BC Skin Journal

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The best rosacea skincare routine to calm redness fast

by Jo Boyden on Mar 17 2026

Here’s the thing nobody tells you when you first realise you’re dealing with rosacea. Most mainstream skincare is quietly making it worse! The exfoliants, the strong acids, the heavily fragranced toners, they all sound amazing in theory, but for rosacea‑prone skin they can unfortunately turn a gentle flush into a full-blown flare-up! But having rosacea doesn’t mean you have to give up on great skin. It just means you need to be a little more intentional about what you put on it. Whether you're dealing with persistent redness, visible capillaries, or that frustrating flushing that seems to have a mind of its own! the right routine can make a huge difference. Keep reading as we reveal what actually works. A simple calming AM and PM routine built around ingredients your rosacea skin will genuinely love, and products we absolutely swear by too! Firstly though, let's talk about what rosacea actually is! While to you it might not seem it, rosacea is in fact a very common skin condition. More common than most people realise. Unfortunately, its one that causes persistent redness, flushing and visible capillaries, most commonly across the cheeks, nose and chin. For some people it may also include sensitivity, dryness or occasional breakouts too! (bumps that sometimes get mistaken for acne which needs very different skincare altogether!) While rosacea sadly can’t be completely cured, the right skincare routine can (and will!) make a noticeable difference by helping to calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier and keep symptoms at bay. The golden rules? Keep it gentle, keep it simple, and avoid anything that triggers inflammation. That means no harsh scrubs (enzyme exfoliators are ok), no alcohol-based toners, no fragrance, and definitely no aggressive acids! Your skin barrier is everything when you have rosacea so barrier supporting skincare formulated with inflammatory ingredients is essential! And never skip your sunscreen! UV exposure is one of the biggest rosacea triggers and using a good sunscreen prevents flare‑ups, redness, and long‑term sensitivity. The products you need When you have rosacea, your skin barrier is essentially on high alert. To bring it back to a state of peace, we need to focus on cooling, calming, and capillary-strengthening. Dermatologists, BC customers and the BC team alike, can’t get enough of the Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Care range. The collection has been specifically formulated to calm redness, reduce irritation and support sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. The Star ingredients There is a reason this range is so good and that is because of the ingredients it’s been formulated with! Green tea and chamomile soothe and calm the skin while licorice and rose actively support capillary health! Then you have your squalane and glycerin to strengthen the skin barrier with vitamin E for antioxidant protection. Morning Rosacea Skincare Routine (AM) Your morning goal is to create a "shield" against the triggers you'll face during the day. Step 1: The gentle cleanse You’ll want to start your morning routine with a mild, soothing cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin. The Pevonia RS2 Gentle Cleanser is incredibly mild, creamy and cooling and was specifically designed for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. It cleanses without disrupting the skin barrier and instead helps calm visible redness. Simply apply a small amount over your face and neck with wet fingertips, work it in gently (no rubbing or scrubbing, ever!), and remove with fingers or a soft washcloth dampened with warm (never hot! water. Hot water is a big rosacea trigger, so keep it lukewarm. Step 2: It’s time to tone! This is your toner step, and the RS2 Gentle Lotion is nothing like the harsh, alcohol-drenched toners we used to use back in the day! This one is completely alcohol-free and packed with french rose, chamomile, green tea, and licorice. It removes tap water impurities (yes, that's a thing! And it massively matters for sensitive skin), balances your skin's pH, and preps your skin perfectly for your serum and moisturiser. Moisten a cotton pad and smooth it gently over your face and neck. You’ll notice how it gentle calms your skin! Step 3: The soothing serum This is where a dedicated rosacea line really shines! Now it’s time for a soothing serum and the Pevonia RS2 Concentrate does not disappoint. It’s lightweight but powerful, is packed with calming ingredients that help cool, calm, nourish and reduce redness, all while improving the skin’s resilience. It works to support fragile capillaries and address the redness and microcirculation issues that sit at the heart of rosacea. All you need to do is apply a small amount (one or two pumps is sufficient) and gently press into the skin. Step 4: Hydration Hydration is incredibly important for rosacea-prone skin because a compromised skin barrier often leads to increased sensitivity. You’ll want to seal in everything with the Pevonia RS2 Care Cream. This gorgeous, soothing moisturiser formulated with rose, green tea, licorice, and chamomile delivers deep hydration while helping calm redness and support the skin barrier. Its soothing formulation helps the skin feel comfortable and balanced throughout the day. Massage it gently over your face and neck until fully absorbed. Step 5: Daily Sun Protection (the non-negotiable!) Sun exposure is one of the biggest rosacea triggers there is, so SPF every single morning is non-negotiable, rain, hail, or shine. Choose a gentle mineral SPF (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) rather than chemical SPF, as mineral formulas tend to be much kinder to reactive skin, and apply it every morning as the final step in your AM routine. We love the Hubislab Herb 8 Soothing Blemish Balm SPF30 PA++. Formulated with Zinc Oxide, SPF30 broad-spectrum filters, and Hubislab’s signature Anti Toxin Herb 8 complex, it works to soothe irritation, support skin recovery, and strengthen the skin barrier. A tinted mineral SPF is a brilliant option because it gives you a little coverage while also neutralising redness, two birds, one stone as they say! Evening Rosacea Skincare Routine (PM) Your evening routine follows the same first four steps, and yes, that's intentional. Consistency is key with rosacea, and your skin doesn't need a complicated ten-step evening routine. It needs calm, nourishing, and reliable. Step 1: Cleanse Even if you haven't worn makeup, cleansing at night removes pollution, sunscreen, and the general grime of the day. Same technique as the morning, be gentle (rather than scrubbing the skin), and use lukewarm water! Step 2: Lotion Again, use your RS2 Gentle Lotion to balance and prep. Step 3: Apply the RS2 Concentrate Nighttime is when your skin does its best repair work, and the Pevonia RS2 Concentrate supports that process beautifully. It cools, calms, and works on reducing redness and capillary congestion while you sleep. Don't skip this step! It really is essential and when used consistently, this step helps strengthen rosacea-prone skin over time. Step 4: Nourish with RS2 Rosacea Care Cream Finish your PM routine with your Pevonia RS2 Care Cream to replenish hydration, lock in moisture and give your skin barrier everything it needs to repair overnight. You’ll wake up to skin that feels calm, plump, and noticeably less reactive (really!) And another step…Weekly soothing mask If your skin is particularly reactive or experiencing a flare-up, adding a soothing mask once or twice a week can be incredibly helpful. If you love cream masks we highly recommend the Phytomer Accept Comfort Mask. It’s a soothing, anti-inflammatory cream mask that calms redness and restores comfort to ultra-sensitive skin. Or for a quick soothing fix you can also try a good sheet mask. We love the Hubislab e+ Epiderma Nova Cell Soothing Mask 5 it delivers intensive soothing and restorative care for stressed, irritated, sensitive or damaged skin. Extra pro tips Alongside a gentle routine, a few lifestyle habits can also help keep your rosacea under control. These include; • Avoid extremely hot water when cleansing (as already mentioned) • Limit harsh exfoliants or strong acids (for exfoliation use an enzyme exfoliant)• Protect skin from sun exposure every single day!• Manage known triggers like spicy foods or alcohol (best to steer clear where possible)• Keep your skincare routine consistent! Rosacea-prone skin requires a little extra care, but with the right products and a gentle routine, it’s absolutely possible to keep redness and sensitivity under control. The Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Care range was created specifically to support delicate, reactive skin, helping to calm irritation while strengthening the skin barrier over time. What’s more from now until April, when you purchase a Pevonia RS2 Rosacea Cream, you’ll receive an RS2 Rosacea Cleanser 50ml and Lotion 50ml for FREE

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

by Jo Boyden on Dec 19 2025

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

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

by Jo Boyden on Oct 30 2025

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

Exfoliation: Enzymes, peels & scrubs - what’s the difference?

by Jo Boyden on Jun 27 2025

Ever felt overwhelmed trying to choose between a scrub, a peel, or an enzyme exfoliator? You’re not alone! Exfoliation is a key step in any skincare routine, after all it’s the not-so-secret essential to achieving radiant, smooth skin! But with so many options, we know it’s easy to get confused when it comes to finding the best option for your skin type. That’s why we are here to help! Keep reading as we break down the benefits and the differences between chemical, physical and enzyme exfoliators and which is the right one for you. Chemical vs. Physical vs. Enzymatic Exfoliation: What’s the Difference? Chemical Exfoliators Chemical exfoliators use active ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging them to shed naturally. Instead of scrubbing, they work on a cellular level, revealing fresher, brighter skin beneath. Key types: AHAs (e.g. Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid) These are water-soluble acids that target the skin's surface. Best for dry, dull, or ageing skin. BHAs (e.g. Salicylic Acid) Oil-soluble and penetrate deeper into pores, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. Who are chemical exfoliators best for? Dullness and uneven tone Fine lines and sun damage Congested or acne-prone skin Try: Vie Collection Night Peel Progressive Resurfacing Cream This overnight treatment is formulated with glycolic acid, an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), to gently exfoliate the skin while you sleep. It works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover, and revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. Suitable for those looking to address dullness, uneven texture, or signs of ageing. “I just turned 63 and decided to spend a bit more money on a night peel product. I saw that this product and thought I would give it a try. I did and couldn't be happier! My face looks smoother, definitely softer and any imperfections are gone. I only use a little bit so I know it will last a long time. Love it and will definitely buy again.” – Nicole Enzyme Exfoliators Enzyme exfoliators are the unsung heroes for sensitive skin. Derived from natural sources like papaya (papain), pineapple (bromelain) or pumpkin, these enzymes gently break down the keratin in dead skin cells dissolving them without disrupting the healthy layers underneath. No harsh abrasion in sight! Who are enzyme exfoliators best for? Sensitive or reactive skin Redness or inflammation Rosacea-prone skin types Try: Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes If you are a sufferer of sensitive skin, we highly recommend this very gentle enzyme exfoliant. 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 skin. “I have the most sensitive skin, so I can’t use exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs…this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It’s the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” – Sarah R Physical Exfoliators These are the gritty scrubs and tools you’ll likely be most familiar with. Think Jojoba beads, microbeads, sugar scrubs, or exfoliating brushes. They help to deeply cleanse and smooth the skin manually sloughing off dead skin through friction. Best For: Normal to oily skin types Areas with rough texture (like elbows, knees, or back) Quick skin smoothing results Try: Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser This creamy cleanser combines natural jojoba beads with soothing ingredients like chamomile, calendula, and aloe vera. The jojoba beads provide gentle manual exfoliation, effectively removing dead skin cells and impurities without causing irritation. Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed “This is the BEST gentle exfoliator I have ever used. I have been using Pevonia for 5 years plus. I have sensitive skin and this exfoliator is perfect for my skin type. HIGHLY recommend.” – Annalisa BC pro tips for safe exfoliation Now you know which type of exfoliant will be best for you, you need to make sure you are doing it right! Make sure you; Don’t overdo it – 2–3 times a week is enough for most skin types! If your skin is sensitive just once will suffice. Listen to your skin – If you notice redness, tightness or flaking, give your skin a break. Always moisturise after – Exfoliation leaves your skin more vulnerable, so replenish with a hydrating serum or cream immediately after. SPF is non-negotiable – Especially when using chemical exfoliants!

