! Thick, dark eyeliner, especially on the lower lash line, can make eyes look smaller and more tired. It can also draw attention to sagging skin around our delicate peepers. Then there is our eyeshadow! Eyeshadow enhances eye shape, adds depth and dimension making eyes appear more vibrant but shimmer and frosty shades while fun can settle into fine lines and wrinkles, exacerbating them and making our eyelids look more creased or droopy. How to fix it: To counteract this, opt for lighter, more neutral shades on the lids, keep eyeliner lighter, thin and lifted, and focus on lifting the upper lash line to create a more youthful, wide-eyed appearance. For your eyeliner we recommend ELES Superwear Gel Eyeliner, its soft and easy to blend out and once set won’t transfer to the lids. If you have hooded or droopy eyes here are some top tips to improve them naturally. Continuing to use that cold frosted lipstick we love As we age, similar to our skin, our lips start to lose volume and in turn fine lines start to form! Unfortunately that frosted lip colour that we once loved (and looked good) no longer does! This is because frosted lip colours enhance these lines making your lips age you even more! How to fix it: It’s time to change up your lipstick! Instead of that frosted favourite, opt for a cream or satin lipstick that will make your lips look fuller and smoother. Many of these contain moisturising molecules that plump the lips and keep them hydrated longer.   Going to bed with makeup on Well here's one you've heard many a time before! Right? From a few too many wines to being just plain old exhausted, sometimes it hard to peel yourself off your bed to go and remove your makeup but remove your makeup you must! Cleansing your face especially at night to remove not only your makeup but any remnants of the days sweat, dirt and grime is imperative for healthy skin. Not removing your makeup means your skin is unable to regenerate effectively while you sleep, pores clog, blemishes form and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear. Makeup can also trap dirt and pollution, which leads to oxidative stress—damaging your skin and breaking down collagen, the protein that keeps your skin firm and smooth. How to fix it: No matter how tired you are, make cleansing a non-negotiable part of your nighttime routine. Use a gentle cleanser or micellar water to remove makeup and grime, giving your skin a chance to breathe and repair while you sleep. For a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer's Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast! To read more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here. 24. Sleeping on your stomach or side This one might surprise you, but the way you sleep can actually affect your skin. If you regularly sleep on your stomach or side, your face gets squished against the pillow, which can lead to wrinkles over time. These “sleep lines” tend to form around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead, making you look older. Just great I hear you say! How to fix it: Try sleeping on your back to reduce pressure on your face. Investing in a silk or satin pillowcase can also help, as it causes less friction on your skin than cotton.

Building a makeup kit can be somewhat overwhelming especially with so many makeup products on the market! From foundation to primer, contour to blush, and then there is all the many eye, lip and brow products, so where do you even start? Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, there are a few essential items that every woman should have in her makeup arsenal. These basics will help you create everything from a natural everyday look to going all out glam! Keep reading as we rundown the must-have makeup products that form the foundation of any versatile and reliable beauty routine. Skincare Essentials Before you even think about applying makeup to your face you need to prep your skin. A hydrated base is crucial for flawless makeup application so always make sure you have applied your moisturiser. For longer lasting results use a primer too. It will not only ensure you foundation remains firmly on your face all day, but will help create a smooth canvas for your makeup too! Makeup basics Foundation Foundation is the base of any makeup look. It evens out your skin tone, creating a flawless canvas for the rest of your makeup. Depending on your skin type and preference, you can choose between liquid, powder, or cream foundations, but the key is to find one that matches your skin tone perfectly and works well with your skin type. Not sure where to start? Click here to learn how to choose the right foundation type for your skin. Concealer For those pesky blemishes or dark circles, concealer is your best friend. It provides extra coverage where you need it most, helping you achieve a smooth, even complexion. A good concealer is really essential for brightening under the eyes and hiding any imperfections. It can transform your face especially when you are tired too! Powder To set your foundation and concealer, a powder is a must. A good translucent powder helps to keep your makeup in place and controls shine throughout the day. Blush Adding a pop of colour to your cheeks with blush can really make a huge difference! Blush gives your face a healthy, natural glow, making you look fresh and awake. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone—peachy tones for a natural flush or rosy hues for a more pronounced look. Eyeliner Eyeliner can instantly define your eyes and elevate your look. Whether you opt for a classic black pencil, a sharp liquid liner, or a smudgy gel, eyeliner helps enhance the shape of your eyes and adds intensity to your makeup. Mascara No makeup look is complete without mascara. It lengthens, volumizes, and defines your lashes, making your eyes appear bigger and more awake. A good mascara can transform your entire look with just a few swipes. Mascara is my definite no. 1 when it comes to makeup basics, wouldn’t leave the house without it! Eyebrow Pencil Sometimes overlooked, brows are in fact a very important part of our makeup routine. By using an eyebrow pencil you can add definition and shape and create the illusion of fuller looking brows! As you age your eyebrows get naturally thinner. By adding definition and shape to them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. For more tips on how to create perfect brows click here. Lipstick or Lip Gloss As we age, unfortunately our lips do too! They become thinner with loss of collagen and moisture and their vibrant colour starts to fade due to the loss of pigment too! The amazing thing about lipstick is it adds that much needed colour, volume and depth to lips making them stand out! It’s no secret that wearing lipstick can dramatically enhance your mood too, it can make you feel confident and sexy! Just be sure to choose shades that complement your skin tone and can easily transition from day to night. Want to know which shades might be best for you? Click here. Lipliner This once understated product is now a staple for makeup artists, influencers and makeup enthusiasts alike and for very good reason! Lipliner doesn’t only help to create fuller looking lips but it also helps to ensure your lipstick doesn’t bleed and has a longer-wear finish. Want fuller looking lips? Here’s how to achieve them with lipliner Makeup Brushes and Tools The right tools can make all the difference in your makeup application. Invest in a set of high-quality brushes for foundation, powder, eyeshadow, and blush, as well as a beauty sponge for seamless blending. And don’t forget a good eyeshadow palette, while not essential, a versatile eyeshadow palette is a must-have for creating various eye looks. From neutral shades for a subtle daytime look to bolder colours for an evening out, a good palette offers endless possibilities you just need to know how to best apply it. For the best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes click here. These makeup basics are the foundation of any beauty routine. With these essentials, you can create a variety of looks and feel confident in your makeup application, whether you're heading to work, out with friends, or to a special event! Remember, less is often more when starting out. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you and enjoy the process of building your perfect makeup collection!

Finding the perfect makeup base is like discovering a beauty holy grail. It's the foundation for your entire look, ensuring your skin appears flawless, radiant, and perfectly polished. At Beauty Collective, we've curated a list of our top-rated makeup bases that not only provide impeccable coverage but also cater to various skin types and concerns. Keep reading for your guide to the best makeup bases that promise to elevate your beauty routine. ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15 Why We Love It: This foundation is a true multitasker. It starts as a liquid and transforms into a velvety powder finish, providing the perfect balance between coverage and lightweight wear. It's enriched with vitamins A, C and E, making it ideal for those who want a foundation that cares for their skin and provide antioxidant, UVA and UVB protection. Best For: All skin types, especially combination and oily skin. Pro Tip: Apply with a damp beautyblender sponge for a more natural, flawless finish. “I have been using this product for 10 years+ and cannot fault it. It is light, silky and even though my skin is oil based it does not leave it clogged like many other foundations I have used previously. I absolutely recommend anyone to try it to see how beautiful it is to wear.” Debrah   ELES Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20 Why We Love It: For those days when you want a no-makeup makeup look, this sheer tint is a winner. It offers a light, breathable coverage while providing sun protection. The mineral-based formula is gentle on the skin, making it perfect for everyday wear. Best For: Dry and sensitive skin types and those seeking a natural glow. Pro Tip: Mix with a drop of your favourite facial oil for added hydration and radiance. “I’ve tried so many tints as this one is quite expensive, but nothing gives my skin the same dewy glow with lasting good coverage and clean enough to sleep in without causing breakouts or irritation… truly worth every cent.” Simone Pevonia YouthRenew Tinted Cream SPF 30 Why We Love It: Combining skincare and makeup, this tinted cream offers medium coverage with anti-aging benefits. It’s packed with vitamin c, peptides and hyaluronic acid to keep your skin plump and hydrated, while the SPF protects against UV damage. We are talking a multi-tasking wonder cream - lightweight, age-defying, deeply-hydrating, pore refining and brightening! Yes! Best For: Mature skin and anyone looking for an anti-ageing boost. Pro Tip: Use it as a primer under your regular foundation for extra coverage and skincare benefits. “Wonderful multitasker! This is one of the best foundation/sunscreens I have used! It looks amazing on, lasts all day, moisturizes skin, and covers well. Worth the money for an amazing product that looks so natural and helps improve skin!” Ros   ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30 Why we love it: This outstanding BB Cream is packed with a powerhouse of nourishing skincare goodies including peptides, vitamin c, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin e! Multi-tasking it protects, primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen skin and its game-changing formula shields skin from not only from damaged UV rays but blue light from our devices too! Not just another BB Cream, this BB Cream will improve your skin’s elasticity while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and will leave skin with a long-lasting radiant glow every time you apply. It’s brilliant! Best for: Everyone especially ageing skin Pro Tip: For best results blend into skin with fingers using a patting motion. Try not to rub! “ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it deliver on its promises, but it has become an essential part of my daily beauty routine. 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 ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light Why We Love It: This fine, feather light, sheer baked finishing powder tames shine and provides a beautiful, radiant finish that looks like your skin, but better. It’s enriched with hydrating ingredients and light-diffusing minerals that blur imperfections while giving a healthy radiant glow. Best For: Dry and dull skin. Pro Tip: Using a powder brush, swirl brush onto product and tap off excess. Apply all over face blending seamlessly into skin starting on cheeks and highlighting forehead, nose and chin. “I recently purchased this beautiful product and use it over my SPF with no foundation. it gives my skin a beautiful healthy luminosity without the look of shimmer. It looks like my skin only better.” Christina ELES Mineral Phototouch Concealer Why We Love It: While technically a concealer, this product is a must-have for those who need targeted coverage. It’s lightweight yet provides excellent coverage for dark circles, blemishes, and redness without caking. Best For: All skin types, especially for touch-ups and detailed coverage. Pro Tip: Use a small brush for precise application and blend out with your finger for a seamless finish. “This is my secret weapon! It's my 'I've just had 10 hours sleep' in a tube. I love the two step system. The primer / line diffuser keeps the product put all day long, and the concealer really does hide dark circles. It is feather light and doesn't dry out or cake. The trick is in the application - minimal blending is all that is required as the product just magically blends into your skin. It is a definite make up bag must have - it is the best under eye concealer I have ever used!” Rebecca   Why These Bases Stand Out At Beauty Collective, we believe that a great makeup base does more than just cover imperfections. It enhances your natural beauty, works harmoniously with your skin, and provides additional benefits like hydration, sun protection, and anti-aging properties. These top-rated makeup bases have been chosen for their exceptional performance, skin-loving ingredients, and versatility! How to Choose the Right Makeup Base for You Skin Type: Identify your skin type—oily, dry, combination, or sensitive—and choose a base that caters to its specific needs. Coverage Level: Decide whether you want light, medium, or full coverage. Sheer tints are great for everyday wear, while foundations offer more coverage for special occasions. Finish Preference: Do you prefer a matte, dewy, or natural finish? Select a base that matches your desired look. Finding the right makeup base can transform your beauty routine, providing the perfect canvas for any look. Whether you need a hydrating tint for daily wear or a full-coverage foundation for flawless evenings, Beauty Collective's top-rated makeup bases have got you covered. Here’s to flawless, radiant skin every day!

