BC Skin Journal
BC Blog
6 face oils to add to your daily routine
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 10 2021
I may have been late to the party when it comes to introducing face oils as a staple in my beauty routine, but today I’m testament to how good they really are how much they have single handily benefited my skin. You see my skin has always been notoriously dry. No matter how much water I drink, how much love I seem to show it, I have a dehydrated complexion. But since discovering my favourite skincare products including my much-loved face oils, my skin has gone from dehydrated to glowy in next to no time and I’m here to tell you how.Firstly though, it’s important to understand that face oils are not just for those of us suffering from dull, dry, or dehydrated skin. They are in fact the perfect product for everyone, no matter what your skin type or concern. So if you’ve been wanting to try a face oil in what feels like forever but have been holding back from fear of breakouts because let’s face it applying oil to oily skin isn’t logical right? You’d be wrong! The age-old beauty myth is just that, a myth, because not only do face oils actually balance oil flow (yes really!) they help to repair your skin’s natural barrier too! Genius!From cleansing oils to radiance boosters, the following face oils will transform your skincare routine and your skin! What’s more they come highly recommended by the BC professionals and you, our loyal customers too! Pevonia Vitaminic ConcentrateThis soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil with the most amazing mandarin aroma, is worth its weight in gold! It’s fast-absorbing and radically combats premature ageing, dehydration, and excessive dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning.“This product has saved my dry skin, especially during the colder months. You put it on after cleanser and it is absorbed right away. It is a dry oil and is just wonderful.” Amelia G Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing OilThis is one of those silky, soothing oils with a heavenly rose petal scent that quite literally makes you go ahhhhh” as it melts into your skin. It’s a lightweight dry oil so it absorbs immediately creating a velvety finish without the greasy residue of many an oil. Nourishing marine extracts and botanical oils work together to eliminate impurities while brightening, hydrating, and restoring your skin's natural luster! So while you sleep, your skin repairs and you wake up with a baby soft, radiant complexion that strengthens and firms with every application.“I love this product it makes my skin feel soft and subtle and gives it a beautiful glow. I suffer from redness and this helps to soothe my skin. Amazing product.” Jenni Pevonia De-stress Escape Aromatic OilIf your skin is dry, you’ll really benefit from using facial oils as your barrier. Our current go-to is Pevonia’s new Destress Escape Aromatic Oil. This barrier warrior features a blend of premium and delicate natural oils including safflower, squalane, lavender, chamomile, grapefruit and rose to instantaneously deliver intense hydration while soothing, calming, relaxing, brightening and protecting the skin barrier for ongoing optimal skin health.“I love this face oil! I’ve been using it for a month now as a night time treatment for my dull, dry skin and the results next morning are fantastic! Smoother, plumper, brighter skin! The scent is also heavenly and definitely transports me into a relaxed state of mind. Such amazing stuff!” Amy K Phytomer Tresor Des Mes Beautifying OilThis “treasure of the sea” is THE double duty beauty oil you want in your bathroom! For face, body, and hair! It infuses all the benefits of marine and vegetal oils to moisturise, nourish, repair, and protect you from head to toe. Apply in the evening after a shower or bath and breath in the sensual summer scent. Subtly golden, this beauty elixir will illuminate your skin with light.“This oil keeps my skin smooth and soft. It’s not greasy and absorbs well leaving an attractive glow to skin and hair. I'm so delighted to have been introduced to this product!” Emily Phytomer Oligoforce Advanced Wrinkle and Dark Spot CorrectionThis micro-emulsion contains two active breakthrough ingredients; OLIGOMER concentrated seawater and Marine Ethernal blue micro-algae to specifically target dark spots and wrinkles. Its dewy texture, combining all the comfort of an oil and the effectiveness of a serum, envelops the skin in light and delivers intense hydration. Day after day your skin will become more radiant and dark spots will diminish and fine lines smoothed away! Sound good?