BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
6 reasons you should start using a face mask now
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 13 2021
If you find yourself somewhat time poor at present (I hear you!) but your skin needs that little extra attention and love, applying a face mask can be the perfect quick fix, and I am here to tell you why. So read on to reveal 6 reasons you should add a weekly mask to your skincare routine, we promise you you’ll love the multitude of benefits and the outstanding results they bring to your skin. They give immediate gratification While with most face masks you’ll need to leave it on for a minimum of 15 minutes, the results are instant and go way beyond the impact of your daily skincare routine! The right face mask can help hydrate skin, remove excess oils, improve the appearance of pores and more and after every application your skin will immerge tightened, toned, softer, smoother, and let’s not forget positively glowing! They are quick and easy to use and can be applied at any time Unlike your daily skincare routine which likely takes place first thing in the morning and then again in the evening, the luxury of a face mask is you can apply it at any time, the application is ever so easy and will only take all of a minute! And while you wait for it to work its magic (which can be anywhere from 15 minutes to overnight) it’s a great excuse for a little “me time” and indulge in a bubble bath, watch your favourite show on Netflix or even continue working if need be! They are pampering and therapeutic While many of us aren’t able to visit our local spa these days thanks to #lockdown, and home-schooling doesn’t allow us much ‘me’ time, a little pamper in the shape of a mask is a great way to not only address our skins needs but also make us feel amazing in little to no time! This is because a face mask can lift your spirit by stimulating your senses and allow you a moment (or few moments should I say!) of indulgent comfort. Ahhhhh. They are deep cleansing Applying face masks offer many physical and therapeutic benefits, but first and foremost masks provide cleansing on a deep deep level, benefiting the skin in multiple ways. Don’t get me wrong daily cleansing is an imperative part of your skincare routine, but applying a mask once or twice a week will take that process to a whole other level by removing any remaining makeup, excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities on the skin’s surface as well as beneath the upper layers of the epidermis. They help all your other skincare products to better penetrate the skin for optimum results Many of us will be religious when it comes to our daily skincare ritual but if you really want all your products to absorb into your skin both quickly and deeply than a face mask is a necessity. By using a mask regularly, it will assist in enabling all the amazing ingredients from your skincare to penetrate deep into your skin essentially making your products work harder and more effectively than ever before. They are the perfect product for everyone to use no matter how sensitive or reactive your skin might be. This is because there is a mask for every skin type and concern. From dryness to inflammation, redness to acne, whatever your skin type there is the ideal mask to give your skin that instant boost it needs. If your skin is on the sensitive side If your skin tends to be somewhat sensitive, a soothing cream mask enriched with nurturing ingredients is a must. Phytomer’s Accept Comfort Mask not only calms red, irritated skin, it also strengthens it! Healing is faster and it leaves your skin feeling beautifully hydrated, calm and comfortable for days!If your skin is looking a tad lacklustre Vie Collections Phyto-C Mask should be your go-to. Power packed with Vitamin C, exfoliating Papain, marine minerals and more, it’s the mask that makes people ask if you’ve been on holiday recently, wouldn’t we all love that right now! If your skin is currently donning a few too many blemishesPhytomer’s Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask could be your one true savour! This blemish, mattifying cream-foam mask reduces inflammation from breakouts and refines the pores for a mattified even, clear complexion.For dry, dehydrated skin, you need a deeply hydrating mask, like Phytomer’s Hydrasea Thirst-Relief Rehydrating Mask. It feeds the skin with ultimate nourishment so you can literally feel your complexion tighten and plump in nearly an instant. The end result is youthfully restored skin. If you’re concerned about skin fatigue and visible signs of agingTry Pevonia’s Ageless Skin Collagen Mask – my personal favourite! it instils skin with collagen polypeptides, Vitamin A, Green Tea and Mandarin Orange Extract to repair fine lines and wrinkles, encourage healthy cell turn over and effectively increase your skin’s overall radiance. If your skin is in need of a detoxPevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask is the perfect antidote for congested, dull skin. It rids skin of toxins, draws out impurities and debris, neutralises pollutants, and leaves skin gloriously glowy.And if you want to address more than one skin issue you can use multiple masks, applying them to the different zones of your face for outstanding results every time.
10 of the best makeup tips for tired, devitalised skin
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 04 2021
Six weeks of lockdown hasn’t been kind to my skin. Most likely due to the never-ending late nights trying to play catch up on the work I’ve missed during the day because #homeschooling. And while I do love to preach about the importance of sleep, I’m sadly now a testament to how lack of sleep can affect your skin! Eek!You see I’m religious about my daily skincare ritual, nothing is getting in the way of that! But there is only so much my beloved products can do for this dull, devitalised complexion I’m currently donning. And while there is no painting the town red at present, I am doing daily video calls with my team and hitting the local parks with my kids and their pup so putting my best face forward is still a must! Cue the miracle of makeup and the 10 game-changing tips I follow daily to wage the war on this dull, dreary skin of mine! So if like me, you’ve not managed to catch enough shut eye but still need to look fresh faced on camera, keep reading! If you can’t make it, then fake it right? 1. Don’t forget to properly prep!As I said I’m a stickler for my morning skincare ritual and you should be too! Trying to conceal tired, lack-lustre skin won’t come easy unless you have properly prepped.Firstly, dry, dull skin lacks youthful luminosity, so exfoliating is a necessity! We’re not talking daily though, just once or twice a week depending on your skin type will suffice, as too much exfoliation can be counterproductive.If your skin is a little on the sensitive side, exfoliation is still important just be sure to opt for a super gentle formula – I LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture. But if granules scare you, I also highly recommend Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. Washing your face in the morning is a must but make sure the water isn’t too warm! I love cleansing and then splashing my face with cold water! Not only does it wake me up but the cold-water boosts circulation and helps constrict blood vessels to temporarily tighten pores and reduce redness and puffiness too! Remember washing your face with warm to hot water will only dry out your skin as it strips away its natural oils. Boo.Finally make sure you moisturise. I love to slather my skin with my favourite serum first (my latest love is Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & MyOxy Caviar, this is because it’s packed with anti-ageing and rehydrating goodness including collagen and hyaluronic acid), then next apply my moisturiser. Dehydrated skin plays a big part in making your face look dull, plus any dry patches will make foundation uneven. 2. Choose a foundation that will enhance your skin not just mask itIf your skin is dull and lacking life you want to choose a foundation with hydrating and skin brightening benefits. After all your foundation should enhance your complexion, not mask it. Change up your foundation for one formulated with hyaluronic and Vitamin A, these key ingredients will help skin appear more hydrated, plumped and healthy.ELES Cosmetics range of foundations are all formulated with these skin boosting ingredients. And for dreary, devitalized skin a sheer or satin-finish foundation will be your best bet, especially as skin tends to be drier in the cooler, winter months too.I am a huge lover of the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 20. It is a multi-tasking miracle! It literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish. And thanks to its skin-loving ingredients over time it helps 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!3. Use a good under-eye concealer for an instant eye liftTo hide those dark circles and puffy tired eyes, ensure you are armed with a fabulous concealer! I’m obsessed with Pevonia’s Eye Renew Conceal & De-Age Treatment at present. It honestly gives me an instant eye lift every morning! It’s an eye cream and clever concealer in one! It’s packed with amazing anti-ageing and eye nurturing ingredients, and on application dark circles and puffiness literally diminish within seconds.If you don’t need another eye cream and you are just looking for a simple concealer, try ELES’s Liquid Concealer. You won’t be disappointed!4. 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, more awake eyes. And remember to always finish by applying lashings of mascara to your top lashes.5. Apply a little bronzerWe are all on a quest for that healthy youthful glow, especially in the winter months when it’s almost non-existent, but 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 way (and the most flattering!) is to apply your bronzer 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.6. Illuminate your face with a highlighterIf your skin is dull you need a little dose of liquid glow in the shape of an illuminator or highlighter! Apply to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow for a natural glow that will leave you looking rejuvenated and refreshed. Try ELES Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it!7. Make sure you use a blushJust a few swipes of blush will not only add colour and depth to your cheeks but can make your entire complexion look healthier, and your skin more youthful. It adds an extra glow that bronzer and highlighter just can't mimic. Just be sure to apply it correctly - use a blush brush and lift colour upwards towards your temple from the apple of your cheek. I’ve been using the ELES Baked Blush for years now and just love its pigmented colour, easy application and the healthy-looking finish it gives me.8. Distract from tired eyes by accentuating your poutIf no amount of concealer seems to be hiding those dark circles then it’s time to distract from tired eyes! To take attention away use a pop of colour on your pout! Every day I use the ELES Gel Lipliner to line and add definition to my lips and follow with a swipe of my favourite shade of ELES Colour Balm. It combines the payoff of a sheer lipstick with the superior shine of a gloss and I love how hydrating it is for my lips.9. Fake full browsCreating the perfect brows can completely transform your face and make you look 10 years younger, you just need to know how. You want to create instantly fake fullness and to do this you need to fill brows in with the perfect brow pencil! Just be sure you don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh. Read more on how to create perfect brows.10. Finally get a little more shut-eye IF you canWhile this is an impossibility for me at the moment, I’m hoping it won’t be for the majority of you! As I’ve said many a time before not enough shut-eye can have serious ramifications on our skin! We need to think of sleep as an essential step in our daily skincare routine. Not only will plenty of shut-eye let skin cells regenerate overnight, it will also help prevent dark under-eye circles which make us ALL look tired and older than our years. And we know, no one is choosing to be sleep deprived, the stresses of everyday life can seriously prevent us from getting the amount of sleep we crave, but if it’s possible to try and get our heads down at a reasonable time and try to stick to it nightly, it’ll improve quality of sleep and in turn have a positive impact on our complexion too!
The 9 benefits of facial massage
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 28 2021
While it’s not possible for many of us to visit our local spa for a facial right now because #lockdown, it is possible for us to spend an extra few minutes a day massaging our skin. Like a mini workout for your face, face massages involve massaging key facial muscles and pressure points (like your jawline, cheekbones and forehead) using your hands and fingers or even better, a gemstone facial roller. But why should you include this extra step in your routine? Because it can truly work wonders for both your skin and wellbeing! In fact, there's a multitude of benefits to facial massage, and we are here to reveal them all! So read on and learn how you can take your skin to the next level by incorporating facial massage into your daily skincare routine. It relieves tension and reduces wrinkles! Many of us hold a lot of tension in our faces. When we are feeling anxious, stressed, exhausted or have simply been concentrating or staring at a screen for too long, we tense our forehead and eye area, which in time causes wrinkles eek! A few minutes of massage a day can and will in turn help release this tension, so no knock-on effect! Phew. It alleviates stress If you weren’t already feeling the stress that daily life can bring, I bet due to recent covid numbers and a relentless lockdown you are now! The thing is stress doesn’t just affect the way we feel, it can dramatically impact our skin too! And sadly dry skin, wrinkles, and acne are just some of the ways that it can manifest itself! Cue massage! Massage is one of the best stress relievers and no it doesn’t need to be at the hands of someone else, nor are we talking about a one hour remedial massage, just a few minutes massaging a facial oil into your skin can induce endorphins and help relinquish stress. Aghhhh. It improves product absorption You can increase the effectiveness of your daily skincare routine by incorporating a little massage! Massage will help your skin reap the benefits of any serum or oil you apply pre-massage, as well as any moisturiser you apply after the massage. This is because it literally helps the product to absorb more easily into the skin! Simple. It can help reduce fluid retention and specific skin conditions Environmental factors, makeup, daily diet are but a few reasons why toxins build up in our skin contributing to fine lines, puffiness, and breakouts! Stimulating our skin through massage can help increase blood circulation, kick-starting lymphatic drainage in your face to flush out those toxins, reduce fluid retention and keep skin healthy both inside and out! Yes! It’s stimulating Quick, tapping movements stimulate the nerve endings and wake up a tired skin. Try tapping your fingers all over your face—like you’re gently typing. Be sure to always use your ring finger on the delicate area around your eyes. It firms the skin Because it stimulates the facial muscles, a massage is like a mini-workout for your face. It engorges the muscles with blood to oxygenate the skin cells and gives “tone” to your muscles. It boosts the circulation (& therefore glow) Improving your circulation will help give you “that” glow. Just like doing a set of sit ups and push ups (eek) a quick facial massage sends a surge of blood and oxygen to your skin. This increased flow, we know can kick start lymphatic drainage, decreasing toxins and puffiness, but it will also brighten skin tone! The more efficiently your blood flows, the more oxygen is sent to your skin which equals increased collagen production and cell growth, resulting in a smoother, glowing complexion! Woohoo. Massage helps you get to know your skin The more time you spend touching your skin, the better understanding you’ll have of which areas are drier/tighter, which are rough (and made need more exfoliation), and which areas are more prone to congestion. It’s relaxing At the end of a long day, you can use massage to relax your facial muscles and calm your mind. This will not only encourage relaxation, but also bring on better sleep too! And we all know how important sleep is for our skin!