The foundation of any great makeup look is, quite literally, your foundation, otherwise known as your makeup base! Makeup bases not only create a flawless canvas on which to apply the rest of your makeup but will also help conceal blemishes, reduce redness and enhance the longevity of your makeup, therefore finding the right one for your specific skin type can be game-changing!Whether you prefer a natural look or like to go full coverage, keep reading as we reveal the makeup bases you need to try. No matter what your skin type we promise we have something for you!Firstly why do you need a makeup baseOften referred to as a primer, foundation, BB or CC Cream, and available in a variety of different formulations from liquid to matte, sheer to powder, your makeup base is an essential product in your makeup routine that prepares your skin for the application of your other cosmetics. It dramatically improves your skin tone, creates a smooth, even surface, enhances the longevity of your makeup, and can address specific skin concerns such as dryness, oiliness, redness and fine lines.Whether you choose a primer, foundation, or a multitasking BB/CC cream, selecting the right base for your skin type and concerns can make all the difference in how your makeup looks and feels.The perfect makeup base for youFrom mineral to traditional formulations, BBs to CCs, matte foundation to tinted moisturiser, oil-free to liquid, powder to stick and more, there really is a makeup base out there for every skin type and need, but with so many options on the market, it’s not always easy knowing which is likely the best for you! Choosing the right makeup base can make a significant difference in your overall look and skin health. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin here’s a guide to help you find the best solution for your skin type. Skin type or condition: Oily to combination skinCharacteristics: Prone to shine, enlarged pores, and frequent breakouts.Best solution:Matt Foundations - Opt for oil-free, matte foundations that control shine and provide a long-lasting finish. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which can help keep acne at bay.Powder Foundations - These are excellent for absorbing excess oil and giving a matte finish. They’re lightweight and easy to touch up throughout the day.Try:ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation – this product is an ELES best-seller and cult favourite for a reason. It offers full coverage with a soft, smooth matte finish that lasts up to 24 hours. It’s perfect for those with oily or combination skin looking for a long-lasting, shine-free look. Skin type or condition: RosaceaCharacterises: Prone to facial redness, bumps and blemishesBest solution:CC Creams – opt for makeup products that are specifically formulated to calm redness and soothe skin. CC Creams are designed to help correct skin discolouration. They contain pigments that can help neutralize redness creating a more even skin tone and reducing the appearance of rosacea.Try:Phytomer CC Crème – Skin Perfecting Cream - This lightweight, oil-free colour correcting cream with broad spectrum protection (essential as sun exposure can aggravate rosacea) perfectly counteracts redness, so well so that you can get away without wearing any other makeup! Did I mention it’s formulated with skin soothing, nourishing and brightening ingredients too. Skin type or condition: Dry SkinCharacterises: Flaky, rough patches, and a tight feeling.Best Solution:Tinted Moisturisers – Choose lightweight liquid foundations or tinted creams with hydrating properties. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help to moisturise and plump the skin.BB Creams - Otherwise known as a Beauty Balm, BB creams are multitasking products that combine skincare benefits with light coverage. They are great for everyday wear, offering hydration, sun protection and natural, sheer coverage.Try:ELES Mineral Sheer Tint – For those with dry skin this tinted moisturiser is a dream come true! It provides a radiant, dewy finish that hydrates and brightens your complexion. The buildable coverage ensures you can achieve anything from a natural look to a more polished finish.ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream - This outstanding BB Cream might be classed as makeup, but it’s packed with a powerhouse of nourishing skincare goodies including peptides, vitamin c, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin e!Multi-tasking it protects, primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen skin and its game-changing formula shields skin from not only from damaged UV rays but blue light from our devices too!Not just another BB Cream, this BB Cream will improve your skin’s elasticity while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and will leave skin with a long-lasting radiant glow every time you apply. It’s brilliant! Skin type or condition: Sensitive skinCharacterises: Prone to irritability, redness and allergic reactionsBest solution:Mineral Powder: Look for makeup products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin and do not contain fragrances, preservatives or harsh chemicals. Mineral makeup is best!Try:ELES Mineral Powder Foundation - Formulated with skin loving ingredients and no chemical nasties, this mineral powder is highly compatible with common skin sensitivities. Lightweight and soft it easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage while effectively camouflaging any imperfections. The coverage also lasts longer that other foundations and feels lighter, like you aren’t wearing a makeup base at all! It also allows skin to breath freely so no clogging pores and aggravating irritated skin and helps to heal the skin as you wear it!To learn more about the best makeup tips for sensitive skin, click here.Skin type or condition: Blemished skinCharacterises: Prone to blackheads, acne, sun spots, pimplesBest solution:Mineral Foundations: Opt for mineral foundations formulated with skin loving ingredients that will not only camouflage imperfections but help to calm and heal skin.Try:ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation. Impeccably crafted to transform you skin into a flawless canvas, this innovative formula rich in antioxidants and firming and soothing ingredients, is your secret weapon against imperfections. Its luxurious creamy texture glides on effortlessly, camouflaging blemishes, evening out skin tone and masking minor flaws with precision. Packed with a powerhouse of pigments, this foundation creates a second skin effect without the weight, offering air-like coverage. Skin type or condition: Mature skinCharacterises: Dullness, fine lines and wrinklesBest solution:Makeup primer: A 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. 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. Additional application tips for all skin typesUse the right tools: Applying foundation with a brush, sponge, or clean fingers can affect the finish. Experiment to find what works best for your skin type and the product you’re using.Set your makeup: For long-lasting wear, set your foundation with a translucent powder or a setting spray tailored to your skin type.

When it comes to beauty, new trends are emerging All. The. Time. And like the seasons, many come and go in a flash! One trend however that’s been making waves for a few years now is the Clean Girl Aesthetic. A beauty trend that has taken social media literally by storm - we are talking over 2 billion views on Tiktok alone as followers search up how to achieve the Clean Girl Aesthetic look! But why are people going crazy for this k-beauty trend? And how exactly will it benefit your skin? Well we are here to reveal all. Keep reading as we give you the low down on everything there is to know about the Clean Girl Aesthetic, why you should give it a go and top tips on how you can achieve this coveted look!What is the Clean Girl AestheticClean Girl Aesthetic is a fresh and minimalist approach to skincare, makeup and lifestyle. It’s all about self-care and natural beauty and is often referred to as the updated "No-Makeup Makeup" look, a look that values simplicity over heavy layers of makeup! Clean girl aesthetic is about embracing your natural features and enhancing them subtly. Think plump, glowing skin, natural brows and glossy lips.The goal? To look and feel fresh-faced, confident, and radiant in your own skin. Now who doesn’t want to achieve that!Key features of the Clean Girl AestheticWhen it comes to achieving the Clean Girl Aesthetic look, skincare comes first! Afterall, the foundation to the Clean Girl Aesthetic look is healthy, glowing skin. This means establishing a consistent skincare routine that cleanses, hydrates, and protects your skin. Prioritize gentle products and a balanced diet for a natural radiance.The makeup in this aesthetic is all about enhancing your natural features, not masking them. Think sheer foundation, a touch of concealer, cream blush, and a glossy lip. Focus on dewy finishes and light textures for a fresh, youthful look. Oh and don’t forget your brows! Well-groomed brows can frame your face and add definition. Opt for a natural shape that complements your features, and keep them neat with a brow gel or pencil.A dewy finish is essential for the Clean Girl look. This can be achieved with a hydrating moisturizer, a facial mist, or a touch of highlighter on the cheekbones and brow bones.How to achieve the Clean Girl Aesthetic LookThe good news is that the Clean Girl look is attainable for everyone! Here are some tips to get you started:SkincareClean Girl Aesthetic is less about makeup (although minimal makeup does play an important role) and more about skincare, so you’ll need to invest in a good skincare routine! In fact, a hallmark of this trend is the coveted dewy glow, so clean, healthy, well-hydrated, plumped skin is key!Regular cleansing, moisturising and sunscreen application are non-negotiable. And don’t forget to exfoliate to reveal that fresh, radiant skin too! And remember to really achieve that much desired luminous finish, you’ll need to be armed with a good hydrating serum and a smoothing plumping moisturiser. For best results also use a finishing spray with hyaluronic acid.Try:Cleanser: HubisLab Moisture Max Cleansing FoamIf you want clean, soft and supple skin, you need to try this cleansing foam! It perfectly lathers on application gently cleansing skin. The results? Skin feels fantastic, no feeling of dryness or tightness which can be the case with many cleansers. How does your skin look? Refreshed, nourished and revitalised.Exfoliator: Hubislab Pure Balance Papaya Enzyme Peeling Wash perfectly cleanses and exfoliates skin without any irritation leaving it silky soft.Serum: Hubislab Moisture Max Hyaluron Complex 65% Ampoule. This deeply nourishing complex serum combines hyaluronic acid, collagen and rosa centifolia flower water to quite literally blast skin with intensive moisture restoring elasticity and balance while protecting skin cells from free radical damage.Moisturiser: Hubislab Moisture Max Hydro Moisturiser. Packed with hyaluronic acid, this moisture-rich, yet beautifully lightweight cream absorbs quickly into skin without any greasiness, providing skin with deep nourishment and a long-lasting luxurious feeling. It's perfect!Sunscreen: Hubislab Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF 50. 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! MakeupLess is more when it comes to makeup. Opt for sheer, buildable foundations or tinted moisturiser to even out skin tone.Try: ELES Mineral Sheer Tint. Loaded with minerals, vitamins and sun protection this beautiful, tinted moisturiser (and one of ELES Cosmetics best-sellers) imparts a sheer, natural radiance to skin (no joke). It’s skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!!Follow with a subtle application of blush to add a healthy flush to the cheeks. You are trying to create a sun kissed blushed look! Choose a cream blush in soft pink or peachy shades to achieve a subtle and natural flush on the cheeks.Try: ELES Baked Blush in Bouquet, a pigment packed powder blush! Powders are usually made from lots of pressed powders, but baked powders are actually creams that have been baked slowly in a specialist oven until they are dry. This is what gives baked makeup some of its unique attributes; it has an ultra-soft, velvety texture and provides a sheer wash of soft colour for a naturally flushed complexion.Eyes are often kept simple with neutral eyeshadows Look for eyeshadow palettes that feature a range of neutral shades like beige, taupe, and soft browns.Try: ELES The Naturals Collection Eyeshadow Trio in Warm Nakeds. It offers three versatile options for creating natural and effortless eye looks.Add a swipe of mascara to define the lashes. Opt for a lengthening or defining mascara to enhance your lashes without appearing too heavy.Try ELES Lush Mascara – a popular choice for achieving natural-looking lashes.Well-groomed brows can make a big difference in framing your face The eyebrows are groomed but maintain a soft and natural appearance. Use a brow pencil to lightly fill in and shape your brows while keeping them looking soft and natural.Try ELES Precision Brow Pencil. It creates “hairlike” strokes for a more natural, well-groomed brows and comes in three shades to suit everyone!Lips are usually adorned with nude or subtle pink shades to enhance the tips without overpowering the overall look. Choose lip products in shades that closely resemble your natural lip colour.Try: ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Parfait. Nourishing and long-lasting it adds the perfect pop of natural colour to the lipsAnd, of course, you can't forget a glossy lip to top everything off!Try: ELES Pucker Up Lip Gloss in Air Kiss. It provides lips with hydration, sheer colour and high-shine, to instantly create the appearance of fuller, softer, more youthful-looking lipsFinally you don't want to forget the dewy finish: A touch of highlighter or a hydrating mist can add a healthy glow to your skin.Just remember the overall goal of clean girl makeup is to create a radiant and naturally beautiful appearance that will enhance your features without appearing overly done or heavy.LifestyleBeyond makeup and skincare, the Clean Girl Aesthetic trend is also about embracing a positive self-care routine. It's about getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and nourishing your body with wholesome foods.

