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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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

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

You’ve likely heard of the ingredient Hyaluronic Acid. After all every beauty professional, blogger and vlogger raves about it. But do you know exactly why this super skincare ingredient is adored by so many? Or whether it’s right for your skin? Well, we are here to educate you. Keep reading as we reveal all you need to know about this hydration hero, it’s multiple benefits, and the best hyaluronic acid skincare products you should try.Firstly, hyaluronic acid is not a new ingredient, in fact, it has been a staple in skincare and makeup for decades now. The word ‘acid’ can be daunting for many when it comes to their skin, but this ingredient is in fact a paradox as it’s not actually an acid at all! It’s in fact a sugar!Thanks to its sponge like affect, Hyaluronic acid 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? Making it THE super hydrator of the skincare world, especially more recently as advancement in technical innovation has changed it for the better! 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! The extra moisture also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!But, this skincare-wonder doesn’t stop there, not only does it benefit those with dry, dehydrated skin, it’s also a must for all skin types, especially those concerned with premature ageing. This is because not only does it allow the skin and the connective tissues to retain moisture and remain hydrated, (and hydrated skin is healthy skin that ages slower!) It also helps maintain collagen levels (which dramatically declines with age), and we all know we need collagen to remain youthfulness when it comes to our complexion.Hyaluronic acid also helps with tissue regeneration, it is proven to help wounds heal faster, can reduce scarring and diminish redness and sunburn! This is due to its ability to keep the tissue moist, manage inflammation and signal the body to build more blood vessels in areas with the skin has been damaged so nutrients can get to them!And finally, this multi-tasking wonder is a real acne fighter. Hyaluronic acid has natural antibacterial properties making it perfect for those who are suffering from breakouts. What more could you ask from one skincare ingredient?Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skincare ingredient though, it’s actually naturally produced by our bodies, but like collagen, as we age its production gradually decreases. Our skin then slowly loses its ability to maintain moisture and stay well balanced! This is where topical hyaluronic acid skincare becomes a necessity. Just remember though the more hyaluronic you put on your face, the more youthful you’ll look – fact! And nowadays we are spoilt with the many hyaluronic acid serums, creams, lotions and potions. Here are our four of our favourites, adored by our customers too! THE SERUMPevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra SerumThis Hyaluronic Acid Serum features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market, combined with a powerful duo of marine collagen and hibiscus esculentus extract for optimum anti-ageing results. It penetrates deeply into the skin delivering smoother, softer, plumper, firming and brighter skin! What’s more it’s ideal for all skin types!“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, BC Customer THE MOISTURISERPevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamAny Pevonia fan will tell you this is the “go to” cream for rehydrating the skin and smoothing away dehydration lines. This global best-seller is in fact abundant in Hyaluronic and Collagen, and acts like a moisture magnet, plumping and firming the skin immediately.“I absolutely love this cream. It is a day crem and night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤️” Ana Hall, BC customer THE MISTNEW Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra MistA true multi-tasker, it can be used in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight, after your makeup to set it in place, throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh (or as the perfect pick-me-up), and as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too!“Completely obsessed! I’m not usually into face mists or even toners but tried this and fell madly in love!!! Not only does it make my skin feel super moist and dewy first thing, but I also noticed it keeps my make-up nicely set. I use it in the am after I’m made up and before bedtime after my moisturizer. Here’s the obsession part, since I’m on a computer all day and it’s become my go-to mist as my skin feels dry and tight from all the blue light exposure, I hydramist away!” Maribella, BC customer THE MASKVie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic acid vitamin mask Containing a cocktail of vitamins and hyaluronic acid, this sensational mask reveals hydrated skin and a radiant complexion. With each application, skin is visibly smoothed and plumped.”My skin was feeling patchy with the changing seasons, but after one application of this mask it felt better moisturised and fresher. Dry, flaky patches were soothed and smoothed with my powder foundation sitting much better the very next day. I’ve used it once or twice a week since and my skin tends to feel plump and fresh for a good 4 days after using the mask. Very gentle and soothing.” A McBride, BC Customer

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

Winter just keeps on giving and thanks to the gusty winds and cold temperatures of late, you might well have noticed a change in your skin and self-diagnosed as having a dry, dehydrated complexion? The thing is while dry skin and dehydrated skin share many of the same traits, they are in fact two very different skin conditions and therefore need to be treated in different ways.Dry skin is actually a skin type (just like your combination, sensitive and oily skin) inherited through your genetics (thanks parents!), whereas a dehydrated complexion is simply a skin concern caused by external factors and can be more easily rectified my making a few lifestyle changes. Curious to know which of the two you might suffer from? Read on as we explain the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin and the best products and ways to remedy both of these skin concerns. Dehydrated skinDehydrated skin is a skin condition that occurs when there is a lack of water in our skin. Dehydration can actually happen to anyone no matter your skin type - you can even have oily skin and experience dehydration! Sounds counterintuitive right? The thing is our skin is made up of layers of water-based cells, in fact, it’s estimated that our skin contains 64% water! Crazy right? The outermost layer of our skin is made up of lipids, keratin and sebum. Sebum is actually used as a way to keep the skin moisturised and acts as a waterproofing mechanism, keeping water from leaving your body. It also helps maintain flexibility in the skin and can act as a barrier from external factors.Sometimes our skin is however compromised due to external factors like the weather and pollution, or we simply aren’t getting enough water and sleep! When this happens the outermost layer loses its ability to maintain hydration which can result in itchy, tight and dull skin. The good news though, is that these signs of dehydration can be easily reversed by re-hydrating our bodies and moisturising our skin!So, if you’ve noticed that your skin suddenly looks a duller than before, your fine lines and wrinkles look a little more obvious even, or perhaps your skin feels tighter than normal, it’s a pretty good indication that the cause could be temporary dehydration. To learn more about why your skin is dehydrated and how to fix it click here. Dry skinDry skin on the other hand doesn’t lack water, it in fact lacks oil! The oil our skin naturally secretes from our sebaceous glands in our pores to keep skin protected and stop it from drying out! When there is a lack of oil our skin takes on a more flaky, scaly, dry appearance. Skin can also look inflamed with redness and irritation.For dry skin, moisturising is paramount. It’ll help dry skin better retain water and maintain a proper level of hydration. The key to addressing dry skin is to ensure the skincare you are using is formulated with specifical ingredients. Look for dry skin creams rich in nourishing ingredients including shea butter, squalane, safflower, jojoba, tea tree, hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Also opt for products that help you lock in moisture, such as your overnight oils.To learn more about dry skin and the best products for this skin condition click here.