Rosacea Relief: Expert tips and products to calm and treat skin

by Jo Boyden on Apr 11 2025

If you have rosacea, you’ll know how unpredictable it can be, one day your skin will feel calm, the next irritation can totally take over! The thing is while rosacea can’t be cured per se, there are things you can do to keep your symptoms at bay. Whether you’re dealing with persistent redness, facial flare-ups, pesky pimples or discomfort, we’ve gathered expert-approved tips and product recommendations to help you soothe and protect your sensitive skin. Firstly, exactly what is rosacea, and do you have this skincare condition? Rosacea is a chronic and progressive, micro-circulation disorder visibly resulting in persistent redness, dilated capillaries, congestion, and last but not least, papules and pustules (breakouts!), so if you have suffered/are suffering from spells of facial flushing and blushing presenting skin redness, pimples, dilated capillaries and sometimes a burning sensation it’s likely you do have rosacea. What are the most common rosacea triggers? It’s important to understand what your triggers are when it comes to your flare ups. Rosacea-prone skin is highly reactive, meaning it responds aggressively to environmental triggers, harsh ingredients, and even stress. The most common rosacea triggers include sun exposure, extreme temperatures, spicy foods, hot drinks like coffee and tea, alcohol, certain skincare ingredients, hormonal changes and unfortunately stress! Because the skin barrier is often compromised, it’s crucial to strengthen and protect it with gentle, nourishing formulas. How to treat rosacea 1. You’ll want to choose gentle, fragrance-free skincare When it comes to rosacea, less is more. Make sure you avoid (at all costs!) harsh cleansers, alcohol-based toners, and heavily fragranced products, as these can worsen irritation. Instead, opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser a soothing serum and calming, non-comedogenic moisturiser with barrier-strengthening ingredients to lock in moisture. Products designed specifically for rosacea skin will be best. 2. Protect your skin with SPF daily Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for rosacea flare-ups. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to prevent redness and irritation. Look for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cause reactions. 3. Invest in soothing ingredients The ingredients in your skincare are imperative when it comes to treating rosacea. You’ll want to look out for skincare with ingredients that help calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier including; Aloe Vera – Hydrates and reduces redness Green Tea Extract – Rich in antioxidants that soothe irritation Centella Asiatica – Helps repair and strengthen sensitive skin Chamomile – Calms and soothes reactive skin French Rose – Anti-inflammatory and calming it soothes sensitive, rosacea prone skin 4. Avoid common irritants Unfortunately like with the common triggers (which you also need to avoid!), certain ingredients can exacerbate rosacea symptoms, so it’s best to steer clear of alcohol, synthetic fragrances, menthol, and exfoliants like glycolic acid. If you’re unsure about a product, do a patch test before applying it to your face first! 5. Stay consistent and be patient Rosacea can’t be cured, but with the right regimen, symptoms can be managed and flare-ups reduced. Avoid frequently switching products and give new routines time, results may take several weeks. 6. Last but not least when it comes to makeup go mineral! This is because mineral makeup is gentle, non-comedogenic, and free from irritants like fragrance and preservatives. Its natural, soothing ingredients help calm inflammation while offering breathable coverage that conceals redness without clogging pores or aggravating sensitive skin. Perfect for achieving a flawless finish with skin-loving benefits basically! Best Products for Rosacea-Prone Skin We highly recommend the Pevonia Rosacea RS2 line! For more information on why it might be the perfection rosacea range for you click here. And to finish off your morning skincare routine and before you apply your makeup for rosacea skin you need to make sure you don’t skip on your sunscreen! Of course daily SPF is a necessity for everyone to protect skin against premature ageing and hyperpigmentation, but if you suffer from rosacea you’ll know that sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for flare ups! UV rays can increase redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, making rosacea symptoms worse over time. A good sunscreen helps protect the skin’s barrier, preventing further irritation and reducing the risk of long-term damage. And we get it! If you have rosacea or sensitive skin, you might be a little reluctant to slather on sunscreen but Hubislab Herb 8 Soothing Blemish Balm SPF 30 PA++ is the ideal SPF! It soothes and regenerates sensitive skin while protecting skin against sun damage, premature skin ageing including dark spots, and other external factors. Its clever formulation of Zinc oxide, UVA and UVB protection and 8 herbal extracts also ensures the prevention of wrinkles and inflammation. Daily sun protection is one of the best ways to keep rosacea-prone skin calm, healthy, and happy.

Rosacea skin? The best products to calm facial flare-ups

by Jo Boyden on Apr 04 2025

Dealing with rosacea? Still searching for soothing and calming skincare products that will effectively treat your skin as opposed to irritating it? Cue Pevonia’s best-selling and award-winning RS2 line, a natural solution for rosacea relief! Designed specifically to reduce inflammation and irritation, calm redness and strengthen skin, this range of 4 proven effective products blend powerful botanicals with advanced skincare science for a calmer, healthier complexion! Keep reading to discover why Pevonia RS2 is the skincare line you need for your rosacea skin. Why Pevonia RS2 line is superior to other rosacea products One of the biggest challenges for rosacea-prone skin is an impaired skin barrier, which makes it more susceptible to irritation and flare-ups. Pevonia RS2 line goes beyond surface-level relief by strengthening the skin’s defences through a carefully curated selection of gentle yet powerful, scientifically—backed natural ingredients that work in harmony with your skin. They not only calm inflammation, combat irritation and soothe skin but also encourage skin regeneration and collagen repair while strengthening capillaries and promoting vascular health too, all without compromising skin hydration and health! Genius! The ingredients Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice root) DPG offers scientifically backed benefits for rosacea management through multiple mechanisms. It pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, reducing redness and swelling. Clinical studies show it lowers skin inflammation markers by up to 50% within two weeks. It also suppresses histamine release and blocks inflammatory mediators, addressing flare-ups and irritation. By preventing hyaluronic acid degradation, DPG enhances hydration and strengthens the skin barrier, critical for rosacea-prone skin prone to dryness and sensitivity. This reduces transepidermal water loss and improves hydration by 30% in one week. DPG also promotes collagen synthesis during wound healing, accelerating skin repair and improving structural integrity. And finally it’s a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals protecting skin against environmental triggers like UV exposure. Olibanum Frankincense Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and healing properties, Olibanum Frankincense helps to calm redness, soothe irritation, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Rich in antioxidants, it also protects against environmental stressors while promoting skin regeneration and collagen repair, making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin. Chamomile Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, chamomile helps reduce redness, calm irritation, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Chamomile also contains bisabolol, which promotes healing, hydrates sensitive skin, and protects against environmental stressors. Green Tea Green Tea is renowned for it’s powerful antioxidant properties but it’s also anti-inflammatory and soothing! Rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), it helps reduce redness, calm irritation, and protect against environmental stressors. Green tea also supports skin barrier function and helps control flare-ups. French Rose Extract French Rose Extract is another excellent ingredient for rosacea-prone skin due to its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and natural oils, it helps reduce redness, calm irritation, and strengthen the skin barrier while improving skin tone. Its gentle nature makes it ideal for sensitive skin, promoting a balanced, more even complexion. Together, these ingredients work to exercise capillaries, flush away stagnation, and restore microcirculation, offering long-term control of rosacea symptoms. The products RS2 Gentle Cleanser When it comes to your skincare routine, cleansing skin is imperative but with rosacea it’s essential to use mild, non-abrasive cleansers and rinse with lukewarm water (not hot that can further trigger the flush). We love Pevonia’s RS2 Gentle Cleanser. Ideal for hypersensitivity, it’s a calming, creamy cleanser which gently removes impurities with soothing, cooling and decongesting allantoin, French rose and chamomile. Pevonia RS2 Gentle Lotion Alcohol-free and enriched with skin-loving botanicals like chamomile, green tea, and French rose extract, the RS2 Gentle Lotion helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation while hydrating and toning the skin. Its gentle formula strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and preps it beautifully for serum and moisturiser absorption, making it an essential step in any rosacea skincare routine. The result? Skin that feels fresh, comforted, and visibly more even-toned without any tightness or stinging. Pevonia RS2 Concentrate Lightweight yet potent, this powerhouse soothing concentrate is packed with calming ingredients including Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, French rose extract, and green tea which work together to visibly reduce redness, inflammation, and discomfort. Its fast-absorbing formula strengthens capillaries, reinforces the skin's protective barrier, and delivers immediate relief from irritation, making it a must-have for anyone looking to calm flare-ups and promote a more balanced, even complexion. With consistent use, skin looks calmer, feels stronger, and becomes more resilient to environmental triggers. Pevonia RS2 Care Cream Rich in calming botanicals like green tea, French rose extract, and chamomile, this luxurious daily moisturiser helps reduce visible redness, calm inflammation, and support the skin’s natural barrier. Its gentle yet effective formula deeply hydrates without causing irritation, while powerful antioxidants protect against environmental aggressors that can trigger flare-ups. With regular use, skin feels softer, calmer, and more resilient—leaving you with a visibly clearer, more balanced complexion. It’s the perfect finishing touch to your rosacea-friendly skincare routine! What’s more for the month of April, if you purchase this best-selling cream you’ll receive the matching cleanser and lotion 50ml for FREE! Together, these products form a complete routine that helps restore balance, strengthen resilience, and improve overall skin health, something many other rosacea-focused skincare lines fail to achieve. Backed by science rather than empty promises, Pevonia RS2 has helped tens of thousands of people achieve healthier, calmer skin, so if you’re looking for a gentle yet effective solution to keep flare-ups at bay, this is the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.