From elegant updo’s and radiant skin, beautiful bold eyes and subtle nude lips, the 2024 Oscars dazzled not only with cinematic brilliance but also with show-stopping makeup looks that stole the spotlight.Want to channel some red-carpet glamour yourself? Keep reading as we countdown 6 steps to recreate the best makeup look of the night – awarded to Jennifer Lawrence!Like a modern-day Audrey Hepburn, Jennifer Lawrence bought winged liner back into business! Sporting thick liquid liner over a wash of perfectly blended taupe shadow, coupled with beautifully bronzed skin, impeccably groomed brows and a subtle nude lip, she was the epitome of Old School Hollywood Glamour, and here’s how you can be too! Step 1 – Flawless baseStart by prepping your skin with a nourishing primer. Creating an extra layer between your skin and makeup, the primer will plump fine lines, blur imperfections and blemishes, smooth skin, and help makeup last all day without caking, creasing or the need for constant touch-ups. It's often the forgotten step but Oh so important! Trust me.Next to create Jennifers flawless base, use a soft matte, long-wearing foundation, we LOVE ELES Cosmetic’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation). Matte foundations provide a smooth finish, perfect to recreate Jennifer Lawrence's look. Finish this step by concealing any blemishes or dark circles with a full-coverage concealer such as ELES Liquid Concealer. Step 2 - Bronzed radianceNow it’s time to enhance your features and add some colour to your face! Apply a bronzer to contour beneath your cheeks and jawline to “slim” the face (we recommend the ELES Mineral Sheer Bronzer in Rio De Janeiro as its Silky, mineral-enriched and imparts a natural radiance and youthful glow without streaking.) Then apply a little extra to your forehead to add that “sun-kissed” warmth. Finish by applying a touch of warm-toned blush to add a hint of colour to your cheeks. Step 3 – Stand out eyesEmbrace old school glamour when it comes to your eyes by firstly applying a neutral eyeshadow across your lids. Next use a taupe or soft brown shade and blend softly above the crease of your eye lid, as well as beneath the lower lash line for a subtle smoky finish. Finally add your third shade (a deeper brown) to just below your brow bone. Try the ELES’s Build your own shadow palette and choose the shades that would work best for you. Next it's time to amp up the drama with a jet-black liquid eyeliner, like ELES Felt Tip Liner, adding a winged effect. Finish with a coat of volumizing mascara for fluttery lashes. Step 4 - BrowsNow it's time to put some emphasise into your eyebrows. We recommend you use the ELES Brow Blender in Dark Taupe. With the spool end, brush the brows upwards, then using short soft strokes apply the pencil. Step 5 - Subtle lips Complete Jennifer Lawrences Oscars look with a soft, nude lip colour. Choose a hydrating formula for a plump pout. We adore the ELES Velvet Satin lipstick in Middlesex Street. Outline your lips with a nude lip liner such as the ELES Gel Lipliner in naked for added definition. Step 6 - Final touches Add a sweep of translucent powder to ensure longevity. A setting spray will add a natural dewiness or lock in your look too.Remember, practice makes perfect. Experiment with these steps, adapting them to suit your unique features and personal style.

Who says you can't cheat a little on the ageing game with the magic of makeup? While skincare is essential for keeping skin healthy and happy, makeup can literally take years off your face in next to no time, you just need to know what and how to apply! Well we've put together our top makeup tips from the BC experts, 14 makeup tips that will have you looking younger in a matter of minutes! Keep reading as we count them down.1. Start with a nourishing base, every time.Before applying any makeup, you need to start with well-hydrated skin so don’t get lazy when it comes to your morning skincare routine. Start by making sure your face is perfectly cleansed, then apply your serum and moisturiser.If you haven’t prepped your skin before applying your foundation, chances are your skin will look and feel dry. Plus makeup tends to stick to dry areas on the skin making it appear patchy. It’ll even seep into fine lines and wrinkles accentuating them!For best results apply your moisturiser and wait five minutes for it to properly absorb in. Remember hydration really is the secret to plump, younger looking skin!2. Arm yourself with a primerPrimers are often the forgotten step when it comes to makeup application but we are here to tell you that this underrated makeup staple is a necessity, especially when it comes to looking younger with makeup! Creating an extra layer between your skin and makeup, face primers are used to plump fine lines, blur impurities and blemishes, smooth skin, and help makeup last all day without caking, creasing or the need for constant touch-ups. They really are key to achieving smooth, flawless skin that’s perfectly prepped for your foundation!Check out our favourite primers here.3. Always opt for a dewy foundationYou might be a lover of powder foundations but if you want to create a more youthful and radiant complexion you need to consider ditching the matte finish. No matter your skin type, too much face powder can actually age you! That’s right, it can highlight fine lines and wrinkles instead of helping to conceal them. Instead embrace dewy foundations, BB Creams or tinted moisturisers instead. They provide skin with natural coverage, SPF protection (which we all know is the main contributor to premature ageing) and a perfect subtle glow.If your skin tends to be on the oily side, you can still use a little powder, but remember sparingly and just on your t-zone.4. A good concealer will give you an instant eye liftConcealer really is your best friend when it comes to looking younger! Used correctly, concealer can brighten a tired complexion, cover up any blemishes, conceal dark under-eye circles and have you looking bright-eyed in seconds! To look younger, you’re best to opt for a concealer packed with amazing anti-ageing and eye nurturing ingredients like ELES Dual Action Concealer and watch those ageing dark circles, puffiness, age spots and blemishes disappear in seconds!Just be sure to choose the right shade for your skin and apply it correctly! For more on the best way to cover undereye dark circles click here.5. Lift your lashesAs we age our lashes get thinner and shorter so it's essential to add volume so they stand out! A lash lift with mascara is a powerful tool for defying the ageing process! Darkened and defined lashes open up our eyes, creating a refreshed, youthful and wide awake appearance.Curling your lashes can work wonders too but be careful how you do so! For more information on the best mascara, mascara hacks and eye lash tips for mature women click here.6. Play with eyeshadow shadesEyeshadow isn’t an essential step but by adding a touch of shimmer to your lids can enhance eyes ageing eyes. Just be sure to opt for warm, neutral eyeshadows. Soft, earthy tones can create a subtle, age-defying effect.7. Skip the heavy black eyelinerIf you use eyeliner, as many of us do, you’ll want to trade your harsh eyeliner for a softer approach. Use brown or grey liners for a more natural look that defines without weighing down your eyes.8. Brighten eyes with a waterline eyelinerInvesting in a waterline eyeliner will be a game changer for tired eyes. All you need to do is line your bottom waterline for an instantly wide-eyed effect. We promise you it’s worth the money as one swipe will truly create brighter, younger looking eyes.9. Don’t forget your browsJust as the hair on our heads can thin with age, so do our eyebrows! The thing is your brows can completely change how your face looks. Full, well-groomed brows are an instant youth-booster. If brow are thinning, fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder for a lifted, more defined look. But don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh. Read more on how to create perfect brows.10. Applying blush is a mustBelieve us when we say a sweep of blush on the apples of your cheeks adds a youthful flush. Just be sure to apply it correctly – use a blush brush and lift colour upwards towards your temple from the apple of your cheek.11. And don’t forget bronzerBronzer is your secret weapon for a youthful glow! Applied strategically, it adds warmth to your complexion, erasing signs of fatigue and dullness but instead mimicking a healthy, sun-kissed glow.Just be careful when and where you apply it as dusting copious amounts of bronzer all over our nose, chin, cheeks and forehead can play up fine lines and large pores as the powder sinks into them. The best (and the most flattering!) way is to apply your bronzer is with a bronzer brush to the perimeter of your face in the shape of a number three. Start on your forehead near your temples and loop down to the tops of your cheekbones, then curve out and around again along your jaw.12. Plump up those lipsAs we age, many of us will experience a reduction in lip volume and thinning of the lips! So you’ll need to create the illusion of plumped lips with lipliner! A lipliner will define your lips and prevent feathering. For more on how to apply lip liner for fuller looking lips click here.13. Using an illuminator can add luminosity to skin and help accentuate cheekbonesFinish your look with a subtle illuminator on the high points of your face – cheekbones, brow bones, and the tip of your nose.14. Set your makeup with a finishing powderA light dusting of translucent powder, finishing powder or even facial mist will set your makeup, preventing it from settling into fine lines. Remember, less is more in the powder department.

