BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
The 5 best-selling moisturisers on BC and why we love them too!
by Jo Boyden
on Jun 01 2021
Applying moisturiser daily is one of the keys to achieving healthy, supple skin, no matter what your skin type or concern. So it's little surprise that the most common question we get asked at Beauty Collective is what is our best moisturiser. While there is no ONE moisturiser that can be plucked from the hundreds we have, there are a number which have received gold star status and for very good reason. So read on to find out the 5 Pevonia best-selling moisturisers on BC and which skin type they are best suited to. Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream Best for dry, dehydrated, ageing skin My 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! I swear my 40-year-old self has less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream Best for oily, combination and hormonal skin With a subtle lemongrass scent to die for and a soothing, silky texture which literally melts into skin on application, this moisturiser it top 5 for every good reason! Perfect for those with combination skin, prone to oily t-zones or susceptible to the odd blemish and pesky pimple, 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! Pevonia RS2 Care Cream Best for seriously sensitive or rosacea prone skin Formulated 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! Pevonia Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream For normal to sensitive skin There is nothing not to love about this product if you are a sufferer of sensitive skin. This cream will quite literally calm and control hypersensitivity. Formulated with soothing and healing propolis, aloe, shea butter, and chamomile, it alleviates and harmoniously corrects skin’s blotchiness and irritability. Skin sensitivity be gone with you! Pevonia Firming Marine Elastin Cream Best for those concerned with skin slackening or simply wanting a richer, more nourishing cream for winter Formulated with hydrating superstars’ hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane, this rich, nourishing anti-ageing cream dramatically increases moisture to the skin while improving overall texture and elasticity. Get ready to feel the difference! Oh and it smells pretty divine too!
BB, CC, DD Cream. What do these creams actually do and which is right for you?
by Jo Boyden
on May 13 2021
Beauty Balm, Colour Corrector or Daily Defence Cream? We’ve all heard of them, there is a lot of hype surrounding them but what exactly is the difference between these three cult beauty buys and most importantly, which one will be best for your skin? Well read on as we bring you the inside scoop on these skincare/makeup hybrids and reveal why you need at least one of them in your life!We’ve already told you all about the infamous BB, the multi-tasking wonder cream which triples as your primer, foundation and SPF in one. But how exactly do they differ from your CC and DD? CC CreamOffering more coverage than a BB Cream but in a light/sheer formula, CC Creams, also known as colour correctors, serve multiple purposes including disguising sallowness and imperfections such as dark spots and redness.Who’s it for?Ideal for anyone, but if you’re acne-prone, have dull skin, dark spots or suffer from facial redness CC Cream is the one for you.We loveThe Phytomer Skin Perfecting CC Cream SPF20 is a game changer! It’s a lightweight, colour correcting cream with broad spectrum sun protection that combines the performance of a professional moisturiser with makeup to effectively nourish skin, smooth pores and fine lines while concealing imperfections!The ultra-natural finish truly enhances and brightens the complexion while the skin nourishing formula relieves dryness and soothes inflammation.From the first application, skin flaws are softened, the complexion is even and the skin is literally enhanced. Within one month, skin is naturally even, bright and perfectly hydrated. Also this outstanding CC Cream comes in two shades – light for those with a lighter skin tone, and medium-deep for tanned, olive and dark skin tonesDD CreamDD or Daily Defence Cream, is also known as your “double duty” cream. A mix of both BB and CC, DD Creams basically include the skincare benefits of a BB Cream and the coverage benefits of a CC, with the primary focus being on anti-ageing.Designed to prime, perfect and protect both instantly and over time, these creams are your do it all cream! They will balance your complexion as well as protect even the most sensitive of skin types for healthy skin that glows.Who’s it forIf you are looking for a tinted cream that’ll reduce the appearance of wrinkles, then DD should be your go-to.We lovePevonia’s YouthRenew Tinted Cream SPF 30. Lightweight, age-defying, hydrating, pore refining and brightening, it really is the ultimate 5-in-1 DD cream!It delivers instant radiance to the skin while it’s subtle natural tint visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores for a flawless complexion. The added benefits of Collagen, Vitamin C and Green Olive Extracts repair fine line and wrinkles.In a nutshellBB Creams provide the coverage of a tinted foundation (although buildable) with the hydrating and anti-ageing properties of a moisturiser, and the added bonus of SPF.CC Creams have the ability to even out skin tone as well as neutralise redness and sallowness, with the added benefits of skin brightening and hydration.Alongside the BB’s skincare benefits and CC’s colour correcting, DD Creams have the added benefit of combatting fine lines and wrinkles over time. Think of them as the protector, their ingredients focus on defending skin from environmental aggressors like pollution resulting in glowing, healthier skin.
Why retinol is the anti-ageing ingredient your skin needs
by Jo Boyden
on May 10 2021
With so many anti-ageing skin care products on the market, choosing what will be right for your skin can be baffling so say the least. However, when it comes to reducing the visible signs of ageing, retinol is the “super-ingredient” every beauty professional hails as the holy grail of the skincare world. Why? Because it offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne. Retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child! What exactly is retinol?Retinol and retinoic acid are both forms of vitamin A used in skincare products. The stronger of the two, retinoic acid, is only available via prescription while retinol can be sold over the counter. What does it do?It is a cell communicator that can help damaged skin cells return to their normal function.When skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun it absorbs free radicals, which attack healthy cells. Retinol interrupts this process by attaching itself to damaged cells and communicating with them, helping them to act like healthy cells again.It also helps your skin slough dead cells and creates new ones, which in turn creates new collagen. Over time, this can lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Finally, because retinol helps to slough away dead skin cells and reveal new growth underneath, continuous use can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperpigmentation by peeling away the top layers of skin and slowing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Who is it suitable for?While the cosmetic and medical industries are almost united in their love for retinol, some with sensitive skin will go through an inevitable adjustment period, up to six weeks of red, flaky skin. Still, sensitive skin can be trained to tolerate vitamin A derivatives, so really, the only women who shouldn’t use retinol are those who are pregnant or nursing.So what about the adjustment period? There will be some dryness, maybe flakiness and sometimes the skin may feel sensitive. Why? Upon application, the retinol binds to DNA, and immediately instructs the skin’s proteins and enzymes to do certain things, firstly to expel the piled-up dead cells from your skin’s surface. Refining that top layer causes some water loss initially, which can make sensitive skin seem drier and more irritable. But push through and it will become less sensitive over time and leave you with a fantastic glow and reduced fine lines.If however, you have underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, using a high strength retinol product could enhance the inflammation. When is the best time to use it?It is best to introduce retinol products slowly – apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Retinols are best applied at night, particularly because it makes your skin more photosensitive and should be used in conjunction with sunscreen in the day (although you should be using SPF daily, round around anyway!).When applying your retinol cream, allow the product to fully absorb into the skin (this could take up to 30 minutes) before layering any other products. Just make sure to use any acne-fighting products (i.e. anything that includes benzoyl peroxides or salicylic acid) on the nights you don’t use your retinol product.Prepare for the inevitable adjustment period your skin will go through before you see the results you want. Because retinol causes the skin to shed cells faster than normal, you’ll likely experience a few weeks of change to your skin including some flakiness and dryness.And finally, give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months but the results WILL be worth it. We promise!Why Pevonia Micro-Retinol range?Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Line contains all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables.The Micro-Retinol Line utilizes a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and immediate results.Every product in the Micro Retinol Line contains a powerhouse trio of vitamin C, vitamin E, and Micro-Retinol® The addition of vitamins C and E not only ensures Micro-Retinol®’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved.
Suffering from rosacea? 4 essential products for covering up facial redness fast
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 22 2021
If you have rosacea and constantly fret over your facial redness, you are likely to be on the forever quest for the best redness reducing skincare, and makeup products too!Since we’ve already advised of our favourite rosacea fighting skincare collection, it’s now time to talk makeup! While skin redness can be caused by a number of factors, the good news is it can be covered up! You just need to know how and with what, since falling victim to poor product choices will only result in exacerbating sensitive skin conditions. Understanding what key ingredients to look out for, and opting for mineral makeup where you can, is a must!So read on to understand what to look for, as well as our top 4 product picks for concealing rosacea redness. We promise they will not only give you back your confidence, but they’ll actually benefit your skin and help calm symptoms too! What to look for; Products with fewer ingredients Generally speaking, the simpler the ingredient list, the better, as less ingredients to irritate your already stressed skin! Products that are alcohol free, paraben free and fragrance free! Just as you would with your skincare, make sure you steer clear of makeup containing these ingredients, in fact the three most common irritants there are! Products containing calming and repairing ingredients We are very fortunate today that makeup formulations can include skincare ingredients that can help calm, soothe, and correct skin! Look for products that include ingredients such as aloe, chamomile, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and vitamin e. Products that are breathable Make sure you select products that are ‘breathable’ meaning they’ll allow your skin to still breath and enhance your complexion, instead of simply clogging up pores which will only irritate skin even more. Mineral makeup will be your best friend. Our top picks; Best Primer: ELES RETEXTURE CRÈME FACE PRIMERUsing a primer will create a smooth foundation for your makeup while ensuring it stays in place all day, and we don’t be wanting our foundation sliding off our face and revealing its redness now do we! It’ll also create a barrier between your skin and your makeup preventing any further irritation.Our go-to primer for all skin types even those with seriously sensitive skin is 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, which leaves skin with the smoothest sensation. It soothes, hydrates, retexturizes and refines, so foundation applies effortlessly and endures impeccably for hours longer.Best full coverage: ELES LIQUID POWDER MINERAL FOUNDATION If you haven’t tried this foundation before, I highly recommend you do! It’s ELES Cosmetics's no. 1 best-seller and for very good reason! 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! Best sheer coverage: 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! Best overall product: ELES LUMINOUS CC CREAM 20 Rather than covering up your redness with a thick layer of concealer followed by foundation, you can always opt for a colour corrector which will help visually correct redness and even out skin tone. Using one with UV protection will also help shield your sensitive skin from exposure that can aggravate rosacea.The ELES Luminous CC Cream SPF 20 is a game changer! 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.
