BC Skin Journal

BC Blog

7 super ingredients in your skincare that are all the rage

by Jo Boyden on Dec 01 2022

In the pursuit of youthful skin, so many of us will buy into the ‘latest’ and ‘greatest’ skincare products and trends, especially when they promise to make you look 10 years younger! But with trends forever evolving and the multitude of skincare products out there, how are you supposed to differentiate between what actually works and what’ll likely be a passing fad? When it comes to the search for skincare, and we’re talking skincare products that will really have a significant impact on your skin, a good way to start is by looking for specific skincare ingredients. For instance, if you are looking to brighten dull, sun damaged skin, skincare products formulated with Vitamin C should be your go-to. Worried about visible signs of ageing? It’s time to introduce retinol products into your daily skincare routine. But Retinol and Vitamin C aren’t the only super skincare ingredients to look out for. There are in fact a total of 7 game-changing skincare ingredients that are all the rage right now and recommended by every beauty expert the world over! You’ve likely heard of them all before, in fact the majority have been around for many a year and are now perceived as cult favourites, but do you really know what it is they do? Read on to learn all there is to know about the beauty industries leading skincare ingredients and why they should become a constant in your skin’s daily life too! Retinol Hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world, retinol counteracts ageing like no other! A derivative of Vitamin A, this ‘superhero’ ingredient offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne, retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child! Crazy right? Perfect for those with sun damaged, dull and discoloured skin, those suffering from large pores and adult acne, or simply because ageing is a concern, we couldn’t recommend retinol more. But be sure to understand how and when to use it first. Try Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Moisturiser, and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about. “This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non-greasy, non-shiny. Changes in my skin include smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. Now it appears luminous and more refined. It’s a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age, I am 60!” Annie Hyaluronic Acid Probably the most famous skincare ingredient of them all, and renowned as every beauty expert’s ‘must-have’, hyaluronic acid has the ability to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin. It binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant and thanks to its sponge-like effect, every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water so when topically applied it’s like a burst of intense hydration to the skin. But this skincare ingredient doesn’t stop there, not only does it benefit those with dry, dehydrated skin, it’s also a must for anyone with signs of premature ageing. So be sure you include this in your daily routine if you suffer from a dry, devitalised complexion or if you are simply in need of gentle anti-aging skincare. We are hands down in awe of Pevonia’s new Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market! “I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” Mary C Glycolic Acid If your skin is looking a tad dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘insta-glow’, Glycolic Acid is your answer. This super acid is a type of natural exfoliant derived from sugar cane, which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skins cells together. As dead skin cells shed, the new smoother, brighter and younger looking skin underneath is revealed. Made up of small molecules, it is also has the ability to penetrate deep within the skin, making it super effective for treating, blackheads, blemishes, oiliness, uneven texture, dullness and even fine lines! So if you have normal, combination and oily skin that’s looking far from radiant, Glycolic acid will be your saving grace. Try Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream, we promise you won’t regret it! “WOW, talk about overnight results! Minimizes my pores, smooths out my skin, and reduces redness. I’m not sure if it’s supposed to do all those things, but it’s been 2 months now since i’ve been using it every night and i LOVE this cream!” Sally O Vitamin C The best of the best when it comes to topical anti-oxidants, Vitamin C has been around for donkey’s years and for very good reason! Recommended by every beauty expert, this notorious glow-getter not only brightens skin, lessening hyperpigmentation, it also increases collagen production (which diminishes with age) and protects skin against pollution and sun damage by effectively neutralising free radicals (which can wreak havoc by harming healthy skin cells as well as promoting premature ageing – we are talking fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and more…) If you suffer from hyperpigmentation or dark spots or skin is lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. We can’t recommend enough the Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe, it’s a firm favourite of ours! “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” Deborah W Collagen Peptides Collagen is technically a protein which naturally occurs in our bodies giving our skin strength and elasticity, as well as working to replace dead skin cells. However as we age our natural collagen levels begin to decline and the more collagen we lose, the more fine lines and wrinkles appear. Scary hey? This is where topical skincare solutions are an absolute must. By applying skincare formulated with collagen peptides, you can stimulate the synthesis of new collagen production and minimise the appearance of ageing. Sound good? To keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no. 1 global best-seller, the Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. “I absolutely love this cream. It is a day cream and night cream and it helps with my puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing.” Anna H Caviar Similar to retinol, caviar is a multi-tasking wonder ingredient! It works to enhance skin renewal and regeneration, it boosts collagen production and prevents the breakdown of elastin (which both diminish with age), it helps protect skin against UV rays, locks in moisture to keep skin deeply nourished and plumped and it brightens skin and reduces inflammation at the same time too! In fact caviar is suitable for all skin types even ultra-sensitive and easily irritated skin because it is rich in omega-3, and ceramides - anti-inflammatories that play a great part in reducing redness while soothing troubled skin! So if you want to bring back vitality and life to ageing, tired, and depleted skin this should be a must-have ingredient in your skincare arsenal. Try: Pevonia Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Cream. Drenched with potent actives to effectively counteract aging, this luxurious silky textured and easily absorbed cream provides outstanding rejuvenating results, smoothing wrinkles while increasing suppleness and oxygenation. “The very best anti-aging cream I have ever used...and I've tried them all!!! The cream is so rich that just a little goes a very long way in making your skin smooth with diminished lines and a the bonus of a fresh glow!” Sarah D Niacinamide Niacinamide or otherwise known as Vitamin B3, is the new kid on the block that everyone is raving about. This gentle ingredient when used topically can improve skin hydration by preventing evaporation of moisture from the skin. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, so it's great for calming irritated and sensitive skin. What’s more it has the ability to improve skin tone and effectively fade dark spots, it can calm angry acne and it fights off harmful stressors such as UV rays, pollution, stress, lack of sleep, and other factors can all create free radicals that damage healthy skin cells. Oh and Niacinamide also improves the regulation of excess oil production, which can help minimise congestion and breakouts! What more could you ask? Try: Vie Collection Vita B3 Concentrated Solution. This light, melting textured serum is like a shot for the skin that will visibly improve skin’s radiance in next to no time! We are talking brighter, happier, healthier skin! Plus with continued use this product will significantly decrease pigmentation while reinforcing the protective functions of the skin barrier for the optimal skin health. “I love this serum! It’s become a staple in my skincare routine. It has slowly and gently removed ALL the sunspots I had on my face from never using sunscreen in my younger years. My skin is also now so much more radiant after introducing it! I’m one very happy customer.” Lorna M

Which order should you apply your skincare?

by Jo Boyden on Nov 24 2022

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

Beauty Collective - top 5 beauty buys five stars

The top 5 beauty buys we are raving about right now

by Jo Boyden on Nov 23 2022

It’s that time again! Time to tell you which products we, at Beauty Collective HQ, are loving right now! From the latest launches in skincare and makeup to the old favourites we've fallen for all over again, here are the team’s current top 5; Pevonia Age Correction Collagen Christmas Gift SetJam packed with all my favourites, I can’t get enough of this limited-edition gift set which includes Pevonia’s global best-selling Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream (which has been my go-to all year round for 10 years now!) a Hydrating Cleanser, a Hydrating Toner and super hydrator Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum (and quite frankly no matter what your skin type Hyaluronic should be a go-to). So if you are worried about dehydration, and premature ageing this pack is perfect! I love it so much I’ve actually bought 3 of them for family members and with a 30% saving on this collection of Pevonia’s global best sellers what more could you ask for?Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager ELES Sheet MasksI’ve been doing a lot of travelling for work lately and these masks have become my go-to products (I also love to use them when I’m chilling at home watching Netflix!) Comprising of three different masks – anti-ageing, hydrating and soothing – they are quick and easy to apply and drenched in active ingredients for optimal results. My skin is definitely the better for them! I like to apply after I have cleansed and exfoliated my skin with the Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser - another simple and effective product to clean and remove dead cells quickly so my sheet masks work better.Kellie Deveney, International Educator and Business Development Manager Pevonia De-Stress Escape Facial Gift PackThis is the ultimate Christmas gift set, suitable for all skin types and such a special selection of products. I’m obsessed with the combination of cleanser and skin oil luxuriously massaged over the face and neck with the Jade facial roller. It feels like a little bit of day spa at home.Taryn Gray, Brand Co-ordinatorPhytomer Oligo 6 ConcentrateI'm really loving the new Oligo 6 Concentrate from Phytomer. At the end of a busy day this super-light oil sinks into my skin and you can see the demineralizing and replenishing benefits each morning. Overall, my skin feels softer, calmer and much firmer. I also love the subtle fresh aroma which is so soothing.Liane Scior, Director of Education & MarketingELES Brow BalmThe ELES Brow Balm is my new love! I have thin, sparse brows and the new ELES Brow Balm fills and defines my brows well. It doesn’t fade even when I spend the day outside on weekends which is really great! It’s creamy so it’s easy to apply but gives that semi matte finish which makes it look more natural. This is totally a must have this summer!Elaine Palapag, Social Media Co-ordinator Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing CreamI’m usually a foaming gel cleanser person but I fell in love with this silky-smooth cleanser that not only cleans my skin but leaves it soft, plump and radiant too! Oh and it also smells divine with spiced pink peppercorn and cedar wood.May Scior, Operations Assistant

