BC Skin Journal

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Beauty Collective - youngest beauty products

These are the newest BC products we’re obsessed with

by Jo Boyden on Nov 04 2022

Whether you are a self-confessed makeup addict, a serious skincare lover, or are simply looking for that new must-have beauty buy, BC has it all! But with our huge range of skincare and makeup products it can be hard to know where to start!Well today we are talking all things new! Keep reading for our round up of BC’s latest launches, 5 products we are obsessing over and genuine game-changers that you should consider buying too!NEW ELES Sheet MasksSheet masks are an easy and effective way to provide your skin with an immediate, big boost of vitamins and moisture. They’re also a fun way to relax and pamper yourself at home! And these are just two of the many sheet mask benefits!The new ELES Sheet Masks comprise of three super effective masks for a number of skin specific needs – “calming and soothing”, “hydrating and brightening” and “youth recovery” (anti-ageing).The face-shaped, serum-soaked sheets - which come one to a pouch, are professional strength so they deliver so much more than a dose of moisture. Made with 100% pure cotton they are literally drenched with the highest percentage of natural, active ingredients on the market and deliver a cocktail of goodness to the skin. Just one application provides intense results like a complete facial treatment! So whether your skin is looking dehydrated and lacklustre, your sensitive skin could do with some serious loving or your worried about wrinkles, there is a sheet mask just for you!NEW Phytomer Oligo 6With 6 powerful vitamin, mineral and prebiotic booster ingredients, this product was always going to pack a punch and boy does it do just that! It is the ultimate go-to concentrate when it comes to reviving tried, dull skin. Thanks to its unique composition of vitamin c, provitamin B5, Vitamins B3 and E, Phytomer’s marine prebiotic complex and OLIGOMER® (seawater concentrate rich in minerals and trace elements), this gel like serum is able to revitalize and awaken the skin with more cellular energy than any other serum we’ve tried! What’s more it’s deeply moisturising so no more dry, devitalized skin! Oh, and did I mention the sea inspired scent? Heaven. Literally apply it to your face every morning and evening and let it work its magic.NEW ELES HD Translucent PowderAll hail translucent powders and this one is our favourite yet! Worn alone or as a final step for any makeup routine, a quick sweep of this powder can make all the difference to your skin and longer-lasting look!It’s a loose setting powder that doubles as a photo filter, blurring the appearance of pores, uneven texture and imperfections for an air-brushed, soft-focus effect on the skin. It provides sheer, natural coverage without any “caking” every time you apply, plus it reduces the appearance of shine too thanks to its formulation of 100% mineral silica powder, perfect for absorbing that unwanted excess oil! And that’s not all! Using silica topically will also improve skin’s elasticity, texture and hydration, reducing visible signs of ageing over time. Oh, and it’s vegan, gluten free, paraben free, sulphate free and talc free! Win, win, win in our books!NEW Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra-MistMuch like its predecessor – Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, this breakthrough beauty is a true hydration hero thanks to its high concentration of hyaluronic acid which literally binds moisture to skin cells instantly delivering suppled, dewy skin a matter of seconds and indeed does this product do just that! Often it takes time to see results when it comes to skincare, but with this product the results are almost instant – brighter, plumper, healthier skin fast! From the moment you spritz it, you can feel it going to work on your skin!As well as Hyaluronic Acid, it’s formulated with a blend of ultra-calming Chamomile, Aloe, Green Tea and aromatic essential oils too! Making this powerhouse product ideal for all skin types, especially dehydrated, irritated, and ageing skin!A true multi-tasker, it can be used; in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight applied after your makeup to set it in place for the day spritzed throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh as the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling a little sluggish or as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too!So, if you are after a product that does it all, with undeniably radiant skin as the end result, look no further than Pevonia’s New Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist, you won’t be disappointed I promise!NEW Phytomer Seatonic Stretchmark & Firming OilWhile stretch marks are synonymous with pregnant woman, they can actually happen to anyone at any time! In fact, stretch marks are completely normal, but if you’re looking to treat them or simply help prevent them from forming in the first place, this product is for you!This 2-in-1 treatment has been formulated with the lifting and regenerating benefits of marine and vegetal oils to both firm skin and fight stretch marks! It’s ultra-light dry oily texture leaves skin smoother and softer with a satiny finish while the heavenly scent of orange flower creates a multisensory experience! Day after day, your skin will look firmer and tighter (really!) while stretch marks will become less noticeable.

These are BC's best anti-ageing wrinkle creams

by Jo Boyden on Sep 09 2022

Worried about wrinkles? Who isn’t? In fact, wrinkles are a major concern for both men and women, so much so that wrinkle injections are a fast-growing market, accounting for almost 40% of cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the world, and 70% of aesthetic medicine interventions. But what if Botox and the likes aren’t for you? Are there safer, natural and needle-free alternatives that really work to diminish the appearance of wrinkles?Keep reading as we reveal Beauty Collectives’ best performing wrinkles creams, three anti-ageing creams that we promise will have your skin looking younger in next to no time.Firstly, while there is no serum or wrinkle cream that can magically make wrinkles disappear in a week quite like Botox, thanks to the advancement in both technology and skincare ingredients, the natural alternatives can seriously achieve similar smoothing and plumping results. What’s more 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 when used daily as part of your skincare routine will achieve outstanding on-going results; Vie Collection Time Control Deep Wrinkles Firming Rich Cream Created in conjunction with a respected Cosmetic Surgeon to not only enhance the results of interventions such as BotoxTM and Fillers but also as an alternative for those who would prefer not to have cosmetic medical procedures. This creamy textured wrinkle cream is highly concentrated with advanced anti-ageing and nourishing ingredients including pro-collagen peptides, EGF-like peptides, trace elements and minerals to effectively help to enhance skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles and soothe the discomfort that thin and mature skin types can experience.You’ll notice immediate results as skin feels and appears smoother, softer and more supple and after continued use wrinkles are visibly filled and skin is noticeably firmer. Outstanding! “I have been using this firming cream for a month now and I can honestly say it has reduced the appearance of even my deepest wrinkles! I was even asked if I’d had botox the other day! Winning!” – Anne K Pevonia MyOxy Caviar Timeless Repair Cream This really is the ultimate youth cream. It’s like having several anti-ageing creams in one – a retinol cream, a vitamin e cream, a vitamin c cream, a caviar cream, a neuropeptide (capable of mimicking the effects of Botox) cream. Formulated with up to 19 vitamins! It contains iron, magnesium, escutox, retinol, caviar, pearl and phosphorus too, all needed by cells to utilise oxygen more effectively and to improve cellular metabolism. Silky textured and easily absorbed, it provides outstanding rejuvenating results, smoothing wrinkles while increasing suppleness and oxygenation “The repair cream is wonderful. It smells good, feels good and works in erasing fine lines. Wrinkles disappear almost immediately.” Mauve Medicalia Retinol & “C” Care Cream Retinol has long been worshipped by beauty professionals as the hero ingredient in the fight against wrinkles! Some even say nothing fights the signs of ageing better! Designed to stimulate your skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid and collagen which depletes with age, as well as improve its overall texture, Medicalia’s Retinol & “C” Care Cream delivers potent retinol deep within the skin to enhance cellular performance. Micro Retinol micro particles, combined with anti-agers Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Elastin peptides tighten, revitalise, resurface and rehydrate skin! Wrinkles are dramatically reduced with continued use. “This is the best product for aging skin I have ever found.” Heather

8 signs of over-exfoliated skin and how to treat it

by Jo Boyden on Aug 26 2022

We all know the importance of exfoliation, it’s the key to beautiful, clear skin after all. It helps to renew cells, unclog pores, prevent acne, even skin tone, boost circulation, stimulate collagen synthesis and more! But how often should you be exfoliating exactly? And how do you know if you’ve overdone it? Sadly, sometimes too much of a good thing can be bad, and in the case of over exfoliating, it can be detrimental to your skin! Read on as we reveal 8 signs that your skin has been over exfoliated and how to fix it! Instead of being blemish free, you’re suddenly prone to breakouts! While exfoliating is a great way to prevent pimples as it keeps pores unclogged, over exfoliating will strip your skin of its natural moisture which then prompts your sebaceous glands to product more oil to compensate for the loss of hydration! When skin starts to product this excess oil, pores can clog, and blemishes start to form! Your skin is looking shiny Your complexion tends to be dehydrated, not oily yet your face is constantly shiny? If this is you, you need to lay off the over-exfoliating! Light reflects off of over-exfoliated skin easily thanks to the ultra-smooth surface you’ve created this in turn makes the skin appear shinier! Your skin feels tight When you over-exfoliate you can compromise the skin’s natural barrier function. This leads to an increase in TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and a tight feeling in your skin. You feel as though you’ve been sunburnt Redness and itchiness, much like sunburn, are one of the most common signs of excessive exfoliation. This happens because the top layer of your skin which acts like a shield against pollutants, irritants and allergens is compromised. When it’s compromised your skin becomes more susceptible to irritants and free radical damage hence the reaction! Your skin is looking flaky The natural oils that your skin produces, helps your skin to retain its natural hydration levels. Excess scrubbing though can sadly strip the skin of these oils creating a parched complexion with a flaky appearance. Your skin is dry If you’ve noticed dry patches on your face, it might not be because you aren’t using enough moisturiser, instead over-exfoliation can significantly cause dry, crepy skin, worse still peeling. Ease off the exfoliation so to not exacerbate the situation. How to fix over-exfoliated skin Firstly, eliminate foaming cleansers (which can be drying and exacerbate existing issues), retinol products (which can be too harsh to use on compromised skin), and, of course, any physical or chemical exfoliators.Next incorporate a vitamin c serum into your routine as this can soothe and help to expedite the healing process. To learn more about the multiple benefits of vitamin c click here.Once skin has settled try using a gentle silicon facial cleaning brush to help keep skin clear. This little genius gadget you can get your deepest clean yet as gentle but powerful sonic massage works with ultra-hygienic silicone touchpoints and your chosen cleanser to thoroughly remove any build-up of dead skin cells, dirt, oil and sweat, preventing skin problems and resulting in clean & radiant skin, But that’s not all! It preps your skin perfectly for the absorption of your favourite skincare products for maximum effect and results, the tiny pulses help awaken the skin by stimulating the circulation of blood in the skin’s layers (when the blood is stimulated more oxygen is produced in the blood and this feeds the skin cells) and the cleansing brush will aid in keeping your pores clear from debris banishing those breakouts!Next you can start to exfoliate again, (once or twice a week no more) using a gentle or enzyme exfoliator.Try 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. If you do love a granular scrub though opt for a gentle version like Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, removing dead skin cells, impurities and toxins to reveal instant radiance and softer, smoother skin too! You’ll love the immediate gratification you’ll get from this formidable favourite of ours.

beauty collective - heart shaped water splash

We’re obsessed with Pevonia’s latest skincare launch

by Jo Boyden on Aug 12 2022

From the latest breakthrough moisturiser to the newest lipstick on the block, here at Beauty Collective we are blessed to be able to try copious amounts of amazing products! And while yes, we are biased and couldn’t speak more highly of all our brands, every so often a product comes along that is such a standout, we feel the need to give it a huge shout out! And now, that special product is Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist!Much like its predecessor – Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, this breakthrough beauty is a true hydration hero thanks to its high concentration of hyaluronic acid. Worth it’s weight in gold hyaluronic acid is considered to have greater capacity to hold moisture than any other polymer. In fact, one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water! What exactly does this mean you might ask. Well, it literally binds moisture to skin cells, instantly delivering supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds!As well as Hyaluronic Acid, it’s formulated with a blend of ultra-calming Chamomile, Aloe, Green Tea and aromatic essential oils too! Making this powerhouse product ideal for all skin types, especially dehydrated, irritated, and ageing skin!I’ve been using the Hydra Mist myself for a month now and wow does it deliver! I’m IN LOVE. Often it takes time to see results when it comes to skincare, but with this product the results are almost instant – brighter, plumper, healthier skin fast! From the moment you spritz it, you can feel it going to work on your skin and oh does it pack a punch! You’ll experience an unparalleled surge of moisture as it deeply nourishes skin counteracting dehydration. And the more hydrated your skin’s cells become, the more they swell and become beautifully bouncy and plumped, reducing the appearance of those unwanted fine lines and wrinkles! And should your skin be on the sensitive side, a little itchy or irritated even, it will work its magic to calm, nurture and alleviate too.A true multi-tasker, it can be used in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight, after your makeup to set it in place, throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh (or as the perfect pick-me-up), and as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too!So, if you are after a product that does it all, with undeniably radiant skin as the end result, look no further than Pevonia’s New Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist, you won’t be disappointed I promise!