7 products to make you seriously glow from head to toe
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 20 2021
If your complexion is feeling the funk, we feel you. Winter isn’t the kindest to our skin and then when you have a lockdown thrown in the mix all hell can break loose! That combination of the cooler weather, stress, perhaps being a little sluggish, as well as complacent with your daily diet and overall skincare routine, can impact both your skin and psyche and sadly the glow of the summer season has looooong since gone, but all is not lost. Treat yourself to one or seven! of these skin loving beauty essentials to soften, smooth and brighten your skin from head to toe. The glowing results will make it worth the invested money and time, we promise! Phytomer NEW Gentle Illuminating Shampoo and Gentle Detangling ConditionerIf your hair is looking a little drab you really need to banish your current shampoo and condition and up your game with these two marine must-haves! Formulated with all the goodness of the sea, this dynamic duo provides a luxurious washing experience with outstanding results! Get ready for silky-smooth hair that shines and has the perfect amount of volume too! Pricey yes, but oh so worth it! Pevonia ‘C’ ComplexeIf your skin is literally lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. We promise you when we say you haven’t experienced glowing skin until you have a vitamin c rich skincare routine!For the ultimate skin brightening boost, Pevonia’s ‘C’ Complexe is a must! Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied, skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too! The perfect morning pick-me-up! Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling CreamSince visiting your local salon or spa if off the cards, why not treat yourself to a little pampering with an at-home peel? It’ll do wonders for your skin I promise. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! Pevonia’s Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this mini facial in a jar of goodness!! Trust me.NEW Pevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilThere is nothing quite like drifting off to sleep at night breathing in the soothing scent of this gorgeous aromatic oil. Full of skin rejuvenating properties and moisturising goodness including, squalane, vitamine e, safflower and rose, chamomile, grapefruit and lavender essential oils - this newly released organic must-have not only promotes an unequalled feeling of increased wellbeing and utter relaxation, it will also ensure you wake up to calm, nourished and gorgeous glowy skin no matter what your skin type. Heaven. Pevonia De-Ageing Saltmousse Papaya PineappleThis aromatic body scrub delivers an aroma-sensory experience thanks to its absolutely amazing tropical scent. Its fluffy lather removes impurities and toxins by gently polishing your skin and as the salt dissolves, negative ions and repairing tropical fruit extracts are quickly absorbed! The result? Your skin will emerge velvety-smooth and energised! Yasssss! Pevonia Dry Oil Body MoisturiserHands down my favourite body moisturiser (and a global bestseller), Pevonia’s Dry Oil Body Moisturiser feels like silk on application, is not greasy at all (despite it being an ‘oil’) and absorbs immediately, quite literally nourishing every inch of your body. Formulated with Lavender and Chamomile the scent is heaven, and it renders skin beautifully soft and supple with a radiant healthy glow. It will not disappoint, and the many customer reviews speak for themselves!
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 15 2021
Has your skin been feeling the effects of the last few weeks thanks to the likes of lockdown and home-schooling while working from home!? Or are you simply prone to pesky pimples or all out adult acne? Whatever the reason, we have good news! Armed with the right products and a few expert tips, you can banish those blemishes! Just follow these steps and enjoy a clearer complexion in next to no time. Understand your skin When it comes to acne, it’s important to understand which type you are suffering from. Unfortunately, this skin condition comes in many forms (just to complicate things!), so if you’re looking to recognise the difference between blackheads, cysts and everything in between we’ve got you. Simply click here. Look out for key ingredients when selecting your products Finding the perfect products for your skin can sometimes seem like a never-ending quest thanks to the millions of options out there. But if it’s blemishes or acne you are looking to combat, there are a few key ingredients you should look out for when selecting your skincare, ingredients which will really help you accomplish that desired clearer complexion. These include;Salicylic AcidWhen it comes to breakouts, salicylic acid should always be your trusty go-to. This is because it’s calming, decongesting and antibacterial, as well as a proven superstar in reducing and preventing further pore clogging! Salicylic Acid is a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) that penetrates deep into the skin to exfoliate sebum-filled pores, as well as dissolve oil build-up and dead cells from the skin’s surface!Benzoyl PeroxideBenzoyl Peroxide is the most effective ingredient for actually treating spots as opposed to preventing them. This is because it actually kills bacteria! It can however be a little drying and irritating which is why it's best used in specific targeted spot treatments.Charcoal and clayIt’s tricky to soak up excess oil without over-drying the skin but products containing charcoal and clay do just that! They work by attracting and absorbing dirt and oil in the skin.AHA’s (Glycolic and Lactic Acids)These two alpha-hydroxy acids slough away the dead skin cells that cause pimple-producing clogged pores. The result? Smoother, softer skin.Retinol The master magician, retinol is the superstar of all ingredients thanks to its multitude of benefits including its ability to increase cell turnover, instructing damaged cells to produce healthier cells faster! As a result, pores are less likely to become blocked so blemishes unlikely to form! Cleanse twice daily and with the right cleanser! If you are prone to breakouts or suffer from acne, do not skimp on cleansing your face twice daily! Choosing the right cleanser will also help rid your skin of the bacteria that make their way into those clogged pores which lead to breakouts!In general, foaming cleansers are great for mature, oily and acne-prone skin, specifically because of their pore penetrating capabilities. If you want to get rid of acne or excess oil/sebum, you need a cleanser that can go deep in your pores and get rid of the debris without too much effort. Just beware of certain cleansers that can dry out your skin though as this will cause it to overproduce sebum (the natural oils your skin produces) which can lead to further clogged pores and breakouts!We LOVE Medicalia’s Clarifying Cleanser. Specifically created for those with breakout prone and sensitive/oily skin, it’s formulated with both Salicylic and Lactic acids (so we know that’s a good thing!) Its potent foaming suds work very quickly to eliminate surface bacteria, toxins, impurities and makeup while combatting inflammation too!“I have used this cleanser for over 15 years now and it is just awesome! I used to suffer from acne and this cleanser helped no end and without drying my skin out!” Bec Don’t forget to exfoliate Whether your acne is mild or more severe, regular exfoliation is a must. Not only because it will smooth and soften the skin for a brighter complexion but because it helps reduce breakouts by removing excess dead skin cells and keeping pores from becoming clogged. Just make sure you opt for chemical and enzyme exfoliators that contain AHA’s and BHA’s as these will exfoliate skin's surface as well as deeply penetrate into your pores.We highly recommend Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser. It combines soapwort, Triclosan, Grapefruit Oil, Salicylic Acid and Citric Acid with Jojoba to gently remove impurities and delivers an intense exfoliating and deep cleansing experience for problem skin!“I bought this product after being "prescribed" it by my beauty therapist for my mild adult acne. Firstly, the scent is light and non-intrusive, which is a huge plus. I also like that it contains both manual (small grains) chemical (citric acid) exfoliating properties. It helps to make my skin feel clean, smooth and prepared for moisturising. After a week or so I noticed a HUGE improvement in my breakouts.” Leah Do moisturise daily! Acne can cause your skin to feel oily and greasy so a moisturiser may be the last thing you feel like putting on your skin, but I’m here to tell you moisturising is an essential step for any skincare routine. I get it, you are concerned the moisturiser will exacerbate your already blemished complexion but on the contrary, if you don’t moisturise you run the risk that your skin will become excessively dry, it can then try to compensate for the dryness by overproducing oil. The result? More breakouts! Aghhh.Light, oil-free moisturisers targeted towards those with blemish prone skin is your best option and we are testament that Medicalia’s Clarifying Cream is one of the best! It is a wonderfully light-textured, oil free cream which really does control acne while magically preventing future blemishes too! Containing the powerhouse blend of Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid with Sorbitol and other soothing and protecting ingredients, it promotes a healthier and beautifully hydrated complexion.“It's expensive but it's been a lifesaver for my acne prone skin! I've noticed it helps keep my sebaceous filaments in check also!” Sophie If you are concerned about acne and ageing, give retinol a go. Just be sure to introduce it very slowly and only apply at night. To find out more about retinol and our recommendations click here. Make over with a mask Charcoal face masks can be a great treatment for both those with acne and oily skin. This is because charcoal is known for its purifying effects on the skin, literally drawing out dead skin, bacteria, excess oils from deep within the pores. It also helps clear pores without absorbing vitamins and nutrients that are vital for the skin.Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask is the ideal option for anyone with oily skin, dilated pores, blemished skin and for acne control. Formulated with charcoal and skin nurturing ingredients, it supplies essential skin lipids that moisturise and protect the skin while decongesting it!“Being in my 50's I wasn't sure if this would dry my skin out, but I bought it because of my breakouts. I've used it daily for about 3 days and it's totally cleared my skin up - it feels de-congested, clear and smooth. I love this mask!” Melinda SPF daily, even those of us at home in isolation! Sunscreen isn’t just for summer sadly! Your skin needs protection every day even indoors! This is because UV rays don’t just come from the sun but from your multiple devices too!Look for a sunscreen, daily moisturiser or foundation with SPF that is lightweight, oil-free or oil-controlling! And steer clear of thick pore-clogging formulations. Choose makeup that won’t clog your pores We know if you suffer from blemishes of any sort you are likely to want to conceal them. The thing is doing so can lead to further irritation so it’s important to choose makeup that won’t clog your skin. The best solution is mineral makeup as it allows your skin to actually breathe! We (and many of our customers) are OBSESSED with ELES’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. Its ‘non-occlusive’ long-lasting formula allows the foundation to enhance the complexion without covering up the skin, allowing it to “breathe” freely. It also glides onto skin beautifully but sets to a soft powder finish. And it is SPF 15 too!“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 Make sure you always remove that makeup! Whether you’re prone to the odd spot or suffer from all out acne, you’ll soon see that sleeping with a face full of makeup can result in a big breakout of blemishes. Eek! Makeup, unfortunately, clogs pores, and when your pores are blocked, your skin can’t breathe, and therefore it can’t regenerate. The oil in your pores builds-up and transform itself into spots. Fact. So make sure you always remove your makeup before bed! And finally…relax more, sleep more Although this isn’t as simple as it sounds when you are dealing with work, kids, home-schooling and lockdown! What I will say is if you’re dealing with a stressful situation, it is important to try and look for healthy ways to destress as there is a direct link between stress and skin disorders! Some simple options include;Daily exercising – just a little as 30 minutes can make a huge differentDoing breathing exercises – I find doing this with the kids helps us all!A morning yoga session - While this isn’t a possibility for all, if you are at home with kids try involving them in a little yoga fun. There are some great programs on youtube.Meditating for a few minutes – my time to do this is just before bed. I love the calm app.Playing music – something as simple as playing soothing sounds can have a profound affect on your mental state, reducing stress and it’s definitely a great option for everyone.