Beauty Collective - multi-masking - woman applying mask on her face

When to use a facial mask and the best one for your skin

by Jo Boyden on Nov 18 2022

From clay masks to charcoal, sheet masks, to exfoliating masks, what used to be a facial indulgence has now become part of our everyday beauty routine and for very good reason, but when exactly should you be using a face mask though? Morning or night? Daily or weekly? We asked the experts for the lowdown on this vital skincare step. From why and when you should be using a face mask to the best ones for your skin, we have all the info you need to know. What is a facial mask?A face mask isn’t just an indulgent treat, it is key to tackling a multitude of skin concerns such as dehydration, acne, dryness, ageing and more! Face masks are specifically designed to be used intermittently to give your skin an instant boost but that’s not all! They offer a multitude of other benefits too. What are the main benefits of using a face mask?They are deep cleansingApplying face masks offer many physical and therapeutic benefits, but first and foremost masks provide cleansing on a deep, deep level, benefiting the skin in multiple ways. Don’t get me wrong daily cleansing is an imperative part of your skincare routine, but applying a mask once or twice a week will take that process to a whole other level by removing any remaining makeup, excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities that have sat on your skin’s surface, as well as beneath the upper layers of the epidermis.They provide immediate resultsWhile with most face masks you’ll need to leave it on for a little while, the results are instant and go way beyond the impact of your daily skincare routine! The right face mask can help hydrate skin, remove excess oils, improve the appearance of pores and more and after every application your skin will immerge tightened, toned, softer, smoother, and let’s not forget positively glowing!They are pampering and therapeuticApplying a face mask is a great excuse for a little ‘me time’. It will not only address your skins needs but also make you feel fabulous in little to no time! This is because a face mask can lift your spirit by stimulating your senses and allow you a moment (or few moments should I say!) of indulgent comfort. Ahhhhh.They help all your other skincare products to better penetrate the skin for optimum resultsMany of us will be religious when it comes to our daily skincare ritual but if you really want all your products to absorb into your skin both quickly and deeply than a face mask is a necessity. By using a mask regularly, it will assist in enabling all the amazing ingredients from your skincare to penetrate deep into your skin essentially making your products work harder and more effectively than ever before.They are the perfect product for everyone to use no matter how sensitive or reactive your skin might beThis is because there is a mask for every skin type and concern. From dryness to inflammation, redness to acne, whatever your skin type there is the ideal mask to give your skin that instant boost it needs.What are the different types of facial masks?There is no one size fits all face mask, in fact there are six different types and are dependent on your skin type and concern.Cream MasksThese are best for dry, dehydrated and ageing skin. They are formulated with nourishing ingredients to add much needed moisture and nutrients back into the skin. Skin appears plumper, brighter and younger looking after every use.Gel MasksThe best choice for oily skin types, gel masks are lightweight. They minimise oil production and tighten the appearance of pores.Clay MasksThese are great for those suffering from blemish or acne prone skin as they provide skin with a through deep cleanse effectively removing debris from clogged pores.Warming MasksThese contain active ingredients that make the skin feel warm. Because they increase blood flow in the skin, skin may feel a tingling sensation and appear a little flushed after. They are best for skin that needs invigorating.Exfoliating MasksThese are formulated with AHA’s and BHA’s to help remove dead skin cell build up. They can come in the form of a chemical peel or be made with fine particles such as jojoba granules. They help enhance the skin’s natural turnover process and render dull skin beautifully bright.Sheet MasksSheet masks are different to every other type of mask in that they don’t come in a pot or tub but instead in a packet for single use. The ‘sheet’ is face-shaded (as in it features holes for your eyes, mouth and nose so it can completely cover your entire face) and is usually made of fiber, cotton, cellulose, or coconut pulp. Sheet masks are soaked in a liquid cocktail of hydrating, brightening or anti-ageing ingredients and work instantly on the skin boosting hydration and glow. How often and when should you use a face mask?We recommend adding a face mask to your skincare routine once or twice a week, morning or night, it just needs to come after your usual routine of cleansing and toning first as face masks are most beneficial when applied to clean skin free of impurities and excess oil. This way your skin is better equipped to absorb all the goodness of a face mask. How should you apply a face mask?This will alter slightly depending on the face mask you are using but generally speaking you should apply it evenly (no need to slather it on) all over your entire face. Don’t forget your neck and décolleté too! Like your face, these delicate areas also take on visible signs of ageing, often much earlier than the face because of their over exposure to the sun and environmental stress (let’s face it we don’t give our neck and décolleté nearly as much love as our faces, often a forgotten part of our skincare routine we don’t always apply sunscreen either! How long should you leave a face mask on?The general rule of thumb for the majority of face masks is 15 minutes. Sheet masks can be left on for up to 30 minutes, while certain gel masks can be left on as an overnight treatment to deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep. How do you remove a face mask?To remove your face mask use lukewarm water and either your fingers or a damp flannel or face cloth. Just be sure it’s clean and soft so it doesn’t irritate your skin. What is the best face mask for your skin?Prone to pesky pimples or all out acne?A detoxifying charcoal mask will be your best bet! Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask is the perfect antidote for congested, dull skin. It neutralises pollutants, draws out impurities and leaves skin glowing with pure freshness!Suffering from sensitive skin?You will love soothing masks like Phytomer’s Accept Comfort Mask. It not only calms red, irritated skin but it strengthens it too! Healing is faster and it leaves your skin feeling beautifully hydrated and comfortable for days.Skin is seriously parcheda super hydrating mask is for you! It’ll feel incredible as it brings the look of your complexion back to life, renewing, plumping, and smoothing your skin. Try Pevonia’s Ageless Skin Collagen Mask, it combats dehydration in just 10 minutes. The rich texture is a soothing balm as your skin literally drinks in the moisture leaving it both dewy and hydrated.Concerned about ageing?An anti-ageing sheet mask like ELES Professional Strength Youth Recovery Sheet Mask should be your go-to. Infused with the best potent anti-ageing and antioxidant ingredients including collagen, hyaluronic and Niacinamide, this mask will help soften fine lines, refresh the skin and boost radiance almost instantaneously. Just one application will provide intense results like a complete facial treatment!You have a dull and devitalised complexion To brighten a dull complexion, you’ll want a glow mask like Vie Collection’s Photo C Bright Radiance Mask which delivers radiant skin by morning! It is power packed with vitamin c, exfoliating papain, marine minerals and more and we promise after the very first application an incredibly radiant and brightened skin appearance will be revealed! If you want to look like you’ve had a looong, relaxing holiday? This is for you!You have oily skin and enlarged poresYou’ll want to use a mattifying mask pronto! Phytomer’s Oligopur Flawless skin mask reduces inflammation from breakouts and refines the pores for a mattified even, clear complexion!And don’t forget! If you want to address more than one skin issue you can use multiple masks, applying them to the different areas of your face.

