BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
From me…to me. Our five favourite beauty gifts to spoil yourself!
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 11 2019
‘Tis the season of giving and I love nothing more than gifting my loved ones at Christmas (although my bank balance would disagree!) but in the midst of all the silly season’s social events and celebrations, shopping for an army of family and friends can be a tad stressful. This is why it’s important to stop and consider ourselves too! As a busy working mum, I’m guilty of putting everyone’s needs before my own, in fact, I’m almost positive I speak for all the mum’s out there but this shouldn’t mean we can’t treat ourselves when it’s most needed, after all, no one ever said you can’t buy presents for yourself too, right?So in the midst of all the Christmas mayhem, I want to share with you my Beauty Collective festive favourites - exquisite, results-driven gift sets you need to spoil yourself.Pevonia Spa Therapy Gift SetThe name speaks for itself! You can create a truly relaxing at-home spa experience with this trio of therapeutic treatments to relax, de-stress and alleviate tension and pain. Features; Marine Magnesium renowned for its alleviating, remineralizing and wellness induced benefits, Micro Emulsion Massage Oil – Anti-Stress and Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel.Sign me up now I hear you say! Phytomer Jeunesse Age Solution Face & Eyes Gift SetFeaturing 3 best-sellers – Expert Youth Wrinkle Correction Cream, Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream and Expertise Age Contour Intense Youth Eye Cream – this youth-enhancing trio will re-oxygenate cells, boost skin renewal and diminish fine lines revealing a revitalised and youthful new you! Pevonia Skin Radiance Gift SetAll you need to create radiant skin this summer! This multi-tasking trio consisting of Youth Renew Tinted Cream, Eye Renew Conceal & De-Age Treatment and best-selling Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, will refine, hydrate and protect skin promoting a radiant natural glow.Pevonia RS2 Gift SetIf all this running around in this humid, smoky air is causing skin sensitivity we hear you!The RS2 Gift Set is essential for those suffering skin irritation, facial redness, and rosacea. Consisting of the RS2 Cleanser, Lotion, Serum and Cream the products work together to strengthen capillaries, diffuse redness, decongest, cool, soothe and hydrate. Evenly toned and visibly calmed skin, yes please! ELES Nude PaletteAs a busy mum the words ‘versatile 3-in-1 face and eye palette’ is music to my ears! Containing a 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! Plus the product shades have been cleverly selected by the experts at ELES and there is a smoky palette for those sultry summer nights too! Oh, and it comes with two free makeup brushes for precision application.For a little extra indulgence, why not go that extra mile and book yourself in for a treatment. If you have a favourite Beauty Collective brand, head to the ‘Brands’ page on the Beauty Collective homepage and search for your nearest spa…
Face Fixers - Non-invasive Botox and filler alternatives
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 05 2019
We’ve all heard of Botox and dermal fillers, let’s face it (pardon the pun!) with the ever-increasing gen-Z idolisation of the likes of the Jenner-Kardashian clan or the millions of social media ‘influencers’ all with their perfectly plumped lips and ‘smooth as a babies bottom’ skin, these procedures have today become commonplace. But if you’re like me and needles are a formative no-go, or Botox has been a consideration but you’d rather search for topical skincare solutions before taking the plunge, we are here to inform you that there are excellent alternatives, and these days, thanks to the advancement in both technology and skincare ingredients, these said alternatives can seriously achieve similar smoothing and plumping results. You can take our word for it!Okay, so you are unlikely to see life-changing results overnight (even Botox takes a week to have effect don’t you know) but these non-invasive topical alternatives give you more control over the change in your appearance (no poker-face in sight), provide a much more natural look, plus you will achieve outstanding on-going results when used as part of your daily skincare routine.So if you’re looking for a painless, subtle and (relatively) cheaper solution, here are our top 5 topical treatment alternatives;Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamCombining Marine Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane this best-selling rich moisturiser softens fine lines and wrinkles while replenishing vital nutrients.“I love this daily face cream....I use it morning and night! My skin looks and feels amazing. I'm 52 and am told constantly that I look so young....I give Pevonia products the credit!” Linda Vie Collection Concentrate de Vie Youth ElixirFormulated with three advanced ingredients selected for their ability to correct visible signs of ageing, this elixir offers complete and incomparable action to reduce wrinkles, improve firmness and reveal skin's radiance.“I have been using this product for the past two years and have noticed a remarkable difference in my skin. My facial lines are significantly less noticeable!” Sarah P Pevonia MyOxy Caviar Timeless Repair CreamA restorative treatment cream for visibly younger-looking skin, it features an advanced, triple-action formula – caviar, pearl and Escutox – the natural equivalent to Botox – combined with Retinol to correct and prevent signs of premature ageing. Enjoy increased oxygenation, greater cellular activity, improved blood circulation, increased suppleness, improved elasticity, extreme hydration and fewer visible wrinkles!“I love this product, I saw a noticeable difference within 2 weeks, wrinkles less noticeable and my skin seemed to look younger and smoother.” Dianna K Phytomer Pionniere XMF Perfection Youth CreamXMF, a 100% natural advanced ingredient with exceptional youth preserving properties is featured in this luxurious and comfortable “second skin” cream. It instantly smoothes wrinkles and plumps the skin. In just one hour, wrinkles are visibly diminished.“This creams big claim to fame is a purported reduction in wrinkles in just one hour. I'm in my early 30s so I don't have any deep creases, but I do have fine lines and I can tell you for certain this helps to smooth them out. And it feels AMAZING. The texture is pure luxury.” KK Medicalia Retinol & C Care CreamThis creams innovative ‘age-reversing’ Micro-Retinol® technology normalizes mitosis, boosts cellular performance, and restructures skin layers for visible rejuvenation. Skin appears dense and supple with a smoothed surface and diminished wrinkles resulting in brighter, more youthful looking complexion.“This is the best product for aging skin I have found.” Heather
The top 10 products on Beauty Collective – your reviews prove it!
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 20 2019
Have you ever gone in search for something on the internet, only to feel overwhelmed with the options available! Yep, that is me ALL. THE. TIME. Whether it be party ideas for my kids, the perfect gift for a family member or the best beauty products to keep me looking youthful (although I don’t need to worry about that one now that I work at BC!)Let’s be real, it’s great to have options, but sometimes you need a little more help in making a decision before hitting the ‘buy now’ button, especially if you can’t touch or try the item first.Purchasing cosmetics, in particular, can be rather daunting. From face creams to anti-ageing serums, masks to makeup must-haves, it can be tricky to separate clever marketing from real results. But no longer do you have to fly blind, with the help of our Beauty Collective satisfied customers, you can read real, honest and trustworthy reviews with a click of a button!So if you are on the search for that new bestseller or simply want to change up your skincare routine but don’t know where to start, you’ll find our top-rated products here! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation5/5 ★“This is the best foundation I have ever used! Firstly, it's mineral makeup so it doesn't clog your skin. Secondly, the coverage is amazing and it makes your skin look and feel like velvet - honestly the best I have ever used. I have been using this for years and just love it. I get compliments on my makeup all the time.” Sia P (06/07/2019) Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream5/5 ★“I absolutely love this cream. I bought the first pot at the recommendation of my beautician in Europe and I was afraid I may not be able to source it in Australia but I’m glad to say my fears were unfounded :-)It is a day cream and a night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤” Ana Hall (27/09/2019) Pevonia Dry Oil Body Moisturiser5/5 ★“This is amazing, I feel like I have been to a day spa when I put it on, luxury & pampering at home! It smells divine. Feels like silk, not too greasy goes on easy, love this product ;-)” Lisa Chawner (03/02/2019) Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate5/5 ★“This is the best product I've tried so far! I have skin problems on my face area in particular, doctors say its dermatitis, and I've tried many remedies before, but this concentrate is a miracle! It makes my skin look a lot nicer and it actually improved. I only used it for less than two weeks and I already see great results! I'm very glad I discovered this product!” Nina R (04/02/2015) Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion5/5 ★“Holy Grail Toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all-time favourite. There's just something in this toner that truly leaves my skin better for use. Even after it dries off my skin does not feel tight or dry. If you're in the market for a new toner I highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara (10/11/2018) ELES BB Cream5/5 ★“I have used a few BB creams before and this one by ELES is by far the best. A little bit goes a long way and the coverage is great. I wear it as a foundation and it looks really natural. I love it!” Jennifer Arnold (30/05/2019) Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser5/5 ★“I love this cleanser! I have never been able to exfoliate with anything else as it has just been too harsh for my skin. This gentle exfoliating cleansers is exactly that! Leaves my skin feeling beautiful and soft and definitely makes a noticeable difference in my texture. I use once a week and it has been a game changer for my skin.” Stacey Harrison (23/09/2019) Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes5/5 ★“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R (29/11/2018) Phytomer Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum with Oligomer5/5 ★“I am completely obsessed with this product. I have very sensitive skin that breaks out from everything, so keeping it hydrated and clear at the same time has been a real struggle. UNTIL NOW. This serum hydrates my skin, tames the redness and sensitivity and gives me a natural glow. I use it morning and night under my moisturizer.” Sophie R (30/11/2018) Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk 5/5 ★“I have oily/acne prone skin and this cleanser works wonders removing makeup, oil, and impurities. It leaves my skin feeling amazing! Breakouts have subsided and my skin is looking better and better!” Imogen (27/10/2018) SHOP ALL BEAUTY COLLECTIVE PRODUCTS