Are you suffering from facial redness? Understanding rosacea and how to combat it
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 08 2021
If you didn’t already know, you do now - the month of April has become globally renowned as “Rosacea Awareness month” and for very good reason! Yes, an entire month dedicated to educating us all about one of the most prevalent skin disorders. A condition that so many of us don’t understand, even those who may be currently living with it but ignorantly unaware! In fact, it’s said that an estimated 415 million people suffer from rosacea globally. Huge right?So if you suffer from facial redness, persistent bumps and pimples, skin irritation or thickening read on as we reveal the facts about rosacea and how to best treat it. So what exactly is rosacea?Rosacea is an auto-inflammatory skin condition. A chronic condition, which unfortunately cannot be cured per se but can be alleviated. What are the key signs of rosacea?If you are suffering from rosacea, they’ll be a few key symptoms to look out for. The most common visible symptom being persistent facial redness which may resemble a blush or sunburn which doesn’t want to go away!Many people with rosacea have a history of frequent blushing or flushing. This may be accompanied by a sense of heat, warmth or burning that comes and goes, and is often an early feature of the disorder. Small red solid bumps or pus-filled pimples may often develop. While these may resemble acne, blackheads are absent and burning or stinging may occur.In many people with rosacea, prominent small blood vessels called telangiectasia become visible on the cheeks, nasal bridge and other areas of the central face.And finally, but a much less common symptom - your skin may thicken and enlarge from excess tissue, most commonly on the nose (known as rhinophyma).Through understanding the different appearances of Rosacea, as well as some common triggers, you can start taking steps in the right direction toward controlling your redness. Who does rosacea affect?Adults over the age of 30 are more likely to be affected, although rosacea occasionally occurs in young people but very rarely in children.Pregnancy and childbirth can exacerbate the condition as well as be a trigger.Like many conditions, rosacea can be hereditary and while it’s more common in women, men tend to suffer from more severe symptoms. What is the cause?While the cause of rosacea is unknown there are lifestyle and environmental factors which can affect it’s severity from sunlight to weather changes, alcohol, caffeine, smoking and more. If I have rosacea what can I do to manage/improve it?Sorry to be the barer of bad news but there is currently no cure for this intrusive skin condition. The good news however is you can effectively manage your symptoms by a combination of lifestyle changes, supplements (if recommended by a dermatologist) and specific skincare products. Phew! Change up your diet Underlying redness can sometimes be related to a few external factors, and simple changes like adjusting your diet can make all the difference. In the same way, certain skincare ingredients can trigger surface reactions, some foods can inflame and irritate skin from within. These foods tend to have high acidic content and in turn, can regularly produce flushed cheeks and persistent redness. We suggest avoiding triggers such as spicy foods, citrus, tomato and chocolate and instead recommend an ‘anti-inflammatory diet’ which includes lots of green leafy veggies, fish, essential oils and low-glycemic (G.I) fruits including apples, pears, plums and cherries. Be sure to steer clear of watermelon and mangos which are high-glycemic as well as grains, non-organic meats and dairy!Finally, pre and probiotics are a must and vitamin D supplements can also help. Make lifestyle changes As well as diet, simple lifestyle changes will become a must.I’m afraid alcohol is a no no. But everything in moderation right? Hot beverages should become a thing of the past and drinking cold water and plenty of it (especially while exercising) is a necessity. Extreme temperatures (either hot or cold), as well as wind and sun exposure, can massively impact symptoms so be sure to take all into consideration and smoking is not good. Fact. Introduce an effective skincare program specifically targeting your concern Change up your skincare routine but be sure your products are compatible with your symptoms. Rosacea specific products such as Pevonia’s best-selling RS2 line can help soothe the skin as well as successfully elevating the symptoms.Firstly, cleansing your skin is imperative but 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. After cleansing, use a soothing serum rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients that work deeply to strengthen capillaries, control blotchiness and restore calmness. Try Pevonia’s RS2 Concentrate.Follow with a nurturing care cream specifically to moisturise sensitive and rosacea prone skin. Rich in licorice root extract (also known as nature's cortisone) Pevonia’s RS2 Care Cream is soothing like ice on sensitive skin. 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! Having read the above if you suspect you may have rosacea, start an effective skincare program today and follow these top tips now before the disorder becomes increasingly severe and intrusive on your daily life.
3 common skin concerns and how to best conceal them
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 26 2021
Whether you are prone to acne, suffer from hyperpigmentation or your skin appears forever red (thank you rosacea!), there really are genius ways to cover up your skin concerns without further aggravating the issue, you just need to know what to use and how!Don’t get me wrong, it’s imperative to fix the problem rather than simply hiding it, (cue tailored skincare), but what if I told you there are products (“skincare makeup” to be precise) that offer a solution to the seemingly never-ending battle against eg. breakouts. Makeup formulated with skin loving ingredients that’ll effectively calm and conceal your problematic complexion without exacerbating it. After all who hasn’t at some stage awoken to an outbreak of pesky pimples or skin looking ridiculously rouge thanks so a rosacea flare-up and needed that quick makeup fix?So read on to learn how to best conceal your skin dependant on your concern and relish in the results. AcneIf you suffer from acne the likelihood is your foundation could be exacerbating it. I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of hiding those flaws by slathering on foundation and the thicker the better right? But have you really thought about what foundation you are using? Could it be formulated with chemicals that will cause the skin to worsen?When it comes to acne prone skin, mineral makeup should become your best friend. Opt for mineral foundations rich in anti-inflammatory zinc! But before applying your base, using a primer first will ensure your makeup remains in place all day long, and let’s face it we don’t be wanting that makeup to slide straight off our skin a reveal those unruly blemishes right? Plus wearing a primer will create a barrier between your skin and foundation preventing it from seeping into pores creating more havoc!For blemishes and breakouts, ELES’s Pore Perfecting Face Primer is a must! It’s a light-textured oil free face primer that will firstly combat any shine you might have as it absorbs excess oil, but it also reduces the appearance of large open pores and promotes antiseptic properties to keep skin at bay!Next step is to cover up those blemishes without aggravating them. Best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation will be your go-to solution. Not only is it formulated with anti-inflammatory zinc, it allows skin to “breathe freely” whilst shielding against age aggressors. It’s free of heavy fillers and pore-clogging ingredients (phew!) and the skin-safe formula contains no chemical ‘nasties’ or potential irritants, such as fragrance, talc, oil and dyes.Sensitive or rosacea prone skinIf you have rosacea, you don’t want to overstimulate the skin, remember less is more! Less product to clog your complexion which in turn causes heat, making skin even more red and aggravated! Instead, you want to use makeup that will not only effectively conceal redness but soothe and calm the skin too!As a sufferer of want for a better word ‘flushed skin’ I personally LOVE the best-selling ELES Mineral Powder foundation! 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, perfectly camouflaging facial redness while protecting skin against ultraviolet damage too!Just remember when it comes to choosing your foundation shade be sure to avoid products that are too yellow. Neutral shades are best and will help reduce the redness harmoniously.Lastly, the way you apply your makeup is almost as important as the products you use too!We’ve all heard it before, touch your face with your hands and you’ll likely cause a breakout so it comes as no surprise that you might well have heard that it’s best not to use your fingers to apply your makeup since even the oil and bacteria on your fingers can irritate skin, also hand heat can add more warmth to an already warm, aggravated complexion. Instead, use a damp latex-free beauty blender! It is the least irritating way to apply your product and honestly provides the most effective results! Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, but is also so easy to clean after use and minimises the amount of bacteria that comes into contact with your skin, making it the perfect beauty tool for those suffering from sensitive complexions.Makeup brushes are another option but just beware that the brush bristles can irritate your sensitive skin, therefore opt for brush bristles made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Its smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean!HyperpigmentationYou can fight discolouration in your skin by keeping it protected with sunscreen. Sure SPF is the best way to decrease your chances of getting hyperpigmentation but for those of us who suffer from it, SPF will actually help reduce it too!Double-duty products will be your best friend. Look for foundations with sunscreen and complexion-perfecting ingredients such as vitamin A & E, zinc and titanium dioxide.We love the ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 and for very good reason!! Colour correcting and broad-spectrum protection in one, it adapts to your skin tone so it will darken and lighten as needed to blend and conceal pigmentation, while skin nourishing and brightening ingredients help balance your complexion and fight free radicals for a more even, youthful glow.
Which skincare range is right for me? Discover Pevonia
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 24 2021
Last week my good friend entrusted me to order her lots of skincare goodies from BC based on my expert advice. I’ve been encouraging her to turn to professional skincare for years for many a reason, and finally, since her current skincare wasn’t providing her with the results she’d hoped, she said it was time. That and turning 40 …!She had her heart set on Pevonia, partly because I’m a huge advocate but also because she loved the idea of all-natural, cruelty-free skincare that actually delivers. But with so many products in the collection she wasn’t sure what the right products or range was for her, a question the BC team have been asked many a time before.The amazing thing about Pevonia is that there is a range that caters for pretty must all skin types and concerns, from anti-ageing to anti-acne, hydration to skin brightening, sensitivity, hyperpigmentation, and more. So read on to find out more on each of Pevonia’s key skincare ranges and discover the best for you and your skin's needs. Trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed in investing in a range that provides optimum results every time. The Essentials – Dry Skin LineWho’s it for?Those suffering from dry and dehydrated skin.What does it do?Dry skin often lacks lustre and vitality. This effective program provides your skin with immediate nourishment and protection. Formulated with super nourishing ingredients including hyaluronic acid, pear seed extract, royal jelly, rose, ylang ylang and vitamins A, E & C, it visibly renders skin rejuvenated with increased suppleness and elasticity.Products in the range;Dry Skin Cleanser, Dry Skin Lotion, Vitaminic Concentrate, Rejuvenating Dry Skin CreamBC’s pick: Vitaminic Concentrate“This soothing, silky oil has the most amazing mandarin aroma and is honestly worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats my dryness. Every time I apply at night, I wake up to smooth, supple and seriously glowy skin in the morning.”The Essentials – Combination Skin LineWho’s it for?Those who tend to suffer from both dry and oily skin at the same time.What does it do?This range normalizes an oily T-zone while combatting dehydration at the same time. Formulated with ingredients such as Grapefruit, Rosemary Oil, Arnica and Lemon Grass Oil it delivers a wonderfully balanced and toned complexion with tightened pores.Products in the range;Combination Skin Cleanser, Combination Skin Lotion, Combination Skin CreamBC’s pick: Combination Skin Cream“I love this product. Before discovering it I always suffered from hormonal skin with blemishes and shine. Not anymore! It’s beautifully light, absorbs quickly, keeps my oily skin under control, and doesn’t cause me to breakout! Plus, it smells simply divine!”The Essentials – Sensitive Skin LineWho’s it for?Those whose skin reacts to anything and everything. Sensitivity, irritability, blotchiness…What does it do?It effectively calms and controls hypersensitivity. Formulated with ultra-gentle ingredients such a propolis, shea butter, bisabolol, allantoin, chamomile and neroli oil, it alleviates and harmoniously corrects irritability, redness, and blotchiness.Products in the range;Sensitive Skin Cleanser, Sensitive Skin Lotion, Soothing Propolis Concentrate, Soothing Sensitive Skin CreamBC’s pick: Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream“This is by far my favorite Pevonia product. The cream isn’t heavy but light and smooth, which absorbs immediately into my