The best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes

by Jo Boyden on Nov 17 2022

If you’re worried about ageing eyes you might well have stopped wearing eyeshadow in fear it will only exacerbate your fine lines and wrinkles. The thing is eyeshadow and all eye makeup for that matter serves a very important purpose no matter what your age! It can add depth and dimension to your eyes making them appear larger, it can complement your eye colour or simply draw attention to the eyes! And most importantly it will bring back life to your ageing eye area! Genius! So instead of forgoing eyeshadow, you just need to alter how, and which type you use! To get the lowdown, we talked to the experts at BC! Keep scrolling as we countdown 10 of the best eyeshadow tips for mature women. Start with a good eye cream It’s likely you’re doing this already, but if not, you’ll want (and need) the delicate skin around your eyes to be properly nourished! And we are talking both the eyelid and the undereye area! For a great eye cream for ageing eyes try Pevonia’s Age Correction Eye Contour. It’s formulated with Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and Green Team which not only provide eyes with powerful anti-ageing benefits, it smooths, first and deeply nourishing the fragile eye zone too. Use a primer As our skin ages, under-eye wrinkles and crows feet become more apparent – they are a fact of life for us all! A good primer however will help reduce their appearance while increasing the longevity of your eyeshadow! It’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing! Apply a good under-eye concealer This will make eyes appear bigger and brighter in prep for your eyeshadow. Concealer isn't just for brightening up your under eyes though. Prepping the eye with a concealer that's about two shades lighter than your actual shade will make your eyeshadow more pigmented and in turn pop a lot more.You’ll need to use one with has a hydrating formula as this will add additional nourishment to the eye area as well as prevent the concealer from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.Try ELES Cosmetics Dual Action Concealer. Use a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner You don’t want to get to lunch time and find yourself with panda eyes! No sireee. By using a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner, it’ll stay in place all day plus give eyes much needed depth and definition. Try ELES Cosmetics Superwear Gel Liner. Line your eyes with a waterline liner Eyes tend to look duller and tired with age. A waterline liner will open up your eyes instantly creating the illusion of bigger, brighter, more youthful looking eyes.Simply apply your normal eyeliner to your top lash line then apply your waterline liner to the inner rim of your lower lash line. (We recommend ELES Cosmetics Waterline Liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter. It works a treat I can vouch for that! Opt for matte eyeshadow and go mineral Eye shadow comes in many different colours and textures but for ageing eyes matte eyeshadows are the way to go. Those with mature eyes might find matte eyeshadow more longwearing and less likely to fade on their skin. Your best bet is to stock up on mineral matte eyeshadows that are pigmented without emphasizing fine lines but also packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C & E to pamper lids with crease-proof perfection. Try ELES Cosmetics Mineral Matte Shadows. Better still try the ELES Build your own Shadow Palette, you get to select which ever 3 shades of mineral shadow shades you want! A trio of colours on your eyes is always better than one, they will make your eyes stand out more and can also increase their size and let’s face it bigger eyes are more youthful! Choose lighter eyeshadow shades Opt for a lighter, natural eyeshadow shades rather than dark, smoky shades on your eyelids and around the eyes. Using neutral colours like shades of light browns, light pinks, beiges, or greys are best. Also add a light colour eyeshadow shade to the inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid. Apply eye shadow correctly Don’t take your base eyeshadow shade and simply plonk it on the centre of your lid. Using a small eyeshadow brush, start from the outer corner of the eyes and work inwards, so that the colour gets gradually lighter. This will help give your eyes a bigger, wide-eyed look. Finish with mascara No matter your age, mascara will always be a go-to product. A good mascara (we are talking smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-lasting) adds volume and strengthens brittle lashes to keep them looking full and luscious. Fuller-looking lashes can also help to give a more youthful appearance to the eye area. However, it’s best not to wear mascara on the lower lashes as this can make your eyes look droopy as well as draw attention to dark circles and under eye wrinkles. Use a setting spray or powder Finally, to prevent eyeshadow fallout (after all we want it to stay in place all day or night long!) use a setting spray or if setting sprays aren't your thing, opt for a setting powder instead! Both work to lock your makeup in place. Try Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.

Blemished skin? How to best conceal it

by Jo Boyden on Nov 10 2022

Whether you are dealing with all out acne, have a few blemishes that won’t budge or you’re prone to pesky pimples, you might be wondering what the best way is to conceal your imperfections. The thing is certain makeup products can exacerbate your already irritated skin, so you need to be careful how and what you put on your face. From the best skin preparation products to breathable foundations, below are our top tips for concealing skin woes.1. Prep your skinBefore applying any makeup, its essential skin is clean and well moisturised, even oily, acne prone skin needs sufficient moisture! Well-nourished skin will prevent makeup from looking cakey, as well as help skin to look less dull!Look for foaming and gel cleansers, and moisturisers specifically targeted to acne and blemished prone skin.2. Use a primerUsing a primer will not only create an even base for your makeup but it’s also an amazing must-have when it comes to prolonging the wear of your foundation, and let’s face it acne-prone skin tends to be on the oily side and the last thing you’ll want is for your foundation to slide right off your face by lunchtime! No sireee. What’s more primers also add a ‘blurring effect’ to your skin to give the illusion of a smoother complexion. And they create a barrier between your skin and your makeup preventing any further irritation too.Just be sure to look for primers that will hydrate, soothe or replenish your skin. Choosing a mattifying primer will also help to combat any excess oil and shine you might be experiencing, as well as reduce the appearance of pore size. Try ELES’s Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s a light-textured oil free face primer which combats shine, absorbs excess oil, reduces the appearance of large open pores, promotes antiseptic properties which is great for blemish and breakout prone skin, and it really does keep your foundation looking flawless all day long!3. Choose your makeup wiselyA concealer can offer a multitude of benefits while hiding a multitude of sins! But not every concealer can tackle every issue in one application. In general concealers are formulated to target something specific so it’s best to decipher what you want from your concealer and then select which is best for you.If it’s pimples you are trying to conceal, oil-free and non-comedogenic cover ups are best and many now have skin enhancing benefits to soothe inflammation too. Avoid mineral oil, lanolin and talc-based products which tend to block the pores and exacerbate acne. Instead opt for a mineral concealer like ELES Cosmetics Mineral Phototouch Concealer. Light-reflective minerals and line-filling micro-spheres camouflage flaws. Dark circles, blemishes and fine lines vanish!And when it comes to foundation, you’ll want it to allow your skin to breath freely to prevent blocked pores and irritated skin conditions so go for mineral.For redness, instead of using a concealer, 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. We are obsessed with the ELES CC Cream 20, a lightweight oil-free colour corrective cream with board spectrum protection and really does multi-task like no other!4. Be careful with how you apply your productAlways apply product with clean fingers (yes I know it sounds obvious!) or apply with a sponge, beauty blender or concealer/foundation brush to avoid contamination and ingredient breakdown. 5. Select the right shade for your skin toneMake sure that you purchase a shade that’s an exact match for your skin tone. This is very important because you want this area to appear even with the rest of your face.6. Always set your makeupA mineral powder is the best choice to set your makeup as its ingredients are usually non-irritating. Apply with a brush rather than a sponge which can harbour bacteria. We couldn’t recommend the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation more! Highly compatible with common skin sensitivities, the lightweight powder easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage while effectively camouflaging imperfections.Finish with a spritz of facial mist like Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist. This outstanding multi-tasker not only rejuvenates skin with a burst of hydration, plumping fine lines and wrinkles, but it also relieves dry, flaky, itchy and sensitive prone skin while keeping makeup set in place all day long! Genius.