BC’s best rated beauty buys for oily skin
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 12 2021
It’s a fact, with winter brings dry, devitalised skin thanks to the colder weather, artificial heating, hotter showers to name but a few, but we’ve not forgotten about those of us who suffer from oily prone skin ALL. YEAR. ROUND.Here at BC, we’ve got you covered. Read on as we unveil our best rated beauty buys for oily skin types, and we aren’t just talking skincare but makeup too! ELES Pore Perfecting Face PrimerIf you’re a lover of foundation but are a little over it sliding off your face as the day goes on, you need to introduce a primer into your life! A good primer can be a godsend for those with oily skin, not only because it helps makeup last longer but a good mattifying primer will also tackle areas of high shine, soften the appearance of fine lines and pores too!Cue ELES’s Pore Perfecting Face Primer. This light-textured, skin smoothing, oil-free primer not only combats shine but absorbs oil and reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles at the same time! The result – flawless looking foundation as soon as it’s applied.“A small amount goes a long way. Helps keep my oil controlled. Also, feels so lovely.” Lauri ELES Mineral Foundation PowderIf you are prone to oily skin, it’s best to steer clear of foundation with a dewy finish and instead opt for a matte, semi-matte powder or oil-free foundation. A handy powder compact should be the one staple in your beauty bag, that can come with you wherever you go for those times you need to do a little ‘touch up’. Just be sure to avoid illuminating powder with shimmer as this will only draw attention to skin texture and exacerbate pore size. Instead, opt for a translucent pore-minimising and oil-absorbent powder.Mineral makeup works wonders on oily skin because the particles tend to absorb moisture, preventing shine. The ELES Mineral Powder Foundation enables you to adjust your coverage from a translucent powder to a buildable coverage foundation with a richer, more opaque finish. What’s more, it’s formulated with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, so it’ll provide antioxidant protection as well as condition skin!“Love this foundation, you can make it as light or heavy as you want. It sits really nice on the skin and doesn’t clog my pores. I have combination skin and this foundation lasts all day.” Chrissy ELES Liquid Powder Mineral FoundationIf power isn’t your thing and you’re a lover of liquid foundations but are concerned about slippage, fear not. The ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation is ELES’s global best-seller for many a reason! One being its long-lasting staying power no matter what your skin condition. It’s packed with goodness including an exclusive multi mineral complex as well as vitamins A, C & E but its formula while it goes on as a silky liquid, sets to a soft powder finish, perfect for those with combination and oily skin. What’s more, it allows skin to breath freely so it won’t clog up those pores leading to unwanted blemishes!“Love this product! It beautifully sets from liquid to powder! Great for oily skin or skin which becomes shiny during the day.” Laura Pevonia Phyto-Gel CleanserJust because you have oily skin doesn’t mean you need to use a harsh face wash to dry your skin out! No sireee. Using a face wash that is too harsh or strong can irritate your skin and in turn, trigger increased oil production! It’s best to look for a non-alkaline and non-drying cleanser specifically created for combination to oily skin or all skin types.Suited to all skin-types but particularly good for those with combination to oily skin, Pevonia’s Phyto-Gel Cleanser deeply cleanses the skin with a luxurious foaming consistency. It works by removing the excess and unnecessary oil from the skin’s surface, unclogging pores and ridding it of impurities and surface toxins.“Beautiful deep cleansing, non-drying cleanser. This product has been a favourite of my customers, especially those with normal, combination or oily skin.” Lisa Pevonia Mattifying Oily Skin CreamThis cream should be your go-to if you suffer from an overly oily complexion. Not only does this unique light-textured but subtly creamy moisturiser control excessive oiliness for shine-free skin! Its Lemon and Vitamin B complex ensures skin is hydrated and mattified at the same time to refine pores and prevent breakouts!“This is the best moisturiser for oily skin, the key to balancing oil production and staying youthful looking. I have used this for almost two decades and the results are amazing. it doesn't make my face shiny or greasy and I have oily to sensitive skin.” Brian Phytomer Oligopur Hydra-Matifying Control CreamIf you love something a little lighter when it comes to your moisturiser then this is the cream for you. It is ultra-light, almost like a lotion but delivers long lasting anti-shine, and eliminates oily patches for those with combination skin.“The perfect, lightweight, oil controlling moisture cream to wear day or night. It is the perfect weight under makeup and controls breakthrough shine.” Rebecca
5 new beauty buys for skin hydration, hair, health and wellness too!
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 07 2021
In the midst of a lockdown, here at BC we are still beavering away to bring you the best of beauty, and this month we have five new arrivals for skin, body and hair which provide not only optimum results but a feeling of increased wellbeing and relaxation too! So read on to find out all about these new favourites of ours, and we promise you, like us, you’ll want to give them a try immediately too! NEW Pevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilIf both you and your skin are feeling a little stressed thanks to #covidlife, or if your complexion is simply looking less than desirable - where has that summer glow gone you once donned? Then Pevonia’s newest launch will be a godsend! The NEW De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil’s name say it all. It quite literally takes you on a de-stressing journey (and yes I’m aware of how cheesy that sounds!) as it eases anxiety while instantly delivering intense hydration and total relaxation for glowing, healthy skin! How? Because of its amazing formulation which includes four pure essential oils; lavender, chamomile, rose and grapefruit to calm, sooth, and deeply rejuvenate mind and skin!Soothing, calming, relaxing, hydrating and brightening!! What more could you want from a product?To learn more about the amazing skin and mood boosting benefits of lavender, chamomile, rose and grapefruit essential oils click here. NEW Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Moisturizing Body Cream with Trace ElementsIf it’s your body that needs a little loving, I highly recommend you trying Phytomer’s newest addition to the Oligomer Well-Being Sensation family - Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Moisturizing Body Cream with Trace Elements. It’s a melt-away cream which intensely moisturises the skin while bathing it in a therapeutic seaside scent (lush) and It’s rich, soothing texture treats skin to all the benefits found in OLIGOMER® - a pure seawater concentrate that’s rich in minerals and trace elements.We all know that seawater is good for not only our skin but our soul too, thanks to the multitude of miraculous benefits and a treasure trove of skin-loving ingredients it holds! But let’s face it, we aren’t likely to be taking a dip in the ocean any time soon thanks to the cold weather the majority of us are experiencing right now!! Brrrrr so this product really is the next best thing! NEW Phytomer Gentle Illuminating Shampoo with Marine Plant AND Phytomer Gentle Detangling Conditioner with Marine PlantI feel the last few weeks haven’t been kind to my hair! And I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve had a cold, I’m not getting enough fresh air, being a little lazy thanks to lockdown or simply not consuming enough much-needed water (I need to practice what I preach more!) but until last week my hair was looking a little lifeless, that’s until I introduced Phytomer’s NEW haircare into my life! The NEW Gentle Illuminating Shampoo and Gentle Detangling Conditioner both with Marine Plant, Algae and Vegetal Oil (so all the goodness of the sea!) provides a luxurious washing experience and optimal results from the very first wash. Many shampoos and conditioners offer the results we all seek the first time you use them, but the test is whether wash after wash we still see the same showstopping results! Well with these two products you do! I’ve used them (together of course) three times now and my hair is soft, bouncy, shiny and silky smooth (as promised) and it doesn’t feel weighted which it can happen after using some heavy conditioners! Yes, they are pricey but for me worth their weight in gold.NEW Phytomer Structuriste Firming Contour SerumThis is a beautifully lightweight milky serum is designed to effectively smooth, firm and plump the skin, and boy does it do just that! This new love of mine (in just a few weeks) has noticeably improved my somewhat dull looking skin! It definitely feels firmer, plumper and looks like it’s got its radiance back! I’m also loving the subtle floral scent! It’s formulated with marine algae and squalane for deep moisturising but also Lily of the Valley, Jasmine and Peony! So if you are concerned about skin ageing including loss of elasticity and luminosity this could be your new go-to.I suggest using this product in the morning and the NEW Phytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum at night for fantastic results!Enjoy bathing in the benefits of all five beauty buys.
Anti-ageing beauty tips 8 celebrities swear by
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 02 2021
It's not just genetics that grant our favourite celebrity’s beautifully bright, Benjamin Button-esque skin. Many A-listers have their go-to beauty regime which they believe keeps their complexions radiantly youthful. From daily exfoliation to drinking plentiful amounts of water, never for-going the SPF, to anti-ageing must haves, read on to discover the anti-ageing beauty tips 9 celebrities swear by and whether they’d really work for us all. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow“I drink a lot of water, it is full of healing powers”While drinking water daily is without a doubt imperative for your overall health and well-being, there is little research to support the idea that it will make a huge difference in your skin’s appearance. This is because when you drink water it doesn’t automatically go to the skin, in fact, it hydrates cells once it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and is filtered by the kidneys.So rather than relying heavily on water to boost your complexion, like Gwyneth, the best way to effectively hydrate skin is topically using products rich in hyaluronic acid. When it comes to getting dewy, hydrated skin, few ingredients deliver the way hyaluronic acid does. This is because it holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water meaning it attracts and holds on to moisture in skin cells, enabling skin to both feel and look hydrated and plump. Genius!We LOVE Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus extract which relaxes harsh wrinkles similar to that of Botox), it immediately boosts skin’s suppleness and combats ageing in multiple ways thanks to its skin-plumping properties. Actress Jennifer Aniston“I stay out of the sun”While it’s next to impossible to completely stay out of the sun (in fact 10 mins of sun a day will help with vitamin D production which is essential for health), limiting your time spent in it and definitely not bathing in it!! Will do wonders for your skin including keeping its smooth, even-toned texture. This is because the number one cause of wrinkles IS sun damage. Sunscreen is the most effective anti-ageing product going. Fact. So wearing an SPF daily come rain, hail or shine, whether inside or out is imperative for protection.For sunscreen that won’t clog your pores, look for formulas that contain zinc oxide. We highly recommend Medicalia’s NEW Sunscreen SPF30 with Blue Light Shield. This smooth tinted sunscreen formulated with zinc and iron oxides will not only protect your skin from UVA and UVB but also from the harmful effects of blue light caused by not only the sun but screen time too! What’s more, it rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind (which let's face it we all loathe ‘those’ sunscreens!) and its formula is reef safe!!And for extra protection and flawless-looking skin try ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 20 Actress Kerry Washington“I wear minimal makeup so my skin can breathe”Sure, sure, you might be one of those blessed celebrities that look just as fabulous without makeup on as they do with, but I’m pretty sure the majority of us aren’t going to forgo our favourite makeup must-haves in the hope it will preserve our age by a few years! What we can do though is invest in makeup that will allow your skin to breathe freely, so no clogged pores, reactions and premature ageing! ELES Cosmetics range of mineral foundations allows just that - your skin to “breathe” while shielding it against age aggressors.We can’t get enough of their best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF15! It’s a silky, mineral-enriched liquid foundation which sets to a soft, powder finish when applied. Its skin-safe formula rich in vitamins A, C & E, contains no chemical ‘nasties’, heavy fillers or potential pore-clogging irritants, such as fragrance, talc, oil and dyes. And it is also formulated with titanium dioxide which is UV-protecting! Victoria Secrets Angel Candice Swanepoel“I’m religious about going for facials”Of course, a monthly, even weekly facial, as many celebrities will admit to having, can do wonders for your skin, and wouldn’t we all love to be in the position to indulge ourselves in weekly treatments at our therapists’ hands! But sadly, we can’t all afford to frequent our local spa! Good skin maintenance is however something we can all manage daily! Being armed with the right skincare products for your skin type is a start and why not give yourself a facial at home? Socialite and Entrepreneur Kim Kardashian-West"I wash with a hot cloth... then use it to exfoliate"While hot water washcloth exfoliation may be a thing, it is unlikely to be extremely beneficial in the long run. In fact, while washing your face with a hot cloth and hot water can be seen by some as a little luxury, it does come at a cost! Firstly, you want to be gentle when washing your skin. Using a washcloth can cause friction if used vigorously or too often which can lead to inflammation, irritation, and damage to your skin barrier, in turn leading to premature skin ageing!! Eek.Secondly, hot water can strip the skin of its essential moisture and deplete its natural protective barrier which can lead to impairments in the skin’s moisture. I’m sure the majority of us aren’t going to stop washing with hot water but it’s a good idea to turn the heat down a little and ensure you replenish skin immediately after with a good hydrating moisturiser! I’m currently loving Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream it’s deliciously rich and delivers intense and lasting hydration to my skin!And finally exfoliating your face with a washcloth doesn’t come close to using a skincare exfoliator which will effectively remove the days impurities. Try sticking to a face scrub or enzyme exfoliator specific for your skin type. Actress Cate Blanchette“I remove stress where possible, this will give you a better glow”Research has found that stress can have a major impact on our bodies and our skin too, leading to inflammation, skin sensitivities and even early skin aging! As stress can aggravate skin conditions, taking time to indulge in a little self-care, in turn, helps your skin stay clear and smooth. Practice self-care at home with team BC’s beauty recommendations and experience better skin health. Supermodel Christie Brinkley“I start every day by exfoliating my face”Exfoliation is key as it helps increase cell turnover and unclog pores, preventing breakouts and helping other products in your skincare routine absorb more easily for optimal results. But while Christie advocates for daily exfoliation, it’s definitely not a recommendation for everyone! Here at BC we recommend you exfoliate once or twice a week – as long as your skin can handle it. For those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions, it’s essential to start slowly (minimum of once a week) and steer clear of physical exfoliators which contain eg. grains or microbeads to buff away dead skin cells as these can be too harsh and lead to further reactions. Instead, opt for an enzyme exfoliator such as Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft, gentle exfoliant for even the most sensitive skin, and effectively eliminates impurities and dead skin cells using natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without any scrubbing!Supermodel Jessica Hart“I change up my products depending on how my skin reacts to the changing seasons.”Unfortunately, skincare isn’t a one size fits all. And over time our skin can change dramatically depending on our circumstances, from our lifestyle to the environment, our daily diet, to the stress we might be under! Also, with a change in season comes a change in our skin too so what worked for your skin weeks ago might now need some tweaking! You just need to recognise what your skin now needs and adapt your skincare to these needs.And then there are those of us that are self-isolating because of #lockdown. Here’s why it’s time to change up your skincare routine!