Expert approved: The best makeup for rosacea

by Jo Boyden on Apr 04 2025

If you suffer from rosacea, you’ll know your sensitive skin needs extra care and that includes the makeup you use too. The wrong products and ingredients can trigger redness and facial flare ups leaving your skin even more sensitive than before! But with the right formulas (we are talking gentle, nurturing and calming makeup designed for sensitive skin) you can achieve a flawless finish without any irritation at all! Whether you’ve been searching for a lightweight foundation, a soothing concealer or the perfect finishing powder, we’ve put together our top 5 expert approved products and tips for rosacea so you can keep your skin looking flawless day after day while maintaining a calm and comfortable complexion too. 1. A face primer can really make a difference If you have rosacea, using a face primer can make a huge difference to your makeup routine. A good primer creates a smooth base, helping to reduce redness and even out skin texture before applying foundation. It also acts as a barrier, protecting sensitive skin from potential irritants in makeup while locking in hydration. Plus, a primer ensures your makeup lasts longer, preventing it from settling into dry patches or emphasizing redness throughout the day. We love the ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer. It’s a deeply soothing liquid-cream made with Aloe Vera leaf extract, Roman Chamomile, Witch Hazel, Calendula, Mallow Flower and Centaurea Cyanus Flower extract, that work together to calm inflammation and strengthen the skin’s barrier, leaving it with the smoothest sensation. It also soothes, hydrates, retexturizes and refines, so foundation applies effortlessly and stays put for hours! 2. Go mineral When you suffer from sensitive skin or a skin condition such as rosacea, wearing mineral makeup will stand your skin in good stead. Traditional makeup products may contain ingredients that can aggravate rosacea symptoms such as fragrances, preservatives and synthetic dyes. Mineral makeup on the other hand is gentle, non-irritating and can actually help improve the appearance of skin while minimising facial flare-ups. A mineral powder is the best choice as its ingredients are usually non-irritating. Apply with your fingers tips or a brush rather than a sponge, which can harbour more bacteria. We can’t recommend enough the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. It contains zero chemical nasties, instead, it’s packed with skin loving ingredients and can be used as a buildable foundation from natural sheer to polished opaque (dependant on what you need) and it’s highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, working wonders at camouflaging facial redness while protecting skin against ultraviolet damage too! A brilliant foundation for rosacea, its mineral formula is breathable, protective, and heals skin conditions as you wear it. The coverage lasts longer and feels lighter than other foundations, giving the impression that you are not wearing make-up at all! I personally LOVE it. 3. When it comes to foundation, go breathable and lightweight! If you love a more full coverage look when it comes to your foundation make sure you go for a breathable, lightweight liquid formula like the best-selling ELES Mineral Liquid Powder Foundation! It quite literally glides onto skin effortlessly, thanks to its silky liquid formulation, yet sets to a soft powder finish which lasts all day. It looks totally natural on application yet covers up facial redness and blemishes beautifully, what’s more it’s breathable which means it won’t clog pores, provides the sunscreen and antioxidant protection that ultrasensitive skin needs, and is formulated with skin-loving ingredients which means it not only conceals skin but protects it throughout the day too! Genius! 4. Always set your makeup Using a baked finishing powder is a great way to set your makeup without irritating your skin. Unlike loose finishing powders, baked powders have a finely milled, lightweight texture that won’t cling to dry patches or emphasize redness. They provide a soft, natural finish that helps blur imperfections while allowing your skin to breathe. Try the best-selling ELES Baked Finishing Powder. It is formulated with a multitude of ingredients that offer a nourishing and soothing effect, making it ideal for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. This palette of gorgeous glowing warm tones also acts like a photo filter on your skin, subtle enough for daily wear, yet gives you that truly “lit from within glow” in seconds. 5. Don’t forget to blush! You might think blush would be the last thing you should apply after concealing any facial redness but by using the right shade it’ll actually distract the eye from problem areas and enhance your complexion for the better. Select softer peachy tones rather than the darker pink or red shades. Our top pick is the ELES Baked Blush. It’s pigmented but also full of skin loving goodness. Just remember when it comes to makeup for rosacea, start with a light layer and build up coverage as needed. Less is usually more when it comes to rosacea skin because too much makeup can cause irritation.

The most searched skin concerns: Expert approved solutions

by Jo Boyden on Oct 04 2024

When it comes to our skin, we all have our individual concerns, but how many of us have actually taken to google to seek solutions? And what skin conditions are people searching the most? Well we did a little investigating, and the results might actually surprise you, especially if you’ve been feeling alone with your skin woes. From rosacea and acne to hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, keep reading as we count down the most searched skin conditions on google this year and our expert solutions to tackle them! Rosacea As a supplier or some of the worlds leading professional products, it comes as no surprise to our team at BC that this skin condition is the most searched. Rosacea is said to affect up to a fifth of the population so if you are a sufferer you most certainly are not alone! To learn more about Rosacea, it’s causes and the best solutions, click here. Or if it’s makeup recommendations you’re after, you can find our expert suggestions here. Acne As the second most commonly searched skin condition, acne continues to be a leading concern, especially among younger demographics. I’m sure many of us have experienced unruly blemishes in our time, whether we suffered from pimples as an adolescent or if they have come to haunt you in adulthood, but many amongst us are prone to acne. What exactly is acne you might ask? And could you have it? Click here to find out all there is you know. And if you’re searching for the best makeup products to conceal and heal your acne you can find our top recommendations here. Blackheads Not far behind acne is blackheads. And yes, I’m certain when I say we have all dealt with a black head or two, or many more in our time! Blackheads are in fact a type of acne (acne vulgaris). They're open bumps on the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. They look as if dirt is in the bump, but an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle actually causes the dark spots. To learn more about blackheads and shop our highly recommended solutions click here. Hyperpigmentation Hyperpigmentation, including melasma and age spots (also known as dark spots, sun spots and liver spots), is another frequent search, particularly as people seek solutions to even out their skin tone and reduce dark spots. The condition most commonly occurs due to overproduction of melanin, the natural pigment in the skin, which is why it’s often exacerbated during the sunny summer months (thank you sunshine!) However, it can also occur due to inflammation caused from conditions like acne, just what you don’t need, and while hyperpigmentation can be hard to avoid for some, you can definitely help reduce its severity by following a few key steps. To learn everything you need to know about hyperpigmentation including the causes and the best treatments click here. Age spots Next on the list is age spots. As mentioned above age spots are a common form of hyperpigmentation. They are flat, dark patches that commonly appear on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun (like the face, hands, shoulders and arms) this is due to prolonged sun exposure as well as ageing. Age spots are harmless they can make people feel self conscious. The great news is there are means to dramatically reduce their appearance with skincare solutions as previously mentioned. The best skincare solutions include using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to prevent further darkening, and incorporating brightening treatments with ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hydroquinone. Regular exfoliation with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or retinol can also help fade existing spots by promoting skin cell turnover and revealing fresher, clearer skin underneath. If you want to know the best products to treat your age spots click here. Whiteheads At the top of many people’s woes are whiteheads. Like with blackheads, I’m sure the majority, if not all of us have not experienced these little bumps many a time. Another common type of acne, whiteheads occur when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Unlike blackheads though, which as previously mentioned are open to the surface and turn dark due to oxidation, whiteheads remain closed, creating small, white or flesh-coloured bumps. They typically appear on the face, particularly in areas like the forehead, nose, and chin, but can also occur on the chest, shoulders, and back. While they may seem harmless, we know whiteheads can be frustrating to deal with, especially if they keep coming back. Luckily, with the right skincare routine, you can keep whiteheads at bay and maintain a clearer, healthier complexion. Just be sure you cleanse twice a day, morning and night and look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and prevent new whiteheads from forming. Exfoliation is also paramount as it helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to whiteheads. Opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid. These acids help dissolve the buildup inside pores, keeping them clear and preventing future breakouts. We LOVE the ProCorrective Clear Control Exfoliator. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Caviar Lime, Tea Tree and Rosemary, it provides gentle but effective exfoliating action to open and clear pores, combatting acne-causing bacteria. Dry skin I’m sure we’ve all experienced dry skin at some point in our lives but many struggle with this skin condition all year round. 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 too! 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? As we can see from the search volume, at #7 on the most searched skin conditions, dry skin is very common 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 including genetics (thanks parents!), dry air or indoor heating, over exfoliating, long hot shower (who doesn’t love one of those!). harsh products, ageing and hard water (tap water that contains a high concentration of minerals including calcium and magnesium, this hard water can 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! Ouch. When it comes to improving your dry skin we cant go past these top skincare recommendations from the experts. Wrinkles Starting to see signs of ageing on your face? Worried about wrinkles? According to the google search you are most definitely not alone! 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? In short yes! 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. Want to know what the best products to fight skin ageing and reduce your wrinkles are? Click here. Oily skin If you’re fed up with your face feeling greasy every single day, you’re constantly looking for ways to prevent your makeup sliding off your skin by mid-morning, or you’re simply over staring in the mirror and seeing a super shiny complexion staring back (and not because you’ve been adopting the ‘hyper glowing skin’ trend of late), it’s time to get serious about your oily skin condition. Despite oily skin being a nuisance, believe it or not, it’s actually not all doom and gloom! Oily skin happens when the sebaceous glands in your skin make too much sebum. Sebum is the waxy, oily substance that protects and hydrates the skin (it’s actually a blessing as it’s vital for keeping the skin super healthy and youthful looking) however, too much sebum can lead to oily skin! This in turn results in your greasy, shiny complexion and can also result in clogged pores, and unwanted acne if not treated! Fear not though, with the right routine for oily skin you can keep this skin condition of yours at bay!

Sensitive skin, rosacea or redness? Which do you have?