6 of the best christmas gift sets for every beauty lover

by Jo Boyden on Nov 10 2022

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

Beauty Collective - Exfoliation and Sensitive Skin

Exfoliation and sensitive skin, here’s what to do

by Jo Boyden on Nov 04 2022

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

Beauty Collective - youngest beauty products

These are the newest BC products we’re obsessed with

by Jo Boyden on Nov 04 2022

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

A complete guide on where and how to apply blush correctly

by Jo Boyden on Oct 28 2022

Ah blush! The one product in your beauty arsenal that can enhance the features on your face while providing skin with a natural warm, rosy glow.I’m personally a huge lover of blush and wear mine daily all year round. It’s the perfect go-to when you’re after a minimal makeup look that’s quick and easy to apply. It also works in perfect unison with bronzer when you want to contour your face or simply create a healthy sun kissed glow. The problem is with the many conflicting tutorials out there, where, and how do you actually apply it? Well, we turned to the experts at Beauty Collective for the low-down. Keep reading for our complete guide on all things blush!Why you should wear blushWhen used correctly, blush can totally transform pale, dull or washed-out skin. It infuses warmth into any complexion by adding a touch of natural, flushed-cheek colour, so your face looks instantly brighter, healthier (and perkier!)Blush is also a great multitasker! This complexion booster not only adds colour to your cheeks but can also double as an eyeshadow (a great way to tie your makeup look together) and if you opt for a brown-toned blusher you can use it to contour your face. That way you get a blush and contour effect in one – a great time-saver!What type of blush should you use?Today’s blushes come in many textures — cream, powder, liquid. As a general rule of thumb, cream is great for dry skin, while powder is the best option for oily skin types, but it’s also a personal preference. Natural makeup works well with creams, but with powder you can be more direct on where you place it, and it tends to last longer too.However, for the best of both worlds we highly recommend baked blush – a pigment packed powder blush! Powders are usually made from lots of pressed powders, but baked powders are actually creams that have been baked slowly in a specialist oven until they are dry. This is what gives baked makeup some of its unique attributes; it has an ultra-soft, velvety texture and provides a sheer wash of soft colour for a naturally flushed complexion.How do you choose the right blush shade?Choosing the right shade can be a little tricky. Firstly, you need to understand your skin’s undertone (whether it’s warm, cool or neutral) then once you know this, choose a shade within your undertone, you can go as light, natural, bright or deep as you want.In general, if you have fair skin opt for light, dusty pinks and sheer peaches. If you want to make a bold statement, you can even give bright pink a go!For medium skin bright pink looks great on a cool undertone while coral and orange bring out warm tones.And if your skin is more on the olive side, anything with a golden undertone will bring out the rich warm tones in your skin. If you’re more of a cool olive, try light plums and cool pinks.How to apply blushHow you apply your blush is just as important as the type and shade you choose. Firstly, you have to select the right tool for application! Opt for a sponge when using creams, a sponge or fingers work fine with liquids and use a brush for powders.If powder blush is for you, you need to choose your brush wisely too! A big soft brush can be very ineffective. Choosing a specific powder blush brush is your best bet as it tends to be on the firmer side so that when you apply the blush to your skin you can control the powder and ensure in spreads correctly and in the right place.Where to apply blushThe ever-popular question of where to apply your blush can have a different answer depending on what you read, or what the trends are, however here at BC we use the general rule of thumb as below;For a natural lookFollow the natural structure of your cheekbones. It’s best to smile and then apply blush to the apples of your cheek and blend towards your temples/ears. This will lift your cheekbones and add a little extra colour to your face without looking over the top.For an instant facelift (and to make your face appear more oval-shaped)Apply blush to the back of your cheekbones into your templesFor a sun kissed glowApply blush underneath your eyes, across the bridge of the nose, and back toward the ear.To shorten your face and create balanceApply blush to the centre of the apples and out, just toward your eyes, avoiding blending too far out toward the temples.Just remember blending is key when it comes to blush application!How can you make your blush last all day?Applying a primer to your skin before makeup application will help keep makeup in place.Also, once you’ve completed your makeup routine, use a facial mist or setting spray such as Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.Now go yonder and blush away! And experience how incredibly energizing it can be for your complexion!

6 ways to brighten your dull skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 27 2022

Fed up with looking at your tired, dull skin in the mirror every morning? Miss that radiant complexion you once had and wonder if it’s possible you’ll ever get it back? Well, you can wonder no more as the answer is yes, and we are here to tell you how! Keep reading as we give you the lowdown on why your complexion is looking so lacklustre and 5 ways you can brighten skin naturally!Firstly though, what exactly is dull skin?Dull skin is skin that lacks radiance. It can appear lacklustre, dry, patchy and even a little rough to touch at times. Dullness can also be accompanied by an uneven skin texture because its less able to reflect light uniformly.Why is your skin looking dull and 6 simple solutions to brighten it Dead skin cells Dull skin is often the result of dead skin cell build up on the skin’s surface. It can happen at any age but is more common as we get older and our body’s ability to naturally shed dead skin cells and replace with new ones decreases!SOLUTION: Exfoliate skin weekly. Twice if your skin tends to be on the oily/combination side.Exfoliation is an essential step to any skincare routine because it’s the most effective way of removing dull, dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, making way for the new cells to come through and pores to remain unclogged. To learn more about exfoliation and the best exfoliators for your skin type click here. Fatigue If you’re feeling fatigued your skin will visibly reflect it by looking pale, dull and devitalized, often accompanied with dark, puffy peepers and exacerbated fine lines too! This is because when we are tired the blood in our body is not flowing efficiently which normally results in a lack of oxygen in the blood.SOLUTION: Use an oxygenating serumPhytomer’s Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum is a beautifully lightweight serum that literally coats the skin in pure oxygen, providing the cells with the vivid rejuvenation they need. Formulated with marine extracts, the invigorating, moisturising blend, ensures fresher, more youthful skin with an overall increase in visible radiance. Free radical damage Free radicals (from pollution) can really take its toll on our skin. It damages collagen and stimulates pigment production causing our complexion to look tired and drab.SOLUTION: Introduce Vitamin C into your skincare routineIt can totally transform your skin! Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and THE go-to ingredient to dramatically brighten skin.For more information on Vitamin C and its multitude of benefits click here. Lack of sleep While you sleep, your skin is active. It’s the time your skin renews and repairs itself. Lack of sufficient sleep means your skin is not able to do this which in turn can dramatically affect its appearance from dull skin to dehydration, blemishes and premature ageing!SOLUTION: Use relaxation enhancing products before bed and try to get more sleep!If you find it hard to relax and fall asleep use products that will not only benefit your skin but calm your mind and senses too!Try Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate. The radical treatment oil for skin lacking lustre, combats dullness and dehydration with a burst of vitamins A and E and Mandarin Essential Oil, so your complexion will look beautifully brighter and rejuvenated by morning. What’s more it has the most amazing aroma which alone helps calm the senses, and even though it’s an oil, it’s fast absorbing so you know it’s doing great stuff to your skin! Lack of water When you don’t drink enough water a day, the amount of water in your skin's surface dramatically declines leaving you with skin that looks deflated and dull instead of visibly plumped.SOLUTION: Replenish dull, dehydrated skin cells with hydration hero Hyaluronic AcidThanks to its sponge like effect, this super skincare ingredient has the ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in moisture, in other words, one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water! Crazy right? And now, thanks to its molecular structure Hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds! In fact, it literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant!We are literally in LOVE with Pevonia’s New Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist! It feels a-mazing when spritzed all over the face and literally binds moisture to skin cells, instantly delivering supple, dewy skin in a matter of seconds!And if you need a nourishing cream, you can’t go wrong with Pevonia’s Power Repair Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. This global best-seller is in fact abundant in Hyaluronic acid and Collagen, and acts like a moisture magnet, plumping and firming the skin immediately. Not removing your makeup before bed I’m sure we’ve ALL been guilty of this once or many a time! Especially when we are exhausted after the daily juggle, or perhaps have had one too many and ooh how that bed looks so inviting but removing the days makeup and grime off your face is a must! In fact not cleansing before bed means your skin is unable to regenerate effectively while you sleep, pores clog, and fatigue (ageing!) signs start to appear.SOLUTION: Use a cleanser you’ll LOVEFor a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast! And my absolute favourite cleanser at the moment is Pevonia’s new CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser. Its oil formulation transforms into a luscious foamy cleanser on application when mixed with water and it leaves skin feeling fantastically refreshed and beautifully clean without the drying effects that other cleansers can leave. Plus, its subtle scent is just heavenly.

7 benefits of exfoliation and which exfoliant is best for your skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 21 2022