7 causes of dry skin and how to treat it

by Jo Boyden on Jul 14 2022

If your skin has been feeling somewhat tight of late, itchy and irritated even, or if you’re prone to dry patches and flakiness on your face, it’s likely you have ‘dry’ skin. But what exactly is causing your dry complexion you might ask? And why doesn’t your current skincare routine appear to be working to help counteract this condition? If you’re looking for answers as well as effective remedies, look no further! But first what exactly is dry skin?Dry skin is a very common skin type and can affect anyone at any age. Typically, it happens when our sebaceous glands don’t produce enough oil (sebum) and our skin in turn loses too much water. This is because our natural oils help trap in moisture to keep the skin soft, smooth and supple, if there isn’t enough oil, moisture can escape, leaving the top layer of skin prone to dryness.Unfortunately, the lack of oil production is caused by a number of external factors, but fear not once you know what they are you can start to salvage your skin!Read on as we reveal the 7 main causes of dry skin and the best skincare solutions to treat it. Genetics That’s right, dry skin can indeed be inherited! Another thing we can thank our parents for!If you’ve always been prone to dry skin, it’s essential that you are diligent when it comes to daily skincare routine.Solution:Look for skincare specifically targeted for dry skin. You need to replace moisture in the form of hyaluronic acid and collagen, and natural oils such as squalane. Products rich in ceramides (fatty acids) such as safflower oil are also very important and will help build and reinforce your skin barrier – these include rich creams, balms and soothing cleansers that deliver intense and lasting hydration for visibly plump, smooth and radiant skin.Try: Pevonia Rejuvenating Dry Skin Cream. Formulated with some of the best natural ingredients to counteract dry skin including pear seed extract, hyaluronic acid, collagen, shea butter and squalane, this deeply nourishing and skin smoothing cream diminishes dry and flaky skin while combatting fine lines and wrinkles for a truly rejuvenated, hydrated appearance. Hard water When tap water contains a high concentration of minerals including calcium and magnesium it's known as hard water. Those minerals change the pH balance of your skin as well as leave a film over your skin’s surface that may clog pores, cause dryness and even trigger breakouts, itching and flaking! Aside from upsetting the delicate skin barrier, hard water also prevents skincare products such as your moisturiser from being absorbed into the skin, sapping it of moisture. Eek.Solution: Re-balancing and rehydration are key.Use pH balancing cleansers. They leave the skin with a healthy acidic pH so your moisturiser doesn’t have to work so hard.Try Pevonia CleanRefresh™ Foaming Oil Cleanser. Suitable for all skin types, but especially recommended for dry skin, this innovative, triple duty oil cleanser features an advanced, lipid rich, alcohol-free, soap-free, exclusive formula which transforms into a luscious, foamy cleanser for a truly luxurious cleansing experience! It’s outstanding!However, if your skin is a little on the dry/sensitive side opt for Phytomer’s Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk. Its creamy texture melts on your skin to gently remove makeup and impurities without disturbing the skin's protective barrier.Toners are great if you have hard water as they melt away any remaining residue also helping to maintain a healthy pH and optimise skin functioning. Using it while the skin is still damp will interrupt the process of the minerals from the water settling on the skin.Try Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion. This genius all-in-one makeup remover and toner is THE perfect multi-tasking product for beautifully clean skin! It’s quick, effective and oh so easy to use. Plus, it’s alcohol-free and extremely gentle on the skin so perfect for all skin types! It removes any excess makeup and residue on the skin like a dream and tones without leaving an oily film, just a silky soft fresh-faced complexion instead!Add skin-care products that contain vitamin C to your routine because they also help counteract the coating deposited by hard water.Try Pevonia “C” Complexe with Oxyzomes, it’s a firm favourite of the team at BC and for very good reason.Follow with a moisturiser that will sufficiently restore your skin's softness. Harsh products Maybe your cleanser is too harsh or you’re using your Sonic facial cleansing brush too often. Or perhaps you’re overusing retinol or the salicylic acid in your cleanser is great at treating your blemishes but it’s also drying out your skin. Whatever the case may be, all these daily habits can damage your skin’s moisture barrier without you being aware! This in turn results in surface dryness and skin irritation.Solution;The good news is that you don't have to give up these skin-care heroes (after all they also offer a multitude of benefits), you just need to use them cautiously and reduce the frequency of which you are using them. Cutting down on their use may deliver the results you want without irritation. Over exfoliating Exfoliating is imperative, it allows you to clear your clogged pores, remove excess dry skin and encourage increased cell turnover making way for blemish free skin, but we can all fall victim to exfoliation which can have ramifications on our skin damaging the protective skin barrier which in turn can trigger excessive dryness! Eek.Solution:If your skin is dry exfoliate just once a week and try using a gentle exfoliator formulated with nourishing ingredients. A gentle exfoliant will help remove the dry cell barrier that prevents absorption of moisturising ingredients and brighten dull skin at the same time.Try Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant. It’s seriously soft, silky and subtle scented plus it’s ideal for all skin types even the most sensitive or dry! It eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever) and naturally encourages cell turnover. The result? Beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes! Dry air and indoor heating Sometimes the air inside can be as punishing on your skin as the air outside (especially in winter when there is low humidity and cooler temperatures). Forced air, especially heat, can draw humidity levels down, making skin feel dry and itchy.Solution;Skin moisturisers which rehydrate the top layer of skin cells and seal in moisture are the first step in combating your dry skin. Moisturisers rich in humectants which help attract moisture, and emollients, like ceramides and oils are the way to go!Humidifiers are a great solution too! By adding moisture to the air you’ll be encouraging the moisture in your skin to stay put!Try: Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. This restorative anti-aging night cream restores youthful vitality to your skin with a nourishing blend of active marine botanicals, alpha hydroxy acids and conditioning oils. The rich texture cocoons skin in nourishing hydration so your complexion gets all the benefits while you slumber. Long hot showers Ahhh who doesn’t love a long, hot shower, especially on a cold winter’s day, it really is one of life’s little pleasures, the problem is though, that while it will indeed make you feel better, it’s not doing any good to your skin! Hot showers and baths can actually inflame the skin, causing redness, itching, and excessive dryness. They can also disrupt the skin's natural balance of moisture, robbing you of the natural oils, fats, and proteins that keep skin healthy!Solution;Now I’m not asking you to forgo your shower, or that long indulgent bath of an evening, but try to limit your shower time and keep the temperature down! Afterwards, apply a moisturising cream within one minute of getting out of the shower to seal in moisture whilst skin is damp as moisturisers work best on damp skin.At night up your game by applying a low molecular oil, they absorb into the skin to stimulate the cells and prevent water evaporation. Many people avoid using products at night in the belief they should allow their skin to ‘breathe’ but on the contrary skincare in the way of a moisturiser and oil at night is imperative. At night your skin is no longer having to play the position of defence, instead, skin is resting, and this is when its permeability is at its highest allowing the active ingredients in your skincare to absorb deep into the skin, and really tackle your dry skin concerns!Try Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. This soothing, silky oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma, is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple and seriously glowy skin every morning. Ageing! Dry skin tends to become more of an issue as we get older, this is because our skin produces less oil and gets drier. For women, it could also be due to the hormone changes associated with menopause.Solution;For those with advanced signs of ageing who need optimal cell turnover, choose sulphate-free dry skin skincare products that are infused with hyaluronic acid, glycerin and retinol. These ingredients help replenish lost moisture and quickly repair the skin barrier. We also recommend selecting skincare for dry skin that’s enriched with marine collagen to help preserve moisture and your skin’s hydrolipidic film. Hydrating Serums are great as they penetrate deep into the skin to hydrate between the skin cells and help skin weave new collagen and elastin. Make sure you moisturise every day too (or multiple times a day if needed).Try Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential Serum formulated with retinol, hyaluronic, and glycerin, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms!Worried about using retinol since your skin is sensitive and dry? Don’t stress! Simply check out our blog and learn all there is to know about this anti-ageing holy grail of the skincare world!