by Jo Boyden on Apr 12 2024

Suffering from sensitive skin? Or is it rosacea perhaps? or maybe you are just prone to frequent redness and facial flushing? Identifying which of these common skin concerns you may have can be somewhat confusing, especially since they often share similar symptoms. But understanding their differences is essential as each condition can affect the skin in various ways!Keep reading as we outline the differences between sensitive skin, rosacea and facial redness, helping you to determine the most effective treatment approach for your skin’s specific needs! ROSACEAUnderstanding RosaceaRosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps (papules and pustules). It typically affects the central part of the face, including the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. While the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, factors such as genetics, environmental triggers, and an overactive immune system may contribute to its development. Common triggers include sun exposure, hot or spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and certain skincare products.Managing RosaceaUnfortunately it’s not possible to eliminate rosacea altogether but you can effectively manage it and keep symptoms at bay! To manage rosacea you need to identify and avoid your triggers that can exacerbate symptoms.Unfortunately. sun exposure is the most common trigger for rosacea. While we may all love long days at the beach, if you suffer from rosacea your skin sadly will pay a price. Not only can sunburn make flare-ups even worse, the heat from the sun can also increase your body temperature which in turn dilates blood vessels and triggers inflammation! So you’ll want to make sure you avoid direct sun exposure as much as you can and wear SPF daily. Just be sure to opt for sensitive skin formulations that won’t aggravate your rosacea.Try Hubislab Herb 8 Soothing Blemish Balm SPF 30 PA++. It soothes and regenerates sensitive skin while protecting skin against sun damage, premature skin ageing including dark spots, and other external factors. Its clever formulation of Zinc oxide, UVA and UVB protection and 8 herbal extracts also ensures the prevention of wrinkles and inflammation.Gentle skincare products formulated for rosacea prone skin, free of harsh ingredients such as fragrance, alcohol, and abrasive exfoliants, are also a must!Look for products such as rosacea serum formulated with calming and soothing ingredients like green tea, licorice extract, chamomile extract, and French rose extract.We highly recommend Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 rosacea skincare line – a soothing, calming and irritant free collection that not only alleviates redness and discomfort but also helps create a healthy skin barrier. What’s more for the month of APRIL. When you purchase the Pevonia rosacea RS2 Care Cream, you’ll receive the matching Cleanser and Lotion 50ml for FREE. When it comes to concealing rosacea symptoms, mineral makeup can be a great go-to as well. For the best makeup products for rosacea according to the BC experts click here.And finally try to relax more, stress less, reduce alcohol consumption and eliminate hot, spicy foods from your diet!Sadly stress and anxiety, alcohol and certain foods can cause rosacea symptoms to really flare up! By getting plenty of rest and practicing meditation and yoga can help to keep stress and therefore rosacea at bay. SENSITIVE SKINUnderstanding Sensitive SkinSensitive skin is a common skin condition characterised by heightened reactivity to environmental factors, skincare products, and other external irritants.Symptoms may include redness, itching, burning, stinging, and tightness.Sensitive skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, allergies, skin barrier dysfunction, and exposure to harsh chemicals or environmental pollutants.Managing Sensitive SkinSensitive skin requires gentle care and attention to maintain its health and balance. From choosing the right skincare products to adopting lifestyle habits that promote skin resilience, you can manage sensitive skin effectively.First things first, you need to manage sensitive skin by using gentle, non-irritating skincare products that are free of potential allergens, fragrances, dyes, and other irritating ingredients. Opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers, serums and moisturisers formulated specifically for sensitive skin and pay particular attention to moisturising. You want to keep your skin hydrated and nourished with gentle, hydrating serums and moisturisers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help maintain the skin's moisture barrier and chamomile to soothe.Our favourites: Hubislab Post Rays Chamomile Complex 70% ampoule. This deeply nourishing serum is formulated with 70% Chamomile, combined with other natural nourishing and soothing ingredients including Centella Asiatica, Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin. It penetrates sensitive or irritated skin to calm, purify, protect and strengthen! Oh and it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory too!Medicalia Gentle Cream. Rich in natural Ceramides, Phospholipids, Green Tea, Glycerin and Chamomile, this calming, nourishing cream effectively infuses the skin with antioxidant, nourishing, soothing, and hydrating benefits. It almost immediately reduces skin discomfort by desensitizing and shielding skin.Phytomer Douceur Marine Soothing Moisturising Cream. This soothing and nourishing creams velvety texture leaves the skin subtly scented with an airy and bright blend of plum and bergamot. Day after day, it provides a noticeable reduction in skin redness and discomfort.Next you want to consider exfoliation. Remember exfoliating is important even if you have sensitive skin, but once a week will be sufficient. Over-exfoliating can over stimulate sensitive skin and exacerbate your already irritation condition. You’ll want to opt for gentle exfoliants with mild ingredients like fruit enzymes or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) and avoid abrasive scrubs or harsh chemical exfoliants.Try the highly rated Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes. It’s a seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant perfect for sensitive skin and it eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) It encourages cell turnover, revealing beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes.Want to know more about exfoliation and sensitive skin and what to do? Click here.It’s also essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, come rain, hail or shine! Choose mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation.We LOVE Hubislab Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF50+ PA+++ not only is it formulated with both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide so perfect for sensitive and ageing skin since zero irritation, it’s also rich in hydrolyzed Collagen and peptides keeping skin nourished, soft and supple! Its invisible matte formula also applies smoothly and stays on all day long!Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including managing stress, staying hydrated, getting enough beauty sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and protecting the skin from environmental stressors can help reduce sensitivity and improve skin barrier function. FACIAL REDNESSUnderstanding RednessRedness, or erythema, is a common skin concern characterised by the appearance of red or flushed skin. It can be caused by various factors, including rosacea, sensitive skin, sunburn, allergies, irritation, inflammation, and underlying medical conditions. Redness may be temporary or chronic, depending on the underlying cause and triggers.Managing RednessManaging redness involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause. In addition to following a gentle skincare routine suitable for sensitive skin, incorporating anti-inflammatory ingredients such as green tea extract, niacinamide, and licorice root extract may help calm redness and soothe irritated skin. Sun protection is also crucial, as UV exposure can worsen redness and inflammation.When it comes to your red face you need to start with the basics – choose a mild, hydrating cleanser. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased redness and irritation. Cleanse with care, using lukewarm water to avoid shocking your skin.Try: Pevonia Sensitive Skin Cleanser. This beautifully light-textured cleanser gently removes accumulated impurities, while diffusing redness and irritation. Formulated with Chamomile and Calendula it delivers soothing, calming and desensitizing benefits to your delicate skin.If your skin redness is potentially caused by dryness or inflammation a natural face mask or sheet mask specifically formulated to cool and calm skin can work wonders too!Try: ELES Calming and Soothing Sheet Mask. Incorporating natural botanicals it soothes and reduces inflammation. Like a cool balm, this calming mask reduces redness and heat and restores a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss.WE totally understand that when you suffer from rosacea or skin redness you aren’t likely to forego makeup altogether. You do need to let your skin breath freely to reduce irritation though so its essential to opt for mineral makeup that will allow just this. Mineral makeup is non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog your pores.Try: ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. As a sufferer of want for a better word ‘flushed skin’ I personally LOVE the best-selling ELES Mineral Powder Foundation! It’s one of my all-time favourites. It’s one of the most natural-looking, if not THE most natural-looking foundations I have in fact ever tried and being in the industry for 20 years I’ve tried many! It contains zero chemical nasties, instead, it’s packed with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, can be used as a buildable foundation from natural sheer to polished opaque (dependant on what you need) and it’s highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, working wonders at camouflaging facial redness while protecting skin against ultraviolet damage too!Also a makeup primer will help ensure your makeup remains in place all day! And let’s face it we don’t want our makeup to slide off our skin and reveal a flushed complexion at any point right? Plus wearing a primer also creates a barrier between your skin and your makeup therefore preventing any further irritation.If you’re prone to a flushed face we can’t get enough of ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer, it hydrates, soothes, calms and plumps skin with Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel & Marigold.And finally when your face is feeling particularly fiery, try a cold compress. A soft cloth soaked in cold water can work wonders to calm redness and soothe your skin.For more of the best tips to fight the flush click here.By identifying your triggers and following a gentle yet effective skincare routine you can radically reduce rosacea, sensitive skin and facial flushing symptoms and achieve healthier, happier skin.

Beauty Collective - reduce facial redness

11 expert tips to reduce facial redness for good

by Jo Boyden on Sep 15 2023

If you’re tired of dealing with facial redness, especially when it seems to pop up at the most inconvenient of times, we feel you! Whether its due to having sensitive or reactive skin, because you suffer from rosacea perhaps, or as a result of hormonal hot flushes, we’ve got you covered with these 11 game-changing ways to radically reduce facial redness for good! Firstly though, what causes facial redness exactly?Facial redness can be the cause of a number of reasons. From as named above – sensitive and reactive skin, rosacea symptoms, hormonal changes, sun burnt skin even.There are many reasons you might be suffering from a red face these can include;Hormonal changesRosaceaEczemaDermatitisSunburnSensitive and reactive skinAlcohol intolerance The best ways to reduce your red skin; Gentle cleansing is key Start with the basics – choose a mild, hydrating cleanser. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased redness and irritation. Cleanse with care, using lukewarm water to avoid shocking your skin.Try: Pevonia Sensitive Skin Cleanser. This beautifully light-textured cleanser gently removes accumulated impurities, while diffusing redness and irritation. Formulated with Chamomile and Calendula it delivers soothing, calming and desensitizing benefits to your delicate skin. Cool off with a cold compress When your face is feeling particularly fiery, try a cold compress. A soft cloth soaked in cold water can work wonders to calm redness and soothe your skin. Stay hydrated When it comes to facial redness water is your best friend. Staying hydrated helps maintain your skin's natural moisture balance. It's like giving your skin a drink of water from the inside out.You’ll also want to up the anti when it comes to nourishing your skin topically. Make sure you moisturise twice a day and add a hydrating serum into your daily routine too.Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, its honestly like a burst of nourishment for the skin. And combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract it also provides optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, calmer, softer, plumper, firmer and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types! Wear mineral makeup WE totally understand that when you suffer from rosacea or skin redness you aren’t likely to forego makeup altogether. You do need to let your skin breath freely to reduce irritation though so its essential to opt for mineral makeup that will allow just this. Mineral makeup is non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog your pores.Try: ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. As a sufferer of want for a better word ‘flushed skin’ I personally LOVE the best-selling ELES Mineral Powder Foundation! It’s one of my all-time favourites. It’s one of the most natural-looking, if not THE most natural-looking foundations I have in fact ever tried and being in the industry for 20 years I’ve tried many! It contains zero chemical nasties, instead, it’s packed with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, can be used as a buildable foundation from natural sheer to polished opaque (dependant on what you need) and it’s highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, working wonders at camouflaging facial redness while protecting skin against ultraviolet damage too!Another good option is to try a colour corrector which will help visually correct redness and even out skin tone at the same time. Using one with UV protection will also help shield your sensitive skin from exposure that can aggravate skin sensitivities.Try: ELES Luminous CC Cream SPF 20. It’s a game changer when it comes to colour correcting red skin! It’s a lightweight, oil-free, colour correcting cream with broad spectrum protection that really does multi-task like no other! And while it’s technically not a foundation, the full coverage pigments cover facial redness—be it from rosacea, pimples, irritation, you name it—so well that you very well may be able to get away without wearing any other makeup. Be sunscreen savvy Sunscreen isn't just for sunny days. UV rays can exacerbate redness and inflammation. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it religiously, even on cloudy days.Try: ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. We understand that so many sunscreens feel greasy, don’t smell great or simply don’t sit well on our skin, and then there are those thick white sunscreens that look like a paste when applied too, the last thing you want to be worried about when your skin is already a little on the sensitive side. That’s why we love ELES Luminous Defence. It’s not greasy but instead silky soft, the scent isn’t unpleasant, and it applies beautifully to my skin. And thanks to its formulation its helps nourish and restore skins luminosity too, not to mention it’s high SPF of 50. Wear a soothing mask If your skin redness is potentially caused by dryness or inflammation a natural face mask or sheet mask specifically formulated to cool and calm skin can work wonders.Try: ELES Calming and Soothing Sheet Mask. Incorporating natural botanicals it soothes and reduces inflammation. Like a cool balm, this calming mask reduces redness and heat and restores a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. Manage your stress Easier said than done I know! Especially if you are juggling life, kids, work….but stress can be a big trigger for facial redness so its important to incorporate stress management techniques into your daily routine. Try meditation, yoga or simply taking time out for yourself to relax and unwind whether that’s going for walks, reading a book or simply having time out in from of the tv. I highly recommend the app Headspace for meditation. And for some soothing sounds try ambient relaxation music on Spotify. Bliss. Choose your skincare products wisely Check the ingredients list of the skincare products you purchase. You want to steer clear of products containing alcohol or fragrances which can exacerbate redness and instead opt for products specifically targeted for sensitive skin which include soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, green tea or niacinamide. These can help cool and calm any inflammation as well as reduce your facial redness. Consider topical creams If you know that the redness on your skin is caused by rosacea, you can also look to certain skincare ranges to treat your symptoms.Try: Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 line. It can help soothe the skin as well as successfully elevating the symptoms. Revise your diet Underlying facial redness can actually be related to what you eat so making simple changes to your diet can make all the difference. We recommend an anti-inflammatory diet, which includes green leafy vegetables, fish, essential oils, and low-glycemic fruits. Try to give simple sugars, grains, non-organic meats, dairy, and high-glycemic fruits a miss..and avoid triggers such as spicy foods, citrus, tomato, chocolate, and cinnamon. Make lifestyle changes While facial redness can be a frustrating problem, the cause can often be more than skin deep. This means that the solution can require certain lifestyle changes in addition to the steps mentioned above. Try decreasing sun exposure, don’t go walking in the wind! If you smoke, don’t! Stop drinking all the hot drinks and make sure you drink cold water when ever you are exercising. Remember to be patient and consistent when managing facial redness and don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.