While daily cleansing and moisturising is essential for your skin, exfoliating is another step in your skin care routine that you’ll not want to miss! And no, it’s not recommended you exfoliate every day, and how often you do totally depends on your skin’s specific needs, but there is no doubt how important exfoliating is for everyone, even those with sensitive skin. Read on as we talk all things exfoliation, including the many benefits and the best exfoliators to use.What exactly is exfoliation?Your skin naturally sheds dead skin cells to make room for new cells but sometimes, these dead cells don't shed completely. This is where exfoliating becomes paramount. It’s the process of removing these dead skin cells and debris from the surface of your skin using a specific exfoliating product or tool. Without exfoliating skin can become clogged and issues start to arise.What are the different types of exfoliation?There are 3 different types of exfoliators; Physical Exfoliators – these exfoliators which contain beads or small grains to manually remove surface debris. You can use this once or twice weekly and is better suited to combination and oily prone skin. Chemical exfoliators – these exfoliators use acids (AHA’s or BHA’s) such as glycolic and lactic acids that chemically dissolve debris. Enzyme exfoliators – these exfoliators are plant or fruit derived and work more gently than chemical exfoliators. They effectively break down the “glue” that holds dead, dulling skin cells together, in turn shedding those old skin cells and speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process at the same time. How often should you exfoliate?The general rule of thumb is to exfoliate once or twice weekly but this also depends on the type of exfoliator you are using as well as your skin type and concern. A physical exfoliator can be used once or twice a week. It is better suited to combination or oily prone skin. A gentle chemical exfoliant may be used daily depending on its strength. Just be sure to listen to your skin!What are the key benefits of exfoliating?Aside from cleansing away dry and dead skin, regular exfoliation increases the skin’s radiance, clarity and youthfulness…and that’s just the start…. It brightens skin As we age our cell turnover slows down and dead skin cells sitting on our skin’s surface can give us a dull, devitalized complexion! Exfoliating is THE one step in your skincare routine that effectively removes this layer of dead skin, restoring your healthy, vibrant glow. It unclogs pores Dead skin sitting on our skin’s surface literally covers our pores, resulting in skin issues such as irritations and blemishes. Exfoliation removes these dead skin cells and ensures pores remain clog free! It prevents acne Dead skin cells clog pores and when our sebaceous glands produce oil, it gets 'stuck' under the dead skin. This causes pimples and even acne because there is nowhere for the oil to go. Exfoliating effectively will unclogs pores therefore reducing the chances of getting these unwanted breakouts! It helps other skincare products to better penetrate skin for optimum results There is little point in splurging on fancy face creams and superlative serums if they are simply going to sit on the surface of your skin! Applying your skincare to a surface of dead skin cells (yuck) is ineffective, that’s because ingredients only work if they can get deep down into the dermis. Often people with dry skin tend to gravitate towards rich, heavy moisturisers not realising that the dryness they feel is in fact a layer of dead skin preventing their moisturiser from absorbing! Regular exfoliating will ensure your products can penetrate your skin, allowing you to reap in the benefits of your regular skincare routine. It stimulates the production of collagen Exfoliating also actually offers anti-aging benefits! As we age our natural collagen production starts to diminish. Exfoliating can actually stimulate our body’s natural ability to produce collagen, helping to keep skin looking plump, hydrated and more youthful! It evens out skin texture Exfoliants break down dry and dead skin while smoothing texture, which means the skin appears to look more uniform over time. It boosts circulation Exfoliation can also help detoxify your skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage by removing toxins as well as dead skin cells. The results, a beautiful instant, rosy flush. What are the best exfoliators according to the BC experts?Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural EnzymesGood for SENSITIVE SKINIf you are a sufferer of sensitive skin, we highly recommend this very gentle enzyme exfoliant. It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating skin.“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can’t use exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs…this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It’s the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R Phytomer Cyfolia Radiance Exfoliating CreamGood for DRY, DULL SKINIf your skin is dry, dull or devitalised, this exfoliant is a must! It does exactly what the name says! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! It features two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, as well as Algae, Oligomer and Orange water that work together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application.“I love this product. It does wonders for my dehydrated, dull skin! It has a beautiful texture, is not harsh at all and the results speak for themselves. My skin is so soft and almost glowy after I use it. LOVE” Tina R Pevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling CreamGood for ALL SKIN TYPESNo matter what your skin type if you are a fan of enzyme exfoliators over physical scrubs you are going to fall in love with this exfoliant. This little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) does wonders for the skin. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me.“Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It’s gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft.” Lisa W

How a great cleanser will improve your skin ten fold

by Jo Boyden on Oct 18 2022

Updated Here at Beauty Collective, we are strong advocates of cleansing; after all it is one of the most effective ways to achieve skin that’s healthier, clearer and more radiant.And while you might think a quick swipe of a face wipe or micellar water might seem sufficient at times (I’m sure we’ve all been tempted to do this after a long day) taking the time to remove your make-up and really clean your skin daily will ensure that you see visible improvements in your complexion day after day, cleanse after cleanse.So, if you want to learn more about the benefits of cleansing and discover why a great cleanser is the foundation to any great skincare routine, keep reading. You’ll even learn about the cleansing tools you might well not be using but definitely should be…Firstly, what exactly is cleansing?The role of a cleanser is to totally remove the days remnants. We are talking everything from makeup, dirt and grime to other skin impurities.Whether your skincare routine consists of two or five products (eight if you’re a lover of the infamous Korean skincare routine) it should always start with a cleanser. Without this step impurities will cling to your skin and dead skin cells will build up. How does cleansing improve your skin? Skin will be clearer and more refined Without regular cleansing your pores will become congested, leading to breakouts and a lacklustre complexion. Washing your face every morning and evening will remove impurities (that have built up as a result of pollutants, bacteria, dead skin cells and sebum), decongest the pores and reveal clearer, healthier skin. Skin will look fresher and brighter While cleansing isn’t able to remove dead skin cells quite like an exfoliator it will help sweep away surface dry and dead skin cells, revealing a fresh layer of skin underneath for a beautifully brighter, natural glow. Skin will be more hydrated, soft, supple and youthful looking Cleansing is more than just cleaning your skin; it’s also the best way to prep your skin for other skincare products. This is because congested pores can not only cause breakouts but also prevent the absorption of other skincare products, cleansing daily will help to clear your pores and ensure that the active ingredients in your moisturisers and serums can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, hydrating it more effectively. The cleansing tools you might be missingFirst is the humble muslin cloth. They might not be the top of your skincare wishlist, but these unsung heroes are one of the best ways to gently exfoliate your skin daily and ensure product is completely removed. After applying your cleanser, simply soak the muslin cloth in warm water and sweep in upwards motions away from the face to leave your skin looking and feeling, softer and smoother. Secondly for optimum cleansing results use a Facial Cleansing Brush. With this little genius gadget you can get your deepest clean yet as gentle but powerful sonic massage works with ultra-hygienic silicone touchpoints and your chosen cleanser to thoroughly remove any build-up of dead skin cells, dirt, oil and sweat, preventing skin problems and resulting in clean & radiant skin, but that’s not all! It preps your skin perfectly for the absorption of your favourite skincare products for maximum effect and results, the tiny pulses help awaken the skin by stimulating the circulation of blood in the skin’s layers (when the blood is stimulated more oxygen is produced in the blood and this feeds the skin cells) and the cleansing brush will aid in keeping your pores clear from debris banishing those breakouts! For the perfect cleanser it is also essential to find the best facial cleanser for your skin, a product that works with and not against your skin type. For our top recommendations click here.

How to fix cakey makeup for good

by Jo Boyden on Oct 14 2022

If you love makeup and like to layer it, it’s likely you will have fallen victim to cakey makeup on occasion! Unfortunately, ‘cakiness’ is an issue that happens to the best of us, but why so you might ask? Applying makeup to dry skin or using too much product are two reasons for cakey makeup but if you want to know how to fix this makeup mishap for good, keep reading as we reveal 8 top tips!What to do to avoid cakey makeupBoth your skincare routine and how you apply your makeup are crucial factors to avoiding a cakey makeup look so make sure you focus on properly prepping your skin and then make sure you apply your makeup with precision. Tip 1: Always make sure you prep your skin by exfoliating and moisturising to help makeup go on smoothlyExfoliating your face once or twice weekly will remove dead skin cells and debris, this in turn will help create a smooth surface for your makeup products.Moisturising is also essential as you want to eliminate dryness all together. Unfortunately, when your skin is dry your foundation is more likely to cake, so choosing moisturising skincare products formulated with skin nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter and squalane is paramount. Tip 2: Always wear an eye creamOne of the most common areas of cakiness is around the eyes so you want to make sure this delicate area is perfectly prepped too! Apply a nourishing eye cream or mask such as Pevonia’s Evolutive Eye Cream and massage in with gentle tapping movements. Formulated with Squalane, Vitamins A & E, this perfectly nourishing eye cream not only tightens and firms the area around your eyes, but also works to repair fine lines and eliminate crepiness too! Thus, creating a perfectly smooth, supple surface for under eye concealer. Tip 3: Use a primerA good primer evens out your skin texture, making the surface of your skin smoother, so that your makeup glides on effortlessly and appears well blended. It can also help with longevity meaning your makeup will remain perfectly intact for longer!Oily skin can also cause makeup to split on the face so using a pore perfecting face primer is a must! The ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer combats shine, absorbs oil and reduces the appearance of pores to keep foundation looking flawless all day long! Genius. Tip 4: Chose the right foundation for your skin typeChoosing a foundation formula for your skin type is essential when it comes to fixing and preventing cakey makeup. If your skin is dry, you’ll want to select liquid foundations as these tend to be more nourishing and hydrating than powders. For those prone to oily or combination skin, matte and powder foundations will be best since they will help absorb excess oil. Tip 5: Apply foundation in thin layers and gradually build it upOne of the main reasons for cakey makeup is in the amount of product you are applying.Remember less is always best, but if you want to hide those pesky pimples or blemishes make sure you blend a small amount of product at a time. You want to avoid looking overdone and remember you can always add more if need be. Tip 6: Use a makeup blender or sponge to apply foundationA slightly damp makeup blender can help soften your makeup, preventing cakiness from happening. Blend the foundation into your skin with the damp beauty blender, gently dabbing the product onto your skin. You can then use it to blend your concealer too focusing on blemishes and dark spots. This will help the product better settle into the skin preventing flakiness. Tip 7: Use a finishing powder to set makeupA finishing powder will provide a more-airbrushed finish to your makeup as well as help your foundation to stay put for longer wear without “caking”.It will also absorb any unwanted or excess oil and can also work to blur the appearance of pores, uneven texture, and sometimes even discoloration. Try the new ELES HD Translucent Powder. Made from 100% mineral silica powder it mattifies the skin without “caking” and softens the appearance of imperfections. Tip 8: Remove excess productExcess makeup and oil, especially in a full-coverage foundation look, can help create a cakey appearance. So, when you notice your makeup looks a little cakey or your skin looks shiny, gently blot with a blotting sheet or sponge, this will remove excess oil and foundation. Tip 9: Use a setting sprayOnce your makeup is complete, finish with a nourishing face mist (or setting spray) as they will add additional hydration to the skin as well as locking in moisture which will help keep makeup in place. Pevonia’s new Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist is a favourite of mine. Not only does it deeply nourish the skin, rejuvenating, plumping and relieving dry flaky skin, it also helps maintain your makeup look throughout the day.