Beauty Collective - younger looking skin

14 steps to youthful skin

by Jo Boyden on Jun 23 2022

We are all on the quest to look forever young, after all why would we invest so much in our daily appearance? But what exactly is the secret to younger looking skin? And no, I’m not talking about the likes of cosmetic surgery or Botox injections, I mean skin that ages naturally and slowly like fine wine….While ageing is inevitable there are a number of steps we can take to keep our skin looking younger, longer! We asked the experts at BC what they are. Read on as we reveal their answers. Invest in a collagen cream stat As we get older, our skin loses its perky plumpness! This is because the collagen that forms in our dermis and keeps our skin youthful starts to diminish! This ‘fountain of youth’ as it’s fondly referred to, therefore needs to be replenished!Taking collagen supplements as well as investing in a good collagen cream will help! They can improve skin elasticity, reduce visible wrinkles, and increase blood flow to the skin!The problem is applying collagen topically is easier said than done. The collagen molecule can’t actually penetrate our skin unless you choose a product with collagen amino acids that are small enough to get to the deeper layer of the dermis to deliver that plumping effect. Cue Pevonia’s best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. Personally, I can’t get enough of it! I swear this jar of anti-ageing goodness has hugely benefited my skin over the years keeping it soft, supple and firm! Give retinol a go Retinol – hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world and for very good reason, counteracts ageing like no other! A derivative of Vitamin A, this ‘superhero’ ingredient offers a multitude of benefits including boosting collagen production and erasing dark spots. It can also increase your cell turnover rate making cells function like that of a child! Amazing right? I couldn’t recommend this ingredient more but you do need to be sure to understand how and when to use it first! And which retinol product will be right for you according to your skin type.Try; Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Moisturiser and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about! For those with advanced signs of ageing – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, it will be your go-to night cream! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with Retinol, Hyaluronic, Squalane, and Marine Collagen, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms!As well as applying your collagen moisturiser and retinol cream, ensuring you use a serum formulated with one of the top 5 skincare ingredients will also stand you in good stead! Ensure your daily diet includes lots of anti-oxidant rich foods Antioxidants are SO important when it comes to protecting our DNA from damage – they are the last line of defence against premature ageing. Thankfully our bodies produce antioxidants on their own, but we can definitely strengthen our protection against ageing by eating an antioxidant-rich diet. Multiple studies show that a diet rich in antioxidants can help keep your skin healthy, your immune system strong, your digestive system working smoothly and can also help you look and feel younger longer. Yassssss!Anti-oxidant Vitamin C, as well as amino acids can increase the levels of hyaluronic acid and collagen in the body (both which we know are very important for the skin) essential fatty acids and foods rich in sulphur are also imperative!So what foods do we need to consume to help our skin stay younger, longer? Foods such as oranges, red peppers, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C. Foods rich in sulphur include beans, cabbage and garlic and foods high in essential fatty acids are salmon, tuna, flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts, plus your everyday staples such as eggs, carrots, avocado and also soy! Yum! Wear sunscreen daily, all year round Surely by now, we all know that the NO. 1 cause of premature skin aging is sun exposure! This is why one of the most important things we can do to slow down premature skin aging is to diligently protect our skin from said sun! Using products with SPF is imperative, not only will it prevent awful sun burn, it’ll also slow down the development of brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles!Fortunately, there is a myriad of products out there with SPF, from sunscreen to daily moisturisers, foundations and more, and many are now formulated to work with specific skin types, so if you are a sensitive skin sufferer and the idea of slathering on sunscreen scares you, worry no more! Here at BC we have a few firm favourites;Foundation – ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15Daily moisturiser – ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50Sunscreen face & body – Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield Don’t forget to look after your neck, chest and hands! While most of us don't forget to look after our face, we often neglect our neck, chest and hands! Even if our face looks young, an aged neck, chest and hands will reveal our real age so it’s time to get serious about these delicate areas!Firstly, be sure you apply sunscreen to the back of your hands and then moisturise them as you would your face daily. Try Phytomer’s Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream.Same goes with your neck and chest. After all, you want to avoid turkey neck the most obvious sign of ageing in that area! Cleanse correctly On the quest for a clear, youthful complexion cleansing is a must. But cleansing with conventional, harsh products can simply dry out skin which will age you! Worse, it can make skin over-produce oil so you could be hit with rather a few pesky pimples too!! Teenage acne? No thanks.So be sure to use a cleanser specific to your skin type. Beauty Collective has a myriad of cleansers for every skin type and concern so get searching! Make sure you exfoliate A good weekly exfoliation is key to preventing dry, dull skin which lacks youthful luminosity. Exfoliation will break up dead surface skin cells and reveal a fresh glowy complexion.If your skin is a little on the sensitive side, exfoliation is still important just be sure to opt for a super gentle formula – we LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture. But if granules scare you, we 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. Give yourself a daily facial massage Facial massage stimulates blood circulation, cell growth and collagen production as well as strengthening muscle memory! It helps in the prevention of fine lines and new wrinkle formation, while at the same time tightening the skin and making it plumper! And there is more! To learn more about the benefits of facial massage click here.Not sure where to start when it comes to facial massage? Look no further. For a step by step simply click here.You can use your fingers or invest in a facial roller which offers a multitude of more benefits!If you opt for a roller here’s how;1) Before you reach for your roller, cleanse and then prep your skin applying your serums and oils. Just be sure not to rub it in completely so that the jade roller can get to work.2) Simply roll outwards and slightly upwards on your face and neck. This is a great treatment to do with a serum or as a final step with your facial oil.And for the month of June, 2022, when you purchase a Pevonia Facial oil on BC you’ll receive a Gemstone Jade Facial Roller for FREE Drink your 8 glasses of water a day Drinking enough water, a day will not only do amazing things for your overall health, it’ll benefit your skin too!Dehydration can sap your skin of moisture and elasticity, leading to sagginess, dryness, and wrinkles, whereas hydrated skin equals plumper skin and plump skin helps hides current signs of ageing so that any wrinkles you already have are minimised! Win, win!And yes, I know we all have days where we don’t drink the necessary amount. The thing is when I don’t, I feel it! I’m tried and sluggish and my skin appears that way too! This is because drinking those 8 glasses or 2 litres of water helps the body to flush out toxins while increasing blood flow to the skin which gives it an even tone and dewy appearance not the dull, devilised skin we all don’t want! Oh and supple, dewy skin equals youthful skin right?If you aren’t a huge fan of water, herbal tea counts!! Get onto it and reap the benefits! Look after your lips Often overlooked, lips can really show your age so it’s important to show them as much love as you would your skin. This means applying a lip cream daily. We are huge advocates for Pevonia’s LipRenew Plump & De-Age treatment which deeply moisturises and volumises the lips, blurs imperfections, and, unlike other lip plumpers, also smooths the surrounding skin folds, lines and wrinkles!We also recommend using a hydrating lip balm to lock in moisture and get lips lipstick ready, after all applying lipstick to dry, chapped lips is a definite no no, as your lipstick won’t apply evenly, it’ll seep into any lip lines making your lips appear even more dry than they already are. Choose the right foundation You really can disguise the ageing process and look years younger with makeup, but you have to choose carefully. For example face powder, when used correctly and frugally can be a fantastic makeup staple (I have been I’m in love with the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation for years!) however, no matter your skin type, too much face powder can actually age you! That’s right, it can highlight fine lines and wrinkles instead of helping to conceal them, so it’s best to use powder sparingly – on your t-zone or as the perfect tool for touch ups.A hydrating or satin-finish liquid foundation will be your best choice, especially as skin gets drier with age. Choose a formula that has hydrating ingredients. Foundations that have sheer coverage and dewy luminous foundations will be your best youth enhancing options especially for those concerned about lines and wrinkles.I am a huge advocate for both the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30 but if you do love a slightly more matte finish the best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15 will be your go-to. Illuminate your face with a highlighter As well as giving your skin a lovely glow, highlighter can be used strategically to lift and contour the face, making it look more youthful.Apply it to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow. Try ELES Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it! Never go to bed with makeup on I’ve sure we’ve all been guilty of this one in our time! From a few too many wines to being just plain old exhausted, sometimes it hard to peel yourself off your bed to go and remove your makeup but remove your makeup you must!Cleansing your face especially at night to remove not only your makeup but any remnants of the days sweat, dirt and grime is imperative for healthy skin. Not removing your makeup means your skin is unable to regenerate effectively while you sleep, pores clog, and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear. For a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast!To read more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here. Go to sleep early and get 8 hours of slumber a night! Getting enough sleep comes with plenty of benefits - improved mood, better concentration and healthier, happier skin to name but a few! Research also suggests that people who go to bed earlier enjoy longer, better quality sleep and better quality sleep equals better skin! Why? Because while we sleep our skin goes into repair mode. Skin cells regenerate, our skin’s blood flow increases, it rebuilds its collagen (which as we know is essential for youthful skin) and repairs damage from any UV exposure.Late nights and lack of sleep on the other hand can show on your skin in fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, swollen or droopy eyelids and dark under eye circles. It can also contribute to acne. Eek. So we need to think of sleep as an essential step in our daily skincare routine. 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 (I’m talking to myself here too!) and stick to it nightly, it’ll improve quality of sleep and in turn have a positive impact on our complexion too!For more information on what really happens to your skin while your sleep, click here.

7 products that’ll turn dull, devitalised skin to radically radiant

by Jo Boyden on Jun 09 2022

Have you found yourself staring in the mirror lately wondering “why does my skin looks so dull and old?” If so, you wouldn’t be alone! We all deal with the occasional bout of dull skin. But if you’re regularly waking up to a tired, lacklustre complexion, you’ll likely be wondering what you can do to improve it!Unfortunately, the winter months only exacerbate this skin condition thanks to the cooler weather and constant need for indoor heating which, let’s face it, sucks the life out of our already depleted complexion! but this doesn’t mean we can’t take action and turn our dull, devitalised skin to radically radiant in next to no time! Chances are your skincare routine could just be missing a few key elements that are vital for beautifully brightened skin - if your skin is lacking life, you’ll want to choose skincare with hydrating and skin brightening benefits. Look for products formulated with vitamin c, hyaluronic and/or retinol as these superlative ingredients will help skin appear more hydrated, plumped and radiant!Keep reading as we countdown 7 products that will breathe life back into your lifeless skin, the products I personally swear by and come highly recommended by our customers and the BC experts too! THE CLEANSERPhytomer Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing CreamWhen you have dull skin cleansing should be the first step in your skin care routine. So, look for a cleanser that is formulated to help brighten the appearance of your complexion, like Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream. This rich, velvety cleanser literally melts on contact with your skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities!Organic Orange water delivers vitamin C for skin radiance and optimal glow while Cyfolia Algae enhances the glow by providing a reflective effect! Like a burst of radiance to the complexion, skin is soft, supple and glowing after every cleanse!“I love this new cleanser from Phytomer. I’ve been using it for a few months now and can say my skin is definitely softer and more radiant after use and I love the scent too.” – Sarah M THE MOISTURISERPhytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energising CreamAfter cleansing dull skin, it’s important to reach for the right moisturiser - a skin-brightening cream like Phytomer’s Hydra Continue Radiance Energising Cream. Thanks to its beautifully lightweight texture, this radiance cream helps keep that outer layer of skin perfectly nourished without feeling too heavy. Rich in vitamins, it revitalizes, activates your skin’s cellular activity to promote natural regrowth, hydrates, softens and smooths skin for a radiant youthful appearance. Goodbye dull, devitalized skin!“I am in love with this product, it’s become my go-to moisturiser this summer since it’s silky and light yet keeps my skin moisturised all day long! It has a lovely subtle scent, and the products name definitely reflects the results – it’s energising and radiance inducing that’s for sure!” – JoJo B THE SERUMPevonia “C” Complexe with OxyzomesAnother tip for reviving dull skin? Adding a vitamin C serum to your daily routine! It can totally transform your skin I’m telling you!We love Pevonia’s “C” Complexe. Vitamin C, hyaluronic and oxygen work together in this amazing product to enliven dull skin leaving it visibly brighter and more youthful after every single application! It’s a truly powerful anti-oxidant that not only delivers immediate luminosity but protects the skin from premature skin ageing too! Yesss! Oh and if smells and feels amazing too!“This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” – Deborah THE EXFOLIATORPevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserThe most common cause of dull, lacklustre skin is a build-up of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. This happens when we neglect to slough them away. So if your skin is looking dull and lacklustre, chances are you need to up the ante and exfoliate properly! No matter what your skin type, exfoliation is paramount when it comes to removing those skin dulling dead cells! They need to be removed in order to allow new, glowing cells to come forward. Look for an exfoliator that will help brighten your complexion as well as smooth your skin.Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is not only ideal for all skin types, it’s a creamy, granular, exfoliating cream formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and Chamomile that very gently polishes away dul, dead skin cells, impurities and toxins to reveal instant radiance and softer, smoother skin too! You’ll love the immediate gratification you’ll get from this formidable favourite of ours. Use 1-2 times weekly.“I love this exfoliator, my skin always feels so smooth and hydrated after using it. It also makes my skin look a lot brighter.” – Orielly R THE FACIAL MASKVie Collection Photo C Bright Radiance MaskTreat yourself to an at-home spa day with a facial mask. It will help draw out any build-up of impurities, dirt and pollution, reduce the appearance of dull skin and increase the look of luminosity! So to brighten a dull complexion, you’ll want a glow mask like Vie Collection’s Photo C Bright Radiance Mask which delivers radiant skin by morning! It is power packed with vitamin c, exfoliating papain, marine minerals and more and we promise after the very first application an incredibly radiant and brightened skin appearance will be revealed!“Love this mask, I use it once a week and what a difference it makes! I leave it one for about 20 minutes and when I rinse it off my skin is literally glowing! Highly recommend.” – Sarah M THE NIGHT CREAMPevonia Micro Retinol Essential MoisturizerThis light and gentle moisturiser increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen and elastin production (essential for youthful, plump skin), fades hyperpigmentation and helps skin stay hydrated and glowing without irritation. It’s a multi-tasking wonder!You should introduce it slowly though and at night. This is because Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays and sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product. To find out more about retinol and this Pevonia’s Micro Retinol range click here.“This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non-greasy, non-shiny. Changes in my skin are an increased smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. It appears luminous and more refined. So, I am going to purchase the whole range. It’s a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age. (60)” – Annie THE FACIAL OILPevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic OilTo complete your skincare routine introducing a facial oil specifically designed to brighten dull skin is key!Pevonia’s De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil is the ultimate barrier warrior featuring a blend of premium and delicate natural oils including safflower, squalane, lavender, chamomile, grapefruit and rose to instantaneously deliver intense hydration while soothing, calming, relaxing, brightening and protecting the skin barrier for ongoing optimal skin health!“I love this face oil! I’ve been using it for a month now as a night-time treatment for my dull, dry skin and the results next morning are fantastic! Smoother, plumper, brighter skin! The scent is also heavenly and definitely transports me into a relaxed state of mind. Such amazing stuff!” – Amy K