What is probiotic skincare and is it effective?

by Jo Boyden on Jun 09 2023

If you keep up with the latest beauty trends, you’ve probably heard about probiotic skincare. It’s been making a buss in the beauty world for a few years now, but how exactly are probiotics good for your skin you might be wondering? Well wonder no more! We’re here to tell you all about probiotic skincare, and why this trend has taken the beauty industry by storm.Firstly though, what are probiotics?Probiotics are living microorganisms such as bacteria or yeast that are good for your health, particularly your digestive system, in fact they are usually associated with promoting gut health and are commonly referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria.How are probiotics good for the skin?Probiotics work their magic by helping to balance the skin's natural microbiome, which is essentially a collection of billions of microorganisms living on its surface (eek!) Just like in our digestive system, a healthy balance of bacteria on the skin is crucial for maintaining a strong and resilient barrier against external aggressors.Why choose probiotic skincare?Probiotic skincare offers many benefits for your skin, not matter your skin type. Here are a few reasons why we love probiotic skincare; Probiotic skincare is essential for restoring balance Modern lifestyles, environmental factors, and harsh skincare products can disrupt the delicate balance of our skin's microbiome. Probiotics help replenish and maintain a diverse and healthy microbial community, which in turn supports a stronger skin barrier and a more radiant complexion. It’s great for soothing sensitive skin If you struggle with sensitive or reactive skin, probiotics might become your new best friend. Probiotics can alleviate redness, inflammation, and irritation, providing a soothing effect on the skin. By calming down angry skin, probiotics offer relief to those with conditions like eczema or rosacea. It helps fight acne and blemishes Acne-prone skin often suffers from an imbalance in the microbiome, leading to breakouts and unwanted blemishes. Probiotics have the ability to combat acne by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting a healthier skin environment. Probiotics in skincare help to counteract signs of ageing As we age, our skin's microbiome undergoes changes that contribute to the signs of aging. Probiotics have shown promise in supporting collagen production, improving skin elasticity, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also aid in maintaining moisture levels, giving you a more youthful and plump complexion. Probiotics in skincare actually enhances the efficiency of other active ingredients Adding probiotics to skincare formulations can boost the effectiveness of other active ingredients. Probiotics help create a good environment for these actives to work optimally, ensuring you get the most out of your skincare routine.Now that you know why probiotics are the talk of the town, how can you incorporate them into your skincare routine?Whether you're looking to restore balance, soothe sensitive skin, combat acne, or achieve a more youthful complexion, probiotic skincare will help! Here are our top product recommendations: Best for sensitive, reactive and rosacea prone skinPhytomer Prebioforce Balancing Soothing ConcentrateSpecifically formulated to provide a soothing and calming effect on the skin, this probiotic serum contains ingredients such as marine sugars and marine spring water that help to effectively reduce skin inflammation, redness and sensitivity while strengthening and rebalancing the skin’s immune function. With continued use any discomfort is diminished and your complexion looks more even, healthy and radiant.Best for tired, dull and dehydrated skinPhytomer Oligo 6 Marine Concentrate with Vitamins, Prebiotic Complex and Trace ElementsFormulated with all the benefits of vitamin C, provitamin B5, vitamins B3 and E, Phytomer’s marine prebiotic complex* and OLIGOMER®, the seawater concentrate rich in minerals and trace elements, this moisturising gel is the perfect antidote for tired, dull complexions.Its prebiotic complex rebalances skin microbiota and helps maintain skin immunity while the cocktail of vitamins protects, hydrates and boosts lacklustre skin.Best for oily skin and combination skinPevonia Micro-Pores™ Bio-Active SerumThis light textured gel serum, is formulated with bio-active breakthrough ingredients that help to control oil production, unclog pores, refine and tighten the skin’s texture, providing a more even surface. It also offers anti-ageing benefits, helping to improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance overall skin radiance. By introducing probiotic skincare into your daily skincare routine will support and nourish your skin’s microbiome, leading to happier, healthier and more radiant skin.

The best makeup products for rosacea according to the BC Pros

by Jo Boyden on Apr 06 2023

If you are a long time sufferer of rosacea, have sensitive, reactive skin, or are prone to blemishes and breakouts, you could well be searching for the best makeup products to help conceal your complexion, however with so much information out there (some misinformation) it can be hard to know where to start, and we know too well, when it comes to rosacea and other skin sensitivities the last thing you’ll want to do is exacerbate your condition! The thing is rosacea, even though very common (in fact a recent study has shown that 415 million people may be suffering from rosacea worldwide!) can leave you feeling uncomfortable, frustrated, skin conscious and insecure. The great news is, as well as rosacea skincare, there are a number of makeup products for rosacea that will not only conceal facial redness, but actually help and repair you skin too! Keep reading as we reveal the best makeup products for rosacea, and while we might be biased, our customers swear by each product too! Firstly though there are a few things you need to know when it comes to the best makeup products for rosacea; If you have rosacea you’ll want to use makeup to cover up facial redness and any bumps and blemishes on your face. Look for makeup products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin and no not contain fragrances, preservatives or harsh chemicals. Mineral makeup is best! Formulated with skin loving ingredients and no chemical nasties, ELES Cosmetics has a range of mineral makeup must-have’s perfect for covering up skincare woes including rosacea. The products also allow skin to breath freely so no clogging pores and aggravating irritated skin! When it comes to rosacea, green-tinted products or colour correctors are a great go-to for cancelling out redness. Be aware of rosacea triggers which can cause unwanted facial redness such as spicy foods, hot drinks, alcohol and caffeine. Using the right makeup products will make a big difference in managing rosacea prone skin. Look for gentle, soothing products that aim to reduce redness and inflammation while concealing skin. Remember less is more when it comes to those with skin sensitivities and facial flareups. You don’t want to overdo it when it comes to layering your makeup products. Skin needs to breath and too many products can lead to further inflammation. The best makeup products to cover up facial redness and improve rosacea symptoms; ELES Luminous CC Cream 20CC Creams are designed to help correct skin discolouration. They contain pigments that can help neutralize redness creating a more even skin tone and reducing the appearance of rosacea.The ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 is a lightweight, oil-free colour correcting cream with broad spectrum protection (essential as sun exposure can aggravate rosacea) that perfectly counteracts redness, so well so that you can get away without wearing any other makeup. Did I mention it’s formulated with skin soothing, nourishing and brightening ingredients too.“This cream is so light weight and just melts into the skin to colour match my complexion and even my red skin.” Madeleine Mortiss ELES Liquid Powder Mineral FoundationWhen you suffer from sensitive skin or a skin condition such as rosacea, wearing mineral makeup will stand your skin in good stead. Traditional makeup products may contain ingredients that can aggravate rosacea symptoms such as fragrances, preservatives and synthetic dyes. Mineral makeup on the other hand is gentle, non-irritating and can actually help improve the appearance of skin while minimising facial flare-ups.The bestselling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation is packed with skin loving ingredients and provides the perfect base for your face as it works wonders at camouflaging facial redness. It is also highly compatible with common skin sensitivities.“Eles liquid foundation is the most natural looking foundation I have ever tried. It matches by skin tone perfectly and feels comfortable on my skin. It does not dry my skin as other mineral foundations have done in the past and is safe to apply over eczema.” Katherine BarrELES Mineral Powder FoundationHighly compatible with common skin sensitivities, the lightweight powder easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage while effectively camouflaging imperfections.A brilliant foundation for rosacea, this mineral formula is breathable, protective, and heals skin conditions as you wear it. By using a unique aloe vera base, it soothes rosacea flare ups. The coverage lasts longer and feels lighter than other foundations, giving the impression that you are not wearing make-up.“The ELES Mineral Foundation Powder blends beautifully and provides excellent coverage. Feels light as a feather. I sponge a little extra over my blemishes - covers redness and uneven skin tone without the caked on feeling of foundation and/or concealer.: Rebecca Vaughan

Which order should you apply your skincare?

by Jo Boyden on Nov 24 2022

With the ever-growing number of lotions and potions on the market from cleansers to toners, serums to oils, day to night creams and more, it’s no wonder there is confusion around which products are really necessary for our skin, let alone which order you should apply your skincare!Here’s the thing, we all have unique skin needs, dependant on our skin type and concern, so it’s important to create our own skincare ‘cocktail’ based on these specific needs! But if we use the wrong products (not everyone for example can tolerate AHA’s), pair two products together that are formulated with ingredients that don’t ‘gel’, or do not wear our skincare in the correct order, we just won’t see the results we are hoping for, or worse could wind up with blotchy, irritated skin instead. Eek.So to save time, stress and money! We have detailed below the exact order you should apply your skincare so you can get the most out of it! Along with what products and ingredients to use for your skin type and concern too! Cleanser Toner Serum Eye Cream Treatment (eg. Spot) Moisturiser Sunscreen (day) Face Oil (night) Step 1: CLEANSERCleansing daily is essential for skin health and the first step to layering skincare like a pro for optimum results. And despite conflicting views cleansing twice daily is imperative.Firstly, you need to cleanse at night to remove the days dirt, makeup and impurities. Then again in the morning to remove any excess oil and dead cells that are likely to have accumulated on your skin overnight. Without cleansing, your skin will be more prone to breakouts, dehydration, and premature aging. And remember you need a clean, oil and grime free face for all your skincare ingredients to properly absorb into your skin!At night opt for a cleansing oil that literally dissolves makeup (including waterproof!) without stripping your skin then follow with a gentle, creamy cleaner (which you should use in the morning too). For more information on cleansing and how it will improve your skin tenfold click here.Try;ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil - ideal for all skin types it will literally melt away makeup and impurities while maintaining a balanced, hydrated and smoothed complexion.Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk – If you love milky cleansers this is your one! Formulated for all skin types even those with super sensitive skin, it gently removes makeup and residue without disturbing the skin's protective barrier.Phytomer Oligopur Purifying Cleansing Gel – the perfect option for oily skin types this lightly foaming, velvety soft gel cleanser effectively eliminates impurities and excess sebum thoroughly cleansing and purifying the skin.Pevonia CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser – my everyday go to, this lightly foaming luxurious cleanser is suitable for all skin types, but especially recommended for dry skin! It’s lipid rich, alcohol-free and soap-free and feels a-mazing on the skin. Skin is actually clean, hydrated, softer and smoother after every use! Step 2: TONER (or lotion)Ah, the step that everyone skips, but a vital step in optimising the effect of your skincare! Essentially toners help to remove any excess dirt and traces of oil, balance the pH of your skin and prime your skin for ingredients that follow to be better absorbed!Try;Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion – Perfect for all skin types this little gem ensures any left over signs of residual makeup or oil is completely removed.Phytomer Oligomarine Flawless Skin Tonic – perfect toner for oily, blemish-prone skin. Pevonia Hydrating Toner – Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice, and Vitamin E, it works to hydrate, revive and fully refresh the skin. Great for anyone with worried about ageing, dehydration or devitalised skin.Medicalia Gentle Toner – wonderful for those prone to rosacea and sensitive skin. Step 3: SERUMSYou might be wondering if you really need a serum in your skincare routine, but I’m here to tell you why you definitely do!Serums are the heavy lifters when it comes to your skincare routine, they are essentially shots of extremely concentrated nutrients, hydrators and antioxidants that will really amp up your skin’s health as soon as you apply it. Serums actually tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products because they are formulated with a higher concentration of targeted active ingredients and have the ability to penetrate deeper into the dermis. So if you want your skin to live its best life don’t skip on the serum! To learn more about why you need a serum and the best anti-ageing serums for every skin type, click here.Try;Phytomer Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturising Polarized Water Serum - the ultimate thirst quencher for dehydrated and devitalised skin.Vie Collection Vita C Concentrated Solution – the best for serious skin brightening. Vitamin C promotes a healthy, radiant glow.Phytomer Acnipur Blemish Solution Fluid – to diminish the appearance of blemishes and prevent future breakouts.Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate - For seriously sensitive skin that needs calming, soothing and strengthening. Step 4: EYE CAREUnfortunately, the delicate skin around our eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so this is not a step in your skincare routine that you should ever skip! In fact it’s essential we our eye area the same level of TLC as the rest of our face!This step needs to come before your moisturiser because thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products and eye care products tend to be lighter and thinner than moisturisers to compensate for the fragile eye area.Try;Phytomer Pionniere XMF Reset Eye Fluid – anti-ageing wonder cream, perfect for night-time.Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream – the best to combat eye ageing, dark circles and under eye puffiness.Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye Gel - formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C and skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, this gel is perfect is cooling and soothing congested and puffy peepers.Step 5: MOISTURISERA moisturiser not only infuses your skin with hydration but also helps trap in all of the products underneath it to make the ingredients even more effective.In the morning opt for a lighter, gentle moisturiser that will nourish and hydrate skin but not feel heavy or greasy (after all who wants that!) Just make sure you let your moisturiser of choice sink in before applying makeup as you don’t want your makeup to slide off within an hour of application!Try;Phytomer Nutritionnelle Dry Skin Rescue Cream – this is a salvation for even the driest skin, bringing comfort, hydration and protection.Phytomer Oligopur Hydra Matifying Control Cream – ideal for oily, combination or acne-prone skin, this mattifying cream restores clear and perfectly moisturised skin.Pevonia RS2 Care Cream – perfectly soothing, calming and nourishing, this global best-selling cream for sensitive, rosacea and reactive skin types will render skin visibly calmed, soothed, and completely decongested.At night skin goes into repair and regeneration mode so your moisturiser should be packed with skin ingredients to benefit your skincare concerns like hyaluronic acid, lipids, proteins and retinol.Try;Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream – hydrating, nurturing and restorative, this anti-ageing night cream for all skin types is outstanding!Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential Moisturiser – while you should introduce retinol slowly, if you are worried about ageing, this is the ingredient your skin needs. This moisturiser will deeply hydrate, smooth, brighten and firm ageing skin. It’s idea for those with advanced signs of aging and sun damage exhibited by wrinkles, loose and sagging skin and uneven skin tone or dark spots. Really, it’s great for anyone who really want smoother, firmer skin and are not sensitive or acne-prone. Step 6: SUNSCREEN/FACE OILBy day go nowhere without applying your sunscreen, it’s literally your barrier of protection against free-radical damage, the no.1 cause of premature skin ageing!Try;Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield – perfect for all skin types, it’s light-textured, non-greasy, tinted and 'ocean/reef safe' and it delivers powerful sun and blue light protection whilst also combating skin-aging free radicals from UV and infrared radiation!At night you should always use a face oil – the very last step to your skincare routine. This is because the oil takes a while to penetrate and treat the skin, so applying it at night gives it time to do its job. Plus you wouldn’t want a face full of oil in the morning just when you want to apply your makeup!Try;Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil – perfect for all skin types this face oil literally does as the bottle says. Enjoy softer, radiant and revitalised skin.Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate - Fast-absorbing, this soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil 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. While these 6 steps include the basics for your daily skincare routine, you must not forget your exfoliator and face mask, to essentials steps to incorporate into your routine once or twice weekly as well!To find out more about the benefits of exfoliation and the best exfoliant for your skin click here. And for when and why you should use a face mask click here.