Can Cleansing Your Face for a Full 60 Seconds Give You Amazing Skin? I Tried It
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 14 2019
It’s called the 60-second rule, and the internet is OBSESSED with it.As someone who is never completely satisfied with my skin’s texture, I live in hopes of one day finding a technique or product that miraculously makes my pores disappear. So when I stumbled on something called the 60-second rule - a simple method of washing your face for a full 60 seconds (instead of your usual, 10-20) to get beautiful skin – I couldn’t wait to get into the bathroom and get started. This could be the answer to my skin prayers!The 60-Second Rule The cleansing method comes from Nayamka Roberts-Smith of LABeautyologist, a beauty therapist who frequently tells her 43,000 Twitter followers to wash their face for 60 seconds straight to let the cleanser ingredients really penetrate the skin.“Cleansing your face for 60 seconds allows the ingredients in the cleanser to actually work. Most ppl wash their face for like 15 seconds max. It softens the skin & dissolves sebum blockages better…Makeup, dirt, and oil are a lot more difficult to remove from the skin most people realize, so not only do you want to give the cleanser a chance to break down and dissolve products and grime, but taking 60 seconds also makes you pay attention to your skin and what you’re doing—like remembering to cleanse around the edges of your nose, under your chin, and around your hairline."Ok, like me you may think this sounds pretty obvious, however, according to those that have tried it, it’s a bit of a game changer. So much so, that it’s earned the hashtag #60secondrule and a huge following of devotees who swear by it....So I Tested the TheoryFirstly I should tell you, I’m a firm believer in double cleansing (i.e. first using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and grime, then using a gentle cleanser to deep cleanse the skin), so I decided to split the difference in timing to 30 seconds each cleanse.I gently massaged my face with a pump of my favourite ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil for 30 seconds, before rinsing and then massaging the Phytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream for an additional 30 seconds and rinsing again. I followed this with my usual skin care routine being careful not to change anything so I’d get a true gauge.The first thing I noticed is that 60 seconds felt like an eternity: obviously I wasn’t spending enough time making sure every part of my face was makeup-free when I did my cleansing thing. The second thing I noticed was my moisturiser seemed to penetrate easier.So for two weeks, I performed the 60-second rule every night.The results?I did see a difference. My pores were much smaller, my skin felt a lot softer and strangely it also felt firmer. It was calmer and brighter and I found I didn’t need to wear foundation during the day, just a little concealer. It cost me nothing except an extra 50 seconds each day so yes, I’ll keep it up.But Will It Work for Everyone?Possibly, and possibly not. It can certainly give you softer skin as long as you use the right cleanser. It can also give you a bit of a glow since it’ll stimulate circulation. But sadly you won’t be able to wash away your hormones, or DNA, or any of your other acne-causing triggers.However, the 60-second rule could actually benefit your skin by making it cleaner. Left-on makeup will disrupt your skin barrier over time and this can lead to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. So taking that extra 50 seconds every day may actually make a huge difference in your skin.Regardless, this is one of those tricks that really can’t hurt to test out, because let’s face it, you have nothing to lose except 60 seconds.Do you have the right cleanser for your skin type? Here are some of our favourites; Medicalia Gentle Cleanser – it’s so gentle and soothing!Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser – loaded with Collagen and ElastinPhytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream – the gentlest wash off cleanser you’ll ever try.ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil – Ideal as a pre-cleanse makeup remover, literally dissolves it!
LIKE & WIN these Beauty Collective favourites. Join our raffle now!
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 01 2019
Beauty Collective is a multi-brand e-commerce and beauty education site - your one-stop professional beauty shop. We are passionate about our products and want our customers to be too. We offer products that provide visible results, from the latest cutting edge discoveries to the best in traditional formulations, NOT tested on animals.Like us on Facebook and Instagram for your chance to win one of Beauty Collective’s highest rated products!a Rafflecopter giveaway3 Prizes will be given away per week for 4 weeks and we will update this blog with the prizes each week. Read on to see what you can win this week:WEEK 1Pevonia Discovery Best Sellers KitELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightVie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin MaskWEEK 2Phytomer Citylife Starter KitELES Cosmetics Luminous Defence Brightening Day ProtectionMedicalia Sunscreen SPF 30WEEK 3Vie Collection Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Acid ConcentrateELES Mineral Powder FoundationPevonia Ageless Skin Collagen Mask WEEK 4Medicalia C Serum with OxyzomesELES Age Defying BB Cream 30Phytomer Age Solution Starter Kit Terms and ConditionsLike & Win BeautyCollectiveNo purchase necessary to enter or win.Acknowledgment1. By participating in the giveaway, entrants acknowledge that they have read and understood these Terms and Conditions; and agree to be bound by them. Entries must be submitted in accordance with these Terms and Conditions to be valid.2. By joining this campaign, entrants agree to be added to Beauty Collective's mailing list.Promotional Period3. The giveaway commences on October 1st 2019 and entries close on October 31st 2019.Eligibility4. This giveaway is only open to Australian residents. Eligible Entrants can only enter the giveaway once each week by filling out the form.5. The promotion is only open to “Eligible Entrants”. Subject to these Terms and Conditions, an Eligible Entrant is a person who is (a) a current Australian resident (b) who is over 18 years or older at the time of entry; (c) has obtained permission to enter this promotion from a parent/legal guardian if under 18 years of age at the time of entry (d) submits their entry into this promotion in accordance with these Terms and Conditions.6. Employees, managers and directors of the Promoter and its related companies and suppliers and agencies involved in this promotion are not Eligible Entrants, nor are their immediate families.Winner Selection and Notification7. The winners of the prize draw will be the entrants who are selected by Beauty Collective Australia every week.8. The winners will be notified by the promoter with their contact email address.Prizes9. The prize is subject to the terms and conditions of “the prize suppliers”. The Promoter is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage suffered by any winner as the result of the conduct of “the prize suppliers”.10. The winner will receive 1 of 12 prizes that will be raffled during the 4 week Like & Win campaign.
RUNWAY TO REALITY: The most sought after spring makeup trends decoded
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 19 2019
Good bye winter, hello spring! And what better way to bring in the new season than with a makeup overhaul! From ‘lit-from-within’ skin to all out bronzed beauty, groomed brows to bright lips, we share our favourite four makeup trends straight off the runway and explain how you too can achieve these sought after looks this spring. “Lit-from-within” Glow If your preference is minimal makeup on the daily then this will be the perfect trend for you to adopt! While luminous glowing skin is always on trend, the ‘lit-from-within’ glow is what’s creating all the hype this season. Simple to achieve, this look is all about skin first, makeup second - from skincare that’ll make up your complexion gleam, to makeup that’ll let your natural self shine through (we are talking freckles, beauty marks, the lot!)Boost skin with Vitamin C and Hyaluronic to oxygenate and deeply nourish the skin from inside out. We recommend both the Vie Collection - Mesoforce Hydra Revitalizing Cream and Medicalia - "C" Serum with Oxyzomes. Add a drop of face oil to your foundation to amp up your skin's natural glow. We are in love with the Phytomer - Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil. And softly highlight your forehead and cheekbones with a touch of liquid cream illuminator favoured by makeup artists over the classic powder highlighters. Try ELES Stick Illuminator for the perfect natural sheen. Brushed Brows From the overdone insta-brow to the unkempt bushy brow, this season takes us on a different path – softly perfected brows. A fluffier, feathered texture achieved by brushing the hairs upward. We recommend using the ELES Precision Brow Pencil. Use the bush end to brush up your brows, then the pencil end to create hair light strokes to subtly fill in any sparse areas. Keep the rest of your makeup pretty low key so that your brows are the star! Bronzed Beauty This season bronzer is back baby! After putting in on the back burner it returns with conviction! We are talking all out bronzed goddess. Reach for champagne gold and metallic hues and couple with bronzed illuminator and peachy eyes synonymous with tropical summer evenings. To achieve this look try the ELES Baked Bronzer in Sunbeam, the ELES Liquid Illuminator in Bronze and the ELES Mineral Matte Eyeshadow in Terra Peach. Loud Lips We are talking bright highly pigmented lips. From corals to neon pinks to fiery reds, the bolder the better. Whatever ‘bright’ tickles your fancy it’ll be on trend so go on give it a go and breathe some life into your makeup bag and look! This season we are lusting after the new ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in Sorbet.