We all know the importance of exfoliation, it’s the key to beautiful, clear skin after all. It helps to renew cells, unclog pores, prevent acne, even skin tone, boost circulation, stimulate collagen synthesis and more! But how often should you be exfoliating exactly? And how do you know if you’ve overdone it? Sadly, sometimes too much of a good thing can be bad, and in the case of over exfoliating, it can be detrimental to your skin! Read on as we reveal 8 signs that your skin has been over exfoliated and how to fix it! Instead of being blemish free, you’re suddenly prone to breakouts! While exfoliating is a great way to prevent pimples as it keeps pores unclogged, over exfoliating will strip your skin of its natural moisture which then prompts your sebaceous glands to product more oil to compensate for the loss of hydration! When skin starts to product this excess oil, pores can clog, and blemishes start to form! Your skin is looking shiny Your complexion tends to be dehydrated, not oily yet your face is constantly shiny? If this is you, you need to lay off the over-exfoliating! Light reflects off of over-exfoliated skin easily thanks to the ultra-smooth surface you’ve created this in turn makes the skin appear shinier! Your skin feels tight When you over-exfoliate you can compromise the skin’s natural barrier function. This leads to an increase in TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and a tight feeling in your skin. You feel as though you’ve been sunburnt Redness and itchiness, much like sunburn, are one of the most common signs of excessive exfoliation. This happens because the top layer of your skin which acts like a shield against pollutants, irritants and allergens is compromised. When it’s compromised your skin becomes more susceptible to irritants and free radical damage hence the reaction! Your skin is looking flaky The natural oils that your skin produces, helps your skin to retain its natural hydration levels. Excess scrubbing though can sadly strip the skin of these oils creating a parched complexion with a flaky appearance. Your skin is dry If you’ve noticed dry patches on your face, it might not be because you aren’t using enough moisturiser, instead over-exfoliation can significantly cause dry, crepy skin, worse still peeling. Ease off the exfoliation so to not exacerbate the situation. How to fix over-exfoliated skin Firstly, eliminate foaming cleansers (which can be drying and exacerbate existing issues), retinol products (which can be too harsh to use on compromised skin), and, of course, any physical or chemical exfoliators.Next incorporate a vitamin c serum into your routine as this can soothe and help to expedite the healing process. To learn more about the multiple benefits of vitamin c click here.Once skin has settled try using a gentle silicon facial cleaning brush to help keep skin clear. This little genius gadget you can get your deepest clean yet as gentle but powerful sonic massage works with ultra-hygienic silicone touchpoints and your chosen cleanser to thoroughly remove any build-up of dead skin cells, dirt, oil and sweat, preventing skin problems and resulting in clean & radiant skin, But that’s not all! It preps your skin perfectly for the absorption of your favourite skincare products for maximum effect and results, the tiny pulses help awaken the skin by stimulating the circulation of blood in the skin’s layers (when the blood is stimulated more oxygen is produced in the blood and this feeds the skin cells) and the cleansing brush will aid in keeping your pores clear from debris banishing those breakouts!Next you can start to exfoliate again, (once or twice a week no more) using a gentle or enzyme exfoliator.Try Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. If you do love a granular scrub though opt for a gentle version like Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, removing dead skin cells, impurities and toxins to reveal instant radiance and softer, smoother skin too! You’ll love the immediate gratification you’ll get from this formidable favourite of ours.