What to do when moisturiser isn’t enough for your dry skin

by Jo Boyden on Oct 13 2022

Perhaps you’ve been a loyal fan of your trusty moisturiser for some time now but have recently realised it’s just not enough for your devitalised, dry skin? Or maybe you’ve read all the reviews on that ‘miracle’ face cream so many are raving about but find isn’t it working for your parched complexion.If you’ve been asking yourself why your skin is still so dry even when you moisturise religiously, something isn’t right, and we are here to tell you what! Keep reading as we explain what you need to do when that moisturiser of yours simply isn’t enough for your dry skin. Properly cleanse your skin morning and night A moisturiser isn’t going to work as well if your face isn’t clean! Moisturisers should be applied to perfectly cleansed skin as they prevent skin from drying out post wash and are actually most effective when applied to slightly damp skin as they seal in moisture.Cleanse skin twice daily, morning and night with a gentle creamy cleanser to wash away the day’s dirt, makeup and grim that can dry out the skin.Try: Pevonia - CleanRefresh™ Foaming Oil CleanserSuitable for all skin types, but especially recommended for dry skin, this innovative, triple duty oil cleanser features an advanced, lipid rich, alcohol-free, soap-free, exclusive formula which transforms into a luscious, foamy cleanser for a truly luxurious cleansing experience. Exfoliate weekly Exfoliation is essential. It will help remove dead skin cell build up that could be blocking your complexion and in turn preventing your moisturiser from properly absorbing into your skin.If your skin is dry exfoliate just once a week and try using a gentle exfoliator formulated with nourishing ingredients. A gentle exfoliant will help remove the dry cell barrier that prevents absorption of moisturising ingredients and will brighten dull skin at the same time.Try Phytomer Vegetal Exfoliant. It’s seriously soft, silky and subtle scented plus it’s ideal for all skin types even the most sensitive or dry! It eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever) and naturally encourages cell turnover. The result? Beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes! Always use a serum Serums have multiple benefits but the most important is that they can hydrate more effectively than any moisturiser because the molecules in a serum are able to truly penetrate your skin much deeper than any other skincare product. So, while your moisturiser tends to sit on the skin’s surface nourishing the toy layers, your serum hydrates on the deepest level.Serums do not, however, replace your moisturiser, but instead, when applied prior to your moisturiser, boost its effects and help lock in moisture. Vital for those with dry skin!Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum. Featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Hibiscus Esculentus extract, this ultimate serum for seriously thirsty skin, delivers immediate skin soothing results and deep hydration. It eliminates dryness almost instantly as it quite literally blasts even the most dry of complexions with a surge of moisture, maintaining surface hydration throughout the day. Oh and not only does it help rejuvenate skin cells but will bind any moisturiser you apply on top like a magnet too! Make sure your moisturiser is formulated with skin specific nourishing ingredients A deeply nourishing moisturiser is a must when it comes to a dry complexion but the only way you’ll truly get this is if it’s loaded with specific hydrating ingredients including; Hydration hero Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Glycerin and Squalane.Try: Pevonia Age Defying Marine Collagen Cream. This global best seller is my personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 recommendation of the BC Pros too. It’s a gorgeously rich, yet fine cream – formulated with Squalane, Collagen, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid – 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! Use a facial mist in the morning (and throughout the day) Once you’ve applied your makeup it’s highly unlikely you’d reapply your moisturiser (after all you wouldn’t want to mess up that makeup of yours!) but by spritzing a face mist formulated with extra hydrating ingredients, will help give skin that extra boost of moisture every time you apply it throughout the day.Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist. Formulated with super hydrator hyaluronic acid, this true multi-tasker can be used in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight, throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh (or as the perfect pick-me-up), and as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too! Oh, and it doubles as a finishing or setting spray, locking your makeup in place and increasing its length of wear! At night, lock in moisture with a facial oil Yes, your moisturiser will indeed moisturise your skin but without using a barrier cream or oil, moisture can escape, and skin will become dry again. Face Oils have the ability to help boost your moisturiser’s hydrating efforts by sealing in all the nourishing ingredients, making your skin more likely to hold onto that added hydration. In fact, face oils are integral to healthy skin as without them, moisture just continuously leeches out from the skin until the next time you apply your cream!Try: Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate. It’s a soothing, silky antioxidant oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma, is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats premature ageing, dehydration, and excessive dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning.

How to get rid of acne: 5 steps to pimple free skin

by Jo Boyden on Sep 29 2022

You might well have suffered from acne when you were younger, or perhaps you were just prone to the occasional pimple, but why oh why years later are you still getting these darn spots you might be wondering?Acne, or ‘adult acne’ as it’s more commonly known once you approach or 40’s or 50’s, is actually a very common skin condition that affects not only teenagers but men and woman of all ages! In fact, there is no age limit! Why? Because acne, whether it presents as whiteheads, pimples, blackheads or cysts, occurs when your skin follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. Something that is very easily done, but also something that can be prevented when you follow a few simple steps. So, if you are suddenly finding yourself with a face full of pimples, keep reading as we explain the best ways to get rid of them and how you can stay pimple free too! Watch what you eat As good a staple as it can be, dairy in your daily diet can sadly lead to an increase in acne breakouts. Try cutting it out to see if it could be causing your breakouts to occur. Also cut down on the amount of sugar and caffeine you consume!Instead indulge in foods such as almonds, blueberries, avocados and kidney beans as they are among a range of foods which may help to reduce and prevent inflammation. Stress less Sounds easier said than done I know, we all have those days, weeks, months even where we are super stressed but said stress can lead to acne flare ups!This is because stress-related hormone CRH can bind to receptors in the skin's sebaceous glands, increasing oil production. Excess oil production can then cause pimples. So, if you keep breaking out and just can't understand why, stress might be to blame, so try to relax!Try listening to relaxation music or meditate. Also, something as simple as taking a relaxing bubble bath every evening can really help. Exercise is also imperative! While exercising will increase blood flow, helping nourish skin cells and keeping them vital, it has also been accountable for reducing stress-related acne. Keep your phone clean! And your pillowcase too! Yup, a sudden breakout can be from something as simple as your phone or pillowcase (well anything that touches your face really that could be hosts for harmful bacteria!) And anytime you hold your phone to your face or lie on your pillowcase you are spreading the bacteria to your skin. So, if you haven’t done so for a while, try sanitizing your phone screen and wash that pillowcase of yours more often, it could make a big difference to your skin. Use mineral makeup Makeup can be a real trigger for pesky pimples. Especially if it’s full of pore clogging ingredients and oils. If you have acne, you are likely going to want to try and conceal it without exacerbating the condition, this is where mineral makeup will become your best friend! Each product in the ELES Mineral Makeup range is free of skin irritants and pore clogging nasties and instead are rich in skin nourishing and nurturing ingredients that will not only allow skin to breathe freely but will help to improve its condition too!Our favourite? The ELES best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. But if you love powder, the Mineral Powder Foundation is pretty outstanding too, especially if your skin is a little on the sensitive side. Choose skincare wisely You might well love your moisturiser but if it’s too rich for your skin it could well be doing more bad than good. Choosing skincare specifically designed to counteract acne is imperative. You want to make sure your products are formulated with acne-fighting ingredients including powerhouse salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. This is because salicylic acid dissolves the bonds that hold dull, dead skin cells on the surface of the skin so the skin will gently shed, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath, while super ingredient Benzoyl peroxide is helpful for treating acne not only because it kills bacteria that contribute to acne, but because it helps prevent and clear out clogged pores too!Try;Medicalia Clarifying CleanserThe key to fighting persistent breakouts is to find a high-impact cleansing product that will help to clear up your skin while thoroughly cleaning it.Formulated with both lactic and salicylic acids to deeply penetrate pores, remove dead skin cells, and eliminate toxins, surface bacteria, and makeup, Medicalia’s Clarifying Cleanser is a must! It provides skin with a super gentle lather that won’t dry out the skin like some acne treatments do!Pevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateIf you’re a sufferer of reactive, sensitive or acne prone skin a soothing serum could be your new go-to if it’s not already! Pevonia’s Soothing Propolis Concentrate is a beautiful rich gel-like serum with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties! It combines calming lavender, vetiver oil and a high concentration of healing propolis from the Jura Mountains of France to desensitize, decongest, heal, strengthen, and really enrich skin! Outstanding stuff!Pevonia Problematic Skincare Cream You might be thinking that applying a moisturiser is counterintuitive if you have acne prone skin? After all you’d do everything in your power to keep oiliness away right? The thing is not all acne-prone skin is oily, in fact, dry skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, basically any skin can be prone to breakouts as well! Whatever your skin, moisturising is an essential step in every skincare routine, after all they protect the skin’s barrier function and can even help soothe and prevent acne if done correctly.The experts at BC can’t get enough of Pevonia’s Problematic Skincare Cream rich in Glycolic Acid. It works amazingly on problematic skin reducing overall breakouts while leaving your complexion soft, supple and pores clog-free!Phytomer Oligopur Blemish Target GelWhen a pimple rears its head, a potent spot correction treatment will encourage rapid healing by controlling bacteria, reducing inflammation, and diminishing the follicular accumulation of keratin. Try Phytomer’s’ Oligopur Blemish Target Gel, it’s a phenomenal spot treatment which targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Simply apply a small amount of product to your pimple and let the powerful ingredients keep your skin follicles clean to achieve an even and bright complexion.