6 of the best christmas gift sets for every beauty lover

by Jo Boyden on Nov 10 2022

Finding the perfect Christmas gift when it comes to family and friends is no mean feat, especially with so many gift ideas out there! So instead of spending hours scrolling, why not just keep it simple and opt for a beauty gift set? The perfect idea for any beauty lover (which let’s face it is the majority of women!). Beauty gift sets not only provide an element of surprise and delight, they also have the ability to make the receiver look and feel a million dollars, especially when it’s filled with results driven professional beauty buys like the ones from Beauty Collective!From the best anti-ageing and hydration heroes to a complete line of must-haves for anyone suffering from sensitive skin, at Beauty Collective we have gift sets for skin type and concern! Plus, from full size products to best-selling travel sizes, the gift sets can be used at home as well as on the go! Perfect for the upcoming holiday season! Oh, and all gift sets come with free products too! But with so many options (29 gift sets to be precise!) it may be hard to decide which one to go for so to help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up our top 6...that said all of them are pretty fabulous! BEST FOR THIRSTY SKINPevonia Age Correction Collagen Gift SetThere is no better time for your loved ones (or you!) to try the sublime best-selling products from Pevonia’s Power Repair line. Formulated with marine collagen, elastin peptides and hyaluronic acid, each exquisite product in this gift set not only firms the contours and plumps out fine lines but they provide hours and hours of hydration for better skin health too! Oh, and their heavenly textures and gorgeous natural aromas are also a big bonus!Gift set includes; a FREE Hydrating Cleanser, a FREE Hydrating Toner, Hyalruonic Acid Hydra Serum, Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream (all products are full size)BEST FOR SENSTIVE SKINPevonia RS2 Rosacea Skin Essential Gift SetIf you suffer from super sensitive skin or if you are prone to facial flushing or rosacea, this skincare Christmas gift set is for you!Featuring a FREE RS2 Gentle Cleanser, a FREE RS2 Gentle Lotion, an RS2 Concentrate and an RS2 Care Skin Cream, all the products work together in perfect unison to effectively desensitize and decongest skin while also effectively relieving rosacea discomfort. Sore, red, or irritated skin no more! Result!BEST FOR FACE & EYE AGEINGVie Collection Chrono Lines Ritual Face & Eyes Gift SetDid somebody say you’ll look 10 years younger after using these products? We kid you not, this best-selling duo – Chrono Lines Ultra Smoothing Cream and Chrono-Eyes Puffiness Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream – in the perfect value for money christmas gift set is a force to be reckoned with! Tackling dehydration, signs of fatigue, wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles and crows’ feet, skin will be rendered youthfully restored!BEST FOR ADVANCED AGEINGPevonia Caviar Luxury De-Ageing Gift SetGear up for the best year of your skin’s life with the opulent gift set from Pevonia. Packed with a luxurious array of caviar products including a FREE Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Cleanser, a FREE Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Lotion 120ml, a Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Serum and a Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Cream (all full sizes) this ultimate beauty gift set for those who deserve to be spoilt will counteract ageing like no other. Seriously.BEST VALUE FOR MONEYPhytomer Pionniere XMF Luxury Gift SetWith a staggering 65% discount this amazing value for money gift set includes three advanced anti-ageing Phytomer best-sellers – Pionniere XMF Rich Cleansing Cream, FREE Pionniere XMF Supreme Cream and FREE Pionniere XMF Radiance Retexturing Serum - known for their exceptional youth preserving properties! Instantly smooth and plump wrinkles for younger, healthier skin.BEST ALL ROUNDERPevonia Ultra Hydration Gift SetFast track to radiant skin with this skincare Christmas gift set packed with anti-ageing essentials including best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream, super hydrator Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum and a FREE Ageless Skin Collagen Mask (all 50ml) which work in synergy to ensure skin is beautifully nourished and treated day after day. What’s more, the products come in a fab little cosmetics bag for your convenience too.

Beauty Collective - Exfoliation and Sensitive Skin

Exfoliation and sensitive skin, here’s what to do

by Jo Boyden on Nov 04 2022

If you suffer from sensitive skin the idea of exfoliating might scare you. After all you don’t want to exacerbate your already irritated skin, right? The thing is exfoliation should be a crucial part of your regular skincare routine no matter what your skin type or concern. Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits, from removing dulling dead skin cells, to preventing clogged pores, encouraging cell turnover (so those healthy, new cells can come through) and more! In fact, it’s the one step in your skincare routine which will really help reveal glowy, silky-soft skin! However, before exfoliating your face, you do need to know how often to exfoliate and what exfoliating products will be best suited to your sensitive skin. As experts in skincare, we are here to guide you. Keep reading as we discuss exfoliation and sensitive skin and what it is you should do. Which type of exfoliators are best for sensitive skin?There are three different types of exfoliants – physical (scrubs which contain beads or small grains to manually remove surface debris), chemical (acid exfoliants which chemically dissolve debris) and enzyme (plant or fruit derived exfoliants that generally breaks down the ‘glue’ that hold dead skin cells together shedding old cells).For sensitive skin its essential to avoid scrubbing, this will only irritate already reactive skin and can lead to facial redness. Instead use a mild chemical exfoliator, containing AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids) such as citric, glycolic and lactic acid, or enzyme exfoliators. These earth-sourced ingredients essentially dissolve dead skin cells as opposed to physically scrubbing them off.Be a little more cautious with exfoliators formulated with BHA’s (beta hydroxy acids) such as salicylic acid. While salicylic is great for acne prone skin it can be too harsh for those this skin sensitivities. How often should you exfoliate if you have sensitive skin?Once a week is fine, if your skin can tolerate it, increasing to two times can be beneficial but don’t rush it! It’s important to be consistent and go slowly to avoid any additional irritation. After all over-exfoliating can compromise your skin’s natural protective barrier – the surface of your skin which has a protective layer of oils and lipids which helps lock in essential moisture and keeps irritants out! What are the best exfoliating products to use on sensitive skin?Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymesWe highly recommend this very gentle enzyme exfoliant. Perfect for for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin types, it uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating skin.“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can’t use exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs…this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It’s the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah RPevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling CreamThis mini facial in a jar (literally) will do wonders for all skin types even the most sensitive of skin types. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes with citric and to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me.“Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It’s gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft.” Lisa W

Rosacea vs eczema: What’s the difference?