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

You’re a stickler when it comes to your skincare routine, you eat an antioxidant rich diet, drink plenty of water and make sure you exercise daily, yet still your skin is dull and lifeless, or perhaps you’re finding yourself constantly prone to pesky pimples, or dryness even? If this is you, chances are you could be doing a few things wrong when it comes to your skincare and believe me, you’d not be the first! Keep reading as we count down 10 common skincare mistakes you may well be making and how to fix them! You are overloading your skin From cleansers to exfoliators, serums, moisturisers, masks, oils and more, it is easy to get carried away with skincare and believe that buying and applying all the products will be best for your skin! The problem is overloading it, particularly when you are using too many actives in your products can actually be detrimental and result in dryness, irritation and redness!The fix: Listen to your skin! The best approach is to understand your own individual needs rather than just adding layers of products because you are under the misconception that using them all will deliver optimum skin results! Remember if you are prone to sensitive skin simplicity is key, if you have an oily complexion cleansing, toning and a light mattifying moisturiser can be enough, and if your skin tends to be on the dry side, then a serum, moisturiser, mist and face oil to lock moisture in will be beneficial.Also, if you are adding in new steps to your skincare routine, do so one product at a time so that your skin has time to adjust. You are using toxic ingredients You think you’ve invested in a moisturiser that will deliver beautifully bright and blemish free results but it’s actually packed with toxins that can irritate skin, leading to reactions and more! Sadly, the products you put on your skin aren’t always safe. So many skincare products are formulated with toxic ingredients including Parabens, Phthalates, Triclosan, chemical sunscreen filter and synthetic fragrance.The fix: Choose natural skincare products, they’ll contain zero toxic nasties and always be aware of what you are buying, don’t just fall for the marketing hype! You aren’t updating your skincare as your skin changes with age You might have been loyal to the same moisturiser for many years but sadly the skincare you’ve used in your 20’s really won’t cut it in your 30’s, 40’s and beyond. This is because as we age our skin’s needs dramatically change. Skin becomes thinner, drier, more sensitive, and loses elasticity as collagen and elastin start to deplete, while fine lines and wrinkles start to form.The fix: As you start to age look for anti-ageing skincare rich in ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C. For more info on this read about the top 5 skincare ingredients as recommended by the experts and adjust your products accordingly. You are skipping your moisturiser because your skin is oily or prone to blemishes It’s that time of the month and a few pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or you are often prone to adult acne or simply suffer from oily skin, so think it best to lay off the moisturiser which must be exacerbating the issue right? Wrong.The fix: While you are likely not alone in thinking lathering up on moisturiser seems counterproductive, everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern, needs to apply a moisturiser daily! This is because moisturiser maintains skin hydration throughout the day and therefore assists in fighting premature fine lines and wrinkles too. In fact, applying moisturiser will greatly reduce your chance of developing extreme dryness, skin sensitivity, or oiliness! Why? Dehydrated skin can lead to issues like inflammation, premature skin ageing, and even breakouts. When your skin becomes dry, your body responds by making more oil! And we all know excess oil can clog pores leading to more of those darn pesky pimples.When searching for the right moisturiser for your skin type they do tend to be categorised by skin concern so you just need to research and find the right one for your skin’s needs. Just be sure to opt for lighter moisturisers by day, especially in the warmer months, and richer creams at night.For oily skin types, we highly recommend Phytomer’s Oligopur Hydra Matifying Control Cream. It’s an ultra-light cream that controls oil and breakthrough shine throughout the day. No shine, no greasy feeling, no heaving feeling!If your skin is prone to pimples try Phytomer Acnipure Blemish Solution Fluid, it’s a lightweight gel-cream that fights acne without clogging pores or irritating skin. It also helps eliminate shine, diminishes the appearance of blemishes, and prevents future breakouts!! You are over exfoliating or not exfoliating enough As we age our skin’s natural ability to shed dead cells declines, our pores can get clogged and skin can become uneven, dull, lacklustre and spotty even! This is why exfoliation is so imperative, and not a step that should be ignored even if you are prone to acne or suffer from sensitive skin!I’m not talking daily exfoliation though! Just once or twice a week depending on your skin type will suffice, as too much exfoliation can be counterproductive! This is because exfoliators, especially physical ones with granules or beads can damage the outer most layer of your skin when overused. One sign of over exfoliating is skin hypersensitivity. This can cause irritation, breakouts, and even a stinging feeling when you apply products! Eek.The fix: Understand your skin and choose your exfoliator accordingly. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser for blemish prone skin. It combines soapwort, Triclosan, Grapefruit Oil, Salicylic Acid and Citric Acid with Jojoba to gently remove impurities and delivers an intense exfoliating and deep cleansing experience!If your skin is a little on the sensitive side, just be sure to opt for a super gentle formula – I LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, it gently polishes your skin with its unique creamy, granular texture. But if granules scare you, I also highly recommend Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin. You are not wearing sunscreen daily, all year round It’s easy to think why bother with sunscreen if we are in the middle of winter but as I’ve preached many a time before, sunscreen isn’t just a summertime skincare product, it’s necessary to religiously wear it All. Year. Round. Why? Because it is THE best protection against skin ageing. Oh, and if you are staying indoors, and happen to work next to a window like me, the sun has the ability to penetrate the glass and your skin too!And then there is the issue of blue light damage. To read all about it click here. But in short, just like the sun, your devices omit harmful ‘blue light’ rays, so it’s important to wear sunscreen to protect skin against them too!The fix: Sunscreens formulated with iron oxides provide enhanced protection against blue light, especially when combined with zinc oxide. A new favourite of mine is Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 30 with Blue Light Shield. If you’re a little reluctant to wear your sunscreen because quite frankly its smell and greasy texture puts you off, you are going to love this lightweight emulsion! This everyday sunscreen contains an exclusive mineral formula to shield skin from harmful sun rays, blue light and pollution. It delivers all-natural protection with the addition of zinc oxide which acts to form a protective seal over the skin to reflect blue light away. It also rubs into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue behind. And even better, the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones! You are taking daily hot showers and baths Who doesn’t love soaking in a boiling bubble bath or indulging in a long hot shower every evening? But do you know how detrimental this actually is for your skin? Hot showers and baths can actually inflame the skin, causing redness, itching, and even peeling. They also can disrupt the skin's natural balance of moisture, robbing you of the natural oils that keep skin healthy. Eek.The Fix: To keep skin happy, healthy and supple, reduce time spent in the shower or bath, keep water to a warm temperature and always apply moisturiser immediately after while skin is still damp. By doing so will prevent damage, dryness, irritation, and itchiness. You are not using your retinol cream correctly We all know retinol is THE no. one ingredient when it comes to combatting skin ageing. The hero ingredient multi tasks like no other. Known for its ability to empower and enhance skin cellular performance it dramatically improves fine lines and wrinkles while repairing sun-damaged and mature skin. It’s also a free radical fighter! Who wouldn’t want to introduce this multitasking miracle ingredient into their daily life! But you need to know how to use it! Using it incorrectly can unfortunately have ramifications.The fix: Because retinol is unstable when exposed to heat and light avoid using it in your morning skincare routine, instead apply before bed. I'll ntroduce it slowly. Apply it only at night, one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Also it’s best not to layer your retinol cream with other potent ingredients such as your acids. And finally, give the product time to work its magic. This could take a few months, but the results are worth it. We promise! To learn more about this anti-ageing wonder ingredient click here. You are mixing skincare ingredients that are no compatible I’m certain many of us will have mixed our skincare products without knowing that some ingredients do not complement each other, in fact some combinations can actually counteract each other! These ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, AHA’s and BHA’s are simply better suited on their own and can be detrimental to skin when mixed or layered leading to irritation, redness or just general lack of desired results! (Unless of course they’ve been carefully placed in the same product by the clever scientists!)The fix: Let your retinol, vitamin c, benzoyl peroxide, AHA’s and BHA’s be the star of their own show. This doesn’t mean you can’t use your retinol cream and your vitamin c serum! Just use the serum in the morning and your retinol cream at night!Also focus on the combinations that can be mixed! These include; Hyaluronic acid and most ingredients! SPF and vitamin c, AHA’s and BHA’s, vitamin c and vitamin e, retinol and SPF. You are not cleansing your face 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.The fix: For a fantastic makeup remover which effectively melts away makeup and grime with minimum effort try Phytomer’s Doux Contour Eye and Lip Waterproof Makeup Remover. Combining the effectiveness of an oil (a trio of oils in fact) and the gentleness of a lotion, this ultra-hydrating makeup remover, eradicates even the most stubborn of lips and eye makeup fast! 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. To read more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here.