7 reasons your skin is dehydrated and how to fix it
by Jo Boyden
on Aug 22 2019
Winter, darn winter! Yes it’s the time of year that your skin can look and feel seriously parched, think lack-lustre, inflamed, or just plain devitalized. Chances are your skin is simply dehydrated and in need of some serious moisture boosting love! And let’s not forget, even those with oily skin can be suffering from dehydration too! After all just because your skin is oily doesn’t mean you are immune to external factors and lifestyle choices that deplete your skin’s water content. Dehydration is in fact characterised by a lack of water not oil.Luckily dehydrated skin can be relieved with a combination of lifestyle changes and topical treatments. Below are 7 reasons you could be battling dehydrated skin and our recommendations for how to fix it. Water intake Yes we all know that the number one way to counteract dehydration is to drink plenty of water! But there is the when and the how! This water intake actually needs to commence as soon as you awaken from blissful slumber! It is suggested that drinking approximately 2 glasses of water first thing is hands down the most ideal way to bring back your hydration levels, after all you’ve not replenished fluid levels for a number of hours over night. Not enough ‘quality’ sleep Remember this as you will! Poor sleep leads to dehydration, dehydration causes poor sleep. Eek we have ourselves a vicious cycle here. Firstly before bed, prise that mobile phone out of your fingers (sooo guilty here!) and put it down! I don’t need to tell you the impact screen time has on you, secondly drink a glass of water prior to sleep, yes you may think bad idea as surely you’ll be up in the night stumbling to the bathroom but believe me your skin (and all other vital organs) will lap up that glass of water and you’ll be able to notice the difference in the morning! Finally turn off the light and get that precious shut eye as apparently those that sleep for an average of six hours a night are up to 59% more likely to be dehydrated that someone who sleeps for say 8 hours. That’ll be me then. Pass me a glass of water someone! Too much caffeine & alcohol I’m not saying go cold turkey or anything as like me I love a good cuppa and won’t say no to a glass of vino in an evening, but if dehydration could be something you are suffering from, significantly reducing your intake of both caffeine and alcohol will dramatically benefit your skin. And for every coffee or alcoholic beverage to do indulge in, drink a glass of water! Your skincare regime or lack of While it is necessary to hydrate your skin from the inside out it’s also very important to hydrate your skin at the surface level too. One of the best ways to achieve this is with a topical treatment to lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss.a) Use A Hyaluronic Acid SerumHyaluronic acid is the number one go to ingredient for effectively replenishing dehydrated skin, it helps bind and retain moisture, keeping skin soft and subtle and plump! We are in love with the Vie Collection Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Acid Concentrateb) Apply a rich moisturiser at nightWe all naturally lose moisture while we sleep so using a rich nourishing moisturiser prior to bed will stand your skin in good stead. We highly recommend both the Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream which is rich in both Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen the perfect combination to replenish devitalised skin. As well as the Phytomer Hydrasea Night Plumping Rich Cream, which provides optimum skin hydration during the night. From the very first use, the skin appears drenched in moisture!c) Don’t use harsh face Scrub but do exfoliate!As dead skin builds up, it can diminish the absorption of important skincare essentials like your serum and moisturiser, exfoliation is therefore an important skincare step in aiding the recovery of dehydrated skin, however be sure to use a gentle exfoliating cleanser and once or twice a week only. Hot water Hot water will strip your skin of its natural oils and those natural oils are what protect your skin against water loss by forming a barrier.Believe me I know how indulgent a simple hot bath or shower feels especially on a cold morning or evening but you will thank me by telling you to turn down that heat and opt for a more lukewarm temp. Your daily diet We already know that what you eat can impact your skin but did you know that our skin is reliant on essential fatty acids, think oily fish, nuts, and fresh green veggies to battle dehydration? So next time you decide to ‘diet’ consider how it might affect your complexion especially if you are depriving yourself of good fats. Heating/Air conditioning As much as many of us have become reliant on heating or revised cycle air con in the cold months, both can dramatically disrupt the natural moisture balance in your skin. Now while it’s highly unlikely we’d be prepared to suffer the consequence of not turning the heating on, brrrrr, just make sure you balance your day with fresh air and if your skin is feeling particularly dry, keep on hand a spritz to add a burst of rehydration when needed.Most of us understand the negative impact of dehydration on our overall health but who knew it could wreak havoc with our skin!
The dos and don’ts of cleansing your skin: 10 things you need to know now
by Jo Boyden
on Jul 15 2019
It’s the first step to your skincare routine and the step which creates the foundation for all other skincare products that follow so nailing it is imperative! But many are under the false impression that cleansing involves a little soap, water, a 10-second lather and voila, all the days’ makeup and remnants are removed and your face is thoroughly cleansed and good to go. Oh, how wrong they are! Below we have outlined ten things you need to know about cleansing, follow these and you’re on the path to healthy, clear and radiant skin in next to no time!DO work out what the right cleanser is for your skin type and stick to itFinding a cleanser to target your particular skin concern is a game-changer, whether you have sensitive skin, dry skin, aging skin or something in between there is a cleanser out there for everyone. But understanding the difference between cream and foaming gel cleansers will also stand you in good stead. Cream cleansers are typically gentle on the skin and more moisturising. Gel cleansers tend to provide a much deeper cleanse however as they foam they draw out oil, reduce excess oil production and as a result can be a little on the drying side so tend to work better for those with oily or combination skin types.DON’T wash your face with hot waterNo sireee, hot water can cause skin inflammation and irritation by upsetting the skin barrier function, stick to lukewarm water for best results.DO cleanse your face both morning and nightA lot of us tend to skimp on the morning cleanse, after all, we removed the previous day's makeup and grime the night before and all we’ve done is sleep, right? Correct! Alas what many don’t know is that while we sleep we still release impurities which wind up sitting on the surface of our skin, plus if you’re like me you would have layered your skin with goodies the night before so it’s important that any remnants are removed in the morning especially is you’ve applied potent ingredients like retinol or glycolic acid which can cause sun sensitivity.DON’T forget to cleanse your chin and neck too!Often forgotten (guilty as charged!) our jawline and neck are just as prone to dirt and grime as your face so make sure you pay them some cleansing attention too!DO double cleanseWe’ve all heard of the saying “double cleanse” but is it really necessary? The simple answer is yes! But only in the evening as over-cleansing in the morning can result in the destruction of the skin’s barrier function. One cleanse at night will indeed remove the day's makeup and grime but adding a second cleanse into your routine will work deeper, thoroughly cleansing pore and removing dead skin cells.DON’T use a generic bar soapThese soaps can dramatically alter the natural pH balance of your skin which can send your skin into overdrive – think blemish breakout!DO deep cleanse weeklyIntroducing a deep exfoliating cleanse once a week can work wonders for your skin as it encourages cell turnover, ultimately resulting in brighter, more radiant skin.DON’T use a flannelDaily use of flannels or face cloths as many might call them, although popular can actually irritate the skin if they are too harsh (scrubbing can strip the skin of its natural protective barrier) plus they can foster bacteria if not washed meticulously every day which can lead to pesky pimples! Best to stick to your loyal fingertips to cleanse effectively with no erm side effects!DO pat dry with a soft towelDrying your face correctly after cleansing is important! Be sure not to rub your face with a “crispy” towel (yup we’ve all had those from time to time!) rubbing can actually age skin, be sure you just gently pat dry, pay particular attention to the delicate eye area.DON’T be lazy and use just face wipesYes they are quick, easy and can be effective for some plus let’s face (pardon the pun!) it after a big night out quick and easy is what we want and hey at least you aren’t going to bed with your makeup on right? But it’s important to know that many face wipes contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that will strip your skin.The current 5 best-selling cleansers on Beauty Collective;Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing MilkPhytomer Accept Neutralizing CleanserELES Transformation Cleansing OilMedicalia Gentle CleanserPhytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream
Dermatologists Share Their Advice for Great Skin
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 26 2019
Here at Beauty Collective HQ, we constantly receive a smorgasbord of questions from our customers, and while we are brimming with great tips, rituals and product recommendations, we too often seek advice from our esteemed suppliers and dermatologists alike. To learn about the skin-care tips these pros live by, read on…Use any downtime to do a skin treatment“I keep extra beauty treatments in my car in a little bag. When I'm in bad traffic (at a red light of course), I apply serum, an eye mask, teeth whitening strips, eyebrow gel, and more!" -Francesca Fusco, dermatologist.Ok, while we don’t recommend performing facials when in the car! We do agree that having the right products in the right places (think by the bed or by the hand basin) may encourage you to apply some of those products we often forget such as a good anti-ageing hand cream and a gorgeous eye and lip balm. We love Phytomer - Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream for a daily dose of hydrating marine oils.Practice a facial massage to fight wrinkles"Many people (myself included) frown and scrunch their faces at night, leading to frown lines and crow’s feet. To relax my face, I do facial acupressure for a few minutes at bedtime. Press above your inner eyebrows, temples, and next to your nostrils, holding for 10 seconds each." –Jessica Wu, dermatologist.We agree there is nothing better for smoothing tension wrinkles than a soothing massage and we are all addicted to the Rosee Soin from Phytomer. It’s a heavenly dry oil that rejuvenates your skin, calms your senses and leaves skin super soft and hydrated. A few drops massaged onto a cleansed skin at night (you can do this while watching your favourite TV series) will smooth out any stress lines you’ve earned that day.Hydrate your skin from the inside out—and outside in"Despite what you hear all the time, the amount of water you drink daily doesn't translate into proper skin hydration. It's vital to hydrate your skin from the outside in with serums, creams, and hydrating mists." –Dendy Engelman, dermatologist.It’s very true and never so true as in Winter when artificial heating and a more sedentary lifestyle can leave our skin parched and thirsty. Our go-to for deep hydration is the Vie Collection - Wrinkle Dimension Hyaluronic Acid Concentrate. It attracts and binds water to the skin keeping it super soft and super supple. The perfect skin drink.Avoid hot showers that can be drying"I never wash my face with hot water–it is too harsh. Only tepid water at the sink." -Elizabeth Tanzi, clinical professor of dermatology.Gentle cleansing of the skin with warm (not hot) water is not only better for managing your skin’s natural pH but will also prevent moisture loss on a grand scale. To remove makeup and the days grime at night we all reach for the ELES - Transformation Cleansing Oil. It emulsifies foundation and binds impurities that can be washed away in water and leaves the skin balanced and soft and ready for your serums and creams.Apply sunscreen to your neck, chest, and hands first"Apply sunscreen to the neck, chest, and hands before the face–these areas age faster and are harder to improve than the face. We often forget to apply sunscreen there even though they're exposed as much as the face." –Doris Day, dermatologist.We absolutely agree with this one! Sunscreen is your bestie when it comes to anti-ageing skin care. Our favourite is the Medicalia - Sunscreen SPF 30. It’s lightweight and totally reliable and comes in a generous 150ml tube so there’s no excuse for leaving out your neck, chest and hands!Don't ever rub your eyes"If you rub your eyes like you are scrubbing a pot, your eyes will look black like a pot! When you're taking off eye makeup, gently wipe off mascara as if you're touching an egg." –Jeanine Downie, dermatologist.Very true and we agree that a good product to remove your eye makeup will mean you don’t have to rub, it will do all the work for you! Our go-to is Phytomer - Micellar Water Eye Makeup Removal Solution. It’s strong enough to remove waterproof makeup but gentle enough for even the most sensitive eyes.Let your lips guide your skin care routine."One tip to know when your skin is ready for seriously creamy moisturizers: Your lips feel dry first, so you know the humidity has dropped, and it's time for more moisture." –Ellen Marmur, dermatologist.Lips are a great indicator for hydration levels and we look after ours with Phytomer - Youth Contour Reviving Wrinkle Correction Cream –Eye and Lip. Not only does this wonderful multi-tasker protect our precious lips but also our delicate eye contours.Check the menu for skin-saving fatty acids"Your diet has a huge impact on your skin. Avoid starchy vegetables and refined carbohydrates like white bread and rice and instead opt for foods high in omega 3's and fatty acids like avocados and salmon to help give you that youthful glow." –Whitney Bowe, dermatologist.Fatty Acids are also a great addition to topical skin care and Phytomer - Hydracontinue Radiance Energizing Cream contains Buckthorn Pulp extract which is super-rich in Omega-7, a very rare essential fatty acid that stimulates cell metabolism and increases cell vitality.
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 03 2019
Just a few miles from the gorgeous Manly Beach in Sydney, our Beauty Collective Head Office is full of high-tech dermaceutical solutions, from powerful medical-based skin care to advanced cellulite products. And something you may not realise is that we are not just a retail supplier, we are one of Australia’s leading salon and spa suppliers and educators in the beauty industry. So what do our team use on their skin and why are some products the universal favourites with us and our clients? We share our “big guns” in the battle against skin ageing…Medicalia L-Retinol Smoothing CreamFormulated with Micro-Retinol® which works so much better than regular retinol, this fast-acting cream gives you astonishing visible results. It makes pores almost invisible, softens lines and wrinkles and fades hyperpigmentation. It uses Biomimetic technology, which is a fancy way of saying that it goes through a process that makes the formula almost identical to the oils and moisture produced by your skin, so it literally melts into the skin. Not a product to use year round as it has an exfoliating action and over-use can cause irritation, but perfect as a Winter treatment. Just use a small quantity each night (or alternate nights if you find it too stimulating) and enjoy smoother skin for months after.Phytomer Pioneer XMF CreamThere truly is no other cream on the market like this! It has won numerous International awards and is Phytomer’s No 1 seller. Often hailed as the professional version of Crème De La Mer. On the surface of the skin, it creates a biofilm for an instant smoothing effect and within the skin, it binds to the fibres in the dermis to densify them. Imagine your face is a cushion and this cream is the extra stuffing! We also are in love with the light silky texture of the cream, neither too rich or too light and the heavenly, soft aroma.Phytomer Celluli AttackHead and shoulders above the rest, this IS the best cellulite product on the market today. Most cellulite products use Green Coffee Extract to stimulate lipolysis (breakdown of fats), this formula uses Pepper Slimactiv which is 8 times stronger. And how is this for technology? Pepper Slimactiv is incorporated in a vectorized capsule that propels at high speed to the fat cells, avoiding any loss of ingredient on the way and is also combined with a signal peptide that enables it to exclusively target adipocytes and attack them with more power. Take that Cellulite! All you need to do is smooth it over cellulite areas, no need for massaging and within a month you begin to see results. We should probably point out that Phytomer has been the undisputable leader of cellulite treatment products in Europe since 1994!Vie Collection Chrono EyesNot sure about you but at Beauty Collective, we believe products should be multi-functional. So when we use an eye cream not only should it help prevent skin ageing it should also smooth fine lines, reduce dark circles and deal with unwanted eye puffiness. When this product came onto the market we switched over to it with no loyalty at all to our previously adored eye products. With a botox-like peptide to inhibit muscle action, low and high molecule hyaluronic which acts like a filler and vitamin C, B3 and Phytosterols to stimulate the circulation to deal with puffiness and dark circles can you really blame us? Now the top seller in the Vie Collection line here in Oz we feel sure we are not biased.Medicalia - Sunscreen SPF 30Last but certainly not least the biggest seller in our skin care arsenal is the Medicala Sunscreen. The MOST important anti-ageing product we should all be using is a broad spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) sunblock. We have discovered the only reason some don’t use sunblock despite knowing how important it is, is because they can’t stand the texture or smell. No more excuses, this feels like a lightweight moisturiser and smells divine. It won’t make your eyes water or cause itchiness and it’s loaded with anti-ageing goodies. Finally, it comes in a generous 150ml bottle! Very slightly tinted (though most of the tint disappears once it’s absorbed) it leaves your skin looking smoother and calmer. What’s not to love?