Many of us are guilty of spending a fortune on makeup and skincare products in the quest for healthier, more youthful skin, so imagine getting your hands one a BB Cream that quite literally does it all! And no I’m not saying you can do away with your daily skincare routine, after all cleansing your skin is the most important step! But I’m talking about a BB Cream that is your moisturiser, foundation, antioxidant, blue light and sun protection in one, and that’s packed to the brim with the very best ingredients anti-ageing skincare has to offer! Oh and it's certified organic and vegan and made in Australia too! Interested to know more? Keep reading….   Firstly what is a BB Cream? Beauty Balm or Blemish Balm, as otherwise known, BB Creams are your 3-in-one foundation. They offer all the benefits of a light-to-medium foundation (and sometimes fuller coverage as well) in a speedier formula that nourishes, corrects, and protects your skin too! Its smoother texture also allows BB Cream to function as a primer by evening out skin tone for flawless makeup application. Why choose ELES Blue Light Radiant BB Cream 30? The coverage, the texture, the SPF, the ingredients, honestly this BB Cream has it all! It's light, but buildable, perfect for all skin types, provides skin with a supple glowy, flawless finish which looks like you aren’t wearing makeup at all, and it not only provides skin with SPF 30 to protect it from the sun's UV rays, but it also shields skin from Blue Light damage omitted from our screens too! Blue Light Damage if you don’t know has become a real problem, and just like the sun's harmful rays, blue light from our devices is ageing our skin, every single day. Scary right? And let’s face it we all spend much of the day glued to devices! But most importantly it’s the best of the best when it comes to skincare makeup thanks to its multitude of natural anti-ageing ingredients including the Kakadu Plum! Australia’s native superfruit thanks to its extraordinary composition of vitamins and antioxidants! Well known for their incredibly high vitamin content, Kakadu Plums contain over 3000mg of Vitamin C per 100g of fruit! That’s a vitamin C concentration 100 times higher than oranges! Crazy right? And when used in natural skincare products, this supercharged ingredient works to stimulate collagen production (essential for keeping the skin youthful), reduces fine lines and wrinkles, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and any scarring, and visibly brightens the skin. So when we say this BB Cream is radiance-inducing, we are not joking! We all know the benefits of vitamin C, but this powerhouse ingredient is highly praised for its skin brightening benefits. Kakadu Plums also have an extremely rare antioxidant profile which means they are highly effective at detoxifying the skin and fighting off free radical damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and sun exposure. What’s more, Kakadu plum oil has long been sought after for its antifungal, antibacterial and deeply soothing properties. It has the ability to help reduce redness, inflammation and irritation, restoring the skin's natural barrier while also encouraging elasticity and suppleness! This means this BB Cream really is ideal for all skin types!The new Blue Light Radiant BB Cream from ELES Cosmetics really is a powerhouse! Multi-tasking, it is the perfect go-to for all you time-poor folk out there! So if you want to invest in one product that can really do it all, it's this! I’ve been personally using this BB Cream for over 2 weeks now, and while I know Im biased and love so many of the products from Beauty Collective, this has become my new go-to. Get yours now! And thank me later!

From stress inducing activities (hello school holidays) to overindulging (another cheese platter anyone?) the December/January holiday season (or silly season as we like to call it!) are rife with potential triggers that can lead to acne flare ups! That’s why this time of year is when we, at BC, get inundated with your questions about acne.Whether acne is something you’ve lived with for many years, or it’s decided to crop up now as an unwelcome adult guest, acne is one of the most common skin woes and we are here to help! We've listed the most frequently asked questions about acne and tapped into the wisdom of our skincare experts to get you the best possible answers. Keep scrolling to find out what they are… Q: Why am I getting acne as an adult, I thought acne was for teenagers?Sadly acne isn't only reserved for awkward high school years. Several factors can contribute to acne in adults. These include;hormonal changes: This often occurs during menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause. Hormonal imbalances can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production and breakouts.Stress: High stress levels can wreak havoc on your skin. Stress triggers the release of certain hormones, such as cortisol, which can stimulate oil production and contribute to acne. Additionally, stress may lead to unhealthy lifestyle habits, like poor sleep and an imbalanced diet, which can further exacerbate skin issues.Diet: While the link between specific foods and acne isn't universally agreed upon, some people find that certain dietary factors such as high-glycemic foods and dairy products can impact their skin and increase the risk of acne.Skincare and makeup products: The products you use on your skin could be a culprit. Some ingredients in skincare or makeup products may clog pores or irritate the skin, leading to breakouts. Ensure the products you are using are of good quality and are suitable for your specific skin type too!Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as smog or certain chemicals, can contribute to skin issues. Additionally, humidity may increase the likelihood of acne. Not good news this time of year!Genetics: Your genetic makeup plays a role in your skin's characteristics including its susceptibility to acne! If your parents or close relatives had acne, you might be more prone to it as well. Thanks parents!Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that include acne. If you suspect your medication might be contributing to your acne, it's best to have a chat with your GP.Over-cleansing or products that are too harsh for your skin: Sometimes, the desire to combat acne can lead to over-cleansing or the use of products which you think will help but are in fact too harsh for your skin! This can strip the skin of its natural oils, prompting it to produce even more oil in response. More oil produced equals more breakouts! Q: Can I blame overindulging in chocolate for my breakouts?Sorry to all you chocoholics out there but the link between chocolate and acne isn’t actually crystal clear. It's more about your overall diet, which does include sugar (and dairy too) so if you’ve been hitting the cheese board like me this silly season, or indulging in too many sweet treats, this definitely could be impacting your skin. Remember everything in moderation! And instead try to indulge in foods such as almonds, blueberries and avocados as they are among a range of foods which may help to reduce and prevent inflammation. Q: How can I get rid of my pimples overnight?Some spot treatments can work wonders at reducing, and in some cases eliminating, unwanted blemishes overnight. This is because they encourage rapid healing by controlling bacteria, reducing inflammation and diminishing the follicular accumulation of keratin.For the most effective results look for spot treatments formulated with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. We highly recommend Phytomers Oligopur Blemish Target Gel as the best spot treatment! It targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Simply apply a small amount of product to your pimples and let the powerful ingredients keep your skin follicles clean to achieve an even and bright complexion by morning. Q: Can following a specific skincare routine really help my acne? Absolutely! Consistency is key. A gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser, and targeted treatments can help keep acne at bay.Also, don't forget sunscreen – it's like armour for your skin, yes even for those of us with acne! And I know it sounds counterintuitive, slathering sunscreen all over acne flareups but believe me when I say avoiding sunscreen can worsen the appearance of acne, and if the skin gets sunburnt, the symptoms of acne can be painfully exasperated.Just be sure to choose your sunscreen wisely. Using the right sunscreen can prevent and heal acne, soothe the skin, keep dark spots and clogged pores at bay, all while protecting from harmful UV rays.We love Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. Q: Can I wear makeup if I have acne prone skin?Absolutely! But you must be careful with what you use! Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas. Mineral makeup can be a game-changer as it doesn’t contain any chemical nasties or additional oils, nor will it aggravate skin or clog pores. Genius! Here at BC from the staff to the experts we all love ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. And for more translucent coverage the ELES Mineral Foundation Powder. Both products are perfect for those with skin sensitives, are free of any chemical nasties, provide effortless and natural coverage and most importantly will allow your skin to breathe freely (so no pore clogging in sight) plus you'll feel like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! What more could you ask for?For more information on makeup for acne prone skin, including the best makeup tips click here. My pimples really need popping, is it ok to do so?No! Experts cringe at the thought of DIY extractions. Popping pimples can lead to scarring and more inflammation. Let it be, and consider a spot treatment instead. Are all pimples the same?Nope! From blackheads and whiteheads to cystic acne, the acne family can get a little confusing! And each type of pimple or acne requires a slightly different approach too! To understand more about the type of acne you could be suffering from click here. Could stress and lack of sleep being affecting my skin?Yes sir-eee. Lack of sleep and high stress levels can trigger hormonal imbalances leading to breakouts. Try to prioritise self-care, practice relaxation techniques and try to get to bed earlier if you can for ample beauty sleep. If you struggle with getting to sleep make sure you turn off devices an hour before bedtime and instead listen to some soothing sounds. We love listening to the ambient relaxation playlist on Spotify.

As beauty lovers, here at BC we are always on the lookout for exciting and innovative products and ingredients. Whether it’s the latest skincare launch or that limited edition makeup palette we’ve had our eye on, there is always something new to covet. Keep reading as we reveal the products team BC have on our Wishlist’s for 2024! Naturys Antiage Multi-Peptide SerumWe have kickstarted the year with a glow by adding a radiance-boosting serum to our wishlist! And what better a serum than this new one from Naturys! Experts rave about Naturys’s vegan formulations so to be honest we are excited to trial the entire collection, but this particular product was our initial pick! Formulated with hyaluronic acid, an ingredient my dry skin LOVES, this product packs a punch when it comes to hydration but thanks to its additional combination of nourishing and anti-ageing ingredients including an array of peptides and vitamin C, it promises to leave your skin softer, smoother and visibly radiant too. Now that’s what we are talking about!Pevonia De-stress Escape Aromatic OilThis is one of those products we didn’t realise we were missing from our routine until we tried it - and now we’re never going back. This nourishing facial oil is the perfect way to end the day and believe me when I say it’ll work wonders for your skin (and for your psyche too!) It features a blend of premium and delicate natural oils to effectively reduce skin dryness and dehydration while promoting a feeling of increased wellbeing and utter relaxation! Want to wake up to dewy skin in the morning then try this!ELES Youth Recovery Sheet MaskWho hasn’t tried a sheet mask, after all they’ve been a popular skincare trend for some time now and for good reason! They provide a quick, easy and refreshing boost to your skin, and this one is a top pick of ours for 2024. It’s a professional strength mask (so think results!) made with 100% pure cotton and drenched with the highest percentage of natural, active ingredients on the market for optimum results. No more tired, lacklustre skin! What’s more, the ELES sheet masks are vegan, cruelty free, fragrance free and sulphate free too! So why not add this sheet mask to your wishlist too and treat yourself and your skin to a spa day at home!Naturys Anti-Age Retinol BoosterWe could all do with retinol in our lives as our skin gets older! After all, when it comes to reducing the visible signs of ageing, retinol is the “super-ingredient” every beauty professional hails as the holy grail of the skincare world! Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child!Want to know our favourite vegan-friendly retinol serum right now? And top of our wishlish for 2024? It's this beauty! The new Naturys Anti-Age Retinol Booster! This retinol serum is also formulated with bakuchiol, and both ingredients work together to effectively enrich skin with a microdose of daily regenerating strength! The formulation also visibly reduces the signs of time, improves texture and tones skin.Concerned about giving retinol a go? Don’t be, you just need to know how to use your retinol products correctly! For more information on retinol click here.ELES Age Defying BB CreamWe're yet to recommend these multi-purpose creams to someone who doesn't fall in love with them as much as us! Your moisturiser, primer, sunscreen and foundation in one, the ELES Age-Defying BB cream SPF 30 is a multi-tasking makeup miracle, suitable for all skin types! A big call I know, but it’s not BC’s best-seller for nothing!This BB Cream primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish. And thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned! What’s more, you’ll feel as though you aren’t even wearing makeup, no easy feat for a foundation or any product with SPF for that matter!Pevonia C Complex with OxyzomesAsk anyone with beautifully radiant skin what their secret is and they’ll likely tell you they’re using Vitamin C! Recommended by every beauty expert, Vitamin C is THE go-to ingredient to dramatically brighten skin, that’s why this Pevonia beauty is on our wishlist! It is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied, skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!ELES Dual Action ConcealerDark under eye circles appears to be a problem for the majority of us here at BC and this concealer is a must-have for covering up those dark circles as well as blemishes and imperfections. It's creamy, blendable, and has the ultimate natural-looking finish. It’s also an anti-ageing concealer rich in marine collagen, caffeine, vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and peptides which help to gradually improve skin's texture, depuff, smooth, brighten and improve elasticity around the eyes.Medicalia Sunscreen SPF40 with Blue Light ShieldIf you’re going to invest in one product that’s going to save you money in the long run, it has to be an SPF. While sunscreen won’t just help future-proof your face by slowing down the signs of ageing, there’s also not much point investing in other skincare products if you don’t have the fundamentals of your skincare routine down pat. This one is a firm favourite on our wishlist thanks to its hydrating properties that allow us to wear it as a moisturiser/sunscreen hybrid on lazy days without leaving any white cast or oily residue. Also, did we mention it sits perfectly under makeup.What’s more it helps protect skin from not only UV rays but also blue light damage caused by our devices, which so many of us spend far too long in front of every day. Blue light from electronics is linked to a number of issues, from digital eye damage, to sleep deprivation (and lack of sleep never did anyone any good) and then there is the adverse effect it has on our skin! Why spend all that time, energy and money on skincare only to have the good undone by our devices? As quickly as a collagen cream can replenish our skin and soften fine lines and wrinkles, overexposure to “screen time” can actually prompt the formation of free radicals which break down collagen causing fine lines and wrinkles! And that’s not all! Excessive blue light can cause inflammation, leading to redness and dark spots, as well as hyperpigmentation, particularly in those with darker skin.Let’s face it though, we aren’t going to give up scrolling on our phone or our love of Netflix at night, nor can those of us who work, simply shutdown our laptops and say no more! But what we can do is use Medicalias sunscreen SPF 40 with blue light shield. The beauty wishlist is a testament to our never-ending love affair with all things skincare and makeup! It’s a collection of our most coveted products that we can’t wait to incorporate into our daily routines if we haven’t already. Whether it’s the promise of glowing skin or a perfectly natural and flawless makeup routine, these products are on our beauty wishlists for very good reason.