by Jo Boyden on Sep 08 2022

Are you suffering from red, inflamed or itchy skin? Dry scaly patches perhaps? Or pustules even? If you answered yes to any of the above, you could be suffering from one of two inflammatory skin conditions – rosacea or eczema, but before being able to treat it, it’s important to understand which one you have!From intermittent flare-ups to skin redness and irritation, both rosacea and eczema can be easily confused, yet both disorders have a number of different triggers and therefore need to be treated in different ways. But how exactly are you supposed to diagnose which of you two you might have? We talked to Beauty Collectives’ Director of Education to find out everything there is to know about the two.What is rosacea? Rosacea is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions which unlike eczema mostly affects the face. Rosacea typically occurs in adults over 30, and while more common in women, men who suffer from the disorder tend to experience more obvious symptoms.What are rosacea symptoms?Signs and symptoms of rosacea include facial flushing which may resemble a blush or sunburn. This can be persistent. This redness mainly occurs on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin and tends to come and go. It can also be accompanied by a sense of heat, warmth or burning.Occasionally rosacea causes papules and pustules to appear which can be confused for acne. And for many people with rosacea, prominent small blood vessels called telangiectasia become visible on the cheeks, nasal bridge and other areas of the central face.Finally, but a much less common symptom – your skin may thicken and enlarge from excess tissue, most commonly on the nose (known as rhinophyma).What causes rosacea?While the cause of rosacea is unknown there are lifestyle and environmental factors which can affect its severity from sunlight to weather changes, alcohol, caffeine, smoking and more.How to get rid of rosacea permanentlySadly, eliminating rosacea altogether is an impossibility, but you can keep symptoms at bay, you just need to be religious about maintaining a good skincare routine using targeted rosacea treatments and by making adjustments to your lifestyle; Avoid sun exposure Unfortunately. sun exposure is the most common trigger for rosacea. While we may all love long days at the beach, if you suffer from rosacea your skin sadly will pay a price. Not only can sunburn make flare-ups even worse, the heat from the sun can also increase your body temperature which in turn dilates blood vessels and triggers inflammation. Relax more, stress less Stress and anxiety can cause rosacea symptoms to worsen, so some stress management techniques will be imperative. Make sure to get plenty of rest where you can as well as practice mindfulness, as this can really help combat the stress-inducing effects of negative thinking.There are several methods for increasing mindfulness a few of which include, mindfulness-based stress reduction, meditation, and yoga.And don’t forget to practice deep breathing when you feel anxiety creeping up. Eliminate any hot, spicy foods from your diet These are two big rosacea triggers for some, so it’s best to steer clear from things like horseradish dip and hot sauce when you’re drinking alcohol as heat dilates the blood vessels in the skin, and since hot foods generate heat, peppers are a big no-no! Reduce your alcohol consumption While you might well love that glass of wine of an evening, sadly it can trigger or potentially worsen any facial redness. Introduce skincare specifically designed to combat rosacea Look for products such as rosacea serum formulated with calming and soothing ingredients like green tea, licorice extract, chamomile extract, and French rose extract. Try Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 rosacea skincare line – a soothing, calming and irritant free collection that not only alleviates redness and discomfort but also helps create a healthy skin barrier. Never skimp on your sunscreen Despite avoiding sun exposure where feasible, it’s not possible to completely steer clear, so wearing SPF daily is a necessity. Just opt for sensitive skin formulations that won’t aggravate your rosacea.Or for the best colour correcting makeup for rosacea that’s also formulated with SPF try ELES Cosmetics Luminous CC Cream 20. Perfect for those with skin sensitivities like rosacea, it’s lightweight, oil-free, hypoallergenic and paraben free, and while it’s technically not a foundation, the full coverage pigments cover redness and other rosacea symptoms flawlessly. You can also try light and laser therapy To reduce rosacea symptoms and use both topical and oral medications from your doctor if symptoms are really aggressive.What is eczema?Otherwise known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a very common anti-inflammatory skin disorder, more evident in young children, but also apparent in adults too.What are eczema symptoms?Eczema typically presents with a dry, cracked, red, itchy skin that may be scaly and/or bumpy. Fluid-filled blisters can also form.Eczema most often occurs on the inside of the elbows, the knees, hands, feed, upper chest, neck and sometimes on the face.What causes eczema?Eczema is caused by a combination of genetics, stress and immune system activation. When you suffer from eczema your immune system overreacts to small irritants or allergens. This overreaction can inflame your skin.Eczema can come and go but certain fabrics, soaps, and detergents as well as the environments and certain foods can really cause flare ups. Changes in weather can contribute to dry and eczema prone skin.How to get rid of eczema permanently As with rosacea, it’s not possible to totally cure eczema, but you can effectively manage symptoms by following a few essential steps; Avoid foods that can trigger eczema flare ups These include; refined carbs, processed meats, dairy, citrus fruits, peanuts and soy. Feast on vegetables and fruits that are high in inflammation-fighting flavonoid Such as spinach, kale, broccoli, apples, blueberries, bananas, oranges and cherries (when in season!) these have been found to help improve the overall health of skin and fight inflammatory skin conditions. Do not bathe in hot water Instead, just warm water only. Keep skin moisturised daily with products that will support your skin barrier function Products formulated with shea butter, lanolin, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, fatty acids and Niacinamide are best. In some cases topical medication is paramount. See your doctor. If the condition is bad, oral and injectable options are also available Just remember maintaining a healthy skin barrier and avoiding triggers are key to managing symptoms when it comes to both rosacea and eczema.

7 reasons you are suffering from sensitive skin and how to fix it

by Jo Boyden on Sep 02 2022

Whether you’ve always been prone to sensitive skin or have suddenly started to suffer from inflammation, we feel you. Unfortunately, a number of factors can affect our skin and lead to common skin sensitivities but there are steps you can take overcome this!From the weather and our environment to the water and what we eat, read on as we count down 7 sensitive skin triggers and the best products to counteract them! Firstly, though what is sensitive skin exactly?Contrary to popular belief sensitive skin isn’t actually a skin type. Unlike dry, normal, oily and combination skin, sensitive skin is not determined by how much sebum a person's skin produces, in fact those who have dry or oily skin types can also have sensitive skin! Sensitive skin instead refers to a range of conditions, from facial redness, rashes, broken capillaries and inflammation to burning sensations, itchiness and breakouts!And yes, you might be thinking that most people are likely to have at least some sort of skin reaction in their lives whether it be to a product or ingredient for example, those with persistent issues are classified as having sensitive skin. What are the triggers for sensitive skin? and the best way to treat it? The weather Harsh weather conditions be it low temperatures, strong winds and extreme heat can strip the skin’s natural protective barrier compromising our complexion as water escapes and irritants get in! Skin can look and feel irritated from redness and itchiness to inflammation.Solution: While we can’t change the weather (although often wish we could!) you can turn down the heating in the winter and lay of the air conditioning unit in the summer.Also inflamed skin needs calming, so look for products with soothing ingredients like calendula, chamomile aloe and azulene extract.Try; Pevonia’s Sensitive Skin Line. Comprising of a cleanser, lotion, moisturiser and serum, this best-selling collection effectively controls sensitivity, soothes skin irritation and diffusing redness. Over exposure to the sun Ten minutes in the sun and before you know it you are looking and feeling somewhat flushed in the face! This is because UV rays from the sun triggers oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin.Solution: Integrate abroad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher into your daily routine (yes that’s right daily, even in winter!) Fragrance-free and natural sunscreen formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are best, oh and wear a hat too!Try: Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. A true triple threat, this smooth, tinted sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula including both zinc and iron oxides to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light AND pollution! It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones. So worth the investment in my books! Taking hot (not warm) showers We all love a hot shower or indulgent bubble bath, especially on a cold winters night but this luxury can lead to taut, itchy, uncomfortable skin – all common signs of sensitivity.Solution: it’s simple enough switch to lukewarm water or at least turn the heat down! Always use a gentle cleanser and apply a nourishing moisturiser packed with ceramides as soon as you come out.Try Medicalia Gentle cleanser. Formulated with a unique natural blend of soothing Green Tea, Chamomile, and Oat Amino-Acids it beautifully cleanses skin both thoroughly and gently while preserving the skin barrier and reducing symptoms of inflammation! Additives in skincare and cosmetics It doesn’t matter what you seem to put on your skin, it reacts! This is because people with sensitive skin typically have a much weaker, thinner and more easily damaged skin barrier making it easier for irritants to penetrate the skin and cause unwanted inflammation!Solution: Don’t overload your skin with multiple products or use skincare with harsh ingredients. Opt for gentle and hypoallergenic formulations specifically designed to address sensitive and reactive skin and always use mineral makeup as it contains no chemical nasties and will allow skin to breath freely.Try; Phytomer Douceur Intemporelle Restorative Shield Cream. It’s an outstanding comforting cream with a beautifully light consistency which literally rescues skin by strengthening it’s protective barrier. It soothes, calms and comforts skin, conveniently remedying red patches. Alcohol You love a good glass of wine in the evening but have noticed every time you indulge you get a flush face and a rash even? This is because alcohol is a stimulant and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The sulphites used in wine are meant to preserve it, however exposure to sulphites induce a number of adverse reactions including the majority of common skin sensitivities.Solution: Buy preservative free alcohol. Yes, it’s a thing! And for every glass of wine consumed, drink two glasses of water! Specific foods Certain food choices can sadly lead it skin inflammation. It’s best to avoid foods such as peanuts, wheat, eggs, cow's milk, soy and shellfish which are among the most common culprits. The itchiness caused by these foods and subsequent scratching can then lead to flare-ups or worsening of sensitive skin symptoms!Solution: Make sure your daily diet is rich in foods such as anti-inflammatory asparagus, red onion, tomatoes, broccoli, berries, peppers, olives oil and avocado. Pollution Every day, our skin is in contact with atmospheric pollution and more specifically ozone and PM2.5, microscopic fine particles (basically soot). These pollutants can stick to the skin, and the smallest particles may even penetrate down to the epidermal cells causing oxidative stress. The result? people with sensitive skin suffering from inflammatory skin conditions are faced with further inflammation.Solution: Use pollution proof skincare!Try: Phytomer Citadine Citylife Face & Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. A combination of three marine sugars create the active ingredient, CITYSAFE®, to depollute, cleanse and oxygenate the skin. CITYSAFE®, along with blue and red algae’s and Phytomer’s patented seawater concentrate – Oligomer®, reset skin repairing damage caused by pollution. CITYLIFE not only sweeps away toxic micro particles but provides an ultra-moisturising facial experience too!

This is the best makeup product to hide redness, hands down

by Jo Boyden on Aug 20 2022

Looking for the best makeup to conceal your facial redness? Whether you are prone to rosacea, suffer from common skin sensitivities or have a forever flushed face, CC Creams (otherwise known as Colour Correctors), are guaranteed to be your go-to.This seriously sort after product goes beyond just colour correcting though, in fact they have multiple benefits from hydrating and nourishing skin, to evening out skin tone, concealing imperfections and disguising sallowness and redness too!The perfect alternative to foundations and BB Creams, CC Creams are also jam packed with skin-loving and nurturing ingredients and come in a light/sheer formula.Sold yet? Try our favourite CC, the best-selling ELES Luminous CC Cream 20! Perfect for disguising any flushing and blushing it’s a total game changer for sensitive and rosacea prone skin. It simply colour corrects like no other as photo-luminescent diamond and an optically transparent polymer work together to “bounce” light from the skin, instantly concealing redness while visibly smoothing the skin’s surface.What’s more, it has a built in mattifier with exceptional liquid absorbency to target oil and help eliminate shine leaving skin with a flawless and pore-less looking demi-matte finish.This lightweight, oil-free formula doesn’t stop there though, it is also packed with antioxidants and other skin nourishing ingredients to protect, correct and brighten skin, diminishing imperfections while visibly calming the most inflamed of skin too. It also provides UV protection to shield skin from sun exposure which can otherwise aggravate rosacea and other common skin sensitivities and provides instant, long term moisture retention and 72 hour hydration, reducing transepidermal water loss and strengthening skins barrier function.And for this month, when you purchase the ELES Luminous CC Cream you’ll receive a Pro Blender sponge for FREE.So counter redness, conceal breakouts and dark spots, smooth skin texture and boost your glow now with the ELES Cosmetics Luminous CC Cream 20.