The one product that’ll give you compliment-worthy skin
by Jo Boyden
on May 27 2019
A really, really good face serum (or concentrate, solution or fluid as you may know it) is, hands down, the most important step in your skincare routine (after SPF, of course!). However many of us have no idea what a serum does and why we should shell out the extra dollars to get one!The thing is serums often contain a high percentage of active ingredients that are designed to address specific skin issues or concerns. They are potent, effective, and fast acting! And because they have a thin consistency, they’re able to easily penetrate the skin, giving you noticeable results pretty quickly. There is also a serum literally for every single skin type or skin concern which means you can get one for your individual needs and reap in the benefits.Convinced yet? Below I’ve outlined our favourite six serums for six different concerns. Now go and get layering!ANTI-ACNEVie Collection Acnipur Blemish Solution FluidThis is the best if you are suffering from a blemish breakout! It literally flights acne without clogging pores or irritating skin. With regular use not only does it miraculously improve unwanted blemishes, it will actually prevent future breakouts! ANTI-AGEINGMedicalia Retinol ConcentrateHailed the anti-ageing wonder serum, this retinol concentrate is designed to normalize and boost cellular performance with Micro-Retinol technology. Ideal for all mature skin types or as preventative care, the serum helps improve elasticity, plump the skin and diminish the look of wrinkles, resulting in a brighter, more evenly toned complexion. PIGMENTATION & DARK SPOTSPhytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumThis serum does it all! It actually diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots with a formulation infused with alpha hydroxyl acids and glycolic acid. Skin really does immerge younger and healthier.DEHYDRATIONPhytomer Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturising Polarized Water SerumThe ultimate serum to combat dehydration! It has an ultra-moisturising (although lightweight) texture which immediately melts into the skin to quench its thirst! Softer and suppler, the skin reveals a radiant complexion and looks visibly more beautiful. DULLNESSPhytomer Souffle Marin Energising Oxygenising SerumIf your skin is looking a little dull and lifeless this should be your go-to! It literally coats the skin in pure oxygen, providing the cells with vivid rejuvenation. Formulated with marine extracts, this serum also protects against environmental pollution and free radical damage. An invigorating, moisturizing blend, it leads to fresher, more youthful skin and an overall increase in radiance. SENSITIVITY Phytomer Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum with OligomerSensitive skin? Suffering from facial redness? We swear by this product! It helps calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin instantly. It contains anti-inflammatory Phycosaccharide to reduce stinging sensations Infused with OLIGOMER® to deliver an optimum dose of trace elements & minerals fortifies the epidermis & prevents cellular fatigue Restores calm & soft skin.
The best way to deal with blemished skin
by Jo Boyden
on May 22 2019
Still suffering from blemish-prone skin but feel you’re too old to be getting spots? Unsure how you should best deal with it? We hear you and are here to help!Adult spots (or acne as it’s referred to) can actually affect up to 50% of us, but before tackling your issue, it’s important firstly to understand why and how they are formed.What causes blemishes?Blemished prone skin can be triggered by a number of factors from diet to stress, genetics to hormones, a reaction to topical products or environmental factors, however the spots themselves are the result of an over production of sebum (oil) which can mix with dead skin cells and other grime on the surface of your skin leading to blocked pores.How to best prevent themWhile the dreaded blemishes are unpredictable and sadly part and parcel of everyday life for many, there are a few methods you can adopt to try and prevent them; Stop pores getting clogged by deep cleansing twice daily and using gentle exfoliation. N.B We are talking gentle exfoliation! People often think daily “scrubbing” will prevent blackheads but it can actually increase the shedding of skin cells therefore causing further clogging on the pores! Make sure you use exfoliators that don’t require physical scrubbing. We highly recommend Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. Use non-greasy, non-comedogenic (pore clogging) products or products that do not contain additional ingredients like artificial fragrances and preservatives as these commonly cause skin reactions. Always wash your hands before touching your face, in fact, keep your mitts off your face altogether! Clean your makeup brushes often (we are talking once a week) – makeup brushes naturally accumulate and harbour bacteria and an overload of bacteria can trigger breakouts! Adjust your diet. You want to ensure you include lots of fresh, green leafy vegetables and dramatically reduce the amount of sugar and dairy you may be consuming. Some experts agree in particular that milk may stimulate oil glands thanks to the hormones, creating a breeding ground for blemishes! Eek. Flush toxins by drinking plenty of water Remove makeup before any exercise. We are talking energetic exercise though when you may sweat a little, not walking from your house to the car. How to best treat themWe have all been guilty of over-treating our blemishes! Topical ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide if overused can really dry out your skin (yes, we understand you want to dry out the skin and reduce the oil flow) but beware over-dry skin care can actually cause oil production to go into overdrive and in turn produce more clogged pores which equates to more spots! Vicious cycle. Also when used in unison these ingredients can slightly inflame the top layer of skin making it look red and raw! Just what you want, to replace a spot with red, raw skin! No thank you. Instead, opt for professional skincare created specifically to treat blemish prone skin with pure ingredients.A tried and trusted skincare routine will really help with symptoms and keep those pesky pimples under control just be sure to include a face mask into the mix as we promise a good face mask can be a game changer for those with blemish prone skin. We are currently in LOVE with Phytomer’s Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask.Just remember to keep pimples at bay, you only need to apply a face mask once or twice a week for a minimum of 10 minutes. Easy.When your skin is acting up, reaching for your concealer and foundation seems like the only answer as there is no way you’re ready to face the world with the Taj Mahal on your chin in all its glory. But choose wisely, as the wrong foundation can exacerbate blemishes! Consider switching to mineral-based cosmetics. They contain ingredients such as silica, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide that soak up excess oil without clogging pores, allowing skin to actually breathe freely! Make sure you get your hands on the ELES bestselling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation, it will calm skin with anti-inflammatories, provide natural-looking coverage, and won’t clog pores.You can win the war against pimples, just be sure to follow these simple steps.
The French beauty rules worth following
by Jo Boyden
on May 07 2019
What is it about French women? And why do so many of us covet that “casual cool” look that seems to be all about mussed-up hair and very little makeup?When well known Paris-based editorial makeup artist Violette was asked this she summed it up beautifully “In each country, I think there is an idea of what beauty is, but for the French, it’s very particular: What we want is to be ourselves - not a better version of ourselves. We feel like it’s better to get used to something than to try to change it. So we think: What style can I have with this face, and with this hair? That mentality is 100 percent French.” Still, she admits, there are a few local secrets for how to look perfectly imperfect, without ever trying too hard.A HEALTHY ADVANTAGEFrench women do all they can to have amazing skin, and an amazing body, and amazing hair, so they don't have to do too much else! Their skin care routines are long and involved, a double cleanse followed by a toning lotion, serums, masks, and nourishing creams are just the beginning, they also massage their skin regularly to stimulate the cell rejuvenation and give it a natural glow. We love the Phytomer Rosee Soin for this, it’s a delicate rose extract oil that leaves the skin luminous and soft.KEEP THE BASE LIGHTWith beautiful skin, this is of course much easier to do! Rarely will you see a French woman wearing a foundation all over her face, and powder is used so sparingly or not at all! To even out the skin she will pinpoint conceal (using a very small brush) any imperfections and only apply foundation to areas that need balancing such as a red chin. She will use concealer beneath the eyes and then blend all of this carefully with a sponge to ensure a “second skin” result. A great tip from French Makeup Artist Violetta, “do not apply foundation on the nose, it creates an optical illusion that you are wearing no foundation at all”. So if you suffer redness in the nostril creases, apply a long-wear concealer there and not on the bridge of the nose. See our foundations to find your best choice.IT'S ALL ABOUT MODERATIONFrench women understand the adage “you are what you eat” and in spite of their multi-step facial routines they know that if they eat organic as much as possible, and avoid sugar their skin will benefit. They are far less concerned about fat and generally prefer to eat smaller portions of delicious food rather than huge portions of low-fat alternatives.EXERCISE SHOULD BE FUNA decade ago French women turned their pert noses up at any regimented exercise, now the workout trend is picking up a little, however, you’ll never see them get caught up in a hard-core programme. The general consensus is, if it’s not fun we’d rather stick pins up our nails than put our body through torture.NO MORE HAIR DRYERSFrench women are all about amazing texture in their hair and more often than not go for a kind of “lived-in” look. They like to shampoo, condition and finger dry their locks with the certain knowledge that tomorrow, after a night on the pillow, it will look even better.GET A GREAT CUTThey do like hair to be very healthy and shiny, so when they wear it messy, it doesn’t look dry and damaged and resemble fairy floss. They are much more about getting a great (often expensive) haircut and treating the hair at night with oils, serums, and masks than spending a fortune on styling products!A CLASSIC RED LIPIt’s almost as cliché as the beret but French women are all about red lips and they know how to wear it. From true reds to crimsons to scarlets, the red lip is totally French. Red lipstick is a fashion accessory so very little other makeup is worn with it. Hair should be messy, skin perfect, throw on a pair of jeans and heels then all you’ll need is red lippie, because the lipstick makes the statement! Our favourite is ELES Moisture Crème Lipstick in True Red, it seems to suit everyone!HIGHLIGHT, DON'T CONTOUR!Most French women have an inherent dislike of brownish shading powders or creams. For French women, contouring is too bold and it changes the shape of the face. Instead, they prefer highlighter to catch the light on the cheeks, the tip of the nose and the cupids bow to make the skin look fresh and dewy.MAKE YOUR SMOKEY EYE A BIT MESSY!The other makeup that is really French is the smoky eye. But unlike the American version which is an artful gradiation of dark to light, the French version is a messy smoky eye that looks a bit “grungy”. Too perfect and too sparkly is the opposite of chic, as far as French women are concerned. They often use just one product, put it all over, and blend it with the finger. Then groom the brows, put on a bit of blush and concealer, and go. Our favourite “French girl” eye product is the ELES Superwear Gel Liner, it stays soft enough to blend out and then sets and stays all day. Just scribble it across the entire lid, “like a kid would,” and smear with an eyeshadow brush.So despite a religious approach to beauty through health and all the effort it takes to look effortless, the French woman doesn’t seem as hard on herself as some of us can be. In France, they call it Je Ne Sais Quoi (which literally translates as ‘whatever!’) – The effortless chic, confidence and assurance allows them to be their best self.Oh and…less is definitely so much more, et voilà!