9 tips to improve hooded eyes naturally

by Jo Boyden on Mar 30 2022

Dealing with hooded crepey eyelids? Is the skin above your eyes suddenly sagging and you need natural solutions to fix this because surgery just isn’t an option right now? We’ve got you! While sadly surgery is the only way to totally correct this condition, there are a number of steps you can take to improve your sagging eyelids naturally, so read on as we count them down.Firstly though, what exactly are hooded eyelids? And why are you the one dealing with them!?“Hooded crepy eyelids”, “droopy eyelids” “baggy eyelids” or dermatochalasis as it is technically referred to, are when the skin above the eye sags and hangs over the eye. The excess skin occurs between the brow and the upper lash line and in some situations can affect your eyesight.They are caused by a number of factors including genetics (thanks parents!), allergies, dehydrated and nutrient deprived skin and….age, this is because as we get older the collagen and elastin in our skin (which keeps it smooth, supple and youthful) starts to diminish, decreasing firmness and elasticity as well as weakening skin tissue, making it unable to support the weight of our eyelid skin.So what can you do to improve this, before heading down the surgery route? Lots! Look for eye creams and treatments that contain collagen and elastin We love Pevonia’s Lumafirm Eye Contour Lift & Glow! Rich in Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and super hydrator – hyaluronic, this powerhouse product provides powerful anti-ageing benefits to the very delicate eye area – visibly soothing puffiness, reducing signs of fatigue and diminishing crepey eyelids. Use products rich in retinol Retinol you say? Yes, don’t be scared of this superhero ingredient. Indeed, you need to apply with caution, and start off introducing it to your daily skin ritual slowly, but retinol works on both the upper and lower eyelids to improve the skin barrier function and increase the collagen content of the skin! This increase in collagen tightens the skin and visibly reduces any fines lines and sagginess of the eyelids. Yess!Try Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Line. The 4 outstanding products in the line contain all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables. To create each product, Pevonia have used a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and immediate results.Every product in the Micro Retinol Line contains a powerhouse trio of vitamin C, vitamin E, and Micro-Retinol® The addition of vitamins C and E not only ensures Micro-Retinol®’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved. Lay two chilled cucumber slices over your eye lids every day for 20 minutes Yes, this old wives tale actually works! Cucumbers contain ascorbic and caffeic acids, both of which reduce saggy eyelids. They decrease inflammation and naturally tighten skin too!Also, if you wear makeup, opt for a remover formulated with cucumber like Pevonia’s Eye Makeup Remover. It’s beautifully calming and decongesting, soothing and calming sensitive eyes while effectively removing makeup without pressure or friction. Boil two Chamomile tea bags, cool them and place them over eyelids every morning You might not have heard this one before, but Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory so it’s great for strengthening skin and reducing puffiness, swelling and skin irritation around the eyes. As with your cool cucumbers, you can apply two chamomile tea bags to your eye lids. Firstly though, you’ll need to actually make the tea! Place two tea bags into a cup with the boiling water. Next cool them in the fridge for 30 minutes until nice and chilled and then place over your eyes for 20-30 minutes. Do this every morning when you make your cup of tea of coffee and reap in the results! Eat grapes if you aren’t already doing so! A bowl a day will do! Grapes are not only delicious, but they also offer a multitude of benefits! One of them is helping counteract drooping eyelids! How? You may ask! Grapes are full of resveratrol, a natural element that slows cell ageing, so eating more grapes while it won’t necessarily improve your already hooded eyelids it will help slow down skin ageing, preventing excess fine lines and further skin slackening and sagging. Keep skin hydrated and drink plenty of water!! Yes, that old piece of advice! You know those 2 litres (8 cups) of water you are supposed to drink a day for optimum skin health? Yes! do it! Reel in on the smoking If you smoke and you are worried about your baggy eye lids, try to give it up! Tobacco smoke can affect the tissues around the eyes. It can cause puffiness and disorders of the eyelids, such as irritation and inflammation! Get enough shut eye That’s right lack of sleep as we know can affect our eyes. Who hasn’t woken up with saggy, puffy eyes of a morning when they haven’t had enough sleep? It’s time to make sleep a priority. I know easier said than done for some, but I also know myself that I need to practice what I preach, and if I wanted to, I could put down that book or turn off the tv or close my laptop an hour before I actually do each night! Make sure you slip, slop, slap every. single. day, all year around Just as you want to protect your face and body against sun damage you need to remember to protect your eyes too! You might have concerns about applying sunscreen to your delicate eye zone, but don’t! Most sunscreen is safe to use on and around your eyelid region (just don’t accidentally put it in your eyes of course!!)Also wear your sunglasses religiously! After all, you want to protect those sensitive peepers of yours as much as possible. Blue light omitted from our devices can also negatively impact your eye area. So put down those devices! To learn more about blue light damage and how it affects your eyes, click here.If the idea of going under the knife terrifies you, try these solutions first.

8 seriously good serums for 8 common skin conditions

by Jo Boyden on Mar 09 2022

Ask any skincare expert and they’ll tell you that a really, really good serum is an imperative step in your daily skincare routine. In fact, serums address specific skin issues more effectively than both moisturisers and lotions because they are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper into the skin and effectively deliver a very high concentration of active ingredients. Their job is to literally repair the skin at a cellular level and act on a wide range of skin concerns. Want to fade dark spots? There are serums for that. Suffer from skin sensitivities? There are serums for that too! Trying to smooth fine lines? Yes! That too…in fact there is a serum for pretty much every skin type and condition, so read on as we reveal 8 of them and find out which might be best suited to your skins needs! Phytomer Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturizing Polarized Water Serum Best for: DEHYDRATIONIf your prone to dehydration, no matter how much water you consume! this little ultra-moisturising gem should be your go-to on the daily! It’s a superbly nourishing, lightweight serum that cleverly combats dehydration with the exceptional power of polarized weaving algae! It literally melts into skin to visibly hydrate and quench it’s thirst. The result – a softer, suppler, brighter complexion after every application.“This serum is a staple in my skincare collection. I LOVE it. It is such a beautiful, lightweight and silky serum and feels devine to apply. It leaves my dehydrated skin softer, smoother and radiant every time I use it.” – Jojo Phytomer Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum Best for: DULL, FATIGUED SKINIf 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. Cue Phytomer’s Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum. It 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. What’s more, it protects skin against environmental pollution and free radical damage too!.“Absolutely love this serum! Makes my skin feel and look great! I use it year-round, day and night. Would highly recommend it!” – Rebecca Phytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining Serum Best for: ENLARGED PORES, PIGMENTATION & IMPERFECTIONSIf pigmentation, enlarged pores and imperfections are all a concern to you, look no further, this lightweight, refining 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, healthier and more refined.“On my third bottle now and loved how it made a few of my dark spots disappear. It does take a while to see the results but it’s definitely worth the price!” – Vickie K Phytomer Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum with Oligomer Best for: REDNESS, SKIN SENSITIVITY, IRRITATIONSensitive 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. It fortifies the epidermis & prevents cellular fatigue. Calm & soft skin is immediately restored.“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 Phytomer Oligoforce Advanced Wrinkle and Dark Spot Correction Moisturizing Serum Best for: WRINKLES, DARK SPOTSThis newest launch from Phytomer contains two active flagship marine ingredients: OLIGOMER® concentrated sea water and Marine Eternal micro-algae, to target dark blue spots and wrinkles. Its dewy texture, combining all the comfort of an oil and the effectiveness of a serum, envelops the skin in light and delivers intense hydration while improving skin ageing. Day after day, skin is more radiant, dark spots are diminished and wrinkles are visibly smoothed.“I love this serum. I am in my 50’s and have noticeable age spots, skin ageing and dehydrated skin. After using Oligoforce for a month I have already noticed a change in both the appearance and feel of my skin. It’s smoother, more supple and some areas of hyperpigmentation have faded. Highly recommend!” – Brianna R Phytomer Youth Performance Wrinkles Radiance Serum Best for: WRINKLESGreat for those with early signs of ageing, or those concerned about deeper wrinkles, this serum features an exceptional texture which instantly melts on application to create younger looking skin. Its high-tech formulation includes a new, vectorized marine ingredient, Seastem Ciblactiv, which precisely targets the skin's regeneration cells. Results are immediate: wrinkles are smoothed, and the complexion is more radiant from the very first application. Day after day, your face will appear visibly younger. Genious!“This velvety, non-oily serum is terrific. It melts into the skin. My skin feels soft and supple. My skin has increased in volume and density.” – Glen Phytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum Best for: LOSS OF ELASTICITY, LOOSE, SLACKENED SKINNo one likes seeing their skin start to sag as we age thanks to the breakdown in collagen and elastin, but with this miracle serum all is not lost! It’s beautifully lightweight and milky and effectively moisturises and improves skin tissue density by smoothing, firming and plumping the skin as well as enhancing the look of facial contours! Seriously! “I was recommended this serum by a friend and am so glad I was! I’m in my 60’s and have been concerned about my skin getting looser as I age. This serum smells divine and feels light and silky on application and in the month I’ve been using it, it has definitely made a difference to my skin. It is now more supple and visibly firmer too!” wonderful!” – Kylie D Phytomer Pionniere XMF Radiance Retexturizing Serum Best for: ALL SIGNS OF AGEINGAll hail this outstanding anti-ageing and skin brightening serum in one! Worried about all signs of ageing (aren’t we all!) this serum is the one for you! Formulated with XMF and VMR (two new generation marine sugars) it features a luxurious “second-skin” texture that penetrates quickly. Day after day, the skin texture is refined, pores look visibly reduced, the appearance of wrinkles is smoothed, and skin suppleness is restored. I can vouch for this myself!“The thing that I have noticed since using this product is the circles, puffiness and fine lines have greatly decreased.” – Tamsin P Found one that sounds perfect for you?! Well, you’re in for a further treat! For the month of March 2022 when you purchase one of Phytomer’s serums, you’ll receive a NEW Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask for FREE. Want to know more about why you should start using facial masks? Click here.