Facial contouring – we’ve likely all heard about it, after all it’s a technique that makeup artists have been using for years now! This is because contouring has the ability to totally transform your face! Adding depth and dimension to your features and bone structure like nothing else. We are talking chiselled cheekbones and sculpted jawlines! But surely this makeup technique is reserved only for professionals, right? Especially since it can look somewhat intimidating! The thing is we can all sculpt those cheekbones of ours like any seasoned artist, we just need to learn how!Keep reading for our simple step by step guide on how to contour like a pro and achieve perfectly chiselled features in under 5 minutes without the need for surgery!Step 1: Gather your toolsFirst things first, make sure you have the right tools at your disposal. You'll need a bronzer (the bronzer you use to contour should be only slightly darker than your skin tone. You can use any kind of formulation you like, though we do recommend a powder for beginners like the ELES Mineral Sheer Bronzer in Rio De Janeiro), a highlighter (the colour you choose for highlighting, should generally have a light shimmer finish, we love the ELES Stick Illuminator), tapered powder and blending brushes, a beauty blender sponge and a translucent powder.Step 2: Start with a fresh canvas Begin with a clean, moisturised face. Apply your foundation as you normally would to create an even base. Allow it to settle into your skin for a few minutes. Step 3: Identify your face shapeUnderstanding your face shape is crucial for targeted contouring. Whether you have a round, oval, square, heart, or diamond-shaped face, each requires specific contouring techniques. Identify yours to tailor your approach accordingly.The model we've chosen for this demonstration has a lovely round face, we've exaggerated the effect so you can see more clearly the placement of the product, however a lighter effect is recommended. Step 4: Define with contour shades Take your contour shade (bronzer) and using a tapered powder brush apply directly beneath the cheekbones, from the earlobes fading to the corners of the mouth. Step 5: Contour your nose (optional) If you want to refine your nose shape, use a smaller brush, like a small tapered blending brush to contour the sides.Apply a light application of your chosen bronzer directly down the outer contours of the nose and up towards the brow. Keep it subtle and build up the intensity gradually. Less is often more when it comes to nose contouring.Follow with a blended line sweeping across the eye contour crease to the outer eye and up towards the temples. Step 6: Highlight strategic areas Now it's time for your highlighter! Apply to areas you want to bring forward. This typically includes the centre of the forehead, bridge of the nose, under the eyes in an inverted triangle shape, tops of the cheekbones, and the chin.Start by taking a small amount of the ELES Stick Illuminator and apply in patting movements to the centre of the forehead above the nose and sweeping down the centre of the nose.N.B Remember the secret to a professional-looking contour is seamless blending. Use a damp blending sponge and blend in upward and outward motions to avoid harsh lines.Apply more highlighter under the eyes, to the inner cheeks beside the nose and down under the nose on the upper lip. Step 7: Add a pop of colour (optional)For an extra touch, apply a light dusting of blush to the apples of your cheeks. This adds a healthy flush and will complement your contoured features.Step 8: Set with translucent powder To lock in your hard work and prevent any smudging, set your contour with a light dusting of translucent powder. This step is especially important if you're using cream or liquid products.Voila! You’ve just contoured like a professional! Just remember practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. The key is to experiment and find what works for your unique features.CONTOURING GUIDE FOR DIFFERENT FACE SHAPES

Another year, another count down of the best-selling products on BC, this time for 2023! From the cult classics that keep coming up year after year, to new product launches, the top 10 beauty buys range from true skincare saviours to makeup must-haves. Keep reading as we reveal them all, and with your reviews to prove their worth too! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15I personally LOVE this gem of a product and since it’s the no.1 best seller on BC, our customers clearly feel the same! If you are a lover of matte foundations but after something soft, subtle and natural looking, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, smooth, powder finish, it’s also mineral-enriched (so great for your skin) and provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for!5/5✭“Amazing foundation! So easy to apply with fingertips and has great coverage whilst looking natural and not settling into lines. Excellent match for my skin colour with smooth luminous finish that’s perfect for my late 40’s skin needs.” Clarissa5/5✭“I have been using this product for 10 years+ and cannot fault it. It is light, silky and even though my skin is oil based it does not leave it clogged like many other foundations I have used previously.I absolutely recommend anyone to try it to see how beautiful it is to wear.” Debrah5/5✭“This is the best foundation I have ever used! Firstly, it's mineral makeup so it doesn't clog your skin. Secondly the coverage is amazing and it makes your skin look and feel like velvet - honestly the best I have ever used. I have been using this for years and just love it. I get compliments on my makeup all the time.” Sia P Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream Pevonia’s global best-selling product, is once again at the top of Beauty Collectives best-selling list for another year and for every good reason! It is deeply nourishing (without feeling heavy or oily), feels amazing on application, and is formulated with the best anti-ageing and hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, marine collagen, squalane and glycerin, to plump, smooth and deeply nourish skin for optimal radiance. I swear I have less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream and our customers agree too.5/5✭“I love this daily face cream….I use it morning and night! My skin looks and feels amazing. I’m 52 and am told constantly that I look so young….I give Pevonia products the credit. Linda5/5✭“This cream is amazing! After about 3 weeks of using it, I noticed that the lines around my eyes were softer, the red sun damage on my cheeks was lessening and the general quality of my skin was improving. I will continue to use this product indefinitely.” Sara5/5✭“I absolutely love this cream. It is a day cream and a night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤” AnaELES Age Defying BB Cream 30Another product I’m a huge advocate for! This time it’s this multifaceted wonder cream from ELES Cosmetics. It has the perfect light, dewy coverage and literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects (thanks to its SPF of 30) and evens out skin tone all in one! for a truly natural and flawless finish, plus it feels like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! Honestly, if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this product is one you should seriously consider too! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one!What’s more, thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned!5/5✭“I absolutely love this product. I used it years ago, tried others but nothing compares. Such a beautiful feel on your skin and the perfect amount of glowy/dewy coverage. I love the spf included, I don’t need to use any other product but this on my face of a morning. Perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger.” Krystle W5/5✭“This product is so beautiful for older skin. It covers really well yet allows the skin to breath. It’s pearlescent finish makes the skin glow. I am really happy with my purchase and recommend it to others without reservation.” Judith5/5✭“I’ve been using ELES BB Cream for 5 years and have not strayed. I love the coverage (you only need a little) and the dewy complexion it gives my skin! Highly recommend this product!” Joanne Pevonia RS2 Care CreamIf you suffer from ultra-sensitive or rosacea prone skin, this could well be your new go-to cream like so many of our customers! Rich in licorice root extract (also known as nature’s cortisone) this beautifully nurturing cream is soothing like ice on sensitive skin. Formulated with Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, it provides skin with vaso-constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits! No wonder our customers love it!5/5✭“I love this cream, the best one around. It is cool and refreshing. It does not make me break out, which many creams do. I have super sensitive skin and this is one of the few products that my skin loves.” Jackie5/5✭“I have paid out a lot of money on products for my rosacea- this time I have hit the jackpot! After years of frustration and not wanting to go down the laser path I have found this cream and I can truly say it has helped my skin. It is calmer with less redness and flare ups.” Sharon 5/5✭“I have rosacea and my skin can be sensitive so have been using this care cream for some time now. I have tried some others but have moved back to this one as it keeps my rosacea calm and my skin hydrated. I love it.” Margaret Pevonia Hydrating CleanserEveryone needs a good daily cleanser in their skincare collection and this cleanser is the one that keeps topping our best-sellers list year after year. Why? Because its anti-ageing and deeply nourishing! Creamy textured, it's formulated with marine collagen, marine elastin and other natural nourishing and nurturing ingredients that hydrate and gently but deeply cleanses the skin removing impurities without any residue.5/5✭“Best Cleanser Ever. Creamy, non-irritating cleanser. I’ve been using Pevonia for years and my skin feels great.” Kelly5/5✭“The best way for younger looking skin.Just a few pumps will clean your face and your face will feel silky smooth. Does not leave your skin feeling dry.” Sarah5/5✭“I love this cleanser and so does my skin. I have tried others but keep coming back to the Power Repair. Even my rosecea loves it.” Robyn Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20I know I’m biased but I really do love all the foundations from ELES Cosmetics, but this one has to be my favourite go-to for the summer season! It is sooo nourishing, dewy and light on the skin, and provides the perfect natural sun-kissed glow. It’s also rich in Vitamins A & E and SPF to condition and protect skin. Looking for effortless coverage that leaves skin with a natural radiance glow, this is it!5/5✭“This tint is the best thing EVER for summer days - really sheer but it just evens out your skin tone and gives it a lovely glow. It stays in place and seems to be incredibly sweat resistant and also doesn't wipe off on clothes or settle into pores. Miracle!” Jenni5/5✭“This is a beautiful sheer tinted moisturizer, with SPF. It looks and feels like skin. I love the Natural Glow. it is perfect for mature skin making it look a little dewy and more youthful.” Christina5/5✭“Seriously the best foundation I've ever used. My skin reacts to a lot of chemicals/make-up but never to this one. Goes on beautifully and the tint shades are perfect. :)” Leah Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream There is nothing not to love about this product if your complexion tends to lean towards the shiny, oily, hormonal side. This extra light yet nourishing moisturiser feels smooth and soft on application but effectively controls oil and shine while reducing congestion! Oh, and it smells pretty fab too!5/5✭“I love this day cream. The lemon grass smells divine. It is not heavy or oily. It soaks in beautifully and makes my combination skin hydrated yet controls the oil flow and reduces congestion.” Nikita5/5✭“What’s not to love about this product? It provides just enough moisture for my combination skin, absorbs quickly, doesn't pill under makeup, doesn't cause me to breakout and the cherry on top....it smells AMAZING! The ingredient list is very clean so I know I'm providing some great nutrients to my skin.” Dyan5/5✭“The Pevonia Combination Cream is fantastic for my skin. Controls the oil in my skin, extra light and feels smooth and soft. I have always suffered with hormonal skin along my shin line and now I am finally happy with the results from using Pevonia combination range.” SashaPevonia C Evolutive Eye GelThis eye gel is the perfect morning pick-me-up for tired, ageing eyes. Or customers think so too! Formulated with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Ginkgo Biloba, this powerhouse product really packs a punch. The three potent ingredients work together to deliver not only decongesting and brightening benefits but they also affectively target dark circles and wrinkles. The results speak for themselves. Renewed, rejuvenated, refreshed and visibly brighter eye contour with visible reduction in wrinkles. Enough reasons to make you see why its on the top 10 best-sellers for 2023?5/5✭“I have been using this for 15 yrs and best eye gel for keeping the wrinkles at bay” Isabelle5/5✭“I love this eye gel, i have been using it for years and it is non-greasy and soothing on the skin. It also reduces puffiness straight away and you can put make-up on without having to wait. I would highly recommend this product”. Jane5/5✭“Have totally fallen in love with this product! It's cooling around the eyes without that tight feeling you sometimes get with other gel eye creams. Definitely reduced puffiness around the eyes. Highly recommend!” Miriam Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion This all-in-one alcohol-free cleanser, toner and makeup remover, is beautifully gentle and wonderful to use. It perfectly balances your skin’s pH after thoroughly removing any last traces of dirt, grime, makeup and impurities left behind after cleansing. And does so without leaving an oily film or a dry, harsh feeling like other toners can! And when added to your daily skincare routine and used regularly, it can have major positive impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores too! Want silky soft and supple skin? Add this must-have into your beauty routine.5/5✭“This is fantastic, I use it to clean my entire face including removing my mascara. It removes any residual makeup or sweat from my skin & does not irritate my sensitive skin. Love it, can’t lie without this.” Lauren5/5✭“Holy Grail Toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all-time favourite. There’s just something in this toner that truly leaves my skin better for use. Even after it dries off my skin does not feel tight or dry. If you’re in the market for a new toner I highly highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara5/5✭“This is the best toner I have used so far. I have sensitive skin and have been breaking out recently due to pregnancy hormones. This has really helped keep my skin clean and refreshed. I use it in the morning and at night. It does not dry out my skin like other toners can. Love the smell also.” AngelaPhytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes Exfoliation is important for everyone, even those with the most sensitive of skin, but finding the right exfoliator to suit can be tricky. We therefore aren’t at all surprised that Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant has been in the top 10 for a number of years now! It is a seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant for all skin types, as it eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) This formidable exfoliator 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!) the Vegetal Exfoliant is for you! 5/5✭“I bought this after reading the reviews and it makes my skin glow and feel silky. Totally worth it!!” Justine5/5✭“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!” Laura5/5✭“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