skin. My skin feels stronger, smoother, calmer and hydrated. Both sensitivity and dehydration is a key concern of mine and the Sensitive Skin Cream works it magic throughout the year. Nothing I have used in the past compares to it.”Power Repair Age Correction LineWho’s it for?Caters for all ages, specifically those concerned with premature ageing, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.What does it do?Pevonia’s global best-selling range and for good reason. It provides your skin with a truly effective youth-prolonging system to strengthen, smooth and rejuvenate skin. Prevents and visibly repairs fine lines and wrinkles.Products in the range;Hydrating Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Marine Collagen Cream, Firming Marine Elastin Cream, Micro-Pores Refine Cream, Micro-Pore Bio Active Mask, Intensifier – Collagen & Myoxy Caviar, Intensifier Elastin & Sorghum, Eye ContourBC’s pick: Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream“My absolute can’t live without product is the Marine Collagen Cream. I use this both morning and night religiously! It’s a gorgeous rich yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and leaves my skin soft, supple, and like it’s just had a boost of moisture! Lastly, it has the most luxurious texture yet doesn’t leave my skin greasy and smells gorgeous! In a nutshell, it’s everything I look for in a moisturiser.”Stem Cells LineWho’s it for?If you are looking to combat ageing, this is the collection for you!What does it do?Using plant stem cell technology Pevonia developed a process to reverse not only the signs of ageing, but also the skin’s ageing cycle too! Each product works deeply within the skin to radically reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while firming and intensely hydrating your complexion!Products in the range;Multi-Active Foaming Cleanser, Intensive Cream, Intensive Serum, Intensive Body CorrectorBC’s pick: Intensive Cream“Nature’s answer to Botox! I absolutely adore this product, packed with Argan and Comfrey Stem Cells perfect for dramatically plumping and smoothing out my fine lines and Royal Jelly a powerful collagen booster. This lightweight super formula leaves my skin feeling silky smooth, young and beautiful. I love knowing that I’ve given my skin a distinct advantage in preventative aging.”Caviar LineWho’s it for?Looking to counteract wrinkles? Look no further.What does it do?This range is loaded with anti-ageing superstar ingredients including Caviar, Pearl, Vitamins and Escutox (natural botox) to improve firmness and elasticity while effectively decreasing wrinkle breadth.Products in the range;Timeless Balm Cleanser, Timeless Repair Lotion, Timeless Repair Serum, Timeless Repair Cream, Timeless Eye Contour.BC’s pick: Timeless Repair Serum“I LOVE this product! It’s pricey yes, and a huge investment, but I noticed a dramatic decrease in my wrinkles as well as a smoother texture in a matter of weeks. Coupled with the Timeless repair Cream I continue to see amazing results. My skin looks and feels healthy and hydrated, smoother and more toned!”Micro-Retinol LineWho’s it for?Concerned about hyperpigmentation and uneven skin texture as well as ageing? Then this is the line for you.What does it do?This easy to use 4 step range keeps skin looking porcelain-smooth and youthfully radiant. Featuring Pevonia exclusive Micro-Retinol technology, it allows immediate and easy absorption as well as targeted delivery within the deeper epidermal layers, rapidly re-stabilizing the skin’s normal function. It smooths wrinkles, “densifies” the skin, strengthens elasticity, increases moisture, evens skin tone and pigmentation, provides radiance and glow and rejuvenates overall skin appearance. Impressive hey?Products in the range;Essential Foaming Cleanser, Essential Toner, Essential Moisturiser, Essential SerumBC’s pick: “I’m completely in love with the Micro-Retinol line. I noticed the most dramatic change to my skin after the very first treatment and over time my skin just keeps getting better. My favourite product in the line is the Micro-Retinol Serum; it gives my skin a glow and seems to make the pores disappear. Ive noticed a great improvement to firmness, moisture levels, skin texture and a reduction in hyper-pigmentation. What more could I want? I¹ve used Retinol based products before but find them irritating and unpleasant to use, this line however feels great, smells great and works!Problematic skin and Acne LineWho’s it for?Those prone to blemished skin and acneWhat does it do?It effectively deals with intense skin problems such as acne by controlling bacteria and preventing inflammation while calming and soothing irritated skin.Products in the range;Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser, Spot Treatment, Problematic Skin Care CreamBC’s pick: Spot Treatment“Even though I’m approaching my 30s my skin still gets easily irritated and spots appear. I’m so glad I discovered this Spot Treatment! It immediately takes away the redness in my skin and when using on specific spots, they always disappear within a few days after application.” RS2 Rosacea LineWho’s it for?For those suffering from facial redness and rosaceaWhat does it do?Formulated with some of the most nurturing and desensitising ingredients including French Rose, Licorice, and Green Tea, each of the four products in the collection visibly reduces redness and blotchiness while soothing any irritations.Products in the range;RS2 Gentle Cleanser, RS2 Gentle Lotion, RS2 Care Cream, RS2 ConcentrateBC’s pick: RS2 Care Cream“I suffer from Rosacea so my skin is very reactive, sensitive and red. Since using this, my skin feels so much calmer and has seriously improved over time. I wish I’d had this product years ago as nothing I used before seemed to help. I now use the entire RS2 line and my skin feels pretty great for an oldie.”Special LineWho’s it for?For those with dull, devitalized skin which needs a serious pick me up.What does it do?Seasonal changes, lifestyle variances, pollution and other key factors visibly affect our skin’s texture. You can invigorate your skin with these skin specific products for specialised care. Thoroughly desquamating toxins and boosting overall skin health, your complexion resurfaces luminous and revived.Products in the range;Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, “C” Complexe, Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream, Renewing Glycocides CreamBC’s pick: “C” ComplexeMy fave Pevonia product is the “C” Complex Concentrate. I love that it's hydrating, collagen stimulating and extremely brightening in one! Makes me look like I've had a great night's sleep after just one application.
These were the best BC products of 2020 – as voted by you!
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 17 2021
Ever wondered what everyone else is buying when it comes to skincare and make-up must-haves on BC?When a product achieves best-selling status it’s usually a sign that it’s a well-loved and proven effective product, as well as being the most-shopped. So whether you are shopping BC and looking for recommendations or are simply wondering if your favourite product made the cut, here we count down the best-selling beauty buys from 2020. From super serums to everyday moisturisers, there is something on the list for everyone. The soothing serum Pevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateIf you’re a sufferer of reactive or sensitive skin this could be your go-to! It’s a beautiful rich gel-like serum formulated with calming lavender and soothing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France to soothe, nourish and decongest irritable skin with its antibacterial and healing powers. The calming cream Phytomer Douceur Marine Velvety Soothing CreamAn absolute dream for sensitive skin, this luxurious, melt-away cream is rich in marine ingredients which act to reduce redness and calm uncomfortable skin while strengthening the skin’s natural defences against stress, weather and pollution. The hydrating cleanser Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser If you are concerned about premature ageing, skin’s a little on the dry side and you love yourself a creamy cleanser, then you are simply going to love this! It removes daily grime effortlessly but what’s more it replenishes skin’s moisture by combining deeply nourishing and anti-ageing duo, marine collagen and elastin. The creamy exfoliator Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserIf you’re looking for proof that fellow BC shoppers are serious about exfoliation (not just cleansing and moisturising!), Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliator is ranked #7 on the list. This creamy exfoliator is a game-changer for those with sensitive skin….well for anyone really! It very gently polishes away dead skin, impurities, and toxins with jojoba beads, Saponaria, and chamomile to reveal a beautifully smooth and brightened complexion. The balancing cream Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin CreamThere is nothing not to love about this product if your complexion tends to lean towards the shiny, oily, hormonal side. This extra light yet nourishing moisturiser feels smooth and soft on application but effectively controls oil and shine while reducing congestion! Oh, and it smells pretty fab too! The multi-tasking beauty balm ELES Cosmetics Age Defying BB Cream 30Not to be mistaken for its sister - the CC Cream, BB Creams or otherwise known as beauty balms, are infused with antioxidants, brightening agents, acids, broad-spectrum SPF to treat the skin while giving it a fresh, even glow, and let me tell you this BB Cream is no exception! Multi-faceted it really packs a punch as it quite literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen skin on contact. So if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this is for you! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one! The redness-be-gone calming cream Pevonia RS2 CreamFormulated with soothing, sensitive skin loving ingredients including Green Tea, Licorice, and Chamomile, this beautifully textured, nourishing cream provides your skin vaso constricting, repairing, and hydrating benefits to effectively reduce redness and inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associated with Rosacea. We love the great results for rosacea prone skin but also love its natural signature scent of French Rose. It’s one heavenly product! The super sensitive comforting cream Pevonia Soothing Sensitive Skin CreamThis cream will quite literally calm and control hypersensitivity. Formulated with soothing and healing propolis, aloe, shea butter, and chamomile it alleviates and harmoniously corrects skin’s blotchiness and irritability. The formidable foundation ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation Especially great for those with oily or combination skin but also fab for those that love a matt finish that isn’t heavy, this foundation literally glides onto skin effortlessly thanks to its silky liquid formulation yet sets to a soft powder finish. It looks natural on application yet covers up blemishes beautifully, and its SPF and skin-loving ingredients mean it not only conceals skin but protects it throughout the day too! The global best-seller Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamTo keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines (seriously) we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no.1 global best-seller!This moisturiser has an international, star status for good reason! It is deeply nourishing without feeling heavy or oily, it’s formulated with marine collagen and hyaluronic acid, two anti-ageing wonder ingredients and the results speak for themselves – radiant, plumped skin after every application. Say no more.Want to know more? Head to the products pages to read all of the amazing reviews!
What’s the deal with gemstone facial rollers? Understanding the benefits
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 17 2020
In 2018 “jade rollers” became all the rage in the world of beauty, beloved by beauty bloggers and skincare experts alike. Fast forward a few years and a few developments and the latest trend to take centre stage is “gemstone rollers”, an array of facial rollers made of semi-precious stones including; amethyst, obsidian, rose quartz, jade and more.
But what exactly is the benefit of these rollers? And will they really make a difference to your skin? The answer is yes and we are here to tell you how and why.Often touted as an “anti-aging tool, gemstone rollers offer a multitude of benefits which ultimately results in better skin when used regularly and correctly. Not only do they feel amazing on your face, but by rolling them across your cheeks, chin and forehead, you’ll slowly open up pathways, improving lymphatic flow, clearing toxins, decreasing puffiness, stimulating collagen production, reducing fine lines and more! They even have the ability to release tension which many people carry in their jaws!Adding a gemstone roller to your daily skincare routine will become your most soothing self-care ritual (you’ll be amazed at how calming it can make you feel) but sadly there is no one size fits all. Just as with crystals, each roller has its own specific advantages, so you need to look at the individual properties of the gemstone and go for the one(s) which calls to you the most!
Jade Facial Roller
Best for toning and defining skin
Ideal for those concerned with wrinkles and loose skin, jade helps raise the immunity of the skin. It’s known for its ability to help tone and firm skin cells, stimulate collagen production, increase elasticity, calm puffiness and promote cell turn over!
Physically, this crystal has more resistance on skin than rose quartz and amethyst, so while it’s not as silky and glass-like in texture, it is better for achieving firming and lifting results including smoothing wrinkles, sculpting muscle, and tightening loose skin.
It’s best to use this roller in the morning since jade has a revitalising energy that helps skin to feel fresh and invigorated.
Jade Facial Smooth and Textured Roller
Best for toning, defining and rejuvenating skin
Just as with its counterpart this roller is best for those wishing to tone and firm their skin.