Skin suffering from stress and fatigue? 11 products to battle the blues
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 29 2021
If you weren’t already feeling the stress that daily life can bring, I bet your bottom dollar, many of us are now! With the ever-growing covid numbers (here we go again) and two weeks of lockdown for Sydneysiders in full swing, it’s a wee bit hard to maintain a zen-like attitude to life (Oh and I do but try!) Then throw in a few kids under your feet 24-7 while working a full-time job from home, and it’s enough to send anyone a little bit batty (pardon the covid pun!)Unfortunately, stress, anxiety and fatigue, can impact not only your mind and body but your skin too!The good news is, a little beauty TLC can make all the difference, you just need to make sure you’re armed with the right products! So if your skin is suffering the consequences of stress, your anxiety has reared it’s head, or you're simply feeling fatigued, here’s what your skin needs; Stressed skinWhen you are tense, your body releases stress hormones including cortisol, which can increase the skin's oil production, leading to clogged pores and making you more prone to pimples (great!) Thankfully, there’s skincare. And spot-specific skincare at that! So if you’re waging war on spots, opt for blemish-busting ingredients like glycolic and salicylic acid.Try; Pevonia Spot Treatment. It’s a fab anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, soothing spot cream formulated with Glycolic and Salicylic Acid, Betaglucan and Aloe, which combine to provide a beautifully clean, clear, and bacteria-free complexion.Try; Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser. Perfect for those with breakout-prone skin, this foamy cleanser formulated with a balanced blend of Lactic and Salicylic Acid, provides antiseptic and keratolytic benefits while effectively cleansing skin eliminating toxins, impurities and surface bacteria (as well as makeup of course!). Extra bonus – it combats any skin inflammation which can go hand in hand with those pesky pimples!Try; Medicalia Clarifying Cream. This is a wonderfully light-textured, oil free cream which really does control acne while magically preventing futures blemishes too! Containing a powerhouse blend of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sorbitol and other soothing and protecting ingredients, it promotes a healthier and beautifully hydrated complexion.And let’s not forget the body! Try; Pevonia’s Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel morning and/or night! Relaxing and soothing, it will enhance your bath and shower with its aromatic foaming gel. Hazel Nut Oil, Chamomile, and Lavender combine to cleanse and hydrate. Soothing and de-stressing, your entire being is transported to an aromatherapy oasis.Suffering from anxietyMore than ever due to these times of increased uncertainty and adjustment, our skin will be experiencing the results of anxiety – think skin sensitivities, facial redness, rosacea. It’s important to try and relax and hopefully dial down those unwanted feelings of unease. Much-loved calming scents include the likes of lavender, ylang ylang and chamomile. And if you are suddenly suffering from facial flare ups ensure you use (or introduce) nurturing and relieving ingredients into your daily skincare program.Ingredients such as Green Tea, Licorice and French Rose Essential Oil will effectively reduce flushing, skin irritation and rosacea while hydrating, calming and soothing the skin.Try; Pevonia RS2 Care Cream. One of our most loved skincare ranges (and a global favourite) is the Pevonia RS2 line. It has been specifically formulated for those with ultra-sensitive skin to desensitize and decongest, while effectively relieving Rosacea discomfort.Try; Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate. Bathe your skin in this soothing, magical serum combining calming lavender with a high concentration of healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France, and really enrich your skin! Antibacterial and decongesting, it alleviates microcirculation problems and strengthens fragile skin.Try; Phytomer Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath. Little instantly reduces anxiety quite like switching off our on button and relaxing in a remineralizing bath. Throw in some soothing sounds and calming candles and see how your entire being relaxes. Phytomer’s Oligomer Well-Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath will create the unparalleled soothing spa experience you need! It’s an amazing lightly foaming bath ‘sensation’ enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension. Yassss.Feeling fatiguedIf you’re feeling fatigued your skin will visibly reflect it. You know that pale, dull and devitalized complexion, dark, puffy peepers and exacerbated fine lines we all love to hate. This is because when we are tired the blood in our body is not flowing efficiently which normally results in a lack of oxygen in the blood.Like with most skin conditions, there are ways to tackle this. Nourishing face oils, miracle masks and brightening serums will be your best friend! Packed full of skin loving ingredients, they’ll give your skin the glow it so desperately seeks.Try; Phytomer Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum. This light serum literally coats the skin in pure oxygen, providing the cells with the vivid rejuvenation they need. Formulated with marine extracts, the invigorating, moisturising blend, ensures fresher, more youthful skin with an overall increase in visible radiance.Try; Phytomer Citadine Citylife Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. Formulated in a refreshing sorbet texture and suitable for face and eye contour, this cream is just what you need to reoxygenate your tired skin. A combination of three marine sugars create the active ingredient, CITYSAFE®, to depollute, cleanse and oxygenate the skin. CITYSAFE®, along with blue and red algaes and Phytomer’s patented seawater concentrate - Oligomer®, reset skin repairing damage caused by signs of fatigue, dark spots and a dull complexion. CITYLIFE not only sweeps away toxic micro particles but provides an ultra moisturising facial experience too!Try; Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask. Combining 100% natural red and white clay with the best of marine ingredients, this mask instantly unclogs pores and counters the signs of fatigue, dark spots and dullness! After every application, the appearance of tired skin is diminished and replaced with a radiant and renewed complexion. LOVE.Try; Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate. The radical treatment oil for skin lacking lustre, combats dullness and dehydration with a burst of vitamins A and E and Mandarin Essential Oil, so your complexion will look beautifully brighter and rejuvenated by morning. What’s more it has the most amazing aroma which alone helps calm the senses, and even though it’s an oil, it’s fast absorbing so you know it’s doing great stuff to your skin!
9 multi-tasking beauty essentials we’re obsessed with right now
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 17 2021
Whether you are time poor mum like me, love fuss-free makeup, or are simply a self-confessed beauty addict, who doesn’t love multi-tasking makeup and skincare! From convenient compacts to skincare products that do it all, here are our nine favourites we are loving right now! ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightThis clever little compact packs a punch! It’s your bronzer, highlighter and foundation powder in one that you can lightly brush over your face for beautiful “lit from within” skin.The glow-giving base contains light-reflecting pigments to make skin look impossibly fresh while the gorgeous warm tones act like a photo filter on your skin. Use it on its own for some lightweight coverage and an all-out healthy glow, pop it under your foundation like a luminising primer, or dot it onto cheekbones for some tactical highlighting. Either way, you’ll love it!And for the month of June, when you purchase this powder, you’ll receive the ELES Duo Fibre Brush for FREE.ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30Your moisturiser, primer, sunscreen and foundation in one, this BB cream is a multi-tasking makeup miracle, suitable for all skin types! It quite literally 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!Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 30 with Blue Light ShieldA true triple threat, this smooth, tinted sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula including both zinc and iron oxides to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light AND pollution! It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. So worth the investment in my books!ELES Colour BalmThis lip balm will be a serious saviour in your makeup bag during the morning rush.It combines the payoff of a sheer lipstick with the superior shine of a gloss and is formulated with polymer technology that forms an invisible film that moves with the lips providing comfort and extended wear.Whether you want to add a tint of colour and shine to your lips or a flush of colour to your cheeks, there’s a shade for everyone. It’s also formulated with aloe to treat and heal dry lips, silica to smooth and retexture lips and vitamin C & E, for superior repairing benefits, and what’s more, the multi-tasking featherweight formula imparts superior shine and provides long lasting hydration with glowing colour in a single sweep! LOVE.Phytomer Rose Visage Toning Cleansing LotionThis all-in-one cleanser, makeup remover and toner is quick, effective and wonderful to use. Alcohol-free and infinitely gentle, it thoroughly cleanses the complexion, removes makeup and tones skin without leaving an oily film just a silky soft and supple complexion instead!Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating CreamPacked with marine goodness, this cleanser is your exfoliator and brightening cream in one! It immediately clears dull, dead skin cells while orange water provides vitamin C to support radiance, and the light-reflecting properties of cyfolia algae truly illuminate the complexion for that all out glow!Pevonia Micro Retinol MoisturiserRetinol isn’t hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world for nothing. This powerful anti-aging ingredient 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! Crazy right? And we love Pevonia’s Micro Retinol range. The moisturiser alone seals in your serum, deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms the complexion for outstanding long-lasting results.Phytomer Tresor Des Mers Beautifying OilThis beautifying dry oil enhances the beauty of the face, body and hair with its satiny texture. A true treasure of the sea, it infuses all the benefits of marine and vegetal oils to moisturise, nourish, repair, and protect both the skin and hair in a single step. Impressive stuff!ELES Custom PaletteWe all love a good multi-tasking makeup palette, but imagine one where you get to call the shots!!Whether you’re creating an everyday look, a look for nights or going for the perfect travel collection, with the ELES Custom Palette you get to choose your perfect shades! There are four empty face, blush and eyeshadow slots for you to customize. And the soft, powder formulas deliver rich, velvety, blendable colour that lasts. Also with the great colour collection, your options are limitless. The perfect five-minute makeup palette I say!