Ask anyone with beautifully radiant skin what their secret is and they’ll likely tell you they’re using Vitamin C! Recommended by every beauty expert, Vitamin C is THE go-to ingredient to dramatically brighten skin, but that’s not all it does, the notorious glow-getter offers a multitude of other benefits too. Read on as we reveal everything you need to know about this antioxidant powerhouse and why it should be a staple in your daily skincare routine. Firstly though, what exactly is Vitamin C? In short Vitamin C is a nutrient that our body and skin cells need to function and stay healthy. It is a potent antioxidant (the best of the best!) that helps prevent cell damage caused by age-accelerating free radicals, (highly reactive molecules which are produced either from normal essential metabolic processes in our bodies, or from external sources such as pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, medication and industrial chemicals.) So, what exactly does this sought-after ingredient do for your skin? Free radicals can wreak havoc on our skin by harming healthy cells and promoting premature ageing! In fact, they are responsible for breaking down our skin's collagen, resulting in unflattering skin blemishes like wrinkling, dark spots, fine lines and loose, saggy skin.Antioxidants like Vitamin C, interact with and neutralize these free radicals preventing them from causing damage. The body makes some of the antioxidants that it uses to neutralize free radicals but topical antioxidants like Vitamin C dramatically help too! So, just as eating a diet rich in antioxidant food helps your body in fighting off free radicals, topical Vitamin C does the same for your skin by helping to offset daily aggressors like UV damage, air pollution exposure and other premature agers, stress even!But amazingly, this outstanding ingredient’s skin-saving benefits aren’t limited to its antioxidant status. It has plenty more going for it too!Vitamin C is also well known for boosting collagen (the protein hailed for keeping our skin supple and youthful!) through the process of collagen synthesis. In fact, collagen synthesis can’t happen without vitamin C! And although ccollagen is naturally present in our skin, as we age our natural collagen production dramatically slows! Vitamin C applied to the skin in the form of Vitamin C Serum can encourage new collagen to grow. It also helps maintain the collagen you do have and protects the precious protein from damage! Amazing stuff right?By adding vitamin C into your daily skincare routine will also make a noticeable difference to hyperpigmentation, dramatically reducing it in fact. Studies show that vitamin C helps inhibit melanin production — the pigment responsible for skin colour and the appearance of dark spots, this in turn reduces dullness and gives skin that youthful glow we all desire. And if you combine the best vitamin C skincare, such as Vitamin C Serums with your daily Sunscreen in the morning, you’ll be applying a powerful protective layer to help ward off the signs of ageing.Vitamin C skincare will also treat uneven skin, improving skin tone and texture. Plus, it’s an anti-inflammatory so will help reduce skin inflammation and redness too! When should you use vitamin c in your skincare routine? Free radical damage can occur throughout the day so it’s best to apply your Vitamin C serum in the morning. For best results, follow with sunscreen as this will give your skin the best antioxidant defence to protect it from pollutants and free radical damage which as we know can accelerate signs of ageing.When it comes to vitamin C serums apply them after cleansing and before your moisturiser and or SPF. Is Vitamin C safe to us with other active ingredients? The great news is, vitamin c can be safely used with other active ingredients, although using alongside niacinamide may make vitamin C less effective. Is vitamin c for everyone? Vitamin C is a versatile ingredient that can cater to different skin types depending on its formulation. For those with sensitive, reactive skin, certain forms of vitamin C can actually aggravate skin leading to dryness, peeling, and redness so you have to be careful about which products you use.Look for vitamin C serums formulated with a gentle derivative such as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, these vitamin C forms are considered more stable and less irritating.So, if you suffer from hyperpigmentation or dark spots or if your skin is lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. Here are our favourite Vitamin C products, adored by our customers too! Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe This Vitamin C Serum is a-mazing for that perfect pick-me-up. Vitamin C and hydration hero hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied, skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too!Phytomer Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing CreamThis rich, velvety cleanser literally melts on contact with your skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities! Organic Orange water delivers vitamin C for skin radiance and optimal glow while Cyfolia Algae enhances the glow by providing a reflective effect! Like a burst of radiance to the complexion, skin is soft, supple and glowing after every cleanse!Vie Collection Photo C Bright Radiance MaskThis brilliant brightening mask delivers radiant skin by morning! It will help draw out any build-up of impurities, dirt and pollution, reduce the appearance of dull skin and increase the look of luminosity!Power packed with vitamin c, exfoliating papain, marine minerals and more we promise after the very first application an incredibly radiant and brightened skin appearance will be revealed!Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye GelInstantly say goodbye to dark, puffy eyes with this this nourishing and cooling eye gel formulated with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Ginkgo Biloba. The power trio combine to smooth wrinkles while effectively reducing dark circles and under eye puffiness and thanks to its delivery of decongesting benefits throughout the day, eyes remain beautifully refreshed and rejuvenated morning to night.