The two different roller ends pose their own benefits. The smooth end helps to aid in lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness, while the textured end stimulates the blood circulation and helps increase oxygen in the skin cells and collagen in the dermis.
Again, this roller is best used in the morning, since it has a revitalising energy that helps skin to feel fresh and invigorated.
Rose Quartz Facial Roller
Best for soothing and calming skin
The ultimate beauty stone, known as the “crystal of Venus” (the goddess of love and beauty), Rose Quartz delivers inner healing and clears complexity. This ‘emotional healer’ is great for reducing and releasing impurities and stress in the skin. It’s best for detoxifying while soothing and calming sensitive skin. But also has great properties that increase circulation to the skin, promoting collagen production.
Rose quartz also happens to have inherent minerals- silicium, magnesium, iron, sodium and oxygen - that skin can topically borrow and benefit from when rolling and thanks to the stone staying very cool it is ideal for those suffering from a sensitive or inflamed complexion.Obsidian Facial Roller
Best for detoxifying and balancing skin
Unlike the other stones, Black Obsidian naturally retains warmth and is great to use on congested, blemish prone skin. With consistent use it brings imbalances to the surface so that they can be released, this is because the warmth of the obsidian encourages stimulation of the lymphatic system and circulation.
The Obsidian Facial Roller also helps to tighten pore and balance your skin tone and leaves skin feeling purified and refreshed.
To warm our Black Obsidian Roller, we recommend placing it in a glass of warm water for a minute or two before use.
Amethyst Facial Roller
Best for purifying blemish-prone skin
Amethysts are powerful and protective stones that have the ability to soothe away day-to-day stresses. They emit infrared rays which slightly raises skin temperature increasing circulation. This enables the body to produce cortisol which calms inflammation and redness and nourishes skin cells with oxygen and nutrients to keep them healthy and encourage regeneration.
Thanks to its negative-charge, amethyst also draws out positively charged toxins and free radicals to cleanse and detoxify skin. These detoxifying powers mean that amethyst helps to prevent bacteria growth and tighten pores, so is recommended for blemish-prone skin.
Now you’ve selected the gemstone roller or rollers that sound right for your skin's needs but how exactly do you use it now and how often?
We recommend cleansing your skin first, then applying a small amount of a light oil or serum with the roller. Starting at the chin, use broad, long strokes horizontally to the hairline - you should apply slight pressure but not so that it is "pulling" your skin. Then, from the nose, gently roll towards the ear - smoothing the skin under the eyes.
Moving up, use the small end of the roller around the corner of the eye, rolling to the temples.
Last up, place the roller above the eyebrow and push up towards the hairline. You can also finish by rolling horizontally from the middle of the forehead out towards the temples.
For optimum results, you can use a roller everyday, but we would recommend using it after cleansing your face and neck. You can actually use it up to twice a day, but one should be plenty. If there is however a day where you feel like your skin is especially puffy, then morning and evening should work wonders!
Finally, you need to remember to regularly clean your roller since it’s a facial tool and can easily spread bacteria. Ideally, it’s best to clean them with warm water and soap as you would any other beauty tool, pat try and then store in a clean, dry place. But for a more spiritual clean, you can wash the roller in salt water. Salt is considered cleansing and will help draw negative energies out of the roller so they don’t transfer back to your skin.
Is your skin lacking life? Try this cure for ultra-healthy radiant skin
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 10 2020
Is your skin suffering from sensitivity thanks to the constant change in weather? Or are you simply fed up with looking in the mirror and seeing dull, devitalised skin staring back at you? That once radiant complexion you donned in your younger years has diminished even though you swear you are doing all the right things to try and maintain that healthy glow?The good news? There is an almost effortless way to get back that healthy glow of yesteryear and it doesn’t involve the green leaf diet, 2 litres of water a day, or the 9 hours of blissful, undisturbed slumber a night! (please) Cue Phytomer’s NEW Cyfolia range.Using the purest, most effective organic ingredients, the clever scientists at Phytomer have developed an all-natural, all-vegan 3 step program, three essential products to get your glow back, and some….If you are in search of deep hydration, radiance, AND relief I’m telling you this range is for you!The CYFOLIA ORGANIC Radiance Moisturising range provides skin with all the exceptional skincare benefits of CYFOLIA algae, a breakthrough ingredient native to Brittany, France, nicknamed ‘rainbow algae’. Grown and harvested by hand, it is sustainably harvested to limit waste and encourage regrowth and it’s iridescent fronds (or branches if you prefer) have optimal light diffusion which in turn enhances skin with reflective properties that create an intensely radiant or quite simply put “lit from within’ appearance to your complexion, and who doesn’t want that?What's more, the range is certified organic and free of artificial colour & fragrance with packaging made from sugarcane!All three products (a cleanser, exfoliator and moisturiser) work hand in hand to achieve an ultra-healthy complexion while seriously soothing sensitive skin;The super-soft, velvety and creamy Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream is formulated with so many clever ingredients including; the formidable Cyfolia algae, revitalising seawater – oligomer, organic orange water, organic vegetal oils, rose, cedarwood, spiced pink peppercorns, and aloe vera which envelope the skin with a beautiful, fresh fragrance. And on application, this rich cleansing cream quite literally melts into skin to very gently (but also very effectively!) remove makeup, oil, and any impurities.Coupled with exfoliating once a week with the Cyfolia Radiance Exfoliating Cream (featuring two organic gentle exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds), the results speak for themselves. Goodbye dull, devitalized skin!And finally, the Cyfolia Hydra-Comforting Radiance Cream (the name says it all really) will become your daily go-to. Thanks to cyfolia algae, orange water, oligomer, and seaside flower, it is super hydrating, soothing, calming, and brightening all rolled into one beautifully silky cream to promote optimal radiance when it’s most needed.Trust me when I say I’ve tried many a product in my 20 years in the industry but this range is one that really has my attention! I might well have only been using the range for 3 weeks but my slightly sensitive, hormonal, and lack-lustre skin is now smooth, calm, and visibly radiant. And who doesn’t love a good compliment especially when it’s about the appearance of your skin, or how young you look! Makes my job all worthwhile!
Could Licorice Be The Answer To Your Skin Care Woes?
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 20 2020
If I mention licorice to you, you probably picture that black sweet goodness that comes in a bag and leaves your tongue blue. However, did you know that licorice is a wonderful skincare herb?Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), a leafy green plant which yields small blue flowers, also grows long tap roots which can extend down well over a metre. It is these roots which yield the characteristic flavour we know as licorice.But did you know that Licorice has been also been used for thousands of years to treat skin ailments?This fascinating herb is a firm favourite of the skin care industry because it contains various cosmeceutical compounds, including glycyrrhizin, glabridin, and liquiritin, that do some remarkable things.Glycyrrhizin Glycyrrhizin helps to reduce inflammation because it mimics cortisol in our bodies. Cortisol is a steroid hormone which is released in our body in response to stress. So, when you think of all those skin conditions that require the use of a topical steroid cream; eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis to name a few, a natural alternative such as licorice is an exciting prospect.Glabridin Licorice also contains a compound called glabridin which is a phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds with biological activities comparable to the human hormone oestrogen. It is well known that oestrogen stimulates the body to make collagen and hyaluronic acid – two essential components of the skin which form an important part of the connective tissue and keep our skin looking young.This is also proven! Studies have found that topical application of phytoestrogens was found to reduce the depth of wrinkles and increase general tone and hydration of the skin.But glabridin does more than just providing anti-ageing properties! It also helps to reduce hyper-pigmentation and prevents UV-B induced pigmentation.What’s not to love about Glabridin!Liquiritin By now you’re probably thinking – what more can this miracle herb do for my skin?! Well, bear with me because I’m not finished.Licorice also contains a compound called liquiritin. This chemical is particularly useful for treating melasma. Unlike glabridin, it doesn’t prevent it so much as it fades the existing patches. Put them together and you have a very effective lighting ingredient that is more effective than previous chemical ingredients.So, to sum it up, not only is licorice anti-inflammatory but it also contains compounds that enhance skin penetration, provide skin lightening properties, and treat melasma. And I've only covered three of the main constituents of licorice, there are many more!Here are some of our favourite Licorice rich products and why we think they are worth a try!Pevonia RS2 CollectionThe RS2 line; Cleanser, Lotion, Concentrate, and Cream are rich in licorice extract and work in harmony to reduce inflammation, even the chronic inflammation associate with Rosacea, to balance the oil and moisture levels in the skin and to even the skin colour. We love the great results for sensitive skin but also love the natural signature scent of French Rose Extract in this heavenly line!Pevonia Lumablanc CreamA water-based lotion that is applied at night to brighten, whiten, and lighten the skin. It’s ideal for mature skin with sun-spots, skin suffering from Chloasma or Melasma, or for fading the hyper-pigmenation that occurs after skin trauma. It uses a Pevonia exclusive retinol delivery technology which means it gets down deep into the skin where it’s needed to fade those pesky patches.ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50+It’s so light you can barely feel it on your skin but it offers an abundance of benefits including the highest level of UVA and UVB sun protection. Licorice Extract of course to help reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen formation, and fade dark patches. It also contains peptides and Lotus Flower Extract to help elevate hydration give the skin a great glow!
These reviews will convince you that you need these products now!