Dark undereye circles, who hasn’t woken up many a morning to those frustrating, unwanted rings under their eyes! This common skin concern is in fact a persistent complaint for many, woman and men, but what exactly causes them and is it possible to reduce or even get rid of dark circles all together? In short, Yes! And we are here to tell you how. Keep reading as we explain what dark circles actually are, as well as reveal the best methods to bid farewell to those pesky shadows and restore a bright, refreshed appearance to your delicate eye area. What causes dark circles?Before diving into solutions to get rid of those dark circles of yours, it's important to understand what it is that actually causes them.As we get older, our skin becomes thinner. This is the result of a decrease in fat and collagen production (which maintains our skin’s elasticity) As this occurs, the dark blood vessels beneath our skin become more visible, causing the area below our eyes to darken.Dark under eye circles can also be the cause of lack of sleep (which unfortunately increases with age too!) as well as dehydration, allergies, poor blood circulation and insufficient toxin drainage! How to get rid of dark circles Get your beauty sleep! One of the most common contributors to dark circles is lack of sleep so you need to ensure you are getting enough beauty slumber! Without it the oxygen in the eyes decreases which makes blood vessels dilate. Deoxygenating or dilated blood vessels become darker in colour and show more readily through the skin. This, in turn, causes dark circles!Try to aim for 7-9 hours per night and establish a consistent sleep routine, this means going to bed at a reasonable time and trying to stick with that time every night. Also consider using blackout curtains to create a dark and conducive sleeping environment. Keep hydrated Dehydration can exacerbate the appearance of dark circles, so make sure you're keeping hydrated. Set yourself a goal of eight glasses of water a day, more if possible, to keep your skin and body sufficiently hydrated. I personally love herbal teas too as a good alternative. Prop yourself up at night Easier said than done but propping yourself on a few pillows might not be comfortable for all, but by elevating your head with a couple of extra pillows can prevent fluid from collecting under your eyes at night. This may also help with puffiness. Use a cold compress You can effectively constrict blood vessels, as well as reduce puffiness with a cold compress. Whether it's applying chilled cucumber, metal spoons or a cold tea bag to each eye, the coolness can help diminish the appearance of dark circles. Really! Give yourself a mini facial massage with a gemstone facial roller By doing so you’ll help improve circulation, and remove toxins from the delicate eye area, significantly improving dark circles and under eye bags. Giving yourself a mini facial massage will also reduce inflammation, refresh the skin and tone your face! In fact gemstone rollers offer a multitude of other benefits for your skin too. Click here to find out more. Invest in an eye cream or eye gel specifically formulated to target dark circles Look for ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, which can help brighten the under-eye area and promote collagen production.We love;Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle CreamThis outstanding eye cream draws its inspiration from the eye rejuvenating hyaluronic acid injections carried out in aesthetic doctors practices! It’s suitable for everyone, even those with super sensitive eyes and it does exactly what the bottle says! It attacks puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles with a powerful burst of encapsulated high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, injectables-like peptide, fatty acids, vitamin c and niacinamide for exceptional results. Medicalia Eye Gel Oxy CThis little beauty is formulated with clever time-release sphérulites drenched with Hyaluronic Acid; stabilized Vitamin C; and Marine Collagen Peptides and is effective at eliminating dark circles as it alleviates eye contour stress and fatigue. Genius! Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye GelFor mornings when your eyes are looking dark and puffy, reaching for this cooling eye gel will do wonders for reviving this delectate area!  it’s a personal favourite of mine and highly recommended by the BC Pros. It’s a wonderful, cooling gel, formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, as well as green coffee to effectively smooth wrinkles which radically reducing dark circles and puffiness. I can hand on heart vouch for this!Also by using a tapping motion with your finger which you apply it can help get rid of any fluid that’s accumulated under the delicate eye area. Reduce screen time Yes, we know you are guilty of scrolling your phone once too often during the day, or sitting for hours in the zone watching your favourite Netflix show by night, but did you know the blue light rays omitted from your devices can actually exacerbate dark circles. So try to cut down a little on screen time or give your eyes constant breaks throughout the day. Adjust your diet a diet that lacks a high level of healthy nutrients can contribute to your dark circles. So make sure you eat foods rich in vitamin E which can help to fight enzymes that break down skin elasticity. Vitamin E also fights free radicals which causes wrinkles and ageing. It also helps to remove blemishes and dark circles. Foods like almond, peanuts, sunflower seeds, spinach, and broccoli are good! Cut down on caffeine I’m sure many of us love our daily coffee, some will be reliant on more than one, but the bad news is, caffeine or caffeinated drinks cause dehydration that worsens under-eye rings so try to cut down on the caffeine intake a little if you are noticing dark circles are becoming a reoccurrence. Stress less Yes that’s right, stress is a contributor to those dark circles of yours! So try to stress less! Easier said than done when you are trying to juggle so many balls, however, try to introduce a little me time into your life, time for you to relax and unwind. Read a book perhaps, listen to soothing music or even practice yoga or meditation every day. Every little helps you and those dark circles of yours! Be aware of how much alcohol you are consuming Alcohol consumption affects our appearance and our eyes so try to drink a little less! We are not saying you need to forgo your much loved glass of wine, what we are saying is everything in moderation. Don’t over expose your eyes to sun! This can definitely affect your eyes! Instead always protect your peepers from the sun by wearing sunglasses and opt for a protective hat too! Use a good concealer! When it comes to camouflaging dark under eye circles, a concealer is by far your best bet. A good undereye concealer can give you complete coverage as well as make you look bright-eyed in seconds! Choose a shade lighter than your natural skin tone (as this will help brighten the area) but also opt for a “peachy” tone as this will counteract the blueish tinge of the shadows.Try ELES Dual Action Concealer. This is my personal secret weapon for concealing my dark under eye circles and helping me look like I’ve had 8 hours of blissful slumber as opposed to only 5! It’s formulated with a myriad of anti-ageing wonder ingredients including Hyaluronic acid, Caffeine, Vitamins C & E, Collagen and more! And it actually helps to gradually improve skin’s texture while concealing those obvious under eye dark circles. Its moisturising formula provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! It’s seriously good stuff. Simply apply with a small concealer brush and then finish with a powder to set the concealer so it doesn’t crease.For the most brightening effect, apply your concealer in a “V” or upside-down triangle shape beneath your eye. Swipe it directly under the eye, but bring it down to a point on your cheek beside your nostril and fill in the entire area.