The best cleanser for your skin and why you need it now
by Jo Boyden
on May 21 2021
We all know it – cleansing is the first AND most important stage of any skincare routine. After all, if we don’t cleanse away the day's makeup and grime, how is our beloved moisturiser supposed to penetrate our skin for optimum benefit? And then there is the problem of clogged pores resulting in pesky pimples and acne too!
So we’ve established that cleansing is a necessity, but are we doing it right? While the actual process of cleansing may seem simple, with so many options, choosing the right cleanser for your skin isn’t always as straightforward!
There are foam cleansers, oil cleansers, balm cleansers, cream cleansers, cleansing lotions, and micellar water! And each type of cleanser works slightly differently and is targeted towards specific skin types and concerns! Did you know certain formulations are better for sensitive skin while others are targeted to be real acne fighters? Well, we are here to dish the dirt by breaking down the 6 main cleansing categories. After all, finding the right cleanser for your specific skin’s needs can be a real game changer, I am a testament to that!
Foaming Cleansers
Foaming cleansers create a foamy lather (hence the name), and are ideal for removing oil, layers of makeup, and even hard-to-wash-off product. They are designed to deep clean the skin by getting rid of excess oil and sebum as well as work to effectively unclog pores, helping to keep your skin clean and refreshed. As they foam, they draw out oil and as a result can be a little on the drying side, though some are formulated with oils or emollients to provide a more moisturising experience.
Who are they for?
In general, foaming cleansers are great for mature, oily and acne-prone skin, specifically because of their pore penetrating capabilities. If you want to get rid of acne or excess oil/sebum, you need a cleanser that can go deep in your pores and get rid of the debris without too much effort.
Also perfect for those that love to use a “foaming” type cleanser and like to wash off with water.
Try: Pevonia Micro Retinol Foaming Cleanser. It thoroughly cleanses, brightens and smooths skin with the added benefit of anti-ageing superstars retinol and hyaluronic acid. Perfect for those with advanced signs of ageing, sun damage, uneven skin tone and dark spots. Not recommended however for sensitive skin.
“How much do I love this! I think this has guzumped my present foaming cleanser! Fresh, firming yet doesn't feel like your skin is too tight.” Leah
Gel Cleansers
Gel cleansers have a very different texture from the light and airy one of a traditional foaming cleanser, instead, they have a thicker, gel consistency which provides a small amount of foam (if any) when mixed with water, and a milder, lighter cleansing experience. However, the milder cleanse doesn’t mean it’s inefficient! Quite the contrary. It simply means it cleans out the skin and pores, however not quite as deeply as a foaming cleanser but as a result does so without leaving the skin feeling stripped.
Who are they for?
They are ideal for normal to combination/oily skin.
Try: Pevonia’s Phyto Gel Cleanser. It’s lightweight gel to foaming formulation which gently but deeply cleanses the skin and regulates excess oiliness without causing dryness that many gel or foaming cleansers can.
“The best cleanser! I wish I could give it more than 5 stars! I love the way my skin felt after the first time I used it. I have sensitive acne-prone skin and this cleanser works like a dream!” Dionne
Cream Cleansers
Cream Cleansers are typically gentler on the skin than any other cleansers, are usually thicker and creamy and offer deep moisturising as they contain moisturising ingredients. Skin is cleansed gently without stripping the skin’s natural oils and therefore won’t cause dryness as a result.
Who are they for?
These cleansers are best for those with sensitive or dry skin as they cleanse the skin but leave it feeling calm, comfortable and softened. Also recommended for normal skin types.
Try: Phytomer Doux Visage Velvet Cleansing Cream. This ultra-gentle and hydrating cleansing cream not only gently and effectively removes dirt, oil and makeup without drying skin, but will also soften and brighten your complexion after the very first application.
“Fantastic cleansing cream. I've used this for years and I love it. I have sensitive skin and have to be careful of what I use. This works wonderfully and I've never had an issue. Cleans gently without stripping face of moisture. Highly recommend.” Kate
Micellar Water
Micellar water is a water-based, non-soap cleanser. When oil and dirt is mixed with a surfactant (cleansing agent), the surfactant molecules arrange themselves into tiny clusters called micelles.
Essentially, it's oil suspended in a water-like cleanser that helps to remove make-up and dirt more easily than a regular cleanser.
Who are they for?
This type of cleanser is best for sensitive or dry skin.
Try: Vie Collection Micellar Water. It’s a gentle cleanser which purifies, conditions and effectively removes makeup in one easy step. Skin is calm cleansed and revitalized.
“I love that I can clean and moisturize my face in one step, I don't have to compromise, An efficient cleanser while hydrating my skin.” Millie
Cleansing Lotions
Cleansing lotions, like your traditional cleansers are formulated to remove impurities, makeup and pollution from skin, thereby allowing it to breathe. These lotions provide the most effective way to purify the skin and improve its overall health, shine and appearance. You can either use a cleansing lotion alone as your cleaner or as a next step after cleansing skin for a double cleanse and thoroughly clean, refreshed skin.
Who are they for?
All skin types. Anyone who loves to double cleanse.
Try: Phytomer Rose Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion. An all-in-one makeup remover and toner. Quick, effective, pleasant to use. Alcohol-free and infinitely gentle, this lotion removes makeup and tones without leaving an oily film. The skin is left velvety clean.
“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.” Lauren
Cleansing Oils
Cleansing Oils are another great way to remove makeup and grime from the skin. They work on an ‘oil attracts oil’ basis, absorbing impurities while nourishing your complexion.
When they are massaged into the skin, the 'good' oils in the cleanser work to dissolve any 'bad' oils that build up on the skin's surface. The cleansing oil binds to these impurities, which are then drawn out and washed away with water. Skin is then replenished with clean, nourishing oils that help balance the skin’s natural oils leaving it soft and moisturised.
Cleansing oils are great for removing stubborn or waterproof makeup and suitable for all skin types since they gentle on the skin, are formulated with nourishing ingredients and designed to be rinseable with water so therefore not leave any oily residue.
Try: ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil. It quite literally melts away makeup and impurities without stripping moisture. When combined with water the oil transforms to a milky white formula that feels gentle on the face and helps maintain a balanced, hydrated and smoothed complexion.
“Leaves skin feeling really clean. Takes makeup off easy with just one application. Great product!” Marise
Triple-duty cleansers
And finally there is a new cleanser taking centre stage. Hybrid cleansers which offer the combination of gel, oil and foam!
Try: We love Pevonia’s NEW CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser. It’s a truly innovative, triple duty oil cleanser with a gel like consistency which features an advanced lipid-rich, alcohol-free, soap-free exclusive formula which transforms into a luscious, foaming cleanser on application (when mixed with water). It acts like a super magnet entrapping pollutants, impurities and bacteria to leave skin radiantly refreshed, soft and supple after every application.
Who is it for?
This cleansing wonder is suitable for all skin types, but especially great for those suffering from dry skin because of its perfect blend of foaming surfactants, skin-friendly oils and soothing, nourishing ingredients.
“I recently started using this cleanser and now I am a complete convert and will never look back. I LOVE it. I thoroughly enjoy the cleansing experience it brings as well as the amazing results after only a few applications. Beautifully cleansed, clear, smooth and healthy-looking skin every day! Yay!” Jo
The best way to protect your skin from blue light damage
by Jo Boyden
on May 07 2021
Blue light damage, we’ve all heard if it, I’ve personally blogged about it, but what’s the best bet for protecting our skin from it?First, to recap. Blue light damage IS a problem. It’s caused by our digital devices (as well as the sun) and having read a scary statistic the other day – the average person in their lifetime will spend 17 years on their phone – it’s something we need to take seriously.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 a number of steps to help protect our skin and reduce the effects that blue light damage can cause. Look for key ingredients in your skincareLayer your products with skin protecting ingredients including iron oxide and antioxidants, they will all significantly aid in protecting your skin from too much screen time. Iron OxideLook for products with formulations that contain iron, this is because iron oxide helps neutralize and repair blue light damage. Try ELES Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20.AntioxidantsProducts that contain antioxidants help protect against oxidative stress, which is one of the negative effects of blue light. By applying topical products containing vitamin C and E you can assist in counteracting the damaging effects of blue light. Try Medicalia C Serum with Oxyzomes which protects and infuses the antioxidant deep within our skin for maximum anti-free radical benefits and collagen-boosting effects. We also love Pevonia’s stem Cells Phyto-Elite range, rich in vitamins C, E, Marine Collagen and Retinol! It deeply repairs any damage caused to the skin, effectively minimising the most common signs of premature ageing.Wear a BB CreamIn the same way that physical sunscreens can help act as a barrier for the skin against blue light, so can products that contain light-reflecting pigment, like BB cream, which has been proven to reduce the effects of blue light by 80 per cent. Luminous skin and (partial) blue light protection in one! Our favourite and one of BC’s best-sellers is the ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 30. It is your multi-tasking wonder cream, because this product simply put does it all! It’s your moisturiser, primer, foundation and SPF in one! Don’t forgo your SPF, everIt’s important to protect our skin in the same way we would from the sun, so wearing an SPF daily year-round is a must (you should be doing this anyway!)Sunscreens formulated with iron oxides provide enhanced protection against blue light, especially when combined with zinc oxide. A new favourite of the team at BC is Medicalia’s new Sunscreen SPF 30 with Blue Light Shield. A true triple threat, it contains an exclusive mineral formula including both zinc and iron oxides to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution! It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. So worth the investment in my books! Protect your eyes with a good eye creamBlue light harms the delicate skin around your eyes so an eye cream is essential. This is because eye creams are different to your daily moisturisers and serums as they are formulated with specific active ingredients to nurture and repair the fragile eye area – the thinnest layer of skin on our entire bodies and up to 1/10 thinner than the rest of the skin on our face! Their main objective is to target specific eye concerns – crow’s feet, under eye bags and dark circles, delivering brightening and anti-ageing ingredients in a mild, gentle and safe dose.We highly recommend Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream. Enriched with the best antioxidants and skin-nourishing ingredients including; encapsulated high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, Botox-like peptides, fatty acids, vitamin c and vitamin B3, this silky cream is inspired by eye-rejuvenating Botox and hyaluronic acid injections to effectively fight signs of ageing and fatigue. Suitable for everyone even those with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.There are also other ways you can aid your skin including, avoiding screen time an hour before bed, eating a well-rounded diet rich in anti-oxidant and fatty-acid foods and purchasing blue light blockers and filters, you just need to make sure you start incorporating all these factors into your daily routine!