11 top-rated beauty buys for 11 common skin concerns

by Jo Boyden on Apr 29 2022

Suffering from sensitive skin? Adult acne even? Struggling to battle those blemishes or simply over your dull, devitalized complexion? Whatever your skin concern BC have a multitude of products to help! From stand-out serums to miracle masks, we have you covered, but don’t just take our word for it, read on as we reveal 11 beauty buys for 11 common skin concerns as recommended by us, but praised by our customers too. For sensitive skinPhytomer Douceur Marine Soothing Moisturising CreamAn absolute dream for sensitive skin, this luxurious, melt-away cream is rich in marine ingredients which act to reduce redness and calm uncomfortable skin while strengthening the skin’s natural defences against stress, weather and pollution!“After much trial and error I’ve finally found a moisturizer that protects, softens, and reduces the look of redness on my very sensitive skin. I’ve been using it for a year and still can’t believe how cool, calm, and smooth its made my skin feel. This moisturizer is everything and I would recommend it to anyone who suffers from redness and sensitivities” – Samantha A For dry skinPevonia Rejuvenating Dry Skin CreamDry skin often lacks vitality but not if you use this little gem! Silky smooth, it literally melts into your skin on application, leaving no residue yet keeps skin moisturised pretty much all day long! Nourishing, energising, and oxygenating, it’s formulated with pear seed extract proven to effectively aid in counteracting dryness while diminishing lines and wrinkles! The result? Rejuvenated, hydrated and glowing skin every day! Oh, and it smells pretty wonderful too!“I love this product, finally something that works for me. Usually my skin is either still dry & flaking or I get little red spots from too much oil. This cream however hydrates & plumps my skin without any side effects”. – Katie B For dull skinPevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserIf 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! 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 For dehydrated skinAge Correction Marine Collagen CreamMy personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 favourite of many of the BC crew too, the Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin super soft, supple and like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day!“This collagen cream is not for the faint of heart. It packs a serious punch of moisturizing power and is on the heavier side. With that said, I find that my make up goes on extra flawlessly and stays put throughout the day when I use this cream. It's also done wonders for improving the skin on my neck and decollete area. This is so much more affordable than comparable marine collagen creams and has the same effects. I'd highly recommend it for anyone looking for a seriously moisturizing, topical collagen cream.” – Ayla For acne prone skinPevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateIf you’re a sufferer of reactive, sensitive or acne prone skin this could be your new go-to if it’s not already! It’s a beautiful rich gel-like serum with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties! And combines calming lavender, vetiver oil and a high concentration of healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France to desensitize, decongest, heal, strengthen, and really enrich skin! Outstanding stuff!“I have problems with adult acne as well as having sensitive skin. This product helped calm my skin down as well as reduce my acne and made my skin feel really soft again.” – Laura L For Rosacea prone skinPevonia RS2 Care CreamFormulated with calming, skin-caring ingredients including Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, this beautifully textured, nourishing cream is soothing like ice on seriously sensitive skin. It provides skin with vaso constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits to effectively reduce redness and inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associated with Rosacea. We love the great results for rosacea prone skin but also love its natural signature scent of French Rose. It’s one heavenly product so not hard to see why it’s loved by so many!“I have paid out a lot of money on products for my rosacea- this time I have hit the jackpot! After years of frustration and not wanting to go down the laser path I have found this cream and I can truely say it has helped my skin. It is calmer with less redness and flare ups. I intend to purchase the concentrate with my next RS2 cream order and see if that adds to the improvement.” – Sharon E For oily, hormonal skinPevonia Pure Skin Charcoal MaskProne to oily skin and pesky pimples? You could well be suffering from a hormonal complexion. A detoxifying charcoal mask will be your best bet! Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask is the perfect antidote for congested, oily or dull skin. It neutralises pollutants, draws out impurities and leaves skin glowing with pure freshness!“Being in my 50's I wasn't sure if this would dry my skin out, but I bought it coz I had a few breakouts - hormonal I guess. I've used it daily for about 3 days and it's totally cleared my skin up - it feels de-congested, clear and smooth. I love this mask “ – Melinda H For combination skinPevonia Balancing Combination Skin CreamWith a subtle lemongrass scent to die for and a soothing, silky texture which perfectly dissolves into skin on application, this moisturiser is a BC best-seller for very good reason! Perfect for those with combination skin, prone to oily t-zones, it effectively refines pores and controls oil and shine with skin nourishing ingredients including vitamin e, arnica and aloe. Get ready for smooth, soft and supple skin minus the excessive oil and congestion that it brings! Yes!“What’s not to love about this product? It provides just enough moisture for my combination skin, absorbs quickly, doesn't pill under makeup, doesn't cause me to breakout and the cherry on top....it smells AMAZING! The ingredient list is very clean so I know I'm providing some great nutrients to my skin.” – Dyan G For ageing skinMedicalia Retinol & C Care CreamRetinol – Hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world and for very good reason, retinol 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?For those with advanced signs of ageing – wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, Medicalia’s Retinol & C Care Cream should be 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!“This is the best product for aging skin I have found.” – Heather For skin slackeningPhytomer Structuriste Firming Contour SerumNo 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 DFor pigmentation and dark spotsPhytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumThis serum does it all! It actually diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots with a formulation infused with alpha hydroxyl acids and glycolic acid. Skin really does immerge younger and healthier.“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

The best makeup tips and products to calm and conceal rosacea

by Jo Boyden on Apr 08 2022

Suffering from rosacea? Need advice on how to counteract and conceal it? No worries, we are here to help!While we’ve already talked about the best skincare solutions for rosacea flareups it’s time to talk makeup. Choosing the right products, like your skincare, is paramount as certain cosmetics can exacerbate an already chronic condition, just want you don’t need! But the idea of going makeup free isn’t an option – we know. Good news is, it’s possible to perfectly conceal the facial redness caused by rosacea and we are here to tell you how. Mineral makeup is hands down the best choice for those suffering with rosacea. Why? Because the products don’t contain potentially irritating ingredients. They also contain innovative formulas specifically created to colour-correct redness.Formulated with skin loving ingredients and no chemical nasties, ELES Cosmetics has a range of mineral makeup must-have’s perfect for covering up skincare woes including rosacea. The products also allow skin to breath freely so no clogging pores and aggravating irritated skin! Before applying foundation, always use a primer first! Primers are amazing tools that not only create a smooth canvas for your foundation, but they also have the ability to literally prevent your makeup sliding right off your face, especially if your skin tends to be on the oily side. What’s more, they also create a barrier between your skin and your makeup preventing any further irritation. We highly recommend ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer. It’s a deeply soothing liquid-cream made with Aloe Vera leaf extract, Roman Chamomile, Witch Hazel, Calendula, Mallow Flower and Centaurea Cyanus Flower extract, that smooths, soothes, hydrates, retexturizes and refines, so foundation applies effortlessly and endures impeccably for hours! Set your foundation in place with a powder. This will help your makeup wear beautifully throughout the day, so redness stays covered–phew! It’s also a good idea to apply with a brush rather than a sponge which tends to harbour bacteria more. We love ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. Highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, this lightweight powder easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage while effectively camouflaging imperfections. Remember less is more when it comes to those with skin sensitivities and facial flareups. You don’t want to overdo it when it comes to layering those products. Skin needs to breath and too many products can lead to further inflammation. Opt for multi-tasting products like colour correctors and breathable foundations. Our go-to for concealing rosacea is a good colour corrector which will help visually correct redness and even out skin tone too! Using one with UV protection will also help shield your sensitive skin from exposure that can aggravate rosacea. Try ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 to instantly conceal redness! This lightweight, oil-free colour correcting cream with broad spectrum protection, multi-tasks like no other! It not only brightens, hydrates and keeps oiliness at bay for over 12 hours, it has a cutting-edge colour correcting system that visibly calms the most inflamed skin too. Photo-luminescent diamond and an optically transparent polymer work together to “bounce” light from the skin, instantly concealing redness and visibly smoothing the skin’s surface.

Beauty Collective - top-rated beauty buys

Calm and conceal ultra-sensitive skin with these top-rated beauty buys

by Jo Boyden on Feb 25 2022

If you’re prone to sensitive skin or simply suffering from sudden skin irritabilities, you wouldn’t be alone. When it comes to sensitive skin there can, unfortunately, be many internal and external factors that are triggers, so it’s a good idea to look at your lifestyle as well as rethink your skincare routine. By opting for natural products formulated with soothing, calming and nurturing ingredients such as chamomile, calendula, aloe, lavender, propolis and more, you can overcome common skin sensitivities, and we are here to share 5 products that’ll help you do so. Products the BC experts swear by but also the ones loved by BC customers too. Pevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateSerums are essential in any skincare routine because they deliver vital active ingredients to the dermis quickly. Think of a serum as the secret weapon for treating skin issues like discoloration, dullness, fine lines, acne and skin sensitivities!For a truly nurturing, soothing serum Pevonia’s antibacterial Soothing Propolis Concentrate should be your go-to. It literally bathes skin in calming lavender and healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France, decongesting, enriching, alleviating and strengthening fragile skin.“I have problems with adult acne as well as having sensitive skin. This product helped calm my skin down as well as reduce my acne and made my skin feel really soft again.” Laura L Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural EnzymesSensitive skin still needs exfoliation, but you should approach with caution! You want to avoid scrubbing or using mechanical methods of exfoliation as these will only irritate your skin further and can lead to additional redness. Instead use natural enzyme exfoliators. Enzymes are a great choice for those with sensitive skin, as they provide a gentle way to both exfoliate and brighten.Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes is the ideal gentle exfoliant for even the most sensitive skin. It is a seriously soft, silky and subtly scented and it eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!), encouraging cell turnover and revealing a refined skin texture and luminous youthful complexion! The velvety vegetable-based formula also contains vitamin E to neutralize damaging free radicals.“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R Pevonia Sensitive Skin starter packWhen your skin is sensitive and reacts to anything and everything, you really need a skincare solution that will gently soothe, calm and property desensitize! Pevonia’s Sensitive Skin starter pack contains not one, but three skincare essentials: Pevonia’s bestselling Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream, Sensitive Skin Cleanser and Sensitive Skin Lotion! The trio calm and control hypersensitivity. Skin nurturing ingredients including propolis, calendula and aloe alleviate and harmoniously correct skin’s blotchiness and irritability.“I have super sensitive skin and these products have a beautiful calming, hydrating effect on my skin.” Tania T ELES Mineral Powder FoundationEven if you are suffering from skin sensitivities, you’ll still likely want to wear makeup especially if you want to conceal any blemishes! The thing is many makeup products can exacerbate an already irritated complexion so you’re best to keep things simple (less is more) and opt for mineral makeup! Mineral makeup is free of irritants like talc and chemical dyes (making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin that's prone to irritation, itching, dryness, and redness). It allows your skin to breath freely and won’t clog it up with chemicals and artificial colours, perfumes, or preservatives! Phew.As a sufferer of want for a better word ‘flushed skin’ I personally LOVE the best-selling ELES Mineral Powder Foundation! It’s one of my all-time favourites. It’s one of the most natural-looking, if not THE most natural-looking foundations I have in fact ever tried and being in the industry for 20 years I’ve tried many! It contains zero chemical nasties, instead, it’s packed with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, can be used as a buildable foundation from natural sheer to polished opaque (dependant on what you need) and it’s highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, working wonders at camouflaging facial redness while protecting skin against ultraviolet damage too!“This is the first powder I have tried which has not had a drying effect on my skin. It is so gentle and comforting on my sensitive skin, leaving a soft silky veil over my face. It is also the most natural looking foundation I have ever tried. Coverage can be built with ease and creates the illusion of naturally flawless skin. I don't think I could ever use another powder again, definitely a convert.” Katherine B ELES Luminous CC Cream 20If it’s facial redness which you are prone to, using a colour corrector can be a game-changer! Rather than covering up the redness with a thick layer of concealer followed by your foundation, a colour corrector will help visually correct redness and even out skin tone too! Using a colour corrector with UV protection will also help shield your sensitive skin from exposure that can aggravate it!The ELES Luminous CC Cream SPF 20 is outstanding. It’s a lightweight, oil-free, colour correcting cream with broad spectrum protection that really does multi-task like no other! And while it’s technically not a foundation, the full coverage pigments cover redness—be it from rosacea, pimples, irritation, you name it—so well that you very well may be able to get away without wearing any other makeup. What’s more it’s multi-mineral complex helps to condition skin and provide antioxidant protection, while Hydra-Extend provides instant, long term moisture retention and 72 hour hydration, reducing TEWL and strengthening skins barrier function!“I’m loving my new CC Cream! I was recommended it by a friend as I suffer from facial redness and sensitive skin and this product does an amazing job at colour correcting so the redness is beautifully concealed but my skin feels calm with a nice natural glow at the same time. Would highly recommend it.” Sarah M

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