How to rescue your post-summer skin

by Jo Boyden on Mar 04 2022

Ah summer! My favourite season! With it comes lighter evenings, warmer weather, blue skies, beach days, this list goes on! I must admit I love all things synonymous with the warmest months of the year, even the humidity doesn’t phase me that much, but the one pet peeve I do have is the toll it can take on my skin!While summer might seem like a distant memory thanks to good old La Niña currently raining on our parade! Our skin will still be suffering the consequences of the past hot, humid months. And while it might only be the first day of autumn today (it definitely feels like it all of a sudden!) it’s never too soon to rescue that post summer skin of ours. Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, inflammation, hyperpigmentation or some other sun-induced skin condition, now is the time to put yourself thought beauty rehab and we are here to tell you how! Read on as we count down 6 post summer skincare concerns and how to solve them! Skincare Concern – DEHYDRATION AND DRYNESS Our skin can easily become dehydrated in the summer months even if we are religious about moisturising, this is because hot weather increases water loss from our body, which can cause skin to feel itchy, irritated and dry.SOLUTIONMake sure to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Drink plenty of water (your skin will thank you for it), eat a diet high in collagen-rich foods such as fish, eggs, garlic, citrus fruits and berries and make sure you add a rich oil or deeply nourishing night treatment into your daily skincare routine. Look for formulas with powerhouse ingredients such as ceramides, collagen, retinol, and hyaluronic acid to help increase moisture and restore your skin to its once heavenly glow! We highly recommend Pevonia Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser. It uses glycerin, retinol, hyaluronic, marine collagen and many other skin nourishing and anti-ageing ingredients to protect and cocoon the skin. It literally drenches the skin with hydration, so you wake up to glowy, beautifully renewed by morning. Want to know more about retinol and when and how to apply it? Click here. Skincare concern – BREAKOUTS AND PIMPLES Summer heat tends to mean more sweat, more oil and speedier skin cell production too. When dead skin cells mix with this excess oil and sweat, acne breakouts can occur!SOLUTIONEating a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, can do wonders for skin. They can serve to regulate the skin's oil production, improve balanced hydration and subdue breakouts!Also treating mild to moderate acne with topical treatments is a must. We love Medicalia’s Clarifying Cream. This powerhouse blend of effective actives: Glycolic and Salicylic Acid, Sorbitol, and other soothing and protective ingredients, works to prevent hyperkeratinization while controlling bacteria and promoting a healthier, and more hydrated complexion. Skincare concern – ENLARGED PORES After a few months of being hot and sweaty and continuously applying sunscreen all summer long, there is a good chance your pores might be clogged. This is because you’ve undergone months of accumulating oil, makeup, sweat, and dirt, and being exposed to environmental impurities can negatively affect your complexion. So make sure you invest in a good cleansing mask to help draw out impurities and minimize pore size!SOLUTIONUsing products containing retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids and salicylic will improve cell turnover to minimize the look of your pores. Try Pevonia’s Micro-Pores Bio-Active Mask. It is exceptional for those with enlarged pores and oily skin. Formulated to control sebum production, it visibly minimizes pores, delivers a more matte complexion while hydrating and soothing skin for a younger looking and more even-toned complexion. Skincare concern – DARK SPOTS By now you’ll likely have noticed any additional freckles or dark spots you maybe have accumulated over summer months. Dark spots occur when your skin produces excess melanin stimulated by the sun! Anyone can develop them on their skin and unfortunately once you get them even the tiniest of dark spots will keep growing! So, it’s best to get ahead now and start to treat them!SOLUTIONTo help counteract this sun damage, it is important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C too – the must-have treatment for dark spots!!Vitamin C when applied topically not only boosts our skin’s natural tolerance to the sun, but it is able to help control the formation of pigmentation as well as significantly lightening its appearance too! Make sure you’re armed with a great vitamin C serum and use it daily! I can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complex with Oxyzomes. The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equals radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh, and it feels a-mazing too thanks to its combination of vitamin c and hydrating dynamo hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. Skincare concern – LOSS OF ELASTICITY We all know too much sun, can damage your skin’s moisture barrier, leading to loss of elasticity and even premature aging. Eek!SOLUTIONMake sure you add a skin firming moisturiser into your everyday routine like Pevonia’s Age Correction Firming Marine Elastin Cream. Formulated with Hyaluronic acid and elastin, it delivers powerful repairing and tightening benefits, visibly increasing moisture while improving elasticity. When used in unison with Age Correction Intensifier Elastin and Sorghum, this power pair have outstanding results!What’s more for the month of March 2022, when you purchase this cream, you’ll receive a 50ml Hydrating Cleanser and Lotion for FREE! Skincare concern – REDNESS AND BROKEN CAPILLARIES Sun exposure can aggravate skin redness and increased heat and humidity can bring on facial flushing and exacerbate skin condition rosacea, this is because heat dilates blood vessels.SOLUTIONWhile there is currently no cure for rosacea and facial redness sufferers, you can effectively manage your symptoms by a combination of lifestyle changes, and specific skincare products. Phew! You’ll want to introduce an effective skincare program, such as Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 line. The entire range will help soothe the skin as well as successfully alleviate symptoms but our go-to is the RS2 serum. Soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients work deeply to strengthen capillaries, control blotchiness and restore calmness. Follow this with Pevonia’s RS2 Care Cream for a deeply nourishing protective blanket. Heaven.And remember just because autumn is here and the sun might be hiding behind a thick band of cloud, it doesn’t mean those powerful UV rays can’t penetrate and damage our skin! Keep up the daily sunscreen. It’s imperative!

Beauty Collective - Worried about wrinkles

Worried about wrinkles? How to minimise their appearance

by Jo Boyden on Dec 23 2021

Starting to see signs of ageing on your face? Worried about wrinkles but not loving the idea of Botox or fillers? We hear you! Injectables are definitely not for everyone, nor are they a necessity thanks to the number of natural ways you can ward off or even minimise your wrinkles. Read on as we reveal what they are and pave the way to smooth, plump and radiant skin for as long as humanly possible! Wear sunscreen Yes, the NO.1 when it comes to premature ageing IS the sun and its harmful rays, so to overcome this rather hefty issue, wearing sunscreen, and wearing it religiously, day in day out is key. Nothing will warn away those wrinkles like a good sunscreen. Stay hydrated You and your skin need proper hydration to help defend against facial lines. As well as topical treatments, you need to hydrate your skin from within. You know the drill, drink your 8 glasses of water a day, skin cells need water or they will dehydrate and essential anti-ageing nutrients cannot be delivered to your system.Also including omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and mackerel in your daily diet, will really aid in skin health and hydration too! Apply topical vitamin C If there’s one particular vitamin that needs little to no introduction, it’s vitamin C. Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, the antioxidant powerhouse is known to help with your skin’s collagen production, tackle visible signs of ageing, brighten your complexion, lessen hyperpigmentation and shield skin from free radical damage! Amazing right?Try Pevonia’s Vitamin C Complexe. This product is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too! Moisturise A good anti-ageing, wrinkle fighting moisturiser will not only make skin feel more hydrated, it will also nourish and plump the skin making wrinkles less visible.Choose a daily and nightly moisturiser with high doses of collagen, retinol, hyaluronic acid and peptides that work to reverse the ageing process.Retinol is by far the most proven and effective way of bettering signs of ageing such as uneven pigmentation, roughness, and wrinkling. And one of the best wrinkle skincare ranges is Pevonia’s Micro Retinol line.Just be sure to start introducing it slowly and at night-time and get yourself in the know with this miracle ingredient. Exfoliate Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep older skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build-up of dead, dull skin. Exfoliating helps speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing hyperpigmentation so you want to be getting in on it stat!One of the best exfoliators for all skin types is Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes! It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. I promise you when I say it’ll make your skin appear fresher and younger! Give yourself a facial massage Massaging your face for just one minute per day can help combat those unsightly wrinkles. How? Because facial massage promotes oxygen and blood flow in our skin. Not only does this result in reducing puffiness, it will also increase collagen production, which prevents the formation of wrinkles too!For more information on the benefits of facial massage click here. Be aware of blue light damage from your electronic devices I’ve already preached about the damaging effects of the sun when it comes to premature ageing, but another cause of concern is our own electronic devices! Which let’s face it we all spend far too long going from mobile to laptop to tv every day! Did you even know though that this over excessive so called “screen time” can lead to skin damage? In fact, overexposure can actually prompt the formation of free radicals which break down collagen and cause inflammation, leading to redness, dark spots, and early onset wrinkles. What’s more, blue light has the ability to penetrate skin much more deeply that UV rays causing even more havoc and long-term damage! Scary right?So what should you do to protect your skin? Obviously reducing screen time is the best bet but if your job and lifestyle won’t really allow it, next best step is to apply a topical protective treatment like Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. It’s an everyday sunscreen with contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. Eat antioxidant rich food The diet you eat can visibly reflect on your skin, so instead of doubling down on the sugary treats that are in abundance this season, opt for antioxidant rich foods such as berries, leafy greens and whole grains. Add green tea to your daily diet too, which also provides natural antioxidants. Exercise daily We all know the numerous benefits of exercise but did you know how important it is for slowing down skin ageing too? Daily exercise increases the delivery of nutrients to skin's cells and provides optimum conditions for collagen production, in turn warding off early wrinkles and fine lines! Stop stressing Easier said than done for some of us I know but high levels of stress can prematurely age you! If life can sometimes seem like a little much, try and take 5 minutes out to simply listen to music, practice mindfulness, do some deep breathing exercises or meditate. Proven to induce a state of relaxation, all methods can decrease stress and anxiety and change mindset in minutes. Get your beauty sleep Haven’t we all heard this a million times! But sadly, it’s true. The quality and length of sleep you receive every night can have a profound impact on your skin’s overall health. When we sleep our bodies recharge. Not only do our bodies recharge, our skin does too. During sleep, we heal, restore and eliminate toxins from the skin and with enough sleep, our bodies are able to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid – the molecules that give the skin its youthful glow and elasticity.. Only getting 5 hours a night can lead to twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 would! Eek.Also, how you sleep can have a huge effect on your skin’s appearance! If you are a lover of sleeping on your front you might want to reconsider this position! When you sleep on your front, your skin is pushed up against the pillow for hours at a time which can reinforce lines, especially around the eyes, forehead and lips. The best way to prevent these wrinkles is by sleeping on your back. You can also reduce damage by using a silk pillowcase which allows for more movement, or a memory foam pillow which doesn’t compress the skin as much.