Cloudless skin: Why you want it and how to achieve it
by Jo Boyden
on May 01 2019
By now we’ve all heard of the k-beauty craze ‘glass skin’ but there is a new kid on the block, the latest k-beauty trend you have to try and it’s known as ‘Cloudless skin’.What is cloudless skin?The name speaks for itself – think of the purity and flawlessness of a bright blue cloudless sky and that is what this trend aims to achieve! To emulate the skin of a young child, you know the nearly transparent, radiant, blemish and pore-free skin, free of environmental damage. Yes please!But while creating the appearance of truly perfect, pore-free skin may seem next to impossible, there are steps you can take to give you the best possible chance.How do you achieve it?So now you know what it is, how exactly do you achieve cloudless skin I hear you say! Well sadly it won’t happen overnight, in short it’s all down to a strict diet and skincare routine to which you are devout – no faltering. A healthy, nutritious diet and skincare routine which will protect against four major skin concerns - dullness, clogged pores, irritation and environmental damage. Diet Gorge (literally) on dark, leafy greens, consume plenty of whole grains daily (I am personally loving whole oats rich in antioxidants, buckwheat which is packed with magnesium, iron, B vitamins and fibre! And quinoa which has more vitamins, minerals, protein, healthy fats and fibre than more other whole grains!) And try to avoid sugar where possible (so definitely no more muffins, cakes, bread, chai lattes etc…) Dullness Opt for gentle exfoliation 2-3 times a week instead of using harsher, gritty scrubs once a week. Choose exfoliators which will provide the skin with a dose of hydration as well as sloughing away those unwanted dead skin cells. Do be sure not to overdo it though as exfoliation can cause irritation and dryness which will not aid in achieving the cloudless skin trend! We highly recommend Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes, it’s a soft gentle exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin, which uses enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing the skin. It truly does erase the dullness that may hamper your glow, revealing a luminous, smooth complexion. Clogged pores It’s all about double cleansing baby! This will ensure that all those pore-clogging impurities, as well as excess oil and dirt, are fully removed from your skin. The technique is exactly how it sounds – start by using an oil-based cleanser - we LOVE the ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil - then follow with a water-based cleanser – we highly recommend Phytomer’s Doux Visage Velvet Cleansing Cream and Micellar Water from Vie Collection.Also applying a mask once a week will really help to de-clog skin and benefit the overall health of your skin. Our favourite is Phytomer’s Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask it’s totally no drying, has a cream-foam texture and after only a few weeks of use, pores will be visibly tightened. Irritation Keep inflammation to a minimum by using deeply nourishing, soothing products. We are loving Phytomer’s Douceur Intemporelle Restorative Shield Cream. It’s essential to maintain a healthy pH balance so be sure to use non-stripping toners too! Environmental damage Use skin specific products rich in anti-oxidants. These fight free radical damage. We are obsessed with Phytomer’s Citadine Citylife Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. It not only sweeps away toxic microparticles and repairs damage caused by pollution, but it also provides an ultra-moisturising facial experience!Finally, religiously wear high factor SPF – not just when you’re heading to the beach but daily! Give ELES’s Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50 a try, you won’t regret it!
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 16 2019
With the addition of two new brands of skin care to the Beauty Collective site; Phytomer and Vie Collection, we wanted to share with you why WE chose marine skin care and why you should too!
A mind-blowing fact is that seawater and blood have a nearly identical chemical makeup including mineral and trace element levels. And the concentration of each mineral present is very similar. Seawater is so close to the body’s internal environment that if white blood cells were removed from the body and placed in a sterile diluted seawater solution, they could maintain normal cell function.
We all know the human body needs replenishment of minerals, such as zinc, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium on a daily basis and because seawater contains the body’s ideal balance of minerals, it is the perfect medium to restore these levels. So we, humans have an incredible affinity with the ocean.
Not only can seawater provide a great way to supplement minerals in human cells, it also provides the perfect growing environment for algae. As marine plants grow in the sea, they absorb the very same nutrients that are needed by the human body. So it’s no wonder researchers have studied the relationship between human skin and various seaweed species, and have found ways to use marine extracts to improve multiple skin conditions.
This is especially true for seaweed that grows in areas with large tide changes, such as the Brittany region of France where Phytomer and Vie Collection are created. At different times of the day, these seaweeds are protected by seawater, but during low tide, they are exposed to UV rays, pollution, wind and bacteria—the same aggressors our skin is exposed to! In order to defend themselves against these aggressors, the seaweed develops “skin like” qualities to maintain hydration levels, protecting itself from UV-induced free radicals and withstanding cold temperatures, to name just a few.
Perfectly preserved algae or seaweed can be used to create high-quality, potent ingredients. State-of-the-art manufacturing methods can isolate and extract specific molecules from seaweed. These molecules can then be concentrated into an ideal potency to help balance various skin conditions. For instance, a peptide extracted from Chlorella vulgaris, a single-cell green algae, stimulates the product of four types of dermal collagen and elastin. Another seaweed, Laminaria digitata, retains water in its plant tissue—much like your skin holds water—and even during low tide, it stays plump and moisturized.
The future of marine ingredients
Now there is a new buzzword in the skin care industry: biotechnology. Marine biotechnology uses micro-algae as “factories” to produce cosmetic ingredients that provide powerful results. For example, one of the latest discoveries is a special type of sugar that is produced for skin care using this science. Fifteen minutes after applying a product containing this sugar, wrinkles are visibly smoother and skin is lifted. After one month of daily use, the sugar improves the production of collagen and elastin in the skin to help restore a youthful appearance.
Because of all these incredible factors and the fact we can now create ingredients so sustainably, marine skin care is truly the future of the professional skin care industry, and what’s more, is it is totally organic!
INFLAMM-AGEING: the new buzz word in skin health and ageing
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 16 2019
Have you heard of the term before? It’s as scary as it sounds! It relates to chronic, long-term, inflammation that negatively affects our body and has been linked to numerous diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, macular (vision) degeneration and now, skin ageing! As if we don’t have enough to worry about!How does it affect the skin?There are two types of skin ageing, internal and external. Internal ageing affects the density of the skin, thinning it as we age and results in lines and wrinkles.External factors such as UV exposure, poor lifestyle, or injury, cause inflammatory reactions in the skin, as well as oxidative damage. This oxidative stress injures cell membrane proteins and fats, and the genetic blueprint of the cell (DNA), which cause premature ageing and can even increase skin cancer risk.And what about age spots? These result from oxidative stress (free radicals) on the pigment-forming cells within the skin, leading to many inflammatory and immune reactions in the cell, which eventually causes tissue damage. A solution: ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS (EFAs)These are fats that our bodies can’t create for themselves so we need to acquire them through diet. They include omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. EFAs are important for the cell membrane’s structure and function and can cause positive changes both outside and inside the cell. They also play a very important role in your body’s natural inflammatory response.However, not all omegas are equal! For example, too much of the omega-6 called arachidonic acid that you’d find in grain-fed beef, chicken, eggs, and pork, can lead to a higher chance of developing inflammation than a diet that contains equal amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. When we achieve this ratio, our bodies are better able to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.EFAs also very important when it comes to how our bodies control inflammation. So when you have an adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, it can help to reduce the production of substances that are known to promote inflammation.From a skincare perspective, when our skin becomes irritated, this triggers the release of chemicals that can cause inflammatory damage and destruction of the skin’s support proteins including collagen and elastin, which leads to wrinkles. EFAs reduce this inflammation. They also help maintain your skin’s barrier function to prevent water loss and protect your body from microorganisms that can cause infection and disease, control the growth of collagen and elastin, increase the skin’s resistance to sunburn, and promote tissue repair. All this leads not only to enhanced skin function but also to healthier appearance!Unfortunately, a typical western diet is lower in fish and other foods rich in omega-3’s, so it increases the risk of various inflamm-ageing related conditions. While making the proper dietary changes can be helpful in reducing inflamm-ageing, supplementing with a fish oil containing 1000-2000mg of combined EPA and DHA can really help.So eating a healthy diet and supplementing with a fish oil supplement can definitely reduce the risk of inflamm-ageing, and add to this few simple preventative skin care ingredients such as anti-oxidants and sun protection and it can go a long way for the health of your skin!To help prevent inflamm-ageing we recommend incorporating Vitamin C into your skin regimen and using the best possible sun protection you can find.Our favourites; Vie Collection - Vita C Concentrated Solution and Phytomer - Sun Solution Sunscreen SPF 30 Face & Sensitive Areas.