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

Noticed your eyes looking particularly tired of late? Dark and puffy perhaps? Or have those fine line and wrinkles you fear really started to show but the idea of Botox and fillers isn’t for you? Unfortunately, the delicate skin around our eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so it’s essential we give it the same level of TLC as the rest of our skin! Keep reading as we reveal 15 expert tips on how to look after our eyes and make them look younger naturally. 1. Start caring for your eyes from a young age Prevention is paramount we all know that and like with our skin you are never too young to start caring for your eyes. But fear not, just in case you’ve left it until now to really look after this most delicate area, there are still many things you can do to keep eyes looking younger so read on! 2. Give yourself a mini facial massage every day By doing so you’ll help improve circulation and calm the fluid build-up around your eye area. Try using a gemstone roller. As well as their many medicinal benefits, they can dramatically reduce puffiness by removing excess fluid around the eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out toxins! So clever! To find out more about gemstone rollers and their multitude of benefits click here. 3. Apply an eye cream morning and night You do not want to leave the skin around your eyes dry, ever! Applying an eye cream morning and night will not only ensure eyes are receiving the nourishment they require but will also help target signs of ageing and fatigue such as puffiness, under eye bags, lines and wrinkles. Look for products formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for nourishment, vitamin c for brightening and caffeine which helps reduce swelling by constricting the blood vessels. Also use a tapping motion with your finger which you apply it. This can help get rid of any excess fluid that’s accumulated under the delicate eye area. In the morning opt for a cooling eye gel. Try Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel, it’s a personal favourite of mine and highly recommended by the BC Pros. It’s a wonderful, cooling gel, formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, as well as green coffee and it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application!At night choose a nourishing eye cream like Vie Collection’s Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream. Yes, a mouthful to say, but a product that does exactly what it says. It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Seriously! it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area, and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened my dark circles, and even smoothed my wrinkles! 4. Use a primer under your eyes before applying makeup As you age your skin becomes more prone to fine lines around your eyes. You want to conceal them but it’s best to do so by using a primer first. This will help fill in any lines and make the skin appear smoother (essential if you want to prevent makeup falling into the creases and exacerbating the appearance of the lines!) Use your ring finger and gentle dab your primer over the wrinkles to the sides of your eyes and spread. 5. Invest in a good concealer As well as becoming prone to fine lines and wrinkles, the delicate skin around our eyes becomes thinner with age too! This unfortunately makes it easier to see the blood vessels beneath you skin which is what causes the appearance of dark circles. It’s best to choose a concealer that is lighter than your foundation (this will help brighten your eyes) and one that is yellow based as this will counteract any purple or blue that you may have in your undereye thanks to the blood vessels. Use a concealer brush, beauty blender or your fingers to blend. Try ELES Dual Action Concealer. This anti-aging concealer actually helps to gradually improve skin’s texture while concealing those obvious under eye dark circles. Its moisturising formula provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! 6. Line the outer edges of your upper lid to make your eyes look lifted Annoyingly as we get older the skin on our eyelids tends to droop too! By using an eyeliner on your top lash line from the middle to the outer corners with a tiny flick at the end (we are talking very subtle cats’ eye) will bring back the youthful shape to your eyes. Just be sure the line is thin as you want it to look natural and not over done! 7. Curl your lashes! While applying lashings of mascara to lashes will enhance your eyes, remember to curl your lashes first. This will open up your eyes for a wide-eyed look. While it might be a small step, it’s a subtle one that can make a big difference so don’t skip on it. Just be sure to apply two coats of mascara after curling. This will help lock the curl in place as well as add volume to your lashes. 8. Add definition and shape to your thinning eyebrows As you age your eyebrows get naturally thinner. By adding definition and shape to them you can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift! Start by brushing your eyebrows so the hairs are sitting naturally, then use a soft, waxy brow pencil like the ELES Precision Brow Pencil to shape and fill in your brows using short, hair-like strokes. Read more on how to create the perfect brows. 9. Reduce your sodium (salt!) intake Believe it or not, too much salt in your diet can affect your eyes and make them look older. Unfortunately, the delicate skin around your eyes is at higher risk of getting puffy the more salt you consume. Extra sodium unfortunately makes your body retain water. This excess water causes puffiness. Aghhh. So, try to ditch (ok maybe just cut down!) on the chips, takeaway and if you’re a fan like me, the margarita’s too! 10. Take a break from screen time We are all guilty of spending hours in front of our devices, but this excessive screen time can actually reap havoc with our precious peepers thanks to the blue light they omit! The thing is screens are a part of our daily lives so while it’s not possible to get rid of them, reducing the time spent in front of them or having breaks in between to rest our eyes can help dramatically. To learn more about blue light damage and how it affects your eyes, click here. 11. Apply cucumbers (and chamomile tea bags) to your eyes It’s no myth, by placing slices of cool cucumber over your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes will help brighten and hydrate your eyes as well as reduce puffiness thanks to the Vitamin C and caffeic acid. While applying lukewarm chamomile tea bags directly on the eyelids will calm the skin and reduce inflammation. 12. As well as cucumbers, apply raw potato slices to your eyes! That’s right, applying slices of refrigerated potato to your eyes is another fantastic natural remedy to reduce undereye circles and puffiness. The enzymes and the astringent properties in the potatoes also help reduce inflammation as well as tighten the skin too. Genius! 13. Get enough shut eye Lack of sleep can affect our eyes, fact. Afterall who hasn’t woken up with saggy, puffy eyes of a morning when they haven’t had enough sleep? Sleep helps the body renew and repair itself and allows your eyes to rest, while letting that eye cream you’ve applied before bed work its magic! So, it’s time to make sleep a priority. I know easier said than done for some, but I also know myself that I need to practice what I preach, and if I wanted to, I could put down that book or turn off the tv or close my laptop an hour before I actually do each night! 14. Wear sunglasses religiously After all, you want to protect those sensitive peepers of yours as much as possible and we all know the sun is THE no. 1 cause of premature ageing!