10 of the most common skincare questions answered by the BC pros

by Jo Boyden on Nov 26 2021

We all have those burning questions we want answered when it comes to looking after our skin the best we can but with the plethora of information out there, thanks to today’s countless number of beauty bloggers, vloggers, editors and influencers alike, it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed when it comes to the abundance of beauty advice. From what you should be using to how to best care for your skin concern, the BC experts have answered 10 of the most common skincare questions asked, and not only by our BC customers but the majority of people globally too! Q 1. What products should everyone have in their skincare routine?A. The basic steps of a skin-care routine are a gentle cleanser, an exfoliator, a moisturizer, and a sunscreen. But for optimum results it’s a great idea to build in a toner, serum, eye cream, face mask and face oil too! Q 2. What order should I apply my products?A. While skincare is very much a personal choice and depends on your skin type and concern, when it comes to the order of application there is a right way and a wrong way! Applying your skincare products in the proper order will ensure your skin receives the full benefits of each product.Every product is formulated with a number of key ingredients to help our skin but only a very small amount of these ingredients can properly penetrate to the deeper layers of the dermis which is why the order we apply them is paramount! If you don’t apply them in the correct order, you will not see the best results from your skincare routine.Here is the order in which you should apply your products to get the most out of them. And remember to really see a difference in your skin, you should follow this routine both morning and night. It goes without saying that your skincare routine has to start with a clean face. A gentle, natural cleanser that also takes off make-up is definitely your best choice. For more info on cleansing click here. After cleansing it’s a good idea to use a toner or otherwise known as a lotion, but there is a lot of hype around whether a toner is really necessary. It’s a personal choice at the end of the day but today’s toners do everything from protect the skin, to controlling excess oil to adding additional moisturising benefits. In fact, they help prepare the skin so that when you put your moisturizer on, it works even more effectively. An imperative part of any skincare routine is to exfoliate. But an exfoliator should only be used once or twice a week depending on your skin type. Exfoliators are paramount when it comes to keeping your skin silky soft and smooth by buffing away and removing unwanted dead skin cells and debris. They keep pores clean and in turn prevent skin from becoming blocked leading to breakouts! To learn all about the benefits of exfoliating click here. Next comes the serum. Serums may seem a little “extra,” but given how much it does for the skin—from evening skin tone, to brightening your complexion, reducing dark spots to softening the appearance of fine lines—there really isn’t a single reason why you wouldn’t want to incorporate one into your skin care routine. I’m personally obsessed with my serums. To learn more about why you need a serum in your skincare routine as well as the best anti-ageing serums for every skin type click here. Moisturiser. Hydrating your skin is one of the best ways to fend off aging and keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay. To really get the maximum effect of a moisturiser, try to find one that not only provides moisture but locks it in too! To read all about the top selling moisturisers on BC click here. An eye cream. The area around the eye is extraordinarily delicate and ages very, very quickly, so treat it with care by incorporating a really good eye cream or gel into your skin care routine. You won’t be sorry you did! Sunscreen. We all know my stance on sunscreen! Protecting your skin from the sun with a good sunscreen should be as vital a part of your skin care regime as washing your face! In fact, it is THE no. 1 preventative skincare for ageing! And we all NEED to be using it daily come rain, hale or shine! Q 3. Should I be using different products for morning and night?A. Obviously, there is no need to apply sunscreen at night but using a face oil nightly before bed (and as the last product in your skincare routine) will do wonders for your skin! Click here for the 6 reasons why you should start using face oils!It’s also a great idea to incorporate a face mask at night, once a week. If you want to know more about why you should use a face mask too, click here. Q 4. Do I really need a separate eye cream or can I use my moisturiser?A. You’ve been told to invest in an eye cream but you aren’t sure why you should fork out the extra dollars, after all do you really need to use a separate cream for your eyes? Will your moisturiser not suffice?You could indeed use your moisturiser as an eye cream but it’s definitely not advised and we are here to explain why.In short, eye treatments whether it be creams, gels or serums are specifically formulated to target and care for the delicate area around the eyes, the thinnest layer of skin on our entire bodies! In fact, the skin under our eyes is up to 1/10 thinner than other facial skin so it’s crucial to care delicately for this area to avoid any damage.Like a moisturiser, an eye cream’s main objective is to deliver brightening and anti-ageing ingredients, however in a milder, gentler, safer dose. Moisturisers tend to have a much richer consistency in comparison to their counterpart which if applied under the eyes can prove too much, resulting in irritation, allergic reactions and milia.Eye treatments also tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns – crow’s feet, under eye bags, dark circles instead of the huge array of facials concerns a moisturiser is targeted too, so it actually saves time and money in the long run! Also some ingredients that often appear in eye treatments, not so much face moisturisers (for example Ginkgo Biloba, caffeine…) can offer quick and temporary fixes to problems specific to just the eye area.The bottom line is that eye creams are essentially facial moisturisers that are modified for use on the more delicate skin around the eyes and let’s not forget this skin ages faster than the rest of your face so there is no time like the present to start looking after it correctly! Q 5. How often should you exfoliate?A. While there isn’t a hard and fast rule when it comes to exfoliating, generally if you have normal to oily skin exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week is good. However, if you have dry skin 1-2 times a week is advisable. Even those suffering with sensitive or acne prone skin need to exfoliate, you just need to steer clear of physical exfoliators which contain granules which can further irritate the skin, instead opt for enzyme exfoliators. To learn more about exfoliating and then best exfoliators for your skin type click here. Q 6. How can you prevent your skin from ageing?A. Unfortunately, aging skin is a natural part of getting older, but there are some things you can do to help stop your skin from ageing prematurely. First and foremost, apply sunscreen every single day whether it’s sunny, overcast or raining, to protect your skin against harmful sun damage. The sun’s powerful UV rays even have the ability to penetrate glass, so wearing it at all times is best! Sun damage can lead to the formation of wrinkles and dark spots. It is also recommended that you use gentle cleansers to avoid unnecessary dryness or irritation, which can cause the skin to become inflamed.Ensuring you follow a comprehensive skincare routine is also paramount. Make sure you look out for products containing the top 5 skincare ingredients too! Q 7. What age should you start using anti-ageing skincare products/products designed specifically for ageing?A. This is one of the most common skincare questions. Many experts advise that you begin using anti-aging products in your 20s and continue to incorporate them as part of your daily skincare routine. This is because your skin stops producing collagen in your 20s. Resultantly, anti-aging products offer preventative measures against the visible signs of aging. Q 8. How can you get rid of my acne?A. If you are suffering from acne but nothing seems to be improving it, we are here to help. Firstly, though you need to understand which acne you are suffering from and then you can understand how to best treat it. For more information click here. Q 9. Can you use retinol if you have sensitive skin?A. In short, the answer to this is yes! And retinol is one of THE best skincare ingredients going, in fact it's hailed by most of us skincare experts as the Holy Grail of the skincare world! But those with sensitive or easily irritated skin should approach retinol use with caution as it can cause skin irritation if used at the wrong time and incorrectly. For your guide to this superhero ingredient read more here. Q 10. What is the best moisturiser for dry skin?A. There is a multitude of moisturisers on the market targeted at dry skin. When deciding what might be best for you though, it’s important to look at the key ingredients in the cream. You want a deeply nourishing moisturiser for your dry skin so hydrating ingredients are a must. These include;Shea ButterHyaluronic AcidVitamin EGlycerinSqualaneAloePevonia’s Dry Skin Cream is a dream for those parched complexions just turning for a moisturising boost. It is formulated with shea butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe and collagen and counteracts dryness while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles for a rejuvenated, hydrated appearance!If you still have unanswered beauty questions, please search our blog for tips, tricks and expert knowledge when it comes to skin concerns, steps, products, ingredients and more. Also feel free to contact us at Beauty Collective.

The best way to treat dark spots on your face

by Jo Boyden on Nov 24 2021

If you find yourself suddenly susceptible to dark spots on your skin do not distress! Dark spots, or otherwise known as age spots, sun spots, brown spots or hyperpigmentation, is a common condition but one that can be helped by following a few simple steps! So, if your dark spots are bothering you and you want to know how to treat them read on.Firstly though, what exactly are dark spots and why have you started to get them you might ask?Dark spots are patches of skin that become darker in colour to your normal surrounding skin. This occurs when your skin produces excess melanin or the melanin clusters in certain areas of your body. Melanin, if you don’t already know, is a type of pigment that gives colour to your skin, hair and eyes. Dark spots are usually caused by a number of different factors such as acne scarring, genetics, hormones, age and most commonly sun damage. They become especially prolific in the warmer months due to increase in sun exposure. In other words, increased melanin production is stimulated by the sun!Anyone can develop dark spots on their skin, but certain factors can increase your risks including, being over 40 years of age, having light hair and fair skin, frequent exposure to the sun and history of sunburn! If like me you have ticked all of the above, you may well already be susceptible or could have a few dark spots to look forward to eeek! And remember even tiny dark spots will keep growing! So, let's get ahead now and start to treat them or try our hardest to prevent them from ever forming!So what’s the best way to treat dark spots? Don’t become slack with your sunscreen! Sunscreen! Here we are again preaching about the importance of sunscreen! And here is another reason to wear this superhero product. Sun exposure doesn’t only increase melanin production, UV exposure makes discoloration darker too — so slather on that sunscreen on every. single. day to make sure your dark spots don’t become darker, as well as prevent getting new ones from forming!For the best lightweight daily SPF, my personal go-to is ELES Cosmetics’ Luminous Defence Brightening Day protection SPF 50. It’s lovely and light (none of this thick white greasy emulsion!) plus not only does it protect skin against the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent discolouration while diminishing existing dark spots, all whilst calming and brightening your complexion too! Just what the doctor ordered!Another favourite of some of the girls at BC includes Vie Collection’s Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF 30. 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.And if you want to protect skin from UV rays as well as blue light damage, try Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. This everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away.It 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! Exfoliate Ah, the many benefits of exfoliation! A good weekly exfoliation will break up dead surface skin cells, lighten dark spots and reveal a fresh glowy complexion instead! For the perfect all-rounder exfoliator for all skin types, we LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single use!To learn all about the beautifying benefits of exfoliation and which other exfoliators might be best for your skin this spring click here. Wear skincare rich in Vitamin C In the warmer months, when the sun is shining, UVB radiation is at its strongest, so it’s important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C in our skincare too! Vitamin C when applied topically not only boosts our skin’s natural tolerance to the sun, but it is able to help control the formation of pigmentation as well as significantly lightening its appearance too! So it’s a must-have treatment for dark spots!!Make sure therefore, you are armed with a great vitamin C serum or cream. I can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complex with Oxyzomes. The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equals radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh, and it feels a-mazing too thanks to its combination of vitamin c and hydrating powerhouse hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. Add Glycolic Acid to your skincare routine AHA Glycolic Acid is a chemical exfoliator that fights both skin breakouts and wrinkles by declogging, resurfacing and brightening the skin. In addition, this skincare saint is known for reducing dark spots and evening out skin tone so it’s one of the best treatments for dark spots on the face!I love Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream. It combines Glycolic acid with hero ingredient Hyaluronic Acid to dramatically improve skin’s texture. Try using Retinol at night Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is another go-to ingredient to help in the quest against dark spots and the sooner you start using it in your skincare routine the better. In addition to encouraging cell turnover and exfoliating away minor discolorations, this amazing ingredient also helps to prevent future dark spots through a photoprotective antioxidant. Just be sure to apply it at night, since it may induce heightened sun sensitivity, and ease it in slowly.Try Medicalia’s L Retinol Smoothing Cream. It’s a must in the fight against dark spots! 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. And at the end of the day remember prevention with sunscreen is key!

Beauty Collective - skincare for clear blemish free skin

6 ingredients you need in your skincare for clear, blemish-free skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 01 2021

If you are prone to breakouts and tired of battling them, you may want to consider switching up your skincare routine and introduce products that incorporate these 6 blemish-fighting ingredients into your everyday life. Salicylic AcidWhen it comes to breakouts, salicylic acid should always be your trusty go-to. The most potent ingredient when it comes to battling blemishes and every dermatologist’s go-to, Salicylic is a superstar purifying BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) that’s calming, decongesting and antibacterial. Don’t let the word ‘acid’ put you off though, as even those with sensitive skin can tolerate it. It works by penetrating deep into the skin to exfoliate clogged pores, as well as dissolve oil build-up and dead cells from the skin’s surface!To fight pimples, we suggest using a salicylic acid-based cleanser like Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser which provides pore-clearing benefits in a super gentle lather that won’t dry out the skin, stripping it of moisture. We also love Phytomer’s’ Oligopur Blemish Target Gel, it’s a phenomenal spot treatment which targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! “This is an amazing blemish gel! I'm 37 and still get a few monthly breakouts. The Phytomer Blemish Gel works almost overnight, or over the course of the day as you can apply it over make up without worrying that it will show or mess up your foundation or powder. It doesn't dry you out and absorbs quickly.” Leanne Glycolic AcidA natural exfoliant derived from sugar cane, this glow-giving hero ingredient seems to do it all! Not only is it very effective at exfoliating skin and treating/preventing acne (thanks to its ability to penetrate deep within the skin), it also has the power to reduce fine lines, fade dark spots, increase skin thickness, and even out skin tone and texture! It’s therefore no surprise that you’ll find it in many a product!So, if your skin is looking dull, devitalised and it feels like you are forever battling blemishes, we highly recommend Pevonia’s Problematic Skincare Cream rich in Glycolic Acid. It works amazingly on problematic skin reducing overall breakouts while leaving your complexion soft, supple and pores clog-free! “It works great on my problematic skin reducing overall breakouts. Leaves my skin soft and does not clog my pores.” Tara Benzoyl PeroxideAnother truly 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. Pevonia’s SpaTeen Blemish B-Gone combines both organic Benzoyl Peroxide with organic Salicylic Acid to counteract bacteria and well as preventing future breakouts. “This is the BEST spot treatment that I have ever tried. I use it once at night and once in the morning. It totally took care of my breakouts. I can carry it in my bag with no problems, and it is easy to use. I'm hooked!” Ella W 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. As a lightweight natural ash residue hydrocarbon, charcoal easily pulls toxins out of the skin for a clean, purified, and healthy complexion as it restores a normalized cellular function. Try Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask. Apply once a week to oily and blemish prone skin and watch it work its magic. “I love this mask so much. It feels creamy to apply and then slightly dry’s to touch. It is my new favourite mask, drawing out impurities and clearing any outbreaks.” Lorraine RetinolThe 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! We are loving Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Serum. “I ran out of a previous retinol product and gradually my skin started to look awful, dull and dehydrated. I love the Pevonia Power Rich repair moisturizer, so I thought I would try this as well. Literally could see and feel the difference overnight!” Winner! LeahTo find out more about retinol and the right products for you click here. Hyaluronic AcidProbably the most famous skincare ingredient of them all, and renowned as every beauty expert’s ‘must-have’, hyaluronic acid has the ability to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin. It binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant and thanks to its sponge-like effect, every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water so when topically applied it’s like a burst of intense hydration to the skin yet will not clog pores, making it the perfect hydrator for blemish prone skin. Even though when you are suffering from oily blemish prone skin you think applying moisturiser is the last thing you need, it’s actually one of the most important aspects of lessening pesky pimples and all out acne alike! Making sure the epidermis, your skin’s top layer, is hydrated is paramount for your skin’s health. Hyaluronic acid is also different from normal hydrators because it acts like a water magnet and maintains skin’s oil and water balance.We are hands down in awe of Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market. “I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” Mary C For more information on which type of blemishes you suffer from and how to best treat them click here as well as the best makeup tips for blemish/acne prone skin.