It's that time of the year again – the silly season as we like to call it! The season of fun and festivities, and, of course, Christmas get togethers and parties!To look your best, and stand out from the crowd of course! You’ll need to nail that party ready makeup look, we are talking skin that glows and eyes that shimmer and pop. Want to achieve our go-to look? Keep reading for the ultimate step by step guide. Step 1. Pre party prepBefore we jump into creating the perfect party ready makeup look, let's talk skin prep. You’ll need to thoroughly cleanse your skin first with your choice of cleanser, next apply your much-loved moisturiser, (make sure you let it soak in) then it’s time to prime. Think of it as the canvas for your masterpiece. A smooth base will ensure your makeup lasts all day or all night long!Step 2. Apply your foundationNow it’s time for your makeup! Starting with foundation. Not sure which foundation to use. Click here for the best foundation for your skin type.For skin that glows we love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint. Work a small amount into your fingertips to warm the product and press into the skin all over the face, keep patting and pressing until the product is evenly dispersed then lightly blend into the face with your fingers until you have an even coverage.If you are more of a matte lover though (but still want to achieve a radiant base), we highly recommend the ELES Foundation Stick or Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation.Step 3: Touch up skin where necessary with a concealerYou’ll want to use concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles you may have. Apply a small amount to areas where needed or under eyes with fingertips or a small concealer brush gently blending. Try ELES Dual Action Concealer my personal secret weapon for concealing dark under eyes.Step 4: Set with PowderOnce you’ve finished applying your base it’s a good idea to set the products with a translucent setting powder like ELES Mineral Powder Foundation to prevent shine. Step 5: Bronzer and Blush Now it’s time for you to add some colour!We are loving the ELES Party Ready Makeup Palette! It really is perfect for creating a party ready look. It features a bronzer, blush and two shimmer eyeshadow shades.Firstly take your bronzer to add contour to your face. Using a large fluffy powder brush apply to the cheekbones, under the jawline and along the perimeter of the forehead, blend well for a natural sun kissed look. Follow with the Blush, applying it to the apples of your cheeks for that beautifully flushed finish. Step 6: Highlight For a truly lit from within look, this is a step you won't want to miss! Highlighter can also be used to accentuate and "lift" bone structure. It's amazing!Apply highlighter to the high points of your face, such as cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid's bow. We recommend the ELES Stick Illuminator.Step 7: All about the eyesNow it’s time to accentuate those eyes. You’ll want to take the ELES Party Ready Palette again using the two shimmer shadows.Firstly apply the pinky/peach shade all over the eyelid. Next, apply the gold shade on the base of your eyelid carefully blending up towards the eye crease and below the lower lash line to create a natural smoky eye. Finish by applying a little of this shade to the inner corners of your eyes with your fingertip.Step 8: Add eyeliner for definitionEyeliner shapes and defines eyes and makes eyelashes look thicker. Take a bronze shade eye liner and apply it to the upper lash line as well as a little to your bottom waterline. This will help eyes to pop. We love ELES Superwear Gel Liner in Baroque. It is super smooth and longwearing so stays put all day long without smudging! Just what you need from an eyeliner! Step 9: Finish with lashings of mascaraAnd finally to finish off the eyes, apply several coats of Lush Mascara in Black to the top and bottom lashes. Work from the base of the lashes wiggling the wand slowly up the lashes for extra volume. Step 10: Define your browsFor some, your eyebrows can be an afterthought, but by defining and shaping them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift too! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil like the ELES Precision Brow Pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. Next, define and ‘lift’ brows by using a white eyeliner as a brow highlighter. Line below and above your eyebrows and smudge it out with a sponge or fingertip. You can also opt to use a highlighter if you don’t have a white liner on hand. Read more on how to create the perfect brows. Step 11: Complete the look by focusing on your lipsTo complete the look, it's time to focus on your lips. Apply lipstick to the lips with a lip brush to create definition in the outer edges, blot the lips with tissue, then reapply from the tube directly to the lips. Blot again for a soft matte finish. Use a lipstick colour of your choice, one that complements your overall look. Bold or neutral shades can work depending on your preference. You can add a little gloss too as desired. And voila! You're ready to shine!

If you’re one of many with sensitive skin, you’ll understand the struggle when it comes to finding the perfect skincare and makeup routine that won't lead to redness, inflammation, and discomfort.Sensitive skin requires a gentle approach, and a carefully curated daily routine with products designed to calm, soothe and protect can help you achieve that coveted healthy glow without irritation. Keep reading as we discuss the best skincare and makeup routine, specifically tailored just for your sensitive skin. Skincare routine for sensitive skin Identify your skin concerns First things first, understanding your specific skin concerns is crucial for tailoring your skincare routine. Sensitive skin can manifest in various ways, including dryness, redness, itchiness, and irritation. Know your triggers Specific ingredients and environmental factors can trigger skin sensitivity. Everything from fragrances and preservatives in soaps, beauty products and laundry detergents to the cold, sun and wind can cause skin irritation. Learn to know which are your triggers.To learn more about why you could be suffering from sensitive skin click here. Always choose gentle products with calming ingredients Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic products to minimize the risk of irritation. And always check the ingredients. You want your skincare products to be formulated with ingredients that soothe and nourish sensitive skin, such as aloe vera, chamomile, calendula and ceramides. These natural extracts have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sensitive skin and reduce redness. Gentle Cleansing Now it's time to start your routine! Begin with your gentle cleanser designed for sensitive skin, which means it’ll be free from alcohol and harsh ingredients. Remember cleansing should be a soothing experience, not one that leaves your skin feeling tight and irritated!Try: Medicalia Gentle cleanser. Formulated with a unique natural blend of soothing Green Tea, Chamomile, and Oat Amino Acids, it beautifully cleanses skin both thoroughly and gently while preserving the skin barrier and reducing symptoms of inflammation too!“This cleanser is perfect for my super sensitive skin. Love it. Have been using for years.” Jane Hydration is key Keeping your skin well hydrated is crucial for sensitive skin (as it is with all skin types!) Just be sure to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that provides optimal hydration without clogging pores.Try: Phytomer Douceur Intemporelle Restorative Shield Cream. It’s an outstanding comforting cream with a beautifully light consistency which literally rescues skin by strengthening its protective barrier. It soothes, calms and comforts skin, conveniently remedying red patches.“I LOVE this cream. It feels wonderful when applied and I've noticed how much smoother and more radiant my sensitive skin is. Highly recommend!” Jo G Don’t forget your soothing serum Serums are essential in any skincare routine because they deliver vital active ingredients to the dermis quickly. Think of a serum as the secret weapon for treating skin issues like discolouration, dullness, fine lines, acne and of course skin sensitivities!Try: Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate. For a truly nurturing, soothing serum this should be your go-to. It literally bathes skin in calming lavender and healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France, decongesting, enriching, alleviating and strengthening fragile skin.“Truly Amazing. I knew this was the best healing treatment for my face when I ran out of it for a couple of weeks, something I'll never do again. Keeps my ultra-sensitive complexion creamy and cool. Love Propolis — and it smells divine!” Susanna V Formulations that include hyaluronic acid can also be game-changing as it attracts and retains moisture keeping skin nourished, plum, soothed and supple.Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum“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 Wear sunscreen every. single. day Protecting your sensitive skin from the sun's harmful UV rays is imperative so sun protection is non-negotiable, especially since UV rays can exacerbate sensitivity leading to redness and irritation.Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and you’re best to go for physical sunscreens like zinc or titanium dioxide. Fragrance-free formulas and those that are free of ingredients like phthalates and parabens will also reduce your exposure to formulas that might irritate your skin. Be sure to reapply if you are outside for a long period of time!Try: Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield.“Love this product it gives all day sun protection doesn’t mark clothing and gives my skin a healthy glow I’m hooked!” Jan C Exfoliate skin but don’t over-exfoliate! Exfoliation is essential, even for those of us with sensitive skin. This is because exfoliating can promote cell regeneration, unclog pores and improve skin texture. The problem is, that exfoliation can come with risks of irritation, inflammation and dryness, so it is essential to choose the right exfoliators!Then there is also the issue of over-exfoliation, which can strip the skin's natural barrier leading to increased sensitivity. So if you have sensitive skin, start by limiting its use to only once a week and use a gentle exfoliator with mild exfoliating agents like fruit acids or enzymes.For more on exfoliation and sensitive skin and what to do click here. Stay consistent And finally, consistency is key when it comes to caring for your sensitive skin. Once you’ve found what works, stick to it and daily.Aside from your skincare routine, there are also other things you can do to help calm your sensitive skin. Stress less, sleep more and watch what you eat. Certain foods and drinks can contribute to your skin's sensitivities. Limit spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol, and feast on a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to promote skin health from within. Makeup tips for sensitive skinNow you’ve got your skincare routine down pat, it's time to master your makeup! Check ingredients As with your skincare routine, make sure you opt for "non-comedogenic" makeup to prevent pore-clogging and potential breakouts. You’ll also want to invest in fragrance free formulas as artificial scents can be a common trigger for sensitivity. Mineral Makeup is best. Clean makeup brushes regularly We all know dirty brushes can harbour bacteria which in turn can further irritate already irritated skin! Make sure you clean your makeup brushes regularly!To learn more about how often you should clean and replace your makeup brushes click here. Less is more Yes, we want to conceal sensitive skin whether it be facial redness or unwanted blemishes, but just remember less is always more!Simply minimise the number of makeup layers you apply to your face to reduce the risk of irritation and if you’re suffering from facial redness, try using a multi-tasking CC cream.Unlike tinted moisturisers, foundations and even BB Creams, these miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover the redness, the CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, wrinkles and other skin imperfections, subtly illuminating the skin. This means less coverage is required if any at all. In fact, men can and do use CC Creams to even out their skin tone as it doesn’t look like makeup.Try: ELES Luminous CC Cream 20, you’ll be so glad you did!“I’m loving my new CC Cream! I was recommended it by a friend as I suffer from facial redness and sensitive skin and this product does an amazing job at colour correcting so the redness is beautifully concealed but my skin feels calm with a nice natural glow at the same time. Would highly recommend it.” Sarah MIf colour correction isn’t something you need make sure you go for a breathable, lightweight liquid formula.Try; best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. It’s silky, mineral-enriched and provides skin with broad spectrum sun protection. Its liquid formulation glides beautifully onto sensitive skin setting as a soft, powder finish, however it does not clog skin! Brilliant stuff. “The ELES liquid to powder is PHENOMENAL. I will never try another foundation. The foundation smooths over your skin so easily, providing good medium coverage, evening out skin tone, its completely non-irritating, and doesn't clog my skin.” Lucy G Patch test It’s always a good idea to patch test any new makeup products when it comes to sensitive or reactive skin, before applying all over your face! Remove makeup before bed And finally, always remember to remove your makeup before bed no matter how lazy you might be feeling! Use a gentle, fragrance-free makeup remover or micellar water. Nighttime is when your skin goes into repair mode, so it needs to be free of any pore clogging dirt and grime!