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 16 2019
It’s a reality. And if you thought that hormones were a nightmare to contend with now the air we breathe every day is causing our skin to prematurely age, erupt in breakouts and might even be the cause of annoying skin conditions such as eczema. Pollution is a real problem, so real that the World Health Organisation now considers it a major skin health issue.Sadly, even if you are a beacon of good living: eat a healthy diet, drink your bucket of water each day and exercise like a boss, yet your skin isn’t glowing like an Instagram selfie, you are most likely suffering the effects of toxicity from urban living.Know your enemyOur skin is our largest and most exposed organ and it struggles to cope with the constant onslaught of chemicals in the atmosphere. The end result is skin that becomes sensitive, hyper-pigmented, acne-prone and unbalanced and of course, prematurely aged.So why is pollution your enemy? You’ve no doubt heard of free radicals, these are atoms or molecules that contain unpaired electrons making them unstable and are considered to be associated with a wide range of illness and disease. They can evolve from natural reactions in the body (in food and drink). You can also find them in the air we breathe, the exhaust we inhale, in smoke, industrial waste, pesticides and many other processes in every day life.And sadly free radicals don’t like to be alone, these “Billy no mates” are always on the lookout for friends, they break through cell barriers and steal an electron from our healthy cells. This oxidization process creates another free radical and does untold damage to your skin at a cellular level.Ultimately the result of all this destruction is unhealthy skin cells and unhealthy cells lead to loss of elasticity due to collagen breakdown, unbalanced oil levels and overall dullness that no amount of exfoliating and massage will overcome.Thankfully, as we learn more about free radical damage we are also learning ways to prevent it! One the easiest way is to pack your diet and skin care routine with anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants neutralise free radicals by generously donating a spare electron (friend) before it can steal one from your skin.But there’s more you can do…Firstly, cleansing your skin properly (not aggressively) each night. While pollutants can be like cell munching monsters that stick to the skin like Velcro a great cleanser, used gently will help remove them and still maintain your skin’s natural barriers.While all anti-oxidant ingredients have benefits, research has shown that there are some other ingredient discoveries that used in combination with anti-oxidants yield even better results! Cue PHYTOMERMore than 15 years ago, PHYTOMER discovered the powerful anti-pollution action of Armeria maritima, the only seaside plant that survived the Erika oil tanker disaster, capable of filtering and depolluting the contaminated water. PHYTOMER then launched its first anti-pollution product, Souffle Marin.Since then PHYTOMER researchers have created an advanced solution that comes in the form of an amazing sorbet cream, CITYLIFE Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. CITYLIFE sweeps away toxic micro-particles and repairs skin damage caused by pollution. Its prowess comes not only from its sorbet texture, in perfect affinity with the skin, but also from its high-tech formulation composed of: CITYSAFE complex, a trio of anti-pollution biotech marine sugars. OLIGOMER®, an emblematic ingredient of the brand, providing true mineral replenishment for the skin. And what is great about it, is it’s also, suitable for the eye contour, CITYLIFE re-oxygenates tired eyes while it diffuses mineral water into dehydrated skin.Fast forward to 2018 when they launched another award winning product: CITYLIFE Ultra Cleansing Flash Peel. This is the first of its kind, a pollution defense deep cleanser. Power packed with a high concentration of exfoliating enzymes, it leaves the skin healthy, purified and with an incredible glow.So, the long and the short of it is: pollution bad, antioxidants good. Until we find a way to remove these nasties from our environment, it’s essential to maintain a good skincare regime that protects your skin from chemicals in the air and prevents them harming your health. Urban living will always be full of things to stress you out, but, thankfully, damaged skin doesn’t have to be one of them.Now, where did I put that glass of red?
How screen time is affecting our skin and how to counteract it
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 10 2019
We all know about ‘light rays’ such as UVA and UVB and how damaging they can be, but very few are aware of another harmful ‘light’ taking centre stage! A light that is not only emitted from sunlight but scarily also from all our devices - now labelled the silent anti-agers of our generation! This light is known as ‘blue light’.Research has shown that blue light can damage our skin, accelerate the visible signs of ageing and even cause dark under eye circles. Eek! And with the amount of time we spend on our phones, computers, tablets…we really should be doing something about it and we are here to tell you what! How exactly does blue light affect our skin?We are all guilty of staring, bleary-eyed at our screens (hell I’m doing it now as I type!), having that last minute flick through facebook or late night scroll on instagram, in fact with the amount of time we spend on our devices, we are now getting significantly more blue light exposure than we get from the sun alone! Blue light also has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin compared with both UVA and UVB light - it can penetrate all the way to our dermis where our collagen and elastin live! Terrifying!Not only does that extra 10 minutes watching our favourite Netflix show eat into our precious zen time, it can also disrupt our natural circadian rhythm (our handy internal body clock which tells us when it’s time to be sleepy as well as time to wake up!) Our circadian rhythm is actually very important when it comes to many aspects of our well-being, ranging from metabolism to immune system function to most importantly good quality sleep!Sleeping is our body’s time to recharge as well as repair skin cells, however this blue light is known to be impacting the natural repair process overnight leading to an accumulation of skin damage – premature ageing, discolouration, inflammation, weakening of the skin’s surface, as well as dark under eye circles. How can we prevent blue light from damaging our skin?While we aren’t likely to give up our evening Netflix binge, switch off our mobile phones or give Facebook the heave-ho, we can do many a thing to reduce our exposure and in turn the effect of blue light on our skin; Switch your mobile to ‘night shift’ mode every evening Avoid devices as much as possible an hour before bedtime (read a good old fashioned book instead!) Instead of holding your mobile to your ear opt for hands-free every time. Purchase blue light filters for your devices Make sure you have a well-rounded diet with plenty of anti-oxidant and fatty-acid rich food to reduce or protect against inflammation. Try using makeup containing iron oxide, this can help neutralize and repair blue light damage Use targeted skincare products religiously. Antioxidant-rich creams and serums are really important to battle off cell-disrupting free radicals and inflammation generated by light pollution. We are obsessed with Phytomer’s Souffle Marine Energizing Oxygenating Serum – specifically formulated to protect against environmental pollution and free radical damage Scared? You should be! No, on a serious note, first port of call, if you're not using targeted products to protect yourself you need to start, ASAP.