Take your skin to the next level with team BC’s best beauty buys
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 29 2021
Here at Beauty Collective, we are very privileged to be surrounded by the best of the best when it comes to beauty. Collectively our panel of experts, as well as our head office team, have tried and tested hundreds of skincare and makeup products over the years, but these are the 7 favourites that we all agree to stand out from the rest of the pack, and take it from me, if a product has made it onto this list, you can bet your bottom dollar it’s a gold star beauty buy, here is why; Pevonia “C” ComplexInstantly brighter, dewier skin? Who doesn’t want that right? Well this product certainly delivers! For the ultimate skin brightening boost, this product is a must. Superhero glow-getter Vitamin C comes together with hydrating and anti-ageing powerhouse hyaluronic acid to deeply nourish and correct photo-damage! The citrus scent is simply heavenly, and it feels amazingly refreshing on application! But more importantly, the results speak for themselves! Radiant looking skin instantaneously. ELES BB CreamI’m personally not one for foundations because I find them a little OTT for my skin, but this BB Cream is an everyday favourite of mine and I would say for the majority of girls at BC. I LOVE that it is quite literally a multi-tasking wonder cream! It primes, tints, nourishes, protects (thanks to its SPF of 30) and evens out skin tone for a truly natural, flawless finish, plus it feels like you aren’t wearing anything, no easy feat for makeup with SPF that’s for sure! So if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this product is one you should seriously consider too! Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamMy personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 favourite of many here too, the Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin super soft, supple and like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day! I swear my 40-year-old self has less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! Pevonia Dry Oil Body MoisturiserFor a little extra energy and a spring in your step, try indulging your body in the numerous benefits of this botanically infused body oil!Absolutely luscious it quite literally indulges skin in aromatic glory for want of a better word! It’s a dry oil without being oily or greasy (which is a no no from me!) and immediately absorbs into skin, replenishing and nourishing every inch! After using it (it’s great to use after stepping out of the shower) I promise your body will have never felt so silky-soft! Oh, and the smell is divine too! Pevonia Vitaminic ConcentrateWe all LOVE this product and for very good reason. It’s a radical dry skin saviour and especially at this time of year with the change in seasons skin can be dry, sensitive and lacklustre. I personally can’t get enough of it at night! It is soothing and silky and has the most amazing mandarin aroma. Yes it’s an oil but it’s fast absorbing so you know it’s doing good stuff to your skin, and it combats dehydration instantaneously by locking in that much needed moisture, so simply put you’ll wake up to smooth, supple and seriously glowy skin every morning, I can vouch for that!Pevonia Micro Retinol CreamAside from Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, Retinol has long been worshipped as the hero ingredient in the fight against ageing and we know why! A derivative of Vitamin A, this ‘holy grail’ of ingredients offers a multitude of benefits from reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation and photo ageing, reducing large pores and clearing acne to speeding cell turning over and making cells function like that of a child!! Crazy right? With all this in mind, our entire team at BC were up for the challenge of trialling Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Cream but were sure to do so by slow introduction as retinol if applied topically too much too fast can have an adverse effect.The cream is beautiful! So light in texture, non-greasy and with a subtle scent. We collectively noticed changes in our skin from smoothing of lines and wrinkles, to skin softening, improvement in firmness and reduced in pore size as well as pigmentation! What more could we want? I’ve personally tried retinol-based products before but had found them irritating and a little unpleasant, not with this product! After weeks of using it at night my skin appears so much more luminous, refined and visibly hydrated too! Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing BathNothing relieves stress and induces relaxation quite like an indulgent bubble bath, better still a bath laced with the remineralizing magical properties of the sea! Phytomer’s Oligomer Well being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath, enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater – is one of those little gems we all need in our lives. You feel like you could quite literally float away as it evokes a feeling of pure weightlessness as all pent-up tension slips away. Pure bliss. From the best in professional skincare to makeup mast-haves, these are the beauty heroes the team at BC can’t get enough of.
From me to…me. 5 beauty treats you’ll love this Mother’s Day
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 23 2021
While we should show our love and appreciation for our amazing mums year round, I have to admit I do love a dedicated day to buy that special something for mum, and while I’m spending my pennies on her, why not make it into a day to gift and indulge myself too? Cheeky maybe but I’m guessing my 5 and 8 year olds aren’t going to know what mummy might love this Mother’s day! And whether you are a mum or not, we all deserve to pamper ourselves from time to time right?So whether you are on the quest for that perfect gift for your mum, looking for ideas to give to your hubby, or simply wanting to spoil yourself, because why not? It’s time to forget the flowers, friends and copious amounts of chocolate (because hey if you’re like me, you might still have enough to feed an army after Easter! Eek) this year why not spend your hard earned money on makeup and skincare treats that’ll not only last longer than a few days but will make you and your mum feel fabulous too! And what woman doesn’t love a good beauty buy! Phytomer Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath Nothing induces relaxation at-home quite like an indulgent remineralizing bath. Coupled with a little music to set the mood and a candle here and there it could be said to be nearly as good as a pamper session at your favourite spa! We are loving Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Mineral Relaxing Bath. This little gem really does create an unparalleled stress-relief experience. It’s lightly foaming and enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension. I need me one of these baths’ stat! Phytomer Marine Mist Scented Water with Oligomer This totally indulgent marine mist is the perfect spritz to cover your body from head to toe when you’ve stepped out of your relaxing remineralizing bath (or after a shower for that matter!) It’s an all-purpose skincare mist that quite literally soothes the mind and the senses for a moment of pure calm and relaxation, whilst showering your body in all the beautifying benefits of the sea, thanks to Oligomer, Phytomer’s emblematic seawater concentrate. Rich in natural ingredients it hydrates, brightens, and recharges skin cells. Usually reserved exclusively for the spas at the start of each Phytomer treatment, it’s available in retail for a limited time only and comes presented in a gorgeous blue Phytomer pouch! Yes, please! Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream If no one else is going to treat you, why not treat yourself to an at-home peel. It’ll do wonders for your skin I promise. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! Pevonia’s Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins revealing silky soft, smooth and glowing Acids skin. You can thank me later! ELES Custom Palette As a busy mum the words makeup palette is music to my ears! Containing a slot for bronzer, blush and two eye shades, this super convenient compact is the perfect way to add subtle colour and radiance to your everyday look, but it’s also great for little touch-ups when on the go! What’s better with the ELES Custom Palette, YOU call all the shots. Whether you’re creating an everyday look, a look for nights or going for the perfect travel collection, this palette will be your go-to. Pevonia Home Facial Gift Set Everything you need to deep cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate your skin, this gift set is the holy grail of pampering and skin perfection in one! Containing four of Pevonia’s best-selling products; Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydrating Cleanser, Hydration Lotion and Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream, and samples of three skin brightening and perfecting masks; Collagen, Green Apple and Charcoal, each product will ensure you feel truly indulged while donning excellent results after every application and who doesn’t want soft, glowing skin every day of the week?
Love your lips – 8 tips for your best lips yet
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 31 2021
If lip filler isn’t your thing but you find you are forever on the quest for the perfect plumped lips I’m here to tell you, you can achieve the perfect pout by using a few key products and following a few simple steps. So read on and experience your best lips yet… Prep your lips Exfoliate Just as we prep our skin each morning before applying our makeup base, it’s essential to prep our lips so they don’t end up all cakey and flakey post lippie application!Creating a smooth canvas is a necessity when it comes to perfecting your pout and the best way to achieve this is to remove any dead skin cells that are subtly sitting on the surface of your lips with a lip scrub. Don’t have a lip scrub per say? No worries, a gentle face exfoliator such a Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser will do the job perfectly and means you save on the pennies too. Moisturise Next, it’s important to moisturise your lips just as you would your eyes. Moisturising is important as many lip products can be drying and our lips, like our eyes can be particularly vulnerable to showing signs of ageing. They have an especially thin outer layer which gets even thinner with each passing year thanks to a breakdown in collagen. Choosing a good lip cream can be paramount. I personally use and love Pevonia’s Lip Renew Plump and De-Age treatment. Its name speaks volumes as it quite literally deeply moisturises, renews, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and volumizes lips! How? It is rich in powerhouse, anti-ageing duo Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid, as well as sesamin from sesamum indicum seed extract – the latest hero ingredient proven to plump the lips with natural lipo-filling action form dramatic results. Simply apply and massage a small quantity on your lips and around your lip contour and laugher lines morning (and night.) Hydrate and set Finish by applying lip balm to lips and let it sit for a few minutes to soak in. After all, you don’t want your lipstick literally sliding off minutes after application.Now lips will be silky smooth and lipstick ready, no dry or flaky spots in sight. Don’t forget to line those lipsDon’t wear lipliner? You should now. Lip liner is to lipstick what a primer is to foundation, it’ll make your lipstick last longer as well as look better too!As we age our lips start to thin and lose their colour. Lip liners will not only define and shape your lips, they act as primers to boost the colour and longevity of your lipstick too. Simply line the lips or draw it on all over your lips before your lipstick and you can turn virtually any lipstick into a “longwear” formula. Try ELES Gel Lipliner for ultimate waterproof, transfer-proof, long-lasting staying power! The formula helps lipstick adhere to your lips better without any bleeding or featuring.If you have thin lips, using a lipliner will enable you to overline your lips just a little which will add both shape and fullness. You want to overline on the cupid’s bow and the fullest part of your bottom lips (but never overline the corners). Begin by applying a fine line just outside your natural lip line starting from the centre of your lips and working out to the corners keeping it light and fine, then blend it inwards.N.B If you find (like me) that once you’ve worn in a brand new lipliner it’s next to impossible to get that perfectly sharp tip again no matter how much you sharpen it! Well all is not lost! Instead of using it straight out of your makeup bag simply pop it in the fridge overnight or even for a matter of minutes and when it comes time to apply your lip liner should be hard enough to create those perfectly lined lips we all want!Finish with a lipstick or lip tint a similar shade to your natural lip colour. Dark lipstick will only make thin lips look thinner.We LOVE the new ELES Velvet Satin Lipsticks. 12 stunning chic and sophisticated shades with subtle satin finish and formulated with a lip-loving blend of emollient oils and butters to help keep lips soft, smooth and super hydrated throughout the day.Make sure you match your lip liner to your lip colour though!Even if your lips tend to be on the paler side you should match your lip liner to the colour of your lips, not your darker (or lighter!) lipstick shade. A natural-toned liner will make it easier to correct shape (especially if your top lip is uneven or has lost definition so fades into skin) as well as add fullness. Keep lip colour in place all daySo you’ve got yourself a long wearing lipstick and you’ve applied your lipliner but after eating you find your lips aren’t looking a peachy perfect as they were at the start of the day. Blotting your lippie with a tissue, then dusting some translucent powder of top will help set the pigment without dulling your lip colour as well as making it instantly last longer not matter what your lipstick formula.Another option is to give a lip stain a go! The ELES Lip Stain imparts lips with long-lasting vibrant colour that protects the lips and stays in place for hours even after eating, drinking and kissing! Plump lips that little bit moreAfter applying and setting your chosen lippie, be sure you brush either a little shimmer eyeshadow in an ivory shade or some concealer in light to the middle of your lips. This creates a 3D effect that makes lips look fuller and no lip plumping products are required! The same goes for your lip gloss – for a little extra lip plumping apply in nude to the centre of your lips, just remember gloss is fluid so it’s not designed to wear all day. Cleanse lips as you would your faceWant to remove your lippie at the end of the day without any rubbing or pulling? Use a lip specific cleanser designed to be gentle on lips while removing stubborn long lasting lip products. Try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup remover.
You’ve not experienced glowing skin until you’ve tried this
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 23 2021
Just as we are told to keep up our daily intake of fresh fruit and veggies, thanks to the multitude of vitamins they contain, it’s equally as important to apply vitamins topically to our skin for optimum skin health. While vitamin E helps increase nutrient levels and inflammation and vitamin A is a real wrinkle fighter, it is wonder ingredient - vitamin C that receives all the beauty buzz and for very good reason.Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, this notorious glow-getter not only radially brightens skin, lessening hyperpigmentation, it also increases collagen production (which diminishes with age) and protects skin against pollution and sun damage by effectively neutralising free radicals (which can wreak havoc by harming healthy skin cells as well as promoting premature ageing – we are talking fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and more…eek!)So if you suffer from hyperpigmentation or your skin is literally lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. We promise you when we say you haven’t experienced glowing skin until you have a vitamin c rich routine, and these 5 BC favourites will help you achieve just that. For those who need the perfect pick-me upPevonia Vitamin C ComplexeFor the ultimate skin brightening boost, this product is a must! Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too! For those with maturing skin concernsVie Collection Vita C SolutionWe can’t recommend this skin-smoothing serum enough! It provides rapid revitalising for maturing skin, brightening and enhancing skin tone like never before with boosted (10%) vitamin C to truly promote a healthy, beautiful glow. For those with blemish-prone skinPhytomer White Lumination Brightening Serum This ultra-light serum which visibly lights up the complexion helps reduce the appearance of blemishes to achieve an even tone and skin that literally glows from within! For a flawless baseELES Cosmetics Luminous CC Cream 20The ultimate skin correcting cream, ELES’s Luminous CC not only adapts to skin tones for a flawless foundation, its skin nourishing and brightening ingredients help even tone and diminish imperfections too. It’s not one of ELES Cosmetic’s best-sellers for nothing! One for the eyes….Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye GelIf you love the feeling of a cooling eye gel to soothe and depuff your peepers, this product is the one for you. Anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C is the star ingredient in this eye gel. The skin saviour coupled with hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo Biloba is a sure thing for cooling tired eyes and effectively decongesting and de-puffing them in one swift application.