This is BC’s most raved about makeup product right now

by Jo Boyden on Sep 22 2022

When it comes to beauty, there is nothing quite like finding that holy grail makeup product. You know, that miracle multi-tasker that can totally transform your skin from blemished to flawless in one fell swoop? Well here at BC, we like to think we have a few of those, but then again we are a little biased, after all, we personally handpicked our brands and products to provide the best results for our customers, but when it comes to those customers it’s their personal reviews that speak volumes, and the makeup product that so many are raving about right now is the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30. Oh, and I’ve jumped right on the bandwagon with them!I’m guessing you’ve heard of the infamous BB Cream? But do you really understand its benefits or why you should invest in one yourself? Well, I’m here to give you the low down on the ELES beauty balm and how it can (and will!) totally transform your skin.Formulated with skincare benefits that include hydration, anti-ageing properties, and sun protection (thanks to its broad-spectrum SPF 30), this true multi-tasker primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out skin tone! It really is a quick and easy way to conceal, smooth and brighten your skin without caking on layers of makeup, and upon application, skin immediately appears more uniform, hydrated, and luminous.Also, thanks to its skin-loving, hydrating, and anti-ageing ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age-defying peptides, over time, the ELES BB Cream will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned! Skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step! How good is that? What’s more you’ll feel (and look!) as though you aren’t even wearing makeup thanks to its natural, flawless finish.Finally, it can be applied alone as your moisturiser, primer and foundation in one, or after your moisturiser if your skin is feeling a little bit parched. And it’s suitable for all skin types!So, if you’re a busy mum on the go like me, you’re simply looking to simplify the products in your morning routine, or for days when you want a little coverage but don’t have time to apply a full face of makeup, then this ELES Age Defying BB Cream is a must!Still a little sceptical? Here are just a few reviews from our customers…“This is my favourite make-up. It has very natural colours, is as smooth as silk and has a sunscreen which is so important in Australia. I discovered the make-up about 10 years ago and have used nothing else since.” Gael Meadowcroft“Great coverage BB cream with SPF so it covers all bases. Makes my skin look gorgeous and glowy and feel hydrated all day!” Cassy McKenna“This is hands down the best BB Cream I have ever used and I have tried a fair few in my time! It really does make my skin appear flawless and luminous.” Jo B“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“I have been using this BB cream for about 5+ years and its incredible. Gives me the best glow and can add more product for a bit more coverage. Highly recommend :)” Tania Da Silva“Absolutely love this product. I used it years ago, tried others but nothing compares. Such a beautiful feel on your skin and the perfect amount of glowy/dewy coverage. I love the spf included, I don’t need to use any other product but this on my Face of a morning. Perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger.” Krystle Wigley

5 products to best treat dark spots

by Jo Boyden on Sep 22 2022

We might well be lucky to live in a country known for its breathtaking beaches, beautiful bushland and endless summer sun (well the latter could be debatable right now!) but unfortunately growing up in Australia can reap havoc on our skin, and as we age hyperpigmentation can start to form.Otherwise known as dark spots, age spots, sunspots and uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation is a very common skin condition, especially in warmer climates. Why? Because it is mainly triggered by overexposure to the sun. UV light speeds up the production of melanin, a natural pigment that gives our skin its colour. On skin that has had years of sun exposure, hyperpigmentation appears when melanin becomes clumped or is produced in high concentrations. What’s worse, these dark spots are then typically perceived as ‘aged skin’ and can in turn make you look 10 years older. Eek!The phenomenon affects both men and women and can occur in all skin tones and types. Unfortunately, sun exposure isn’t the only trigger though! Other triggering factors include genetics, pregnancy, the use of photo-sensitizing products, medication, lifestyle choices, acne and scarring and hormonal changes!So, what exactly is the solution? How do we prevent these dark spots from forming? Or if we are already suffering from hyperpigmentation what are the best treatments to get rid of it?While there is no quick fix to eliminate this condition, there are definitely methods you can take to help dark spots fade.Firstly though, wearing sunscreen daily, all year round is essential. Studies have shown that sunscreen by itself will not only help prevent dark spots from forming but can help in preventing the exacerbation of already existing hyperpigmentation.Secondly during the year, especially at the change of season, it’s best to use skincare products that inhibit the overproduction of melanin. Ingredients such as vitamin c will do just this.Finally, look for products specially designed to fade hyperpigmentation.Here are our top 5 product recommendations;Pevonia Vitamin C ComplexeWhile vitamin C has many benefits from boosting collagen to helping heal blemishes, it can also help reduce hyperpigmentation (and give your skin an all-out glow!)Pevonia’s Vitamin C Complexe is formulated with both vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid that work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. And not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied, skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!Phytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumAHA’s such as glycolic, citric and lactic acids are ideal for managing hyperpigmentation. They help with resurfacing, declogging and brightening skin and can aid in evening out dark areas of the face, neck and chest.Phytomer’s Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining Serum is formulated with all three AHA’s (Glycolic, citric and lactic acids to visibly reduce the appearance of imperfections. The lightweight, refining face serum diminishes the appearance of uneven hyperpigmentation, acne and enlarged pores making skin appear younger and healthier.Medicalia L-Retinol Smoothing CreamAnother go-to ingredient when it comes to fighting hyperpigmentation is retinol. Hailed as the ‘holy grail’ of the skincare world, the super-ingredient works by going deep beneath your skin, encouraging cell turnover and bringing healthier, newer skin cells to the surface!Medicalia’s L-Retinol Smoothing Cream, is not only formulated with stabilized, deeply absorbing retinol (for optimized regeneration) but glycolic and lactic acids too! A must in the fight against hyperpigmentation this resurfacing and lightening cream fades dark spots, whilst rendering skin smoother and brighter with continued use. Just be sure to introduce it slowly and apply before bed. To learn more about retinol click here.Phytomer Oligoforce Advanced Wrinkle & Dark Spot Correction Moisturising SerumThis product's name says it all! It’s an outstanding serum with an oily consistency formulated with OLIGOMER® (concentrated sea water) and blue micro-algae to target dark spots and wrinkles, two significant signs of ageing. It quite literally envelops the skin in light and delivers intense hydration. Day after day, skin is radiant, dark spots are diminished and wrinkles are smoothed away.Vie Collection Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF 30We all know wearing sunscreen daily is the best preventative when it comes to premature ageing and the formation of hyperpigmentation, but Vie Collection’s Mela White Protective Sunscreen is a true triple-action protective shield that preserves the youth of the skin with two high-tech ingredients that act against dark spots, free radicals and UV! Day after day, dark spots are less visible, skin is unified, smoothed and better protected.