Makeup Tips For Sensitive Skin
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 10 2019
If you have sensitive skin then you probably know it can be a trial finding products that don’t cause your skin to react. While we are all individual, so what causes sensitivity in one person may not cause it in another, there are some ingredients that are almost guaranteed to be a problem for all!One of the biggest categories to avoid is highly fragranced products which are very likely to cause a negative reaction with sensitive skin.Also avoid, drying alcohols, witch hazel, citrus and products that contain a high % of essential oils. Just like too much fragrance, even natural aromas can cause a problem. And be aware that while it may feel ok the first time you apply it, the effect is accumulative and you may find your skin becomes more reactive over time.Another problem can be preservatives, particularly methylisothiazolinone and methylcholorisothiazoline which are often used to replace parabens, these are known sensitizers when used in leave on products.Now before you take the plunge with any formula for the face, we recommend patch testing on the side of the face to ensure it won’t disturb your skin. Once you’ve found the right products for your skin, it’s time to get gorgeous and here are some tips to help you get the best results; PREP - CLEANSE GENTLY Avoid stimulating cleansers that may dry the skin or over exfoliate such as those with alcohol, AHA’s, BHA’s, citrus, essential oils etc. Instead use gentle formulas such as cleansing oils or lightweight, water soluble emulsions. Be gentle and avoid harsh rubbing with cloths or sponges and pat the skin dry.We love: ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil for easy makeup removal followed by Phytomer - Accept Neutralizing Cleanser. PREP - HYDRATE WELL Dehydrated skin can become easily irritated so protecting with a layer of moisture is key. Before you apply your creams and lotions drench the skin with a hydrating formula. You’ll notice a huge difference in the texture of your skin and this will also help to reduce the redness. Yep, parched skin is red.Try: Phytomer - Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturizing Polarized Water Serum PREP - REACH FOR A MOISTURISER WITH SPF If your skin is slightly oily or combination then a serum may be enough moisture, but if your skin is dry then treat your skin to the added protection of a care cream. Most of us apply too much cream and overdose our skin with actives which can sensitize the skin. Take only the size of a pea and pat the product into the skin to allow it to absorb slowly and naturally. Use a moisturiser with SPF for a layer of added protection, this will help prevent sun damage and premature skin ageing like fines lines and wrinkles.We recommend: ELES - Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection 50 Time for makeup!MULTI-TASKING IS THE WAY TO GOThe less you apply to your skin the less likely it will react! Reach for multi-tasking products that treat, prime, conceal and even tone in one. A tall ask? We are talking about CC Creams. Unlike tinted moisturisers, foundations and even BB Creams, these miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover the redness, the CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, wrinkles and other skin imperfections, subtly illuminating the skin. This means less coverage is required if any at all. In fact, men can and do use CC Creams to even out their skin tone as it doesn’t look like makeup.Try: ELES Luminous CC Cream 20, you’ll be so glad you did! CONCEALApply this only where you need it, the secret to successful makeup for sensitive skin is to keep every layer light. Less product to occlude the skin causing heat! Just focus on dark parches, circles or pesky breakouts and leave the rest of your skin alone.We always reach for: ELES Liquid Concealer, the peachy tones are ideal for concealing dark eye circles while the traditional colours are ideal for the face. GO LIGHT ON POWDERTo set your makeup apply a light layer of Mineral Powder Foundation. Focus on the T-Zone and remember a very small amount is all that’s needed to set your base. You can take this with you for touch ups during the day. Or if you prefer not to use powder try setting your base with a damp Pro-Blender Sponge, it effectively “water-proofs” it and leaves your skin looking flawless. This latex-free sponge is also easy to clean and minimizes the amount of bacteria that comes in contact with your skin, making it the perfect beauty tool for sensitive complexions.Find them here: Mineral Powder Foundation and Pro-Blender Sponge COLOUR SELECTIONWhen it comes to choosing colours avoid products that are too yellow. Red skin and yellow makeup = orange complexion. Neutral shades are best for you and will help reduce the redness harmoniously. REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP AT NIGHT!Leaving impurities in the skin while you sleep will lead to more sensitivity! Allow your skin to perform its natural repair and regeneration at night by removing all your makeup and the day’s pollutants and you’ll wake up to a much calmer skin. While it may be tempting to coat your skin in rich and protective creams and oils, it’s better to drench it with lightweight moisture that will encourage better cell regeneration and protein rebuilding.We adore: Phytomer - Hydra Original Thirst-Relief Melting Cream
Facial redness? 10 lifestyle tips to fight the flush
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 02 2019
Do you have broken capillaries or suffer from skin inflammation? Does your skin react to what seems like anything and everything or are you simply easily flushed whether it be from the likes over over-exertion or embarrassment?If you’ve answered yes to any or all of the above, we feel you, and so do millions of others!Unfortunately, any number of things can contribute to skin sensitivity some of which are out of our control – genetics, the environment, the weather, our hormones, the water – but by following these 10 simple lifestyle tips we promise they can make a huge difference to not only your complexion but your confidence too! Choose wisely Be diligent about the skincare you use. Opt for products specifically targeted to sensitive and rosacea prone skin and stick with them (changing up your products continually in the quest for the perfect product can aggravate your skin and mess with its natural pH balance too!)We also recommend using products formulated with pharmaceutical quality, pure ingredients farmed from the ocean and are in love with Phytomer’s Accept Desensitizing Mask. Be gentle with your skin When applying skin products, be gentle. Say no to exfoliators especially ones formulated with granules. This will make facial redness worse and make sure you use a gentle moisturiser every single day, morning and night! Moisturising helps to lock in water and prevents sensitive skin from drying out. Say no to hot water Avoid extreme temperatures! Especially when taking a bath or shower. Hot water will not only cause your skin to feel flushed (and potentially aggravated!) but will also strip your skin of its healthy oils and increase blood circulation (which can be the source of facial redness!) Instead wash your face with lukewarm water every time. Exercise can actually help decrease facial redness Sure sure I hear you say! But trust us. Whilst exercise might seem counter-intuitive if you are trying to combat facial redness, it is essential for stress (another key trigger) management and your well-being. Just alter your exercise regime. Try short blasts of high-intensity workouts and exercise in cool, air-conditioned environments while keeping hydrated. Don’t overexpose yourself to the sun This can damage your already sensitive skin by making it more prone to flare-ups. Also keep reactions at bay by opting for a fragrance-free, natural sunscreen. Best to wear a hat too! Red wine can be the enemy (eek) If you’re like me you’ll love a glass of wine in the evenings, but try to steer clear of red. Why red you say? Red wine promotes the opening of blood vessels in the skin and is a histamine releaser which causes redness and flushing, it also deprives the skin of vital vitamins. Hydration is key Drink plenty of water (we know Julian…!) But on a serious note water not only rehydrates you but also flushes away toxins and replenishes skin tissue. Drinking enough water can fight off skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and all common skin sensitivities. We are what we eat Steer clear of dairy products and spicy foods and ensure you eat lots of green leafy vegetables and foods rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids. Foods rich with Vitamin C and E are beneficial for the skin as they not only serve as excellent antioxidants they also promote a healthy immune system. Think broccoli, kale, spinach, avocados, fish, nuts, seeds, blueberries, strawberries…the list goes on. Always remove makeup before going to bed Sleeping with a face full of makeup can and will result in skin irritability and breakouts. Makeup not only traps dead skin cells it also blocks our pores and when pores are blocked the skin can’t breathe and therefore regenerate! Sleep more, stress less Of course, this is easier said than done! Especially if you have children, work long hours or generally have a lot going on in your life. But…if it’s possible to put your head down even half an hour earlier at night it’ll make all the difference and allow your skin to repair and regenerate and your brain to recharge!
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 26 2019
Whether you are mourning the end of bright, balmy days or doing side-kicks now that cooler weather is on the way, we all need to give our skin love much-needed love after a season of summer indulgences. Think salty or chlorinated water, a little too much “Yes way, Rose” or even a beautiful bronze glow that’s starting to look more like a pigment patchwork quilt. Time for repair!So what are we dealing with now that autumn has arrived? More often than not, clogged pores, dehydration, hyper-pigmented patches, and of course chapped lips. Luckily, all it takes to reboot skin is a few tweaks to our current skincare routine.ExfoliateThose dry dead skin cells that sit on the surface of your skin are not only dulling it, they are blocking the hydrating ingredients from getting in. We shed approx. 30,000 skin cells a day naturally but this slows down dramatically with age. It can also slow down in summer as oil, sweat, and makeup join together and act like mortar for the skin cells, binding them tightly together and creating an impenetrable wall.There are so many ways to exfoliate but the gentlest method is with fruit acids and enzymes, instead of forcing the cells off and causing possible damage to the skin these ingredients gently loosen and digest cells to leave skin softer, smoother and more refined. Try Phytomer - Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes.Deep Pore CleansingNo matter how well you cleansed your skin in the last couple of months, deep down, where none of us can see, makeup, impurities, old sweat, and toxins are having a party in your pores. The result? Skin texture that looks coarse and spongy and never feels clean. To help clean them out detox your skin with a clay-based mask, or several if you are not afraid to be a multi-masker! Our go-to for deep cleansing is Phytomer Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask with Kaolin Clay.RehydrateSeriously pack it on! Summer leaves your skin depleted of moisture and not only is this uncomfortable it’s also ageing. So up your moisturiser game by adding some concentrates beneath and get out the hydrating masks. Don’t forget your body too! After your shower, smother your damp skin from neck to toes with rich balms and body oils. Did you know the skin’s outer layer swells open when it’s damp allowing products to penetrate better?We love Phytomer - Hydra Original Thirst-Relief Melting Cream and Hydrasea Thirst-Relief Rehydrating Mask for the face and the heavenly texture and aroma of Phytomer - Trésor Des Mers Beautifying Oil for the body.Check the damage!Unfortunately, you can’t undo the damage that UV rays cause, which is why a Broad Spectrum sunscreen is your most important skin care product. And, it’s important to keep your eyes open for any changes to your skin. A visit to a dermatologist for a skin cancer check should be a priority for every Australian and while it may seem a nuisance could be lifesaving.You can however help minimize the visible appearance of sun damage on the skin’s surface with little effort. To help fade the look of dark spots and even skin tone, use a hyperpigmentation formula such as Vie Collection - Laser Light Concentrate.Keep up protectionEven though it’s not summer anymore it doesn’t mean you should stop using your SPF. Reach for it every day and ensure your skin care is always loading with anti-oxidants. The combination of both will decrease skin ageing by a whopping 90%. Our go-to is Vie Collection - Vita C Concentrated Solution. You can put a few drops in your regular moisturiser or apply it beneath for a brighter complexion. It also has the added benefit of fading hyperpigmentation and stopping ageing free radicals in their tracks.Eyes and LipsOur 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 Reviving Wrinkle Correction Cream - Eye and Lip is our favourite because it is formulated to calm, soothe and replenish delicate skin.
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