by Jo Boyden
on May 01 2020
We were talking about all the reasons we are obsessed with serums in our team zoom meeting last week, after all no routine is really complete without one right? It’s what takes a skincare routine from basic to professional after all. And available in so many options from anti-ageing to anti-acne, pigmentation to skin soothing serums, there really is an alternative for every skin type and concern.We understand however, with so many options comes confusion - is the product worth the price tag? Will I really achieve the results I’m after if I invest? Which option is really the best for my skin? - So I asked a few of my team, as well as some of our loyal customers, for a review on their most loved serums. Read on to find out the reasons why these serums are their forever favourites and why you need them in your life too…
Good for fine lines and dehydrated skinPEVONIA AGE CORRECTION INTENSIFIER COLLAGEN AND MYOXY CAVIAR
“This is hands down a firm favourite of mine. I have a few serums in my beauty repertoire but if my skin is ever lacking lustre or is simply in desperate need of is surge of moisture, this is my go-to. It is formulated with a combination of THE best skincare ingredients including marine collagen, hyaluronic acid and caviar to deeply rehydrate my skin. I use it in conjunction with the Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream and the results are instantly noticeable! Smoother, more supple and radiant skin.”- Taryn Gray, Brand Coordinator, Beauty Collective
Good for sensitive or breakout prone skinPEVONIA SOOTHING PROPOLIS CONCENTRATE
“I love this product, I bought it while i was pregnant and had severe hormonal acne and it seemed to calm, soothe and reduce the "angriness" of my skin! Since having baby I have continued to use this product and it has since reduced my pore size and also made my skin more evenly toned. It glides on smoothly when applying to skin and a little goes a very long way. So the price is only minuscule when you think about how long this product will last! I recommend to anyone who has skin problems as it also contains anti-microbial properties and antibacterial to keep those yukky breakouts to a minimum!” - Melinda I, Beauty Collective customer
Good for uneven and sun damaged skinPEVONIA MICRO-RETINOL SERUM
“I’m completely in love with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol line. I noticed the most dramatic change to my skin and it just keeps getting better. My favourite product in the line is the Micro-Retinol Serum; it gives my skin a glow and seems to make the pores disappear. I’ve noticed a great improvement to firmness, moisture levels, skin texture and a reduction in hyper-pigmentation. What more could I want? I¹ve used many Retinol based products before but this is the line I find really works, and it feels and smells great too!” – Liane Scior, Director of Marketing & Education, Beauty Collective
Good for lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticityPHYTOMER PIONNIERE XMF RADIANCE RETEXTURISING SERUM
“For many years my absolute can’t live without product was the Pevonia Marine Collagen Concentrate (I am still totally in LOVE with this product and use it all the time) but more recently I discovered Phytomer’s Pionniere XMF Radiance Retexturing Serum and have been blown away with the results.It’s a luxurious, lightweight textured serum which feels amazing on application and leaves my skin smooth, soft, supple and visibly radiant (no jokes!) Also, I swear it has diminished some of my more noticeable fine lines in a matter of weeks. All hail this serum!” – Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager, Beauty Collective
Good for photo damaged and lack-lustre skinPEVONIA “C” COMPLEXE WITH OXYZOMES
“This is a beautiful serum. You only requires two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” - Deborah W, Beauty Collective customer
Good for inflamed, sensitive and rosacea prone skinPEVONIA RS2 CONCENTRATE
“I have rosacea and recently had a severe break out with burning and irritation. I had been using the RS2 Gentle Cleanser and decided to take the leap and purchase the RS2 Gentle Concentrate. It was the best decision I've made. I applied the gel like lotion to my extremely irritated face and immediately the cooling began. Within just a few hours the irritation was gone and my face was clear with very little redness. This stuff is a miracle!!” - Kathy R, Beauty Collective customer
Good for dry, dehydrated and environmentally damaged skinPEVONIA VITAMINIC CONCENTRATE
“This serum is amazing on my dry skin. It is so nourishing and feels like you are getting a bucketful of vitamins directly on your skin and it soaks it right up. It has a delicious citrus smell which adds to the rich feeling. I use this at night after cleansing so my skin can recover overnight with all this goodness.” – Leonia S, Beauty Collective customer
Good for large pores and oily skinPEVONIA AGE CORRECTION MICRO-PORES BIO-ACTIVE SERUM
“This is a wonderful product, it does exactly what it says. It minimises large pores and reduces oily skin around my nose and cheeks. Highly recommend!” - Rhiannon K, Beauty Collective customer
Suffering from skin sensitivity and facial flare-ups as a result of stress? Here’s how to manage it
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 04 2020
Suffering from sensitive skin? Facial redness? Rosacea? You are not alone! Our skin can be a reflection of how we feel on the inside and now, more than ever due to these times of increased uncertainty and adjustment, we’ll be experiencing the results of stressed induced sensitive skin.If like many you’re feeling the impact of no longer being able to visit your trustee therapist to pull your skin through these tough times, know that all is not lost. There are a number of ways you can effectively relieve your symptoms so read on to learn how to get your skin back on track… Follow a set skincare routine and stick with it It’s so easy to become complacent with our daily skincare routine now we are at home all day, but maintaining a routine to best support your skin’s needs is still very necessary, even more so if you are experiencing skin irritations/flare-ups.How you look after your skin and what you put on it will have an effect on both the symptoms and the results you experience. Therefore for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin, ensure you use (or introduce) nurturing and relieving ingredients into your daily program.Ingredients such as Green Tea, Licorice and French Rose Essential Oil will effectively reduce flushing, skin irritation and rosacea while hydrating, calming and soothing the skin. One of our most loved skincare ranges (and a global favourite) is the Pevonia RS2 line. It has been specifically formulated for those with ultra-sensitive skin to desensitize and decongest, while effectively relieving Rosacea discomfort. “I’ve finally found a range that is good for my very sensitive, rosacea skin. It cools and calms my skin, my pores have shrunk and my skin is less blotchy after only 2 weeks of using all the products. Highly recommend the line.” Diana R Practice mindfulness Mindfulness can really help combat the stress-inducing effects of negative thinking which let’s face it, we are all consumed by ‘doom and gloom’ at the moment!There are several methods for increasing mindfulness a few of which include, mindfulness-based stress reduction, meditation, and yoga.I have to say I am a huge advocate for yoga, which is so easy to do from the comfort of your own home! If you don’t know any yoga moves but would love to give it a try, fear not! There are some great yoga apps and YouTube videos you can follow. And while my kids are being home-schooled they are loving starting their day with Cosmic Kids Yoga too! Win win for all! Try to avoid alcohol Currently in quarantine while working from home and home-schooling young kids? Alcohol might feel like a necessity for some (I hear you), but sadly that glass of wine or three can worsen your facial redness! While I’m not necessarily saying cut it out completely, you should cut down on the amount consumed while you are experiencing a flare-up. I promise you will notice a difference in your skin. Watch what you eat Certain foods can cause your skin to flush (or otherwise heat up!) try to avoid or at least reduce eating foods while your skin is bad. These foods include; oranges, strawberries, peanuts, cashews, and caffeine. Hot and spicy curries are also a no no!Whereas Vitamin A & C foods such as broccoli, sweet potato, carrots, and leafy greens will help strengthen the skin while foods such as salmon, almonds, and eggs rich in fatty acids help produce the skin’s natural oil barrier, critical in keeping skin hydrated, plumper, and younger-looking while protecting it from environmental irritants. Avoid strenuous exercise Unless you, like hundreds of thousands of others, have signed up to P.E with YouTube sensation Joe Wicks, being stuck at home doesn’t really allow for strenuous exercise, so use this time to take it easy, practice yoga, go for walks and put your feet up! Always use sun protection The sun is a trigger for rosacea and while you might think you are now getting little or next to no sun, believe it or not, sunlight can still penetrate through the windows so keep on it! The Pevonia Hydrating Sunscreen is perfect for those with super sensitive skin. It not only protects the skin against harmful rays it also nurtures the skin with hydrating ingredients Vitamin E, Green Tea, French Rose, and Aloe. “So pleased with the product’s performance - quality protection without upsetting my sensitive skin, no redness or reaction at all.” Francesca H Avoid extreme temperatures While that relaxing pampering bubble bath sounds like an excellent way to de-stress, soaking in a hot tub is a no go. Don’t give up on the bath idea all together as it really is one of the best stress relievers, especially in the absence of your favourite spa treat, just ensure you opt for cooler water and minimise your relaxation time. Listen to music Listening to music can have a very relaxing effect on the body and mind.Slow-paced instrumental music can induce the relaxation response by helping lower blood pressure and heart rate and well as stress hormones. Nature sounds can also be incredibly calming (and take you on a journey back to the spa!) but simply listening to the music you love can be equally as effective too. Make sleep a priority Who doesn’t feel better after a good night’s sleep? It makes a huge difference to our overall wellbeing but our “beauty sleep” is also very important for our skin and the key to a glowing complexion! But how exactly does sleep impact our skin? To find out more click here.Follow these essential tips and you could be suitably relaxed with red-free skin in next to no time!
Maintain healthy skin: How to create a salon style facial at home
by Jo Boyden
on Apr 01 2020
For some, a trip to a favourite salon or spa is pure indulgence, for others, it’s a part of their everyday life, but now with the enforced closures of all salons and spas as a result of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, this luxury, for the foreseeable future at least, is sadly no longer an option.This, however, does not mean you have to compromise what your therapist has worked so hard to achieve for your skin! Whilst you can’t recreate what a professional can do in the salon, you can take your at-home skincare routine to the next level by giving yourself a full facial experience - it will not only be good for your skin but your wellbeing too!So read on and follow these 9 simple steps on how to master a salon-like facial and achieve healthy, radiant skin. Step 1 - PrepTo begin your spa-at-home facial, fill a bowl with hot water and soak some face cloths. Take one face cloth and while it’s warm and damp place over your face for 30 seconds to allow it to loosen any dirt or oil that’s trapped in the skin.If you are wearing any eye makeup, gently remove this by soaking or spritzing two cotton pads with eye makeup remover then place them over both eyes leaving them for a minute to allow the product to work its magic and remove any stubborn eyeliner or mascara, then gently wipe away ensuring not to drag the delicate skin. Step 2 – Double cleanseThe benefit of following a deep double cleansing ritual is that it not only removes toxins and impurities, it also primes your pores to better absorb all products to follow, leaving you with a brighter more radiant complexion.To start the double cleanse, opt for a cleansing oil. We LOVE the ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil! The oil in the product attracts the dirt, make-up, and oil on the skin surface literally melting it away. Because it’s water-soluble, when you wash off the cleansing oil you will wash away all the makeup and skin oils. This ensures your second cleanse with your normal cleanser thoroughly cleans your skin.Next take your everyday cleanser, or an appropriate cleanser for your specific skin type and cleanse your face for 30 seconds working the product into your skin in light circular motions from top to bottom or vice versa. We recommend a non-foaming milky or cream cleanser for dry and sensitive skin and a foaming or gel cleanser for oily complexions or for those with acne-prone skin.Wash off and remove excess cleanser with a facecloth. Step 3 - ExfoliateNext, gently exfoliate your skin for up to 60 seconds. Ensure you use the correct product for your skin type. If you have very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin you need to steer clear of abrasive exfoliators and scrubs which contain microbeads. We LOVE the Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft, gentle exfoliant for even the most sensitive of skin types, as it uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. After application skin is fresh, glowy and silky smooth.For those with sensitive to normal skin we, (and many of our customers) highly recommend the Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. It gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture formulated with Jojoba Beads, Saponaria, and Chamomile. Skin resurfaces smoother, softer and cleaner every time.And if your skin tends to be on the oily end of the spectrum or you are prone to blackheads or acne, the Vie Collection Renewing Exfoliating Cream is the exfoliator for you! It gently imitates the spectacular effects of dermatological peeling and microdermabrasion. Designed to make the skin look renewed, radiant and youthful, it smooths away roughness, reduces large pored appearance and reveals completely smooth, luminous skin.Remove exfoliator from skin – you can use one of your warm, damp face cloths or rinse and then pat dry. Step 4 – SteamAfter cleansing and exfoliating, next comes the steam. It helps the pores to open and makes skin further absorbent for the products to follow.There are several ways you can steam your skin. The simplest involves wetting a facecloth with warm water and placing it on your face and neck for five minutes. But if you have the time and the means, there are much better options for this important step.If you are lucky enough to have a facial steamer on hand you’re readily armed, if not, simply heat some water in a pan on your stove (to recreate a salon-style experience add aromatic essential oils like lavender to the water, or simply add a mix of dried flowers or even plain sliced lemon.) After letting it simmer for a few minutes, pour the water into a large bowl, place your face over the bowl ensuring you do not touch the water and drape a towel over your head and the bowl so the steam is unable to escape. Stay put for a few minutes.If you want to skip the steam you can add an extra boost of hydration by spritzing on a facial mist. A facial mist with an invigorating scent can help perk up your senses and prep your skin for the rest of your DIY facial experience. Step 5 – MassageDon’t overlook the benefits of a massage! While it’s definitely not quite the same doing it on yourself you can still have a lot of fun with it while reaping in the multiple benefits. This step is essential to