Skincare Makeup - What’s in your foundation? The top 5 ingredients to look out for

by Jo Boyden on Sep 16 2021

Almost every day there’s a new skincare superstar set to transform your complexion, the latest and greatest skincare ingredients that promise to deliver outstanding results, and while some become just passing fads, others remain true ingredient classics that we all look for when selecting products for our specific skincare needs. But have you ever really considered what ingredients you should be looking for in your foundation?Foundation, in the past, has always been categorised as makeup, a short term ‘fix’ or superficial layer to conceal flaws and help create the illusion of perfect skin. But who says your foundation can’t have long-term skin benefits like your skincare products? After all shouldn’t your foundation enhance your complexion not mask it? It seems crazy to spend so much time and money on perfecting your morning skincare ritual, using the best of the best for your specific skincare needs, only to undo all the good by applying makeup that’s full of toxic ingredients on top.From clogging pores, causing blemishes to more serious skin irritations what you are putting on your face can have a less than desirable effect! So what ingredients should you be looking out for in your foundation for your best skin yet?If you ask any expert, there are five key ingredients which we’ve highlighted below, and fortunately the clever people at ELES Cosmetics have ensured they feature in their entire range of foundations! Vitamin EThis nurturing, powerful antioxidant offers a heap of skin benefits. It works to nourish and protect skin from the effects of pollution and free radical damage, as well as help block blue light rays (all of which are known to speed up the ageing process eek). It is also helps maintain healthy skin by assisting in the repairing of damaged cells.Zinc OxideThis outstanding mineral is hypoallergenic which means it’s ideal for all skin types even those with the most sensitive of complexions. When applied topically in makeup, it offers several important benefits for the skin; it protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays preventing skin damage, it helps to reduce skin inflammation and repair skin cells, and finally it keeps excess oil at bay.Titanium DioxideOne of the cosmetics industry’s best kept secrets, this mineral, like Zinc Oxide is ideal for those suffering from sensitive prone skin. It helps soak up oils in the skin, reducing any unwanted shine while absorbing and scattering both UVA and UVB rays thus preventing sun damage and premature ageing. Finally it is prized for its long-lasting and waterproof properties.Sodium HyaluronateOtherwise known as Hyaluronic Acid it works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much of it as possible so that your skin feels and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.A single gram of hyaluronic acid has the impressive ability to hold up to six litres of water. Add to that, a super smart ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them and you've got one genius ingredient.Vitamin AVitamin A is essential when it comes to the health of your skin. It’s involved in the production of fresh, new cells, which keeps your skin both functioning and looking its best. It can also minimize fine lines and wrinkles by boosting the production of collagen, fight signs of UV damage and slough away dead skin cells helping to prevent clogged pores.

Why you need a serum: The best anti-ageing serums for every skin type

by Jo Boyden on Sep 15 2021

I’m a self-proclaimed skincare buff and for good reason. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in the industry for 20 years now (oh my!) and as a result, try many an amazing product during this time. But the one product I swear by (aside from my daily moisturiser of course!) and know my skin hugely benefits from, is my serum.Now you might well have your reservations when it comes to serums (or concentrates as otherwise known) because a) how does it really differ from your moisturiser I hear you say and b) because let’s face it keeping up with your daily skincare ritual can be costly and since you are already using a cleanser, exfoliator, moisturiser, eye cream and face oil, surely a serum isn’t necessary as well? Well if you want your skin to live its best life, I’m here to tell you it really will be worth that extra investment, but firstly, it’s important you understand why. So what exactly is serum and what is its purpose?Serums are like a shot for the skin. Firstly they tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products, this is because they are developed with a higher concentration of targeted active ingredients. Secondly, the purpose of a serum is to target a specific concern.Most often, serums are clear, gel-based or liquid formulations and are applied before moisturisers to help lock in moisture. Packed with potent anti-ageing ingredients, they have the ability to hydrate more effectively than even the heaviest of creams because the molecules are able to truly penetrate the skin and hydrate on the deepest level, while your cream tends to sit on and nourish the top layers of your skin. Serums do not however replace your moisturiser, but instead boost the effects of your moisturiser. What serum is right for me?There are a multitude of serums out here ranging from anti-ageing to anti-acne, hydration to skin brightening and more, so in order to work out what will be best for you, you need to decipher what it is your skin really needs from the serum. For dry complexions, look for formulas that incorporate hydrating proteins such as hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin. While ageing, dull or combination skin will benefit from serums with both vitamin C and retinol.Below we have selected our most loved serums for each common skin type and concern so read on to see which could be a game-changer for your complexion! Best serum for photo-damaged and lacklustre skinPevonia Optimal C ComplexTargets: Dullness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Vitamin C helps to stimulate collagen production for younger-looking skin, Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and drenches skin with repairing antioxidants while Chitosan Ascorbate accelerates tissue regeneration.This unique microemulsified gel boosts skins radiance and renders it bright, smooth and revitalized. “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps, and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” - Deborah WBest serum for dry, thirsty skinPevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra SerumTargets: Dehydration, lack of suppleness, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Features 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), to deliver immediate skin soothing results and deep hydrationThe ultimate for seriously thirsty skin, this serum eliminates dryness almost instantly as it quite literally blasts even the most dehydrated of complexions with a surge of moisture, maintaining surface hydration throughout the day. By adding moisture back into your skin, this serum immediately boosts skin’s suppleness and combats ageing in multiple ways thanks to its skin-plumping properties.“I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” - Marie C Best for sensitive and breakout prone skinPevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateTargets: Inflammation, rosacea, acneHero Ingredients: Propolis, lavender and vetiver oil to desensitize, decongest, heal and strengthen fragile skin.With anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, Pevonia’s Soothing Propolis Concentrate is the perfect elixir for inflamed, sensitive or acne prone skin.“I love this product, I bought it while i was pregnant and had severe hormonal acne and it seemed to calm, soothe and reduce the “angriness” of my skin! Since having baby I have continued to use this product and it has since reduced my pore size and also made my skin more evenly toned. I recommend to anyone who has skin problems as it also contains anti-microbial properties and antibacterial to keep those yukky breakouts to a minimum!” – Melinda L Best serum for mature, ageing skinPevonia MyOxy – Caviar Timeless Repair SerumTargets: Fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticityHero Ingredients: Formulated with a high concentration of age-defying Caviar and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus Blend)An all-rounder for tackling advanced signs of ageing Pevonia’s Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair serum works to immediately increase skins plumpness, softening and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Skin’s texture and elasticity is noticeably improved, resulting in a tighter, finer, resurfaced complexion and an unequivocal youthful radiance.“I LOVE this stuff. Pricey yes but I noticed a dramatic decrease in my wrinkles as well as a smoother texture in a matter of weeks.” - Tanya L Best serum for mature, photo-damaged and hyperpigmented skinMedicalia Retinol ConcentrateTargets: Uneven skin tone, dark spots, lines and wrinkles, sagging skinHero Ingredients: Micro Retinol, Vitamin E, Vitamin CFormulated to amplify results, this serum’s 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 ageing skin I have found.” - Heather Best serum for oily skin with enlarged poresPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Micro-Pores Bio Active SerumTargets: pore size, oil excess, uneven skin textureHero Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Red Clover and pseudoalteromonas ferment extract; a ground-breaking peptide that contains three skin perfecting amino acids; Glycine, Histidine and LysineDeeply hydrating microemulsified gel with a light texture. Formulated with bio-active breakthrough ingredients that work deep within hair follicles to normalise sebum production, reduce pore size for a matte and even complexion.“This is a wonderful product, it does exactly what it says. It minimises large pores and reduces oily skin around my nose and cheeks. Highly recommend!” - Rhiannon K Best serum for dehydration and signs of ageingPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and Myoxy caviarTargets: Fine lines, lack of suppleness, damaged skin cellsHero Ingredients: Marine Collagen Polypeptides, Caviar Extract Hibiscus Esculentus extractThis rich silky-smooth gel formula in concentrated Marine Collagen and Myoxy Caviar, has been designed to combat signs of ageing in multiple ways by nourishing, oxygenating and plumping the skin. Luminous skin surfaces as cells are repairs and fine lines and wrinkles diminished.“I absolutely LOVE this serum. It gives my dry skin an instant boost! My skin is immediately hydrated and looks smoother with renewed luminosity.” - Jo BBest New Serum for firming and plumpingPhytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum Targets: loose, slackened, uneven skinHero Ingredients: Marine Algae, Squalane, Lily of the Valley, Jasmine, PeonyThis beautifully lightweight milky serum effectively moisturises and improves skin tissue density by smoothing, firming and plumping the skin as well as enhancing the look of facial contours! “I was recommended this serum by a friend and am so glad I was! I’m in my 60’s and have been concerned about my skin getting looser as I age. This serum smells divine and feels light and silky on application and in the month I’ve been using it, it has definitely made a difference to my skin. It is now more supple and visibly firmer too!” wonderful! - Kylie D