Why and how you should switch up your skincare routine this autumn
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 17 2021
With summer now officially behind us (boo), and the cooler days of autumn here, you might well have started to notice a slight change in your skin? From dehydration to hyper-pigmented patches, seasonal changes can reap havoc on our complexion, but with just a few simple changes to your daily skincare routine (and some dry skin remedies thrown into the mix), we promise you can calmly transition your skin from summer to autumn, seeing it happily and healthily through the cooler months ahead. So read on for our 8 top tips on how to get glowy autumn skin. Exfoliate away dead summer skin cells Even though skin becomes drier and more sensitive in the cooler months, exfoliation is not a step that should ever be missed! Those dry dead skin cells that sit on the surface of your skin are not only dulling it, they are also blocking the hydrating ingredients from every other skincare step in your routine from getting in! Just be sure not to overdo it though. If your skin tends to be on the more sensitive side, we recommend exfoliating no more than once a week and opting for natural enzyme exfoliators rather than physical ones where rubbing and scrubbing can cause irritation.Both the Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes and Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream are formulated with natural enzymes which basically melt away dead cells so no scrubbing is needed and the results speak for themselves – brighter, more radiant skin after every application.For all other skin types, exfoliating once or twice a week is a must. Try Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it’s one of the brands global best sellers and for good reason! Switch your cleanser to an oil or balm As the temperature starts to drop your skin will start to produce less oil, as water loss from skin is increased, this means it’s time to forgo the gel or foaming cleanser which has been your go-to through the warm summer season, and opt for gentle cream, milk or oil-based formulas that will thoroughly cleanse your skin without stripping it of much-needed moisture. Try Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream. It’s formulated with Organic Orange water, Oligomer, Organic Vegetal Oils and Cyfolia Algae which literally melts on contact with the skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities. Bliss. Know what skin survival ingredients to look for It’s important to look for skincare formulated with ingredients that will not only hydrate but also assist the skin in retaining that moisture all day long. Ingredients rich in essential fatty acids such as squalane (olive oil) and vitamin E as well as superstar hydrators including hyaluronic acid, marine collagen and Glycerin, will keep the skin plump and hydrated, while ingredients such as shea butter and argan oil will ensure cells function optimally allowing them to maximise the skin’s water retention. Give your skin a moisture surge Early autumn can see skin depleted of moisture which leads to a dry, devitalized complexion. So be sure to up the ante and incorporate dry skin remedies into your daily routine. If you aren’t already, be sure to apply a hydrating serum each morning under your daily moisturiser and a replenishing oil at night.Don’t forget your body too! After your shower, smother your damp skin from neck to toes with a rich body balm or body oil. Did you know the skin’s outer layer swells open when it’s damp allowing products to penetrate better? Reduce hyperpigmented patches While you can’t undo the damage that the UV rays have caused while you’ve been sunning yourself by the sea, you can help minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation. To help fade the look of dark spots and even skin tone click there. Don’t forgo your sunscreen Yes, it’s easy to remember to apply your sunscreen when you’re headed to the beach, or out and about on holiday, but so many of us seem to skip this vital step as soon as the cooler, cloudier months arrive! Still the biggest offender of premature ageing, UVA rays are prevalent all year round and can penetrate clouds, glass and even some clothes! Scary right? So make sure you continue this vital step in your daily routine and keep skin looking younger! For a daily moisturiser to die for, try the ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection.If you aren’t a huge lover of sunscreen on your face, opt for a foundation with a high SPF. Try ELES’s Age Defying BB Cream 30, I promise it’ll become your go-to all autumn long. It’s multi-faceted and benefit-packed, and primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen and protect the skin on contact! Genius. Use an antioxidant-rich cream at night At night, your skin switches from ‘protect’ to ‘repair’ mode. It’s when it can finally recover from the day’s stresses so applying a rich night moisturising cream will offer no end of benefits. I LOVE Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. The rich texture of the cream literally cocoons skin in nourishing hydration while it boosts your skin’s renewal, so your complexion gets all the benefits while you slumber. Adding a few drops of rich nourishing oil to your night cream, or immediately after applying will give skin that extra boost too. Try Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. This soothing, silky oil has the most amazing mandarin aroma (it’s formulated with Mandarin Essential Oil) and is quite literally worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically hydrating! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning. I kid you not. Give your eyes and lips a little extra TLC Our lips lack melanin so they are especially susceptible to sun damage and after several months of hot weather are also prone to deep dryness. Squinting, sweating and the sun can also cause damage to the fragile eye area. So give these areas some TLC. Reach for nourishing lip colour instead of drying mattes, apply SPF over your lips and at night offer some much-needed repair. Phytomer – Youth Contour Soothing Eye and Lip Cream is our favourite because it is formulated to calm, soothe and replenish delicate skin.
Suffering from hyperpigmentation? 4 things you need to be doing now
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 05 2021
You may not know it but hyperpigmentation, otherwise known as dark spots, is a very common skin concern. The condition most commonly occurs due to overproduction of melanin, the natural pigment in the skin, which is why it’s often exacerbated during the sunny summer months (thank you sunshine!) However, it can also occur due to inflammation caused from conditions like acne, just want you don’t need, and while hyperpigmentation can be hard to avoid for some, you can definitely help reduce its severity by following a few key steps and we are here to tell you what; Choose your skincare wisely If you aren’t already invest in skincare specifically designed to target hyperpigmentation. There are 4 key ingredients to look out for. The first being Vitamin C. Vitamin C can not only help heal blemishes it can also help reduce hyperpigmentation and give your skin an all out glow. Once you add a daily dose of vitamin c to your skincare routine you can start seeing noticeable improvements in a matter of weeks.Here at BC, we love Pevonia’s “C” Complexe. Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid work together to hydrate, correct photo damage and drench your skin with repairing antioxidants for a revitalized, youthful glow. It’s really good stuff and I’m testament to that!AHA’s such as glycolic and lactic acid and BHA’s such as Salicylic acid are ideal for managing hyperpigmentation. They help with resurfacing, declogging and brightening skin and can aid in evening out dark areas of the face, neck and chest.I personally love Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream with UV protection! It combines Glycolic acid and Hyaluronic Acid to dramatically improve skin’s texture.Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is another go-to ingredient for hyperpigmentation. It works by going deep beneath your skin, encouraging cell turnover and bringing healthier, newer skin cells to the surface!Medicalia’s L Retinol Smoothing cream is a must in the fight against Hyperpigmentation! Formulated with retinol and Glycolic and Lactic Acid (yes!) it’s an excellent resurfacing and lightening cream for photodamaged skin. Just be sure to introduce it slowly and apply before bed. To learn more about retinol click here. Exfoliate And once or twice a week! This will help shed the hyperpigmented cells and speed up healing. Really!The most effective exfoliators for managing hyperpigmentation are either chemical or enzymatic exfoliators though as they penetrate more deeply into the skin than physical exfoliators and don’t contain grains which can in some cases create inflammation by scrubbing which can lead to additional pigmentation! Eek!Try Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes! It’s a beautifully gentle exfoliant that uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating the skin. Ideal for even the most sensitive and reactive skin, it eliminates impurities by gentle exfoliating away dead skin cells to reveal a refined skin texture and more luminous complexion. Slip, slop, slap Wear sunscreen and be religious about it. Applying your SPF is not only the best way to prevent premature ageing but it will also dramatically decrease your chances of getting hyperpigmentation as well as reducing it.I highly recommend Vie Collection’s Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF30, this amazing daily cream is formulated with two high-tech ingredients that act against dark spots, free radicals and UV rays. After daily use dark spots become less visible and skin more unified. Eat a diet rich in Vitamin C and flavonoids A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and flavonoids can effectively help reduce skin darkening. So be sure to introduce avocados, oranges, grapes, cherries, broccoli and bell peppers into your daily diet, as well as foods with beta-carotene (orange colour) like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots and seafood rich in copper, magnesium, selenium and zinc. Such a diet works by encouraging production of melanin, reduction of free radicals and support of cell turnover, the three things that help grow healthy, happy skin and diminish dark spots! Drink herbal Turn your morning cuppa into a mug of green tea! We know green tea is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, but did you know as a result it can help reduce both skin inflammation and melanin production in one.
These were the best BC products of 2020 – as voted by you!
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 17 2021
Ever wondered what everyone else is buying when it comes to skincare and make-up must-haves on BC?When a product achieves best-selling status it’s usually a sign that it’s a well-loved and proven effective product, as well as being the most-shopped. So whether you are shopping BC and looking for recommendations or are simply wondering if your favourite product made the cut, here we count down the best-selling beauty buys from 2020. From super serums to everyday moisturisers, there is something on the list for everyone. The soothing serum Pevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateIf you’re a sufferer of reactive or sensitive skin this could be your go-to! It’s a beautiful rich gel-like serum formulated with calming lavender and soothing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France to soothe, nourish and decongest irritable skin with its antibacterial and healing powers. The calming cream Phytomer Douceur Marine Velvety Soothing CreamAn absolute dream for sensitive skin, this luxurious, melt-away cream is rich in marine ingredients which act to reduce redness and calm uncomfortable skin while strengthening the skin’s natural defences against stress, weather and pollution. The hydrating cleanser Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser If you are concerned about premature ageing, skin’s a little on the dry side and you love yourself a creamy cleanser, then you are simply going to love this! It removes daily grime effortlessly but what’s more it replenishes skin’s moisture by combining deeply nourishing and anti-ageing duo, marine collagen and elastin. The creamy exfoliator Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserIf you’re looking for proof that fellow BC shoppers are serious about exfoliation (not just cleansing and moisturising!), Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliator is ranked #7 on the list. This creamy exfoliator is a game-changer for those with sensitive skin….well for anyone really! It very gently polishes away dead skin, impurities, and toxins with jojoba beads, Saponaria, and chamomile to reveal a beautifully smooth and brightened complexion. The balancing cream Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin CreamThere is nothing not to love about this product if your complexion tends to lean towards the shiny, oily, hormonal side. This extra light yet nourishing moisturiser feels smooth and soft on application but effectively controls oil and shine while reducing congestion! Oh, and it smells pretty fab too! The multi-tasking beauty balm ELES Cosmetics Age Defying BB Cream 30Not to be mistaken for its sister - the CC Cream, BB Creams or otherwise known as beauty balms, are infused with antioxidants, brightening agents, acids, broad-spectrum SPF to treat the skin while giving it a fresh, even glow, and let me tell you this BB Cream is no exception! Multi-faceted it really packs a punch as it quite literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen skin on contact. So if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this is for you! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one! The redness-be-gone calming cream Pevonia RS2 CreamFormulated with soothing, sensitive skin loving ingredients including Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, this beautifully textured, nourishing cream provides your skin vaso constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits to effectively reduce redness and inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associated with Rosacea. We love the great results for rosacea prone skin but also love its natural signature scent of French Rose. It’s one heavenly product! The super sensitive comforting cream Pevonia Soothing Sensitive Skin CreamThis cream will quite literally calm and control hypersensitivity. Formulated with soothing and healing propolis, aloe, shea butter, and chamomile it alleviates and harmoniously corrects skin’s blotchiness and irritability. The formidable foundation ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation Especially great for those with oily or combination skin but also fab for those that love a matt finish that isn’t heavy, this foundation literally glides onto skin effortlessly thanks to its silky liquid formulation yet sets to a soft powder finish. It looks natural on application yet covers up blemishes beautifully, and its SPF and skin-loving ingredients mean it not only conceals skin but protects it throughout the day too! The global best-seller Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamTo keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines (seriously) we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no.1 global best-seller!This moisturiser has an international, star status for good reason! It is deeply nourishing without feeling heavy or oily, it’s formulated with marine collagen and hyaluronic acid, two anti-ageing wonder ingredients and the results speak for themselves – radiant, plumped skin after every application. Say no more.Want to know more? Head to the products pages to read all of the amazing reviews!