If you suffer from sensitive skin, you’ll know that makeup can be somewhat of a challenge! After all you don’t want to spend your hard-earned dollars purchasing products that are only going to exacerbate your already compromised complexion!Unfortunately when it comes to sensitive skin, choosing the right makeup products for your skin’s specific needs, as well as adopting gentle preparation and application techniques, are imperative! To help guide you, below we reveal the top 9 makeup tips for sensitive skin sufferers and the best makeup products for you to try too! Products that will both help conceal and sooth your sensitive skin without any irritation. Sound good? Keep reading! Understand your skin Before you even consider your makeup, you need to really understand your skin. As well as being sensitive, is it dry? Oily? Combination perhaps? Do you have any specific skin conditions like rosacea or eczema? Are their certain ingredients that cause your skin to flair up? Understanding your skins unique needs will help you choose the right products. Check ingredients When selecting makeup products for sensitive skin, read labels carefully. You want to avoid highly fragranced products which are very likely to cause a negative reaction with sensitive skin. Also avoid, drying alcohols, witch hazel, citrus and products that contain a high % of essential oils. Another problem can be preservatives, particularly methylisothiazolinone and methylcholorisothiazoline which are often used to replace parabens, these are known sensitisers when used in leave on products.Instead look for terms like “fragrance-free” and “hypoallergenic”. This means that the makeup has been tested and proven to be less likely to cause irritation. Also check the label for ”non-comedogenic”. Non-comedogenic makeup is less likely to clog your pores, which can lead to breakouts.Mineral makeup will be your because bet, because its fragrance-free, hypoallergic and non-comedogenic and it tends to be packed with soothing, skin loving ingredients instead of ingredients that can cause irritation. Choose the right shade When it comes to choosing colours avoid products that are too yellow. Red skin and yellow makeup = orange complexion. Neutral shades are best for you and will help reduce the redness harmoniously. Patch test your products Before applying any new product to your face we recommend patch testing first to check for any allergic reactions or irritation. Either apply the product on an area like the back of your wrist or by apply a very small amount to your jawline. Make sure your skin is properly prepped Before diving into makeup, it’s imperative to start with a clean canvas. Use a gentle, sensitive skin cleanser to remove any impurities. Next, it’s time to moisturise. Sensitive skin can be on the dry side too, so it’s important to add nourishment. Opt for a moisturiser specifically designed to sooth and hydrate sensitive skin, this will lock in hydration and create a smooth base for the makeup to follow! We are loving Phytomer's Douceur Marine Soothing Moisturising Cream. It is beautifully silky in texture, soothing on the skin and visibly reduces skin redness. What’s more, its deeply hydrating without feeling greasy or heavy.Take only the size of a pea and pat the product into the skin to allow it to absorb slowly and naturally. You should also add a sunscreen with high SPF for a layer of added protection, this will help prevent sun damage and premature skin ageing like fines lines and wrinkles. We recommend: ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection 50 It’s time to prime All hail the makeup primer! This product will really be your best friend. A makeup primer will not only help create longer lasting makeup, but it will create a barrier between your skin and makeup reducing the risk of irritation too! Choose a gentle formula. We love ELES Retexturizing Face PrimerTo learn more about primers and just how good they are click here. Go light If you use foundation, go for a breathable, lightweight liquid formula. We love the best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. It's silky, mineral-enriched and provides skin with broad spectrum sun protection. It liquid formulated glides beautifully onto sensitive skin setting as a soft, powder finish, however it does not clog skin! Brilliant stuff.Another option is to look for multi-tasking products that treat, conceal and even tone in one. A tall ask? Not when it comes to CC Creams! These miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover redness, the CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, wrinkles and other skin imperfections, subtly illuminating the skin. This means less coverage is required, better for your sensitive skin! Try: ELES Luminous CC Cream 20, you’ll be so glad you did!To add colour or depth to your skin, you can incorporate a blush or bronzer too. You’re best to just choose mineral formulations once again, but make sure you choose powder over cream base. Cream-based products can sometimes clog pores or cause unnecessary irritation. Less is always more It's better to start with a light layer of makeup and build up coverage as needed than to apply too much makeup at once. Too much makeup can irritate sensitive skin and clog your pores. Remove your makeup at the end of the day. It's imperative to remove any makeup from your skin at the end of the day. Leaving impurities in the skin while you sleep will lead to more sensitivity! Allow your skin to perform its natural repair and regeneration at night by removing all your makeup and the day’s pollutants and you’ll wake up to a much calmer skin. While it may be tempting to coat your skin in rich and protective creams and oils, it’s better to drench it with lightweight moisture that will encourage better cell regeneration and protein rebuilding.We adore Phytomer's Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. Perfectly silky and soothing it literally envelopes your skin in nourishment and comfort and helps boost your skin's renewal as you sleep so you’ll wake up to calmer, plumper skin by morning. Obsessed.

Ever wondered why some peoples skin looks soo darn perfect but no matter how hard you try yours never seems to have that same flawless finish, even though you’ve invested in a foundation that promised to deliver beautifully photo filtered skin? The thing is its not just about your foundation choice, it’s also about how you prep your skin, as well as apply your makeup too!Keep reading as we reveal our top 10 tips for achieving that flawless makeup base every time – your secret weapon for a smooth, radiant complexion. Invest in quality When it comes to foundation, quality matters. Its best to save your pennies and splurge on a reputable brand. High-quality foundations tend to have better coverage, longevity, and are less likely to clog pores and cause blemish breakouts! Choose the right type From mineral to traditional formulations, matte foundation to tinted moisturiser, oil-free to liquid, powder to stick and more, there is a foundation out there for every skin type and need, but with so many options on the market, it’s not always easy knowing which is likely the best for you! Understanding your skin and its needs will help dictate what foundation type you should go for. Oily skin? Your best to choose a matte foundation, skin feeling a little dehydrated and dry? Give a tinted moisturiser or BB Cream a go. And just to complicate matters there are traditional and mineral formulations too! For more information on choosing the right makeup base for your skin click here. Select the right shade You've heard about this new foundation you really want to buy, but you’ve noticed there are numerous shades to pick from which definitely feels like a very daunting task! First things first, you want to choose a foundation shade that has the same undertones as your skin. Either ‘cool’ or ‘warm’. If you have a warm complexion go with a shade that has yellow undertones, if your complexion is on the cool side, a foundation with a pink undertone will be best (to tell which undertones your skin has, look at your veins on the back of your arms. People with blue or purplish-looking veins usually have cooler undertones. If your veins, on the other hand, look a greenish colour, then you have warm undertones.Next select a couple of shades that you think are a close match to your skin colour. Forget testing them on your arm and test directly on the face instead, swiping the shades side-by-side down your cheek towards your jawline. The shade that seemingly disappears is the one you want! Prep your skin Now you’ve chosen your foundation and shade, it’s time to get applying, but before you do it's VERY important to remember that correct skincare preparation is key when it comes to mastering flawless foundation, why? Because it allows the product you’re applying to sit perfectly on your skin!So first things first, you need to cleanse, tone and moisturise your face to ensure it is both hydrated and smooth. These steps not only help makeup application but also promotes healthy skin in the long run. It’s time to prime Even though you might well have followed a rigorous skincare routine, your complexion can sometimes still be a little uneven, so a makeup primer is a must! A makeup primer provides the perfect base for seamless foundation application free of any patches! This is because a primers main job is to fill the open pores of your skin and smooth it in preparation for your foundation, it will also help your makeup to last longer!Choose a primer that addresses your specific skin concerns, whether it's hydration, mattifying, or colour-correcting. Our top picks include;For dry to sensitive skinIf your skin is a little dry, opt for a multi-functional face primer that will keep makeup in place, while hydrating, firming and plumping the skin with a gentle blend of nourishing botanical oils. Try the ELES Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, and have makeup last the distance, try this!For combination to oily skinIf your skin tends to be on the oilier side, we recommend opting for the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking smooth and flawless! Genius! Using the correct makeup tools are important too Your fingers are great, but investing in the right makeup tools can take your foundation game to the next level. This is because the key to a truly flawless base is mastering the art of blending. Foundation that isn’t blended well can look heavy and imperfect.Get yourself armed with a few good brushes and a Beauty Blender, they will help you achieve that much more desired airbrushed effect. Plus a beauty blender will enable you to reach every contour of your face. Try; ELES Pro-Blender Sponge Build up gradually Less is always more when it comes to foundation. Start with a small amount and build it up gradually to avoid a cakey appearance. Remember, you can always add more, but it's challenging to take off excess product once it's applied. Conceal with care While foundation does a great job of evening out your skin tone, it might not cover all imperfections entirely. Use a creamy, pigmented concealer to spot-treat blemishes, dark circles, and redness. Gently blend the concealer with a brush or beauty blender for a seamless finish.[gallery size="square" ids="4106,4905,695"] Set, set, set Now it’s time to lock your masterpiece in place with a light dusting of translucent powder. This step helps control excess oil and keeps your foundation from budging throughout the day. Remember, moderation is key to avoiding a flat and powdery look. Don’t forget your neck Last but not least, always blend your foundation down your neck to ensure a seamless transition between your face and body.

I love a good photo filter, they have the ability to shave years off my face! No more fine lines and wrinkles, just smooth flawless skin instead! Well imagine being able to blur away those imperfections and create that soft-focus effect without using an app! Cue skin blurring makeup! That’s right, products that are actually formulated to give your skin that perfectly filtered look!Skin blurring products contain innovative ingredients that create a soft, diffused effect on our skin. These ingredients, such as silicone form a breathable invisible barrier on your skin’s surface filling in fine lines, pores and imperfections. They essentially provide a ‘smoothing’ canvas for your makeup, just like a filter does for your photos. Read on as we reveal our favourite skin blurring makeup products. Use these and you’ll not need to add a filter again! ELES Retexturizing Face PrimerPrimer may not be part of your daily makeup routine, in fact primers are a product many of us will forgo, but if you want to optimize the effects of your makeup and ensure it lasts all day (or night), this step shouldn't be skipped! And while makeup primers won’t enhance your skin quite like a bronzer, or conceal pesky pimples like a foundation, they are formulated to hide and blur imperfections! They are in fact touted as the photoshop of the makeup world! How they actually blur imperfections is down to two key ingredients: silicone particles which “fill in the gaps” on the surface of skin to even it out, and light-diffusing particles which scatter the light that hits the surface of the skin, creating an optical illusion that tricks the eye and makes pores and fine lines less visible. Sounds ideal right?This why we love ELES Cosmetics ELES Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, and have makeup last the distance, try this! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral FoundationFor that filter-effect flawless finish you can achieve in photos, choosing the right foundation finish is key. A matte foundation is usually your best bet because it reflects less light, which makes pores less obvious and gives your skin a smoother look. It also cuts down on shine, so your makeup will look smooth and flawless as long as possible. We highly recommend ELES Cosmetics best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. It’s a silky, mineral-enriched liquid foundation that glides on beautifully and sets to a soft, powder finish. Oh and it has broad spectrum sun protection too!If your skin is very dry though you might want to opt for a dewier finish.As well as choosing the right type of foundation for your skin, make sure you select the right colour too! For more information on how to choose the right foundation for your skin type click here.ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightWhile your primer will blur imperfections and your foundation will provide you with a flawless base, a finishing power will complete the soft filtered finish to your skin!We love the ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light. It’s the compact of miracles I tell you and will totally transform your skin in seconds! It acts itself like a photo filter on your skin, subtle enough for daily wear, yet gives you that truly “lit from within glow”!The microfine powder’s jet milled pigments bring a soft-focus finish for a blurring effect over imperfections and fine lines. The deeper tones in the powder enhance contours, while the highlight softly strobe and reflect away imperfections to make skin look professionally retouched and simply sublime every time! Incredibly light, it never gets chalky, weighs down the skin or even looks like your wearing powder, yet keeps any shine at bay. And all you have to do is apply your morning skincare, then simply brush a light layer all over your face with a makeup brush and watch your skin truly transform.