Beauty Collective - 7 of the most common skin concerns

Botox in a bottle? 5 ways to effectively treat your frown lines and wrinkles

by Jo Boyden on Sep 03 2021

Are the effects of covid playing havoc with your skin thanks to stress? Feel like you are looking 10 years older? And then to make matters worse those furrowed frown lines and forehead wrinkles are reappearing since your Botox is wearing off, but beauty salons and cosmetic institutes are unlikely to reopen any time soon due to lockdown!The thing is you can effectively treat them naturally without the need for cosmetic injectables by following a few simple steps! And thanks to the advancement in both technology and skincare ingredients, there are now a number of excellent alternatives to treating your lines, which can seriously achieve similar smoothing and plumping results to Botox, and while you are unlikely to see life-changing results overnight (even Botox takes a week to have effect don’t you know) these non-invasive topical alternatives give you more control over the change in your appearance (no poker-face in sight), provide a much more natural look, plus you will achieve outstanding on-going results when used as part of your daily skincare routine. Yess!So if you are looking for ways to address those pesky frown lines and wrinkles, keep reading as we reveal 5 simple steps to truly treat them naturally. Treat with topical skincare specifically designed to combat wrinkles In the quest to eliminate the furrowed frown and fine lines, going under the needle reigns supreme, but if you are like me and needles are a formative no-go, or you simply can’t get to your salon because #lockdown, there are pain-free, natural and relatively inexpensive topical solutions that will help reduce those early signs of ageing. For our recommended natural alternatives that actually work, click here. Eat a healthy diet that includes lots of water You and your skin need proper hydration to help defend against facial lines. You know the drill, drink your 8 glasses of water a day, but also eat a diet rich in essential fruits and veggies and omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and mackerel as these will really aid in skin health and hydration. Get enough sleep to allow your skin to recharge Haven’t we all heard this a million times! But sadly, it’s true. The quality and length of sleep you receive every night can have a profound impact on your skin's overall health. When we sleep our bodies recharge. Not only do our bodies recharge, our skin does as well. During sleep, we heal, restore and eliminate toxins from the skin. Only getting 5 hours a night can lead to twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 would! Eek.Also, how you sleep can have a huge effect on your skin’s appearance! If you are a lover of sleeping on your front you might want to reconsider this position! When you sleep on your front, your skin is pushed up against the pillow for hours at a time which can reinforce frown lines, especially around the eyes, forehead and lips. The best way to prevent these wrinkles is by sleeping on your back. You can also reduce damage by using a silk pillowcase which allows for more movement, or a memory foam pillow which doesn’t compress the skin as much. Use sunscreen every, single day And no using sunscreen isn’t going to reduce the wrinkles you already have, but it will help prevent you getting more.Ah sunscreen, the product that no one likes to wear but is truly amazing stuff! Why? Because sunscreen can not only protect your skin and help prevent premature skin ageing caused by the sun, including wrinkles, sagging and age spots, it can also actually reverse common signs of photoaging such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation! Genius!I’m not a lover of the feeling of SPF on my face but I can highly recommend Medicalia’s new Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. It not only protects skin against the harmful rays of the sun, but also blue light damage omitted from our devices!! And I’m sure many of us are having a little too much screen time at the moment!I also religiously wear my Age-Defying ELES BB Cream SPF 30 daily. It’s an amazing multi-tasking and benefit-packed cream that primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen and protect skin on contact! It’s just perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger with a gorgeous subtle glow.Also wearing sunglasses are imperative! Not only will they stop you from squinting (which doing so repeatedly can equate to wrinkles!) They’ll protect those precious peepers and the delicate skin around them too! Exfoliate your face one to two times a week Regular exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep older skin looking youthful and bright. As we age, our skin's natural exfoliation process slows down and causes a build-up of dead, dull skin. Exfoliating helps speed up cellular turnover, softening fine lines and wrinkles and diminishing hyperpigmentation so you want to be getting in on it!One of my favourite exfoliators is Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture and my skin always looks clearer, brighter and smoother after every use! But if granules scare you, I also LOVE Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It's a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin types and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. I promise you when I say it’ll make your skin appear fresher and younger!

Beauty Collective - Celebrity anti-aging beautty tips

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!

Beauty Collective - best vitamin skincare

Your guide to the best vitamin skincare – essential for skin health

by Jo Boyden on Jun 23 2021

I’m sure we’ve all taken vitamin supplements in our time. In fact, I’m pretty sure the majority of us still take them daily, or if not at least stock up on those vitamin rich fresh fruits and leafy green veggies to get our vitamin intake! Vitamins are after all, essential for our body’s functionality! Did you know though that not only do they make sure that everything is working on the inside, they also play a major role in the appearance of our skin, hair and nails too! Yes, that’s right, without sufficient vitamins our skin can be prone to dark spots, redness, wrinkles, rough patches, excessive dryness and more!The great news is that aside from taking supplements and looking after our daily diet, one of the most effective ways to nourish our skin is to apply vitamins topically with skincare!Knowing which vitamins to look out for and how they will best benefit your skin is a great way to carefully select the best vitamin skincare products for your skin's needs though. So read on for our guide to the best vitamins in skincare and our favourite products that you need for optimum skin health! Vitamin CIf there’s one particular vitamin that needs little to no introduction, it’s vitamin C. Recommended by every beauty expert as a go-to ingredient in your beauty arsenal, the antioxidant powerhouse is known to help with your skin’s collagen production, tackle visible signs of ageing, brighten your complexion, lessen hyperpigmentation and shield skin from free radical damage! Amazing right?Try: Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe. This product is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!Vitamin AVitamin A (otherwise known as retinol in the skincare world) is another highly acclaimed skincare ingredient. In fact, it is hailed as the holy grail of the skincare world! Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child!If you’re new to vitamin A however, we recommend introducing it slowly to build up a tolerance. To learn more about retinol and when best to apply click here.Try: Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential MoisturiserFor those with advanced signs of aging – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser is your go-to! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with Retinol, Hyaluronic, Squalane, and Marine Collagen, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms! Best results when used in conjunction with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Serum.Vitamin EThe most nourishing of all the vitamins, Vitamin E is deeply moisturising and anti-inflammatory so it’s ideal for those suffering from sensitive, dehydrated, dry and lacklustre skin.It is also one of the most powerful natural antioxidants so it helps to protect our skin from harmful free radicals caused by pollution, UV rays, excessive alcohol, smoking and other environmental nasties.Try: Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate. Rich in Vitamins E, A and Mandarin Essential Oil, this soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma, is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats premature ageing, dehydration, and excessive dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning.Vitamin DVitamin D is one of, if not THE best vitamins for your skin, problem is the best source comes from the sun and we are all taught from an early age to shield ourselves from said sun due to the daily damage it can cause. Thing is the sun isn’t all bad. Just 10–15 minutes of daily exposure helps manufacture vitamin D throughout the skin. Then make sure you apply your SPF after that!

The Truth about Stem Cells Skin Care: Does it really reverse skin ageing?

by Jo Boyden on Jun 16 2021

We’ve all heard of “Stem Cells” right? Those “special” cells in our body which have the ability to self-renew and repair (so clever). So it may come as no surprise to hear (if you haven’t already!) that one of the newest and most popular high-tech ways to counteract skin ageing is stem cell technology in skincare! Yes beauty experts and scientists alike, are turning to stem cells in the form of creams, serums and even cleansers, to fight wrinkles and improve skin turnover! But the big question is, can these stem cells really stimulate human cell production because many skincare companies are claiming they do!Here we dish the dirt on the truth about stem cells in skincare!A significant challenge for any skin care brand is to provide functional, trendy, innovative AND safe products with a long shelf life. Today, most of us are simply not prepared to use human or animal products in the name of beauty! And not just because of testing, because simply put the idea of slathering some other person or animals stem cells all over your face is well a little creepy!Enter plant stem cell culture!Plant regeneration at the cellular (and tissue) level is a unique process. Like humans, the stem cells in plants have properties that help stimulate and regenerate after the plant is injured. What is interesting however is that plants are more advanced as they are equipped with a robust mechanism for regeneration of their tissues under stress. In other words, cutting the branch of a tree also results in a new bud/branch growth!Plant stem cells are adaptive. A protein in a plant can turn regular plant cells into stem cells. Magical! So, can we use this unique mechanism in plants for improving tissue regeneration in humans? Here is what we know so far:Plant stem cells in skin care is still in its infancy.Stem Cells skin care is not about putting “live” stem cells into a cream to help you produce new stem cells, the beauty industry is simply not advanced enough for this yet. So it’s hard to believe many companies are claiming this when it simply can’t be true! Unless a system capable of keeping live stem cells alive in a cream is created, live stem cells in cosmetics would be next to useless, they would die before the cream hit the market.Most stem cells skin care lines use stem cell extracts, and while they do not stimulate human stem cell production there have been enough clinical studies to support the fact that they greatly improve the health of our own skin cells and do many other great things, including; 1. They increase fibroblast activityThis is a definite plus in age-management as it helps the production of the vital proteins of collagen and elastin whose degradation is hugely responsible for the signs of skin ageing. 2. They increase cell production and growthAgain, a huge plus as the rate of new healthy cell production slows down dramatically as you get older. 3. They decrease the depth of lines and wrinkles From approximately 8-15%, which may not sound a lot, but this is after only 4 weeks use. In the long term you could expect to see much more. 4. They reduce the breakdown of Collagen and Hyaluronic in our bodiesWe know that Collagen and Hyaluronic are vital for healthy, youthful skin so a reduction in their breakdown is great news. 5. They have strong antioxidant propertiesStem Cell Extracts help to prevent “free-radical” damage to healthy skin cells. 6. They are very nutritious for our skinThey contain high concentrations of lipids, proteins, amino acids and phytoalexins (antimicrobial and often antioxidative substances). 7. They increase the skin’s level of filaggrin proteins A deficiency in filaggrin proteins leads to dryness and problems with eczema. When the skin lacks this protein, its ability to shield against pollution and topical toxic substances is reduced. So have we sold you on Stem Cells skincare yet? Cue Pevonia’s Stem Cells Phyto Elite line.Hailed for its ability to stimulate the reversal of the ageing cycle of the skin, the line, powered by two ground-breaking plant cell sources – the reparative Moroccan Argan Tree and European Comfrey Root – combined with anti-ageing super stars Retinol, Vitamins C and E and Marine Collagen, works deep within the skin to radically reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while firming and deeply hydrating the skin at a rapid rate too!So whether you are looking to introduce a new anti-ageing cleanser, serum or moisturiser into your daily routine, this line does it all! What’s more, for this month of June if you purchase a Stem Cells Moisturiser or Stem Cells Serum you’ll receive the full size cleanser for FREE.

Why retinol is the anti-ageing ingredient your skin needs

by Jo Boyden on May 10 2021

With so many anti-ageing skin care products on the market, choosing what will be right for your skin can be baffling so say the least. However, when it comes to reducing the visible signs of ageing, retinol is the “super-ingredient” every beauty professional hails as the holy grail of the skincare world. Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child! What exactly is retinol?Retinol and retinoic acid are both forms of vitamin A used in skincare products. The stronger of the two, retinoic acid, is only available via prescription while retinol can be sold over the counter. What does it do?It is a cell communicator that can help damaged skin cells return to their normal function.When skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun it absorbs free radicals, which attack healthy cells. Retinol interrupts this process by attaching itself to damaged cells and communicating with them, helping them to act like healthy cells again.It also helps your skin slough dead cells and creates new ones, which in turn creates new collagen. Over time, this can lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Finally, because retinol helps to slough away dead skin cells and reveal new growth underneath, continuous use can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperpigmentation by peeling away the top layers of skin and slowing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Who is it suitable for?While the cosmetic and medical industries are almost united in their love for retinol, some with sensitive skin will go through an inevitable adjustment period, up to six weeks of red, flaky skin. Still, sensitive skin can be trained to tolerate vitamin A derivatives, so really, the only women who shouldn’t use retinol are those who are pregnant or nursing.So what about the adjustment period? There will be some dryness, maybe flakiness and sometimes the skin may feel sensitive. Why? Upon application, the retinol binds to DNA, and immediately instructs the skin’s proteins and enzymes to do certain things, firstly to expel the piled-up dead cells from your skin’s surface. Refining that top layer causes some water loss initially, which can make sensitive skin seem drier and more irritable. But push through and it will become less sensitive over time and leave you with a fantastic glow and reduced fine lines.If however, you have underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, using a high strength retinol product could enhance the inflammation. When is the best time to use it?It is best to introduce retinol products slowly – apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Retinols are best applied at night, particularly because it makes your skin more photosensitive and should be used in conjunction with sunscreen in the day (although you should be using SPF daily, round around anyway!).When applying your retinol cream, allow the product to fully absorb into the skin (this could take up to 30 minutes) before layering any other products. Just make sure to use any acne-fighting products (i.e. anything that includes benzoyl peroxides or salicylic acid) on the nights you don’t use your retinol product.Prepare for the inevitable adjustment period your skin will go through before you see the results you want. Because retinol causes the skin to shed cells faster than normal, you’ll likely experience a few weeks of change to your skin including some flakiness and dryness.And finally, give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months but the results WILL be worth it. We promise!Why Pevonia Micro-Retinol range?Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Line contains all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables.The Micro-Retinol Line utilizes a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and immediate results.Every product in the Micro Retinol Line contains a powerhouse trio of vitamin C, vitamin E, and Micro-Retinol® The addition of vitamins C and E not only ensures Micro-Retinol®’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved.

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