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

Ah makeup! My saving grace! Not only can it create the illusion of flawless skin, totally transform our appearance, cover up imperfections and boost our confidence, it can also take years off our face! You just need to arm yourself with the right makeup products and follow these top tips and we’ll have you looking 10 years younger in next to no time! Always moisturise your skin before applying your base I mean it’s a given, no matter what your skin type you should always moisturise your face every morning anyway, but applying a moisturiser before your makeup will not only hydrate your skin but also smooth your skin’s surface for a more even foundation application, and no one wants their makeup to look cakey! Oh! and if you have combination to dry skin, it’ll be next to impossible to create that perfect canvas for your foundation without moisturising first! Choose the right foundation You really can disguise the ageing process and look years younger with makeup, but you have to choose your products carefully. For example face powder, when used correctly and frugally can be a fantastic makeup staple (I have been I’m in love with the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation for years!) however, no matter your skin type, too much face powder can actually age you! That’s right, it can highlight fine lines and wrinkles instead of helping to conceal them, so it’s best to use powder sparingly – on your t-zone or as the perfect tool for quick touch ups.Foundations that have sheer to light coverage and a luminous finish will be your best choice especially for older skin or those concerned about fine lines and wrinkles. Dewy liquid foundations tend to be better than matte, also make sure the foundation is formulated with hydrating ingredients.I am a huge advocate for both the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Cosmetics best-selling Age Defying BB Cream 30. It primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish. And thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned! What’s more, you’ll feel as though you aren’t even wearing makeup! Use a good under-eye concealer for an instant eye lift Concealer is another amazing staple in your beauty arsenal that can dramatically change your appearance. Used correctly, concealer can brighten a tired complexion, cover up any blemishes, conceal dark under-eye circles and have you looking bright-eyed in seconds! Therefore, to hide those dark circles and puffy tired eyes which can make us look and feel every bit of our age, ensure you are armed with a goood concealer! I’m currently obsessed with the ELES Dual Action Concealer. It honestly gives me an instant eye lift every morning! It’s packed with amazing anti-ageing and eye nurturing ingredients, and on application dark circles and puffiness literally diminish within seconds, oh and any blemishes I might have too! Just be sure to keep concealer from drawing attention to your wrinkles by applying it correctly and selecting the correct shade!Choose a shade that’s lighter than your natural skin tone as this will help brighten your under eye area. And for the most brightening effect, apply your concealer in a “V” or upside-down triangle shape beneath your eye. Swipe it directly under the eye, but bring it down to a point on your cheek beside your nostril and fill in the entire area. Blend well with a small makeup brush and then finish with a very light dusting of powder to set the concealer so it doesn’t crease. Apply a little bronzer We are all on a quest for that healthy youthful glow, especially in the winter months when it’s almost non-existent, but dusting copious amounts of bronzer all over our nose, chin, cheeks and forehead can play up fine lines and large pores as the powder sinks into them. The best (and the most flattering!) way is to apply your bronzer with a bronzer brush to the perimeter of your face in the shape of a number three. Start on your forehead near your temples and loop down to the tops of your cheekbones, then curve out and around again along your jaw. Illuminate your face with a highlighter Along with freshening up your complexion and giving it a gorgeous glow, highlighter can be used strategically to lift and contour your face, making it appear more youthful. Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow. Try ELES Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it! Always use a blush Just a few swipes of blush will not only add colour and depth to your cheeks but can make your entire complexion look healthier, and your skin more youthful. It adds an extra glow that bronzer and highlighter just can’t mimic. Just be sure to apply it correctly – use a blush brush and lift colour upwards towards your temple from the apple of your cheek. I’ve been using the ELES Baked Blush for years now and just love its pigmented colour, easy application and the healthy-looking finish it gives me. Keep eye makeup simple As we get older our collagen and elastin decreases and the skin around our delecate eye area tends to thin out and start to droop. Heavy or droopy lids can make eyes look tired so you want to keep eye makeup light but also create the illusion of depth in the lids. To do this brush a wash of light brown shadow into the creases of your eye lids and add a tough of light shimmer shadow to the inner corners of your eyes. Brighten eyes with a waterline eyeliner Investing in a waterline eyeliner will be a game changer for tired eyes. All you need to do is line your bottom waterline for an instantly wide-eyed effect. We promise you it’s worth the money as one swipe will truly create brighter, younger looking eyes. Always use mascara It’s no secret that beautiful eyelashes make you look 10 times prettier, and younger! Curl your eyelashes (With a proper curl, lashes will look longer, thicker and fuller) and always apply lashings of mascara, by doing so eyes will appear larger and more awake, something that is synonymous with youth! Fake full brows Just as the hair on our heads can thin with age, so do our eyebrows! The thing is your brows can completely change how your face looks, and fuller, well shaped brows will add immediate dimension and help to sculpt the face making you look younger and more awake!Actually, filling in your eyebrows from the top of the brow and elongating it gives eyes a more youthful look. Just be sure you don’t overfill the front part of your brow though! This area should have soft hair that graduates into more density. If you overfill this area you can make your eye brows look way too harsh.For longevity it’s best to build up your brows with a combo of brow pencil then set with a powder shadow one shade lighter than brows. Try ELES Precision Brow Pencil and ELES Brow Sculpt. Read more on how to create perfect brows.And for a bonus tip always add a pop of colour to your pout! As we age our lips get drier and thinner. By using a lipliner you can add definition to lips, then follow with a sweep of hydrating lip balm like the ELES Colour Balm as this can make your lips appear plumper and give them a youthful fullness we all desire!