Marine skincare – the answer to really healthy skin?
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 29 2020
We’ve all heard that the sea is good for the soul - just staring out at the ocean can put us into a relaxing, mediative state after all, but did you know that it’s also a treasure trove of skin-loving ingredients? And no we aren’t just talking about the healing properties of saltwater. Marine ingredients such as seaweed, algae, and sea grapes to name but a few, are among a number of the unsung skincare heroes of the ocean! Ingredients used in skincare for their multitude of miraculous benefits from deeply moisturising, to brightening, detoxifying and regenerative!So read on to find out all about the top marine-based ingredients and their abundance of beautifying benefits. Oh and our favourite marine skin and body care products too! After reading this you’ll want to experience marine skincare and get glowing skin like you’ve never experienced before! SeawaterLoaded with natural minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium, seawater is praised for its healing properties and multi-tasking abilities. A powerhouse of antioxidants, it helps to; support healthy cell functioning and regeneration, beneficial for skin aging! It is also known to detox and decongest, hydrate, moisturise and brighten the skin, as well as reduce inflammation and improve the severity of acne and dermatitis too! Amazing right?Try: Whilst there are a number of skincare products containing seawater, from cleansers to toners, moisturisers and cream our absolute favourite seawater product is Phytomer’s Oligomer Pure Lyophilized Sea Water Bath. Bathing in seawater can deeply nourish and regenerate the skin while decreasing inflammation thanks to its abundance of magnesium and this product is no exception! It contains trace elements and unique minerals from seawater, balancing and remineralizing your skin in one relaxing bath experience. Ahhhhh.SeaweedPacked to the rafters with minerals and vitamins A, B, C, D & E, seaweed is the ultimate in anti-ageing. Able to enhance elasticity and promote tissue regeneration, it contains alginates (acids) that lock in hydration for super soothing and smoothing results.Try: Phytomer Seaweed Soap. It not only gently exfoliates the skin eliminating dead cells, but it also moisturises and revitalises the skin leaving it silky soft, just like taking a dip in the ocean!Weaving AlgaeA marine star, algae is rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and essential fatty acids and is hailed for its intense and lasting moisturising benefits as it helps the complexion retain water, whilst tightening, brightening and detoxifying the skin too.Try: Phytomer Hydra Original Thirst Relief Melting Cream. Yup. The name of this product says it all and it’s thanks to its high concentration of weaving algae which literally saturates the skin with moisture! It truly delivers intense lasting hydration for visibly plumped radiant skin.SeagrapeSeagrape, or Coccoloba uvifera is an exotic seaside grape native to the Antilles Islands (off the east coast of Central America and the northeast coast of South America.) It was the clever scientists at Phytomer who discovered that this high-performance and unparalleled ingredient has the exceptional power of balancing the functions of genes involved in the appearance of cellulite!! It actually suppresses the genes that control synthesis and storage of fat cells resulting in a decrease in cellulite! And it also improves the expression of the genes that control the production of dermal cells to vastly improve skin firmness! Sorry to get all sciencey on you, but that’s pretty cool, right?Try: Phytomer Celluli Attack Concentrate for stubborn areas. This intensive anti-cellulite body treatment works wonders in the war against ‘orange peel’ skin I’m telling you! Formulated with Sea Absinthium, Pepper slimactiv and Sea Grape it remarkably reduces cellulite and stubborn fat in just weeks after applying daily morning and night.Sea SaltLong used as an exfoliant and detoxifying ingredient, sea salt is rich in magnesium and calcium, both known to help draw hydration and strengthen barrier function.Try: Phytomer Toning Body Scrub with Marine Crystals. Rich in Oligomer (World exclusive marine-derived treasure which concentrates all the active components found in seawater to recharge skin cells with oligo-elements and minerals. It's unique composition boosts cell energy and recharges cell batteries.) and sea salt, this toning scrub eliminates dead cells delivering the minerals and trace elements essential for really healthy skin. Look forward to seriously soft and silky smooth skin after every use. Marine CollagenExtracted from fish scales and fish oils, marine collagen combines deep antioxidant properties with amino acids for a powerful reparative and youth prolonging ingredient. The anti-ageing superstar has the ability to stimulate the synthesis of new collagen production and minimise the appearance of ageing. Yes please!Try: To keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines (seriously) we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no.1 global best-seller Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream.CaviarLoaded with vitamins and amino acids, Caviar in skincare is the extract of fresh raw roe eggs from the prized sturgeon fish. To preserve sturgeon from extinction caviar is produced by careful farming in select areas of the world to fulfill environmental and quality standards. It has all the goodness of marine sea minerals and is known for its regenerative, skin-plumping properties. It has even been proven to help slow ageing! A highly effective moisturising agent, Caviar has the ability to deeply hydrate the skin increasing softness and suppleness. Rich in amino acids, it's easily absorbed into the dermis for immediate repairing and rejuvenating results too!Try: Pevonia MyOxy Caviar Timeless Repair Serum. With its high concentration of caviar, coupled with other superstar ingredients, this serum immediately softens and smooths fine lines and wrinkles. You’ll see a noticeable change in skin’s texture and elasticity after only a few applications which results in a tighter, finer, and more radiant complexion.
The wellness rituals you should be doing daily
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 22 2020
A stressful, hectic life is routine in my household this time of year, as I’m sure it is for many! Throw a pandemic into the mix and a growing number of covid cases in some states and the anxiety levels will be arising.So with the holiday season nearly upon us and the potential of another lockdown looming for some, post-Christmas will definitely be time to decompress and get a little self-loving back into our lives.From the importance of establishing a good skincare routine to the impact exercise can have on our mental health, these self-care rituals should be something we all adopt daily; Give yourself a facial My morning and night-time skincare routine is something I have (for as long as I can remember anyway!) always taken pleasure in, even when I’m time poor, which let's face it with young kids and now a puppy thrown in for good measure is….always! It should be a daily routine we all enjoy with all the benefits skincare brings, and incorporating a little facial ritual (which is easy to do) will really help nurture both your skin and psych. For a detailed account on how to perfect a salon-style wellbeing facial at home click here. Meditate for better quality of sleep I love company, would tout myself as a social butterfly and am seldom alone, but I do ensure for my mental wellbeing that I have at least 5 minutes a day to myself because the rest of the time it’s go, go, go! I love a bubble bath (we’ll get to that later!) but I couldn’t imagine not having my nightly 5-minute meditation ritual, which my little ones are now doing before their bedtime too! It’s my way to wind down and calm my mind before bed and has vastly improved my quality of sleep too (because prior to committing to my bedtime meditation I was guilty of sitting staring at a screen until at least 11.30 pm at night and we all know how this can interfere with our circadian rhythm (our natural, internal process that regulates our sleep-wake cycle.)Meditation has a whole heap of benefits from reducing stress and negative emotions to increasing self-awareness, creativity, and patience. So if you haven’t already and are keen to give it a try, I recommend both the Headspace and Calm apps. They have a range of guided meditations for an array of concerns such as sleep deprivation, anxiety, stress and productivity. It might take you a few goes before you start to relax into it and feel a change, but believe me when I stay stick with it as you’ll soon wonder why you didn’t give it a go before now! Practice calming techniques Aside from meditation, practicing other calming techniques can be highly beneficial to both your psych and skin too! This is because stress, while bad of course for your health, is not good for your skin either! Unfortunately, cortisol (the stress hormone) has the ability to break down collagen in the skin resulting in premature ageing (great!) But practicing, for example yoga, or even putting on some soothing sounds can have a significant impact on reducing that cortisol flow! Phew. Indulge in a therapeutic bath So when I said I ensure I give myself 5 minutes of alone time a day for my night-time meditation ritual, I also try and give myself 15 minutes once or twice a week (daily is amazing if you have the time!) to indulge in a therapeutic bath. Little instantly reduces stress quite like sinking into a relaxing, remineralizing bath. Add the soothing sounds of spa music, a candle here and there, and a destressing bath foam or detoxifying salts and you’ve got yourself an at-home spa experience. I am loving Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath. It’s a lightly foaming, ultra-relaxing fragranced bath enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater – to strengthen and restore the skin while releasing all pent-up tension in the body. Amazing stuff right? Stay active Just 30 minutes of exercise a day can make a huge difference to not only our mental well-being, but our body and skin too! And no you don’t need to take up F45 or swim the ocean blue, just a moderate walk can be all you need. Daily exercise has been proven to help control weight, reduce risk of heart diseases, help our body manage blood sugar and insulin levels, decrease pain, and even delay the ageing of our cells! Exercise can also help increase oxygen and blood flow to the skin neutralizing the free radicals that damage it! And we all know exercising releases endorphins, the happy hormones! And who doesn’t want to feel pleasure, happiness and love on the daily! Have a little, or a whole lot less screen time This one’s not so much a ritual, more a necessity if we’re talking self-care and want to truly unwind this impending holiday season.Sadly, screen time (thanks to the blue light it emits) has an adverse effect on our skin, body and mind, and what with the multiple devices available at our fingertips, I’d say there was barely one of us who wasn’t guilty of spending too much time glued to one of them at some point in the day. Spending just two consecutive hours on a digital device can cause eyestrain or fatigue, while overexposure to this blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, therefore disrupting our normal sleep pattern. And we all know poor sleep can lead to premature ageing. Eek.Use this opportunity to read a good book and perhaps discover a passion perhaps you didn’t know you had! Give yourself a mini massage! And finally..try and incorporate a mini massage into your daily life. Yes, yes I might be asking a bit much you say but I’m talking anything from a relaxing hand or foot massage which we can do ourselves in next to no time, to a back or shoulder massage if you have a willing family member or even a handheld massage machine! A massage no matter how big or small can elevate aches and pains, reduce tension, and evoke relaxation and calm.For an indulgent hand massage which we can easily do ourselves (and lets face it with all the hand sanitizer drying out our skin at the moment, applying hand cream has become a bit of a necessity) my hand cream of choice is Phytomer’s Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream, the name says it all. I love to follow this with a spritz of my Pevonia Dry Oil Body Moisturiser. It’s one of Pevonia’s global best-sellers and for good reason! It literally revitalizes and nourishes every inch of skin with a combination of lavender, chamomile, and squalene.When my feet are feeling fatigued Pevonia’s Tension Relief Gel is my go-to and if my legs are sore and achy massaging Phytomer’s Cryotonic Soothing Leg Gel is a must! So go on, give these a go and reap the rewards.
Australia's leading distributor of professional skincare and makeup.
3/14 Roseberry Street, Balgowlah, NSW 2093 Australia
Phone +61 2 9948 1667
ABN 12 127 758 338