MILIA: What are they and how do you get rid of them?

by Jo Boyden on Sep 16 2022

UPDATED If you’re currently experiencing small, whitish bumps on your face, mainly on your cheeks, nose or around your eye area, you could be suffering from milia.Also known as ‘milk spots’ (although nothing to do with the amount of milk you’ve been consuming!), milia, while commonly associated with newborn babies, can frequently occur in adults too. They are often mistaken for whiteheads but are in fact keratin-filled cysts that form under the skin. Keratin? (You might be thinking since it’s likely you associate this protein with haircare) helps form our hair and nails but also makes up our skin’s outermost layer too! The problem is when keratin builds up, it hardens and becomes trapped which is when milia are formed.Fortunately, there are a number of steps we can take to get rid of milia, as well as prevent them from returning too! Firstly, though it’s important to understand what causes milia as well as the two main types you could currently be experiencing.What causes milia?Your body naturally gets rid of dead skin cells by shedding them to make room for new cells to grow and take their place. When the dead skins cells don’t naturally expel, they can get trapped underneath the new cells, they then harden and turn into cysts.What are the two main types of milia? Primary Milia These are small cysts that most commonly occur around the eye area due to skincare used in this area not penetrating properly. Unlike skin on the rest of the face, the eye area has limited blood circulation to filter excess oil – therefore eye creams need to be very lightweight and easily absorbed.Primary milia can also be found on your forehead and cheeks. Secondary Milia Although they look similar to primary milia, secondary milia develops when something clogs the sweat ducts. This is usually caused by some kind of skin trauma or infection, (such as laser treatments or chemical peels or even cold sores), or contributing lifestyle factors, including lack of sleep, smoking, poor personal hygiene, using oil-based beauty products in excess, and long-term steroid use. What are the best milia treatment options?First up, forget squeezing. Remember milia are not whiteheads (although you shouldn’t squeeze any spots really!) they are instead stubborn cysts so squeezing (whether it be with your bare fingers, nails or any tools!) will only irritate and cause damage to the skin and without being able to remove the problem! Instead, you are best to wait it out (yes milia can simply disappear on their own but this can take TIME) or you can take the pro route – milia removal. This usually requires an incision, especially when the cysts are deep below the skin’s surface, typically, it’s a quick and painless in-clinic procedure. Depending on the dermatologist or skin expert, they should be able to get rid of the milia using a lancing tool or needle. They will gently flick up the outer most surface of skin freeing the milia and enabling it wiggle it out like a tiny chalk ball. Sounds horribly satisfying! How can you prevent milia from returning?As ever with skincare, prevention is better than cure (there’s no needles involved, for one), so try these suggestions if milia are a recurring concern for you. Cleanse thoroughly every day Removing your make-up thoroughly before bed is essential, and if you’re not already try double cleansing in the evenings, particularly if you wear heavy make-up and/or live in a polluted area. The first cleanse removes your make-up, SPF and sebum (use something like an oil cleanser to melt make-up, we recommend the ELES Transformation Oil Cleanser), and the second – which is where your facial massage comes into play – should remove any further impurities and treat the skin. We love Pevonia’s CleanRefresh Foaming Cleanser. Exfoliate skin with the best acid exfoliators (formulated with AHA and BHA’s) Regular exfoliation works wonders in preventing milia, in fact the most effective way to keep milia at bay is to encourage cell turn over! Look exfoliators formulated with glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Apply at least three times a week, paying special attention to areas of milia. Try: Pevonia Glycocides Cream or Vie Collection Glyco 10 on freshly cleansed skin in the evening. You won’t be disappointed!If you have sensitive skin, or prefer manual exfoliation, try using a gentle scrub a few times a week such as the Phytomer Marine Scrub or Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. This way you’ll keep the dead skin cell build-up at bay and your pores tight and clean. Use a retinol cream Retinol is also very helpful for both fighting and preventing milia. This form of vitamin A assists skin cell turn over, allowing the milia to surface and preventing the build-up of dead cells leading to the cysts in the first place. Try: Pevonia Micro Retinol Serum and Pevonia Micro Retinol Cream or Vie Collection Retinopur Fluid. Choose your eye cream carefully Skin under the eyes can be prone to puffiness if fluid builds up there, especially with aesthetic interventions which limit muscle movements [such as Botox] and lymph circulation. This, coupled with rich products loaded onto the thin skin with limited blood circulation is a recipe for clogging. Therefore, it’s vital to use lightweight eye creams, and ensure they penetrate effectively. Try: Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye Gel or Vie Collection Chrono Eyes puffiness dark circles. Wear sunscreen religiously! While this is already a must to reduce the risk of premature ageing, sun damage can also be a contributing factor of secondary milia. Also make sure you wear a hat, and sunglasses. Consider making some lifestyle changes Limit your intake of cholesterol-rich foods (meat, eggs, etc) and instead stock up on good sources of essential fatty acids such as oily fish, flax seeds, olive oil (unheated), avocados and linseeds. Incorporate vitamin D supplements into your daily routine and avoid heavy oil-based skincare or make-up products. Instead opt for mineral makeup which will allow skin to breath freely.

6 beauty essentials for the ultimate self-care ritual

by Jo Boyden on Sep 16 2022

Life can be busy, exhausting even, or perhaps sometimes a little like you’re living the movie Groundhog Day, so taking time out for yourself, as impossible as it may sometimes seem, can do wonders for your wellbeing.Whether you have a weekly self-care ritual, incorporate some pamper time into your morning routine or make your me-time as part of your nightly winddown, practicing self-care with a little pamper session will not only make you feel good, but it’ll also be a great stress reliever. Keep reading as we count down 7 beauty essentials to make the most of your me-time. Your skin will thank you too! Phytomer Oligomer Well-being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath Who doesn’t love a bubble bath? Such a simple yet indulgent way to totally unwind and enjoy ‘me time’. Even better, light a few candles, pop on some soothing sounds, and let the days stresses literally melt away. This balneotherapy treatment at home is the ultimate mineral bath, it fully relaxes the mind while revitalizing the skin, helping to totally relieve tension. Its gorgeous Green Tea and Jasmine fragrance is also diffused throughout the duration of your bath leaving a trail of freshness and lightness on your skin. Bliss. Pevonia De-stress Escape Aromatic Oil Nourishing face oils are not only important for strengthening your skin but can also be great for your wellbeing too! One of my personal favourites, and adored by many, Pevonia’s De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil is the ultimate face oil for your night-time ritual. Just as the name suggests, it quite literally takes you on a de-stressing journey as it eases anxiety while instantly delivering intense hydration and total relaxation for glowing, healthy skin! How? Because of its amazing formulation which includes four pure essential oils; lavender, chamomile, rose and grapefruit to calm, sooth, and deeply rejuvenate mind and skin! Heaven.Even better apply with; Gemstone facial roller These little massage beauty’s (also touted as an “anti-ageing tool”) offer a multitude of benefits for the skin (and mindset) when used regularly and correctly. They can help fight wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, tighten skin and pores, increase blood circulation to the face, clear toxins, decrease puffiness under the eyes and around the face, and potentially improve inflammatory skin conditions too! Oh, and they even have the ability to release tension! (And did I mention are soo soothing and calming on the skin.) Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all though, with a range of gemstone options, it’s important to look at their individual properties and benefits to find which one will work best for you! To find out more about their benefits as well as how to incorporate them into your daily skincare routine click there. Phytomer Oligomer Well being Sensation Moisturising Body Cream with Trace Elements If your body is in need of a little loving, I highly recommend you trying this phenomenal body cream. It’s a melt-away body moisturiser which intensely nourishes the skin while bathing it in a therapeutic seaside scent (lush) and It’s rich, soothing texture treats skin to all the benefits found in OLIGOMER® – a pure seawater concentrate that’s rich in minerals and trace elements. And we all know that seawater is good for not only our skin but our soul too, thanks to the multitude of miraculous benefits and a treasure trove of skin-loving ingredients it holds! But let’s face it, we aren’t likely to be taking a dip in the ocean any time soon thanks to the cold weather the majority of us are experiencing right now!! Brrrrr so this product really is the next best thing! Pevonia Tension Relief Gel When my feet are feeling fatigued (which is often these days) there is nothing better than a pampering foot massage with Pevonia’s Tension Relief Gel. This cooling and uplifting, anti-inflammatory foot treatment literally alleviates tension and heaviness in an instant! And if my legs are sore and achy massaging Phytomer’s Cryotonic Soothing Leg Gel is a must too! Pevonia Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream Something I love to do every few weeks is to treat myself to an at-home peel, and I highly recommend you should too. Do not let the word ‘peel’ put you off though. I naturally have fairly sensitive skin but Pevonia’s Enzymo-Spherides Peeling Cream works wonders for my complexion and is great for all skin types too. It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and in turn reveals smooth, soft and glowing skin every. Single. Time. For those of us who are extremely time poor, this product is like a mini facial in a jar! Don’t just take my word for it though, read all the fabulous reviews too!

These are BC's best anti-ageing wrinkle creams

by Jo Boyden on Sep 09 2022

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

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