Whether you are currently dealing with adult acne, are prone to the occasional breakout, or get hormonal pimples when it’s ‘that time of month’, it is possible to get clear skin and maintain it, you just need to know how!From blemish busting products to best practices, we asked the BC pros how to get clear skin fast! Here’s their top 13 beauty tips…. Make sure you use skincare rich in blemish-fighting ingredients Just as you’d search for products rich in Hyaluronic Acid if we have dry or dehydrated skin, or collagen if you’re concerned about ageing, if you want to target any blemishes you may already have and urgently eliminate you need to make sure your skincare is formulated with a few key ingredients! These include;Salicylic AcidWhen it comes to breakouts, salicylic acid should always be your trusty go-to. This is because it’s calming, decongesting and antibacterial, as well as a proven superstar in reducing and preventing further pore clogging! Salicylic Acid is a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) that penetrates deep into the skin to exfoliate sebum-filled pores, as well as dissolve oil build-up and dead cells from the skin’s surface!Benzoyl PeroxideBenzoyl Peroxide is the most effective ingredient for actually treating spots as opposed to preventing them. This is because it actually kills bacteria! It can however be a little drying and irritating which is why it’s best used in specific targeted spot treatments.AHA’s (Glycolic and Lactic Acids)These two alpha-hydroxy acids slough away the dead skin cells that cause pimple-producing clogged pores. The result? Smoother, softer skin.Vitamin COfficially known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help decrease redness and swelling in blemish-prone skin. Firstly though, when it comes to blemishes the first port of call is to understand what exactly you are dealing with, whether it be hormonal pimples around your chin to one big bulbus bump on your forehead to all out acne, blemishes come in all different shapes and sizes and the products you use can differ too! To find out more about the different types of blemishes and the best product for you click here. Use a facial cleansing brush daily The secret to getting clearer skin is not just in the formulas we use but the practices we establish too! Used in unison with your cleanser, a cleansing brush will provide skin with deeper cleaning, removing any remnants of dirt, bacteria and makeup from your skin you’re your cleanser alone may not have.A good facial cleansing brush will also exfoliate the skin’s surface, leaving it looking and feeling so much smoother. Just be sure that it is made with gentle silicon as some cleansing devices can be to harsh for blemish prone and reactive skin, causing any redness and sensitivity to be exacerbated. The best facial cleansing brush as recommended by the BC pros is the Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush. We all know about the importance of cleansing, but 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!All it takes is 2 minutes per day! Watch what you eat Sadly, certain foods can exacerbate blemishes and cause full on acne breakouts eek! While other foods can actually help fight them! To pave the way to clear skin you want to follow an anti-acne diet stat. This is a diet rich in the following goodness; Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apricots, and sweet potatoes Spinach, kale and other dark green and leafy vegetables Tomatoes Blueberries Avocados whole-wheat bread brown rice quinoa Soybeans Foods to avoid include; Refined grains and sugars Dairy products Fast food Chocolate Whey protein powder Stay hydrated Staying hydrated is imperative when it comes to maintaining clear skin. It’s important to consume your 8 glasses of water a day, as well as religiously moisturising your skin both morning and night to keep it supple, soft, well-nourished and blemish free! Never skip on your sunscreen Sun, heat and humidity can cause oil glands to become overactive, which in turn can lead to acne breakouts! To prevent these breakouts choose and oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen and apply it liberally daily! Keep your phone clean and try not to touch your face! We are all guilty of spending many an hour stuck to our phones but did you know the bacteria on your phone can lead to breakouts! It’s best to use earbuds instead of pressing the phone against your face or simply use an anti-bacterial wipe to clean your phone daily! It’s also important to be mindful of how often you touch your face with your hands (eek guilty as charged!) like your phone your hands pick up dirt and bacteria and transfer this onto your skin when you rub your face can lead to further blemishes! Exercise every day, even if it’s only a little Exercise is imperative for optimum skin health, by exercising we increase blood flow, by increasing blood flow we help nourish skin cells and keep them vital. Exercise has also been accountable for reducing stress-related acne. Take time out to relax In a fast-paced world where many of us barely stop it’s easy to fall victim to stress! The thing is stress can, unfortunately, trigger breakouts and if you already suffer from acne, stress will only make it worse! So it’s important to try and take time out of our busy schedule for some relaxation. Anything from practicing breathing techniques, reading a good book, taking a bubble bath, meditating, listening to music, or practicing yoga can and will help! Wear mineral makeup as opposed to traditional formulations If you want clear skin and you’re not willing to let makeup go, choose mineral makeup products. They don’t contain any chemical nasties or pore clogging ingredients like some traditional formulations and will allow skin to breath freely all day long. Here at BC from the staff to the experts we all love ELES Cosmetics Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. And for more translucent coverage the ELES Mineral Foundation Powder. Both products are perfect for those with skin sensitives, are free of any chemical nasties, provide effortless and natural coverage and most importantly will allow your skin to brief freely (so no pore clogging in sight) and feel like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! What more could you ask for? Clean your makeup tools! I’m sure many of us are guilty of putting this off but regularly cleaning our makeup brushes and sponges can make a huge difference to our skin! Yes, that’s right! Your makeup tools are meant to be washed! Besides bacteria, both brushes and sponges also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to skin irritation and pesky pimples! Also, if you apply your makeup with a dirty bush the end result can be a streaky and patchy complexion! Clean brushes definitely make for a smoother makeup application! So get to cleaning them stat! Change your pillowcase frequently! While no one loves to do lots of laundry, switching up your pillowcase every few days will help on the quest for clear skin! Unfortunately like with our hands, makeup brushes and our phones, our pillowcases can harbour any excess oil, dirt and bacteria too (urgh) and in turn, become a breeding ground for acne. So, make sure you change that pillowcase to reduce the risk of breakouts! Better still, if you’re prone to blemishes opt for a silk pillowcase! Silk pillowcases absorb less moisture and dirt, therefore, making them the better choice. Always remove makeup before you go to sleep! It doesn’t matter how tired you are, removing your makeup every night is paramount! While you are asleep at night, your skin isn’t! It’s actually the time your skin recharge, repair, recuperate and renew itself! When you leave makeup on, you are preventing that from happening. The skin ceases to breathe properly, pores get clogged and blemishes start to appear! Get some quality sleep! We don’t call it ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing! When we sleep our skin repairs itself, producing collagen and the more collagen produced means skin is plumper and less likely to wrinkle! If we’re sleep-deprived, not only will we wake with dark under-eye circles and bags, but we are also more likely to experience skin irritation, dehydration, fine lines, and dare I say blemishes! Us adults need a minimum of 7 hours of restful slumber a night, 8 preferred! Just be sure you switch off any electronics an hour or so before a practice some relaxation techniques!