increase both blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, leading to brighter, healthier skin.Typically in the salon, your therapist would have a customised ampoule which she would work deeply into your skin to target a specific concern. At home, you can use a massage cream for the face or a face oil. I absolutely adore Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. The luxurious oil literally drenches the skin combatting dehydration while immersing you in a sea of calm with its amazing mandarin scent.To commence the massage dampen your palms and take a small amount of your chosen product. Starting with the middle of your forehead work the product towards the temples with circular motions. Then massage along the sides of your nose and cheeks. Lastly massage lips, chin, and jawline not forgetting to massage your neck! After 5-10 minutes of massage time, remove any excess product with a warm, damp face cloth or if you’d prefer, wash your face with water. Step 6 – MaskNo facial is complete without a mask! They are a great stand-in if you're used to getting regular facials as they give your skin an extra nourishing boost with whatever ingredients you feel you need at the moment.If you want to address more than one skin issue you can use multiple masks, applying them to the different zones of your face. For oily or blemish-prone skin, a mud, clay or charcoal mask will work best as it’ll soak up the extra oil that clogs up your pores like Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask. Formulated with the finest micronized charcoal, this purifying mask rids skin of toxins and lifts debris out of pores, leaving the complexion smoother and pores minimized.For dry skin, you need a hydrating mask, try Phytomer’s Hydrasea Thirst-Relief Rehydrating Mask. It feeds the skin with ultimate nourishment so you can literally feel your complexion tighten and plump in nearly an instant. The end result is youthfully restored skin.If your skin tends to be sensitive, a soothing cream mask enriched with nurturing ingredients is a must. Try Phytomer’s Accept Desensitizing Mask. It smooths on skin to calm, heal, soften and hydrate the complexion and boosts the skins defence system to reduce inflammation and redness.And if you are simply concerned about skin ageing, your go-to should be the Pevonia Ageless Skin Collagen Mask – my personal favourite! it instills skin with collagen polypeptides, Vitamin A, Green Tea and Mandarin Orange Extract to repair fine lines and wrinkles, encourage healthy cell turn over and effectively increase your skin's overall radiance.A good face mask also prepares and primes the skin, expanding pores to allow ingredients to penetrate deeply, so after mask application and removal (use lukewarm water to remove all traces of the facial mask, pat dry), it’s the perfect time to apply your favourite serum and then moisturiser. Step 7 – ToneIf you haven’t yet incorporated toner into your skin care routine, now is the time. Toning is a very important part of the routine as it helps clean and close the pores as well as brighten the skin and restore its balance.With a cotton pad, gently apply a toner which is best suited to your skin type all over face and neck, removing any excess face mask. Step 8 – SerumNow that your skin is in a more receptive state, you’re going to want to give it a good dose of nourishment by adding a serum into the routine. Apply your chosen serum for your specific needs and let the antioxidants and peptides work its way deep into your skin for immediate skin therapy. Step 9 – MoisturiseAny skin-pampering session requires replenishment so finish your treatment with moisturiser to seal in all the benefits of your facial!This last and essential step to your home facial will rehydrate your skin and retain any moisture loss. Just as your therapist would, choose the perfect moisturiser for your particular needs. If your skin is lacking radiance and lustre, one of my all-time favourite moisturisers is the Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream. This lightweight cream rich with vitamins gives an “invigorating boost” effect to the skin, transforming dull, devitalized skin into a brighter, firmer more youthful complexion.If you are dealing with acne-prone skin try Pevonia’s Problematic Skincare Cream. This light-textured and oil-free moisturiser is formulated with Glycolic Acid, Calendula and Panthenol to combat blemishes, prevent pore clogging and soothe, hydrate and desensitize the skin.And if you are simply focused on skin aging, we can’t get enough of our best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. Combining Marine Collagen and Squalane, this rich, deeply nourishing cream softens fine lines and wrinkles while replenishing vital nutrients.Simply apply your chosen product all over your face and gently massage, letting it absorb into your skin.Finish by applying eye cream to the delicate under-eye area. My personal favourite at the moment is the Phytomer Pionniere XMF Reset Eye Fluid. It has visibly reduced my dark circles and puffiness as well as fading wrinkles! Just remember even if you only have 10 minutes to take care of yourself and put yourself first, make it really count. We recommend indulging in this DIY facial once a week to maintain healthy skin until you can return to your salon or spa for a full facial treatment….
Team Beauty Collective’s most LOVED products
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 10 2020
Skincare is definitely the area to invest in when it comes to your beauty routine. I’m not just talking about investing your hard-earned money, but time and patience as well, especially when it comes to creating a routine that will actually work and provide you with the results you are seeking.But where do you really start? After all, when it comes to skincare shopping, it's so easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options especially with constant new releases and new trends taking centre stage!Luckily at Beauty Collective HQ we have the fortune to trial many of our products so I turned to my trustee work colleagues to find out which ones they really can’t live without, so I can, in turn, share our favourite finds with you.Whether you are looking for a cream to target a specific skin concern or you are just after some inspiration as now is the time to upgrade, we have you covered with these beauty heroes the team at BC can’t get enough of.PEVONIA MICRO-RETINOL SERUMI’m completely in love with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol line. I noticed the most dramatic change to my skin and it just keeps getting better. My favourite product in the line is the Micro-Retinol Serum; it gives my skin a glow and seems to make the pores disappear. I’ve noticed a great improvement to firmness, moisture levels, skin texture and a reduction in hyper-pigmentation. What more could I want? I¹ve used Retinol based products before but this is the line I find really works, and it feels and smells great too!- Liane Scior, Director of Marketing & Education PHYTOMER PIONNIERE XMF RADIANCE RETEXTURISING SERUMFor many years my absolute can’t live without product was the Pevonia Marine Collagen Concentrate (I am still totally in LOVE with this product and use it all the time) but more recently I discovered Phytomer’s Pionniere XMF Radiance Retexturing Serum and have been blown away with the results.It’s a luxurious, lightweight textured serum which feels amazing on application and leaves my skin smooth, soft, supple and visibly radiant (no jokes!) Also, I swear it has diminished some of my more noticeable fine lines in a matter of weeks. All hail this serum!- Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager MEDICALIA SUNSCREEN SPF 30Wearing sunscreen daily is a non-negotiable step in my morning routine and Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 30 will be my forever go-to! I’ve tried many sunscreens in my time but none as gorgeously lightweight and non-greasy as this one. It’s also lightly tinted, has the perfect texture to apply before makeup, and as well as keeping my skin protected it actually also feels noticeably hydrated and doesn’t clog my pores like so many sunscreens do! If you are looking for an amazing everyday sunscreen, this is one you must try! - Taryn Gray, Brand Co-ordinator PEVONIA CLARIFYL SPOT TREATMENT Even though I’m in my early 30s my skin still gets easily irritated and spots appear! I’m so glad I discovered this perfect product – Pevonia’s Spot Treatment. On application, it immediately takes away the redness in my skin and after a few days, there’s no trace of pimple marks at all! Amazing.- Elaine Palapag, Social Media and e-Marketing Co-ordinator PEVONIA RS2 CREAM My favourite product is the Pevonia RS2 Cream.I suffer from Rosacea so my skin used to be very reactive, sensitive and red. Since using this, my skin feels a lot calmer and my complexion has noticeably improved over time. I wish I’d used this product years ago as nothing I used before seemed to help. I now apply the entire RS2 line daily and my skin feels pretty good for an old guy!- Rainer Scior, Managing Director PHYTOMER HYDRACONTINUE 12H MOISTURISING FLASH GELWarning - Addictive Product - Hydracontinue 12H Moisturising Flash Gel, is exactly that! It’s like a glass of water for my skin. The super soft gel hydrates my skin from morning till evening and when applied absorbs so quickly I can't even tell it’s on. It’s so great for when I’ve been working in air-con, central heating or not drinking enough water and has definitely helped lessen my creapy fine lines and wrinkles. I love it!- Kellie Deveney, Business & Training Manager PEVONIA EASY GLIDE SHAVING EMULSIONI am really loving Pevonia’s Easy-Glide Shaving Emulsion because it delivers a velvety-smooth shaving experience with ease. After applying it, my skin feels smoother and so refreshed, without any irritation whatsoever!- Jonathan, Web/Graphic Designer PEVONIA OPTIMAL C COMPLEXI have a deep Love for the Pevonia’s Optimal C Complex. It’s a combination of pure Vitamin C and Hyluronic acid. The Vitamin C works to visibly brighten my skin when it feels devitalised and Hyluronic Acid drenches my skin in moisture, hydrating it for the entire day. I apply this beautiful concentrate underneath my reactive care cream morning and night for "optimal" results....- Laura Leva, Customer Service VIE COLLECTION RENEWING EXFOLIATING CREAMFresh, silky-smooth skin is what you get from the Vie Collection’s Renewing Exfoliating Cream. With double exfoliating action from beads and enzymes, my skin is left ultra-smooth and beaming bright! I can visibly see a big difference in my dark spots and the effect it has on wiping out my pesky blackheads. I am honestly in LOVE with it!- Keshmi Chand, Account Manager PEVONIA SOOTHING SENSITIVE SKIN CREAMPevonia’s Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream is by far my favourite product – it satisfies exactly what my skin craves. The cream isn’t heavy or thick but light and smooth, which absorbs immediately into my skin. My skin feels stronger, smoother and looks calm and hydrated. Dehydration is a key concern of mine especially during the chilly months and the Sensitive Skin Cream works it magic throughout the year.- Jimmy Lovett , Operations Manager PEVONIA HYDRATING SUNSCREENPevonia’s Hydrating Sunscreen is definitely one of my favourites! Whenever I am out and about this deeply hydrating SPF 30 is my sparring partner. I always make sure that I apply the right amount to my face and arms and truth be told, the day after I’ve been to the beach or wakeboarding, my skin is never sore from all that sun. Pevonia Hydrating Sunscreen is one of the most effective sunscreens I have used!- Aaron Tan Lu, Web Developer / Digital Marketing Specialist PEVONIA AFTER SUN SOOTHING GELThe Pevonia After Sun Soothing Gel is hands down the best after sun skincare product. It's the only thing I've ever used that actually works to replenish moisture after a full day of sun exposure plus it really sooths my skin. Couldn’t speak more highly of this miracle in a bottle!- May Scior, Assistant to Managing Director
Retinol – your guide to THE BEST anti-ageing ingredient
by Jo Boyden
on Mar 10 2020
From reducing the appearance of fine lines to preventing wrinkles, correcting hyperpigmentation to unclogging pores and clearing acne, Retinol is THE Holy Grail of the skincare world and therefore the ingredient we should all be incorporating into our skincare routine! Yes, even those with sensitive skin!Few, however, understand this powerhouse ingredient and many have their concerns, after all, retinol is very active so if used incorrectly can be known to cause the skin to react! So it is essential to understand how and when to use it.If previous experience has left your skin looking red and dry or you haven’t tried retinol before because you’ve been too scared, Beauty Collective has a trusted solution that we promise will work for you. But before unveiling our top 4 retinol products, here are a few necessary tips you should abide by; Introduce the product slowly – apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Retinols are best applied at night, particularly because it makes your skin more photosensitive. Ensure you wear sunscreen during the day when using retinol (you should be wearing sunscreen everyday whatever the reason though!) Allow the product to fully absorb into the skin (this could take up to 30 minutes) before layering any other products. Just make sure to use any acne-fighting products (i.e. anything that includes benzoyl peroxides or salicylic acid) on the nights you don’t use your retinol product. Give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months but the results WILL be worth it. We promise! Prepare for the inevitable adjustment period your skin will go through before you see the results you want. Because retinol causes the skin to shed cells faster than normal, you’ll likely experience a few weeks of change to your skin including some flakiness and dryness. Retinol is NOT recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. To get started, depending on your skin type, here are our recommendations; If you are susceptible to oily or blemished skin and want to reap in the multiple benefits of retinol while keeping acne at bay, we highly recommend Vie Collection’s Retinopur Intensive Retinol Mask. Formulated with retinol and other targeted ingredients including Kaolin – a white clay which not only helps draw out impurities as well as absorb excess oils, it adapts to all kinds of skin even the most sensitive and reactive. Within a month you’ll notice a visibly clearer and mattified complexion, pores will be tightened, skin texture refined and smoother! Taking advantage of the powerful benefits of Micro- Retinol®, Glycolic, and Lactic Acid, Medicalia’s L Retinol Smoothing Cream is a must for those with photo-damaged skin. This resurfacing and lightening cream provides a stabilized, deeply absorbing Retinol for optimized regeneration and resurfacing while lightening and reducing accumulated keratin for smoother and brighter skin.For those with advanced signs of aging - wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, and uneven skin tone or dark spots, Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Moisturiser is your go-to! This powerhouse product (and range!) is the perfect all-rounder! Formulated with Retinol, Hyaluronic, Squalane, and Marine Collagen, it deeply hydrates, smooths, brightens and firms! Best results when used in conjunction with Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Essential Serum.If your skin is prone to sensitivity and irritation but you really want to give retinol a try, you need to pick your product with care. Vie Collection - Retinopur Wrinkles Imperfections Fluid will be a great solution for you! While retinol is the main ingredient, it is encapsulated therefore limits tolerance risks and boosts the effectiveness of the retinol which is released gradually. Just remember to introduce it very slowly, 2 nights the first week, 3 nights the second week and so on.What to learn more about retinol and what it is? Check out our blog.
Acne explained: Which type do you suffer from and how to best treat it
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 27 2020
Got a breakout? Suffer from acne but nothing seems to be improving it? The professionals at BC are here to help!First port of call is understanding acne, as mistreating the type you suffer from can actually have an adverse effect on the health of your skin. Sound familiar?Acne is one of the most common and frustrating beauty concerns and unfortunately there's no one-size-fits-all approach to treating it. The skin condition comes in many forms and is triggered by a variety of causes - from oily skin types, to hormone imbalance, bad diet, to simple genetics (thanks parents!) As a result each acne breakout has its own symptoms and therefore needs to be treated in a specific way. By arming yourself with the correct product for your particular breakout, will enable you to not only combat the problem head on, but prevent future breakouts too!Now read on for our guide to the six most common types of acne and how to best treat them.Blackheads Blackheads - technically called 'open comedones' - are small bumps that appear on your skin due to clogged hair follicles. They are one of the more mild types of acne and are often experienced by those with oily skin.TreatmentUsing a clay purifying mask once or twice a week will help draw out impurities in the skin. We highly recommend the Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask, it instantly draws out impurities, unclogging pores while countering the effects of pollution (dehydration, signs of fatigue, dark spots and dull complexion.)“I used to suffer from annoying blackheads on my nose and forehead until this became my go-to product. I LOVE it. It reduces the size of my pores (I have oily skin with large pores), eliminates my blackheads and skin looks soo much healthier and glowy after application.” Siobhan WhiteheadsSimilarly to blackheads, whiteheads (also known as ‘closed comedones’) occur when pores on the skin become clogged with dead skin cells, oil and bacteria, however the two forms of acne produce different skin reactions. While blocked pores that stay open form blackheads, a whitehead is a blocked pore that closes, meaning they should be treated quite differently.TreatmentThe most effective ingredient used to treat whiteheads is salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works to open up your pores.We LOVE the Pevonia Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Jojoba Seed Extract and Grapefruit oil, it provides gentle but effective exfoliating action to open and clear pores, combatting acne-causing bacteria.“BEST CLEANSER EVER! I've tried so many cleansers with salicylic acid, glycolic acid or a mix of both to help my blemished skin but they are all too drying. This cleanser is by far the best I have ever found. It thoroughly cleans my skin of all makeup and impurities and my skin feels so smooth afterwards. This is a winner!” ShelleyPapulesA papule is technically a small, raised bump on the skin, red in colour and swollen with inflammation. Like most forms of acne, papules are the result of an increase in oil and bacteria trapped inside the pore by dead skin cells. However papules occur when the clogging causes a hair follicle to become inflamed.TreatmentYou can effectively treat papules with drying lotions or spot treatments. They respond specifically well to the ingredient Benzoyl Peroxide. Our customers rave about the Pevonia Spot Treatment rich in Glycolic Acid, Aloe Vera and Benzoyl Peroxide. The Fast-acting and healing treatment combats blemish-causing bacteria and clears pores keeping breakouts at bay.“This product works WONDERS! It is a dry-it-up product that will zap up those lumpy, red pimples overnight - I have never seen anything remove a pimple so fast. Can’t get enough of it!” StellaPustulesIf a pore becomes extremely clogged, the skin begins to swell and a pustule is formed. Pustules are essentially infected pores which appear as a white dot surrounded by inflamed, red skin that swells into a bump.TreatmentNot dissimilar to other forms of less severe acne, pustules are best treated with key ingredients Salicylic Acid and Panthenol. The Phytomer Oligopur Blemish Target Gel is formulated with both key ingredients and effectively reduces existing blemishes while preventing new ones from forming. It also soothes the redness and inflammation to promote a more even complexion.“This product works almost overnight! It cleared up the tough break outs I had along my jawline that nothing else would.” AnnaCystsOne of the more extreme forms of acne, cystic breakouts (or cysts) lie deep within the layers of the skin and occur when the pores become blocked and severely infected. They appear as swollen (often painful) lumps under the skin, filled with pus that has nowhere to go. Because they are deep-rooted in the skin tissue they don’t always come to a head and can reappear in the same place and often leave scars.TreatmentCystic breakouts call for the big guns! A powerhouse of ingredients to work deep within the skin. We couldn’t recommend the Medicalia Spot Treatment more highly. This potent professional-grade targeted treatment formulated with Mucor Meihei, Phytic Acid, and Sea Whip, diminishes follicular accumulation of keratin, controls bacteria, and reduces inflammation with noticeable improvement in skin healing. Comedolytic and Keratolytic, this product decreases the risk of scarring and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.“At the first sign of a breakout, I dab on the treatment and the blemish goes away before it comes to an ugly outcome. I have recommended this to all my friends who are in need. Would recommend it to everyone!!!!” Rose NodulesLike cysts, nodular pimples (nodules) are one of the most severe forms of acne.They're slightly different to cysts in that they never form a head, instead just a hard bump under the skin’s surface which tends to be very painful.TreatmentNodular acne usually needs pretty intensive treatment so visiting your local salon or spa will be your best bet to finding a solution, however ingredients such as zinc and sulfur can definitely reduce the size of the nodules. Our top pick is the Pevonia SpaTeen Blemish-B-Gone, an alcohol-free targeted treatment which helps to heal all types of blemishes through a Micro-Matrix advanced time-release delivery system with Sulfur, Organic Benzoyl Peroxide and Organic Salicylic Acid.“I am not a teen but this product works great for my blemishes! It reduces the size of the spots in only one application. I would recommend this to anyone who suffers from acne, even the big lumps!” Sarah
Why you should use a face mask - unmasking the benefits
by Jo Boyden
on Feb 17 2020
You think you have your beauty routine down pat, but do you really go the extra mile for your skin?We all understand the benefits of a good cleanser, moisturiser, serum even, but using a face mask can do wonders for your complexion too.There is however no one size fits all face mask, just like your moisturiser and serum, a mask will assist with a specific concern, so it’s important to first understand what face masks do and then decipher which is the best type for your complexion.What exactly do face masks do?Face masks can offer many physical and therapeutic benefits, from hydrating your complexion to improving the appearance of pores, to creating an overall sense of wellbeing and relaxation, but first and foremost masks provide cleansing on a deep deep level benefiting your skin in multiple ways. Don’t get me wrong your daily cleansing is imperative to your skincare routine, but applying a mask once or twice a week takes this process to a whole new level by removing any remaining makeup, excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities on the skin’s surface as well as beneath the upper layers of the epidermis.By removing the dirt and bacteria from deep inside your skin, face masks will refine pores, they can also help to stimulate blood circulation causing the blood vessels to expand. The result is softer skin with greater elasticity and a glow that’s instantly noticeable. Yes, please!Which is the best type for my complexion?The numerous options of masks give you the freedom and advantage to choose one that perfectly fits your skin type and its unique needs. From clay masks for oily skin to collagen-based ones for ageing skin, there is mask for everyone, however, choosing one can be a little overwhelming so we’ve narrowed it down for you by categorising our favourites into 6 main skincare concerns; Dull, devitalised skin > you need a brightening mask While clay masks are known to absorb excess oils (so great for those with oily skin!) they also help to remove the build-up of dead skin cells that cause the skin to look lifeless and lackluster. The Phytomer Citylife Radiance Reviving Mask combines 100% natural red and white clays with the best in marine ingredients to instantly unclog pores and counter the effects of pollution, including signs of fatigue, dark spots, and dullness. After application, the skin is immediately improved, less tired, visibly tightened and radiance is renewed. Wrinkles and ageing skin > you need a de-aging mask With the changes our skin undergoes as we age, it’s important to step up the ante and incorporate a mask that will properly care for your skin as it matures. The Pevonia Ageless Skin Collagen Mask delivers de-aging and plumping collagen polypeptides that penetrate deeply and repair signs of aging, diminishing visible lines, and wrinkles; while rejuvenating the overall complexion. Dehydrated skin > you need a hydrating mask Fine lines, wrinkles, and irritation can all be the contributors of dehydrated skin, and sometimes, you need something a little bit more potent than a daily moisturiser. Phytomer’s Hydrasea Thirst-Relief Rehydrating Mask feeds the skin with ultimate nourishment, you can literally feel your complexion tighten and plump in nearly and instant and the end result is youthfully restored skin. Oily skin with enlarged pores > you need a refining mask If your skin is on the oily spectrum and you are over your large pores, Pevonia’s Age Correction Micro-Pores Bio-Active Mask should be your go-to. The exceptional mask has been uniquely formulated to control sebum production and help reveal a matte complexion with a more even-toned, visibly minimized pores and younger-looking skin. Sensitive Skin > You need a soothing mask To keep sensitive skin smooth, soothed and redness free, an anti-inflammatory, a cream mask is a must. Phytomer’s Accept Desensitizing Mask boosts the skins defence system to reduce inflammation and redness. Hypoallergenic, it smooths on skin to calm, heal, soften and hydrate the complexion. Skin is left feeling moisturised, balanced and oh so comfortable. Acne-Prone Skin > you need a detoxifying and decongesting mask An intensive mask treatment can be the first step to making acne less visible and easier to fight. The Phytomer Oligopur Flawless Skin Mask with its effective marine ingredients provides anti-inflammatory benefits while promoting an imperfection-free complexion. SHOP ALL MASKS
From me…to me. Our five favourite beauty gifts to spoil yourself!