While many of us tend to self-diagnose our skin with one specific condition, be it dry, oily, sensitive, ageing, the list goes on, it might actually surprise you that the most common skin type is actually combination skin - a mix of both oily and dry!So, if you’ve noticed that you have dry areas on your face but experience excess oil at the same time, you could well be one of the millions, billions even, with combination skin. The problem is it can be tricky to figure out how to care for your skin properly considering that different parts of your face have different needs! The good news is however that you can indeed perfectly balance your combination skin by following a few tips and tricks!Read on a we explain the tell-tale signs of combination skin, what exactly causes it and how best to care for it. Your t-zone is oily, while your cheeks are dry Combination skin tends to display certain characteristics – excess oil, large pores, shine, and blackheads on the forehead, nose and chin (otherwise known as the T’zone) this is due to over-active oil glands in these areas, and then dryness, dullness, fine line and wrinkles elsewhere (predominantly on your cheeks). As a result, it’s very important for those of us with combination skin to regulate sebum and oil production along the T-zone so be sure to steer clear of greasy, creamy products as they will be too rich for your skin and may lead to clogged pores, at the same time though you don’t want to use products that can dry out your skin in turn activating even more oil production! The goal is to treat both oily and dry areas at the same time for a clear, balanced complexion!Solution:Multi-mask your skin once a week! Apply a moisturising mask to your dry areas and an oil-absorbing charcoal or clay mask to your oily T-zone. It’ll do wonders for combination skin.It’s tricky to soak up excess oil without over-drying the skin but products containing charcoal and clay do just that! They work by attracting and absorbing dirt and oil. As a lightweight natural ash residue hydrocarbon, charcoal easily pulls toxins out of the skin for a clean, purified, and healthy complexion as it restores a normalized cellular function. Try Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask. Apply once a week to oily areas of your skin and watch it work its magic. You get breakouts in the oily area of your face Thanks to excess oil production in the t-zone, combination skin can often lead to breakouts when the pores get clogged.Solution: To fight these breakouts, we suggest using a salicylic acid-based cleanser like Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser which provides pore-clearing benefits in a super gentle lather that won’t dry out the skin, stripping it of moisture.We also love Phytomer’s’ Oligopur Blemish Target Gel, it’s a phenomenal spot treatment which targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Your oily-to-dry skin ratio tends to change dependant on the season With combination skin, your oily-to-dry ratio tends to vary with a change in seasons. During summer the heat and humidity cause oil production to increase, causing your T-zone to feel extra oily while your dry areas are actually quite “normal”. During winter, the opposite happens this is because environmental exposure sucks moisture from your skin which means your T-zone will appear “normal” while your dry areas will look really dry.Solution:Use Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream, it’ll keep your skin perfectly balanced all year round no matter what the weather. With a subtle lemongrass scent to die for and a soothing, silky texture which perfectly dissolves into skin on application, this moisturiser is a BC best-seller for very good reason! Perfect for those with combination skin, prone to oily t-zones, it effectively refines pores and controls oil and shine with skin nourishing ingredients including vitamin e, arnica and aloe. Get ready for smooth, soft and supple skin minus the excessive oil and congestion that it brings! Yes! You have enlarged pores on your nose, chin and forehead Unfortunately the more oily your skin (thank you overactive oil glands in our forehead, nose and chin area!) the more prone this area is to clogged pores. When sebum builds inside pores, they expand giving them an enlarged appearance!Solution: You can reduce the appearance of these pores by following a number of tips. Your makeup always looks patchy! That’s right, your makeup looked flawless when you left the house but come midday it’s slid straight off your t-zone and clung to those cheese of yours looking like a patchwork piece!Solution: Apply a hydrating and mattifying makeup primer before your foundation.A good skin primer will become your lifeline. Not only will it stop your foundation from sliding off your face quite literally, it’ll keep your base smooth while reducing the appearance of pores (and fine lines!) too!Our go-to is the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s oil-free, perfectly lightweight and seems to combat shiny areas on your skin almost instantly! This is because it contains a natural dermat complex which enables it to absorb oil and effectively reduce pores size in one hit! Outstanding for those of us with oily T-Zones!The good news is it’s also formulated with nourishing ingredients to keep the dryer parts of your skin happy too! So now you know you definitely have combination skin, what exactly causes it you might wonder…Like with all skin types, genetics play a major role so you can thank your parents for the skin you’ve landed! It’s not all their fault though! Environmental factors as well as your lifestyle choices play a large part too. For instance, prolonged humid conditions in the summer months cause sweat glands to produce more sweat leaving the skin moist and shiny, whereas prolonged heat causes skin to dehydrate resulting in dryness! And then let’s not forget those darn hormones of ours that can play havoc on our skin during certain times of the month! Skin issues can be exacerbated by our hormones. Your sebaceous glands (sebum) have receptors on them which respond to our hormones. The more testosterone produced, the more oil is produced in the skin!

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