by Jo Boyden
on Dec 11 2019
‘Tis the season of giving and I love nothing more than gifting my loved ones at Christmas (although my bank balance would disagree!) but in the midst of all the silly season’s social events and celebrations, shopping for an army of family and friends can be a tad stressful. This is why it’s important to stop and consider ourselves too! As a busy working mum, I’m guilty of putting everyone’s needs before my own, in fact, I’m almost positive I speak for all the mum’s out there but this shouldn’t mean we can’t treat ourselves when it’s most needed, after all, no one ever said you can’t buy presents for yourself too, right?So in the midst of all the Christmas mayhem, I want to share with you my Beauty Collective festive favourites - exquisite, results-driven gift sets you need to spoil yourself.Pevonia Spa Therapy Gift SetThe name speaks for itself! You can create a truly relaxing at-home spa experience with this trio of therapeutic treatments to relax, de-stress and alleviate tension and pain. Features; Marine Magnesium renowned for its alleviating, remineralizing and wellness induced benefits, Micro Emulsion Massage Oil – Anti-Stress and Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel.Sign me up now I hear you say! Phytomer Jeunesse Age Solution Face & Eyes Gift SetFeaturing 3 best-sellers – Expert Youth Wrinkle Correction Cream, Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream and Expertise Age Contour Intense Youth Eye Cream – this youth-enhancing trio will re-oxygenate cells, boost skin renewal and diminish fine lines revealing a revitalised and youthful new you! Pevonia Skin Radiance Gift SetAll you need to create radiant skin this summer! This multi-tasking trio consisting of Youth Renew Tinted Cream, Eye Renew Conceal & De-Age Treatment and best-selling Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, will refine, hydrate and protect skin promoting a radiant natural glow.Pevonia RS2 Gift SetIf all this running around in this humid, smoky air is causing skin sensitivity we hear you!The RS2 Gift Set is essential for those suffering skin irritation, facial redness, and rosacea. Consisting of the RS2 Cleanser, Lotion, Serum and Cream the products work together to strengthen capillaries, diffuse redness, decongest, cool, soothe and hydrate. Evenly toned and visibly calmed skin, yes please! ELES Nude PaletteAs a busy mum the words ‘versatile 3-in-1 face and eye palette’ is music to my ears! Containing a bronzer, blush and two eye shades, this super convenient compact is the perfect way to add subtle colour and radiance to your everyday look, but it’s also great for little touch-ups when on the go! Plus the product shades have been cleverly selected by the experts at ELES and there is a smoky palette for those sultry summer nights too! Oh, and it comes with two free makeup brushes for precision application.For a little extra indulgence, why not go that extra mile and book yourself in for a treatment. If you have a favourite Beauty Collective brand, head to the ‘Brands’ page on the Beauty Collective homepage and search for your nearest spa…
The top 10 products on Beauty Collective – your reviews prove it!
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 20 2019
Have you ever gone in search for something on the internet, only to feel overwhelmed with the options available! Yep, that is me ALL. THE. TIME. Whether it be party ideas for my kids, the perfect gift for a family member or the best beauty products to keep me looking youthful (although I don’t need to worry about that one now that I work at BC!)Let’s be real, it’s great to have options, but sometimes you need a little more help in making a decision before hitting the ‘buy now’ button, especially if you can’t touch or try the item first.Purchasing cosmetics, in particular, can be rather daunting. From face creams to anti-ageing serums, masks to makeup must-haves, it can be tricky to separate clever marketing from real results. But no longer do you have to fly blind, with the help of our Beauty Collective satisfied customers, you can read real, honest and trustworthy reviews with a click of a button!So if you are on the search for that new bestseller or simply want to change up your skincare routine but don’t know where to start, you’ll find our top-rated products here! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation5/5 ★“This is the best foundation I have ever used! Firstly, it's mineral makeup so it doesn't clog your skin. Secondly, the coverage is amazing and it makes your skin look and feel like velvet - honestly the best I have ever used. I have been using this for years and just love it. I get compliments on my makeup all the time.” Sia P (06/07/2019) Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream5/5 ★“I absolutely love this cream. I bought the first pot at the recommendation of my beautician in Europe and I was afraid I may not be able to source it in Australia but I’m glad to say my fears were unfounded :-)It is a day cream and a night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤” Ana Hall (27/09/2019) Pevonia Dry Oil Body Moisturiser5/5 ★“This is amazing, I feel like I have been to a day spa when I put it on, luxury & pampering at home! It smells divine. Feels like silk, not too greasy goes on easy, love this product ;-)” Lisa Chawner (03/02/2019) Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate5/5 ★“This is the best product I've tried so far! I have skin problems on my face area in particular, doctors say its dermatitis, and I've tried many remedies before, but this concentrate is a miracle! It makes my skin look a lot nicer and it actually improved. I only used it for less than two weeks and I already see great results! I'm very glad I discovered this product!” Nina R (04/02/2015) Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion5/5 ★“Holy Grail Toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all-time favourite. There's just something in this toner that truly leaves my skin better for use. Even after it dries off my skin does not feel tight or dry. If you're in the market for a new toner I highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara (10/11/2018) ELES BB Cream5/5 ★“I have used a few BB creams before and this one by ELES is by far the best. A little bit goes a long way and the coverage is great. I wear it as a foundation and it looks really natural. I love it!” Jennifer Arnold (30/05/2019) Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser5/5 ★“I love this cleanser! I have never been able to exfoliate with anything else as it has just been too harsh for my skin. This gentle exfoliating cleansers is exactly that! Leaves my skin feeling beautiful and soft and definitely makes a noticeable difference in my texture. I use once a week and it has been a game changer for my skin.” Stacey Harrison (23/09/2019) Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymes5/5 ★“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R (29/11/2018) Phytomer Oligoforce Soothing Enforcement Serum with Oligomer5/5 ★“I am completely obsessed with this product. I have very sensitive skin that breaks out from everything, so keeping it hydrated and clear at the same time has been a real struggle. UNTIL NOW. This serum hydrates my skin, tames the redness and sensitivity and gives me a natural glow. I use it morning and night under my moisturizer.” Sophie R (30/11/2018) Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk 5/5 ★“I have oily/acne prone skin and this cleanser works wonders removing makeup, oil, and impurities. It leaves my skin feeling amazing! Breakouts have subsided and my skin is looking better and better!” Imogen (27/10/2018) SHOP ALL BEAUTY COLLECTIVE PRODUCTS
Can Cleansing Your Face for a Full 60 Seconds Give You Amazing Skin? I Tried It
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 14 2019
It’s called the 60-second rule, and the internet is OBSESSED with it.As someone who is never completely satisfied with my skin’s texture, I live in hopes of one day finding a technique or product that miraculously makes my pores disappear. So when I stumbled on something called the 60-second rule - a simple method of washing your face for a full 60 seconds (instead of your usual, 10-20) to get beautiful skin – I couldn’t wait to get into the bathroom and get started. This could be the answer to my skin prayers!The 60-Second Rule The cleansing method comes from Nayamka Roberts-Smith of LABeautyologist, a beauty therapist who frequently tells her 43,000 Twitter followers to wash their face for 60 seconds straight to let the cleanser ingredients really penetrate the skin.“Cleansing your face for 60 seconds allows the ingredients in the cleanser to actually work. Most ppl wash their face for like 15 seconds max. It softens the skin & dissolves sebum blockages better…Makeup, dirt, and oil are a lot more difficult to remove from the skin most people realize, so not only do you want to give the cleanser a chance to break down and dissolve products and grime, but taking 60 seconds also makes you pay attention to your skin and what you’re doing—like remembering to cleanse around the edges of your nose, under your chin, and around your hairline."Ok, like me you may think this sounds pretty obvious, however, according to those that have tried it, it’s a bit of a game changer. So much so, that it’s earned the hashtag #60secondrule and a huge following of devotees who swear by it....So I Tested the TheoryFirstly I should tell you, I’m a firm believer in double cleansing (i.e. first using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and grime, then using a gentle cleanser to deep cleanse the skin), so I decided to split the difference in timing to 30 seconds each cleanse.I gently massaged my face with a pump of my favourite ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil for 30 seconds, before rinsing and then massaging the Phytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream for an additional 30 seconds and rinsing again. I followed this with my usual skin care routine being careful not to change anything so I’d get a true gauge.The first thing I noticed is that 60 seconds felt like an eternity: obviously I wasn’t spending enough time making sure every part of my face was makeup-free when I did my cleansing thing. The second thing I noticed was my moisturiser seemed to penetrate easier.So for two weeks, I performed the 60-second rule every night.The results?I did see a difference. My pores were much smaller, my skin felt a lot softer and strangely it also felt firmer. It was calmer and brighter and I found I didn’t need to wear foundation during the day, just a little concealer. It cost me nothing except an extra 50 seconds each day so yes, I’ll keep it up.But Will It Work for Everyone?Possibly, and possibly not. It can certainly give you softer skin as long as you use the right cleanser. It can also give you a bit of a glow since it’ll stimulate circulation. But sadly you won’t be able to wash away your hormones, or DNA, or any of your other acne-causing triggers.However, the 60-second rule could actually benefit your skin by making it cleaner. Left-on makeup will disrupt your skin barrier over time and this can lead to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. So taking that extra 50 seconds every day may actually make a huge difference in your skin.Regardless, this is one of those tricks that really can’t hurt to test out, because let’s face it, you have nothing to lose except 60 seconds.Do you have the right cleanser for your skin type? Here are some of our favourites; Medicalia Gentle Cleanser – it’s so gentle and soothing!Pevonia Hydrating Cleanser – loaded with Collagen and ElastinPhytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream – the gentlest wash off cleanser you’ll ever try.ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil – Ideal as a pre-cleanse makeup remover, literally dissolves it!
Australia's leading distributor of professional skincare and makeup.
3/14 Roseberry Street, Balgowlah, NSW 2093 Australia
Phone +61 2 9948 1667
ABN 12 127 758 338