“This is a beautiful product. I have only been using it all for about 1 week but already I see a big improvement. I will definitely buy this again and highly recommend it.” Leanore A ELES Cosmetics Transformation Cleansing OilOils aren’t just products that you add at the end of your night-time routine, they also come in the form of cleansers too! Yes! It might sound crazy to remove oil and grime with ‘oil’ so to speak but once you try a cleansing oil you won’t look back. Nothing feels more nurturing and luxurious than a good cleansing oil and the ELES Transformation cleansing oil won’t disappoint! Firstly it literally melts into skin dissolving everything, even waterproof mascara! It does this by binding impurities to the molecules like a vacuum cleaner! Secondly, it dissolves in water. That’s right, you will not be left with a greasy film at all, this oil literally transforms into water-soluble milk which is easily rinsed off leaving your skin feeling not only beautifully clean but remarkably soft and supple too!“Oil cleansers can sound scary especially if you have oily skin but they’re really life-changing and this cleansing oil is no exception! I love how soothing it feels and actually enjoy the process of removing my makeup. There is no oily residue – just clean, soft, smooth, nourished skin. Bliss.” Sarah H
How to get airbrushed-looking skin naturally
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 05 2021
Let’s face it… we all want it! Perfect skin, All. Of. The. Time, and with little evidence of makeup too! And sure, what with the likes of #facetuning every one of us can achieve a beautifully airbrushed complexion in our photos, but what about looking airbrushed the natural way, without the likes of apps?Armed with a few miracle makeup items you indeed can! Here’s how; STEP ONE: THE SKIN PREPPevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserThe key to nailing your makeup actually lies in the prep you do beforehand. For flawless airbrushed-looking skin you must start with a smooth, clean, flake-free canvas. Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser that will thoroughly cleanse skin as well as remove any build-up of excess oil and dead skin cells. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single use!STEP TWO: THE MULTI-TASKERELES Age Defying BB Cream 30Loaded with Goji Berries, Minerals, Vitamins and Sun Protection this wonder base and ELES Cosmetics best-seller, is your skin care, primer, base and sunscreen in one! Skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!! Simply apply to cleansed skin for the silkiest and most undetectable coverage ever! STEP THREE: THE PERFECTORELES Dual Action ConcealerNothing takes the years off your face more than a great under-eye concealer and this is no exception! It not only covers dark circles, it smooths, brightens, depuffs and treats them too! Plus, its medium coverage formula provides continuous hydration and a natural longwearing finish. Select a shade lighter than your foundation and apply it beneath the eyes or wherever you see darkness. Pat into your skin with your finger to look as though you’ve just had 10 hours of blissful slumber.Make sure you always apply your concealer after foundation because then you really get a much-desired brightening effect.STEP FOUR: THE AIRBRUSHERELES Baked Finishing Powder - Diffused LightA compact full of miracles! Sweep over the skin for a soft airbrushed finish to any base. The glow-giving powder contains light-reflecting pigments to make skin look impossibly fresh and flawless while the gorgeous warm tones act like a photo filter on your skin. Sublime skin every time! STEP FIVE: THE YOUTH ENHANCERELES Baked BlushFor a pop of colour that makes skin look fresh, dewy and youthful try this! Six gorgeous shades multi-task as blush, eye shadow and when applied with a damp brush can even work as a matte lip colour!N.B if you tend to have a fair complexion, go for a lighter, more muted version of the blush shade you’d like to use! If you have darker skin, try a stronger, deeper version.
Beauty tips to make your makeup last all day even if you have oily skin!
by Jo Boyden
on Nov 03 2021
Just because you might be prone to oily skin, especially in the warmer months thanks to humidity, it doesn’t mean your makeup can’t last the distance! In fact, no matter what your skin type it is possible to make your makeup remain almost perfectly intact all day long, you just need to know what steps to take and ensure you are armed with the right products! Fed up with your makeup sliding off your face by mid-morning or simply looking for makeup tips for your oily skin? Read on for our recommended 5 steps and the products we can’t get enough of. Prep your skin with mattifying products As with any skin type, perfecting your skincare routine is paramount. First things first, prep your skin with a good cleanser formulated with glycolic and salicylic acids as this will help reduce excessive oil and prevent the plugging of pores that can lead to acne breakouts! Then make sure you properly moisturise your skin. Oily skin needs nourishment just as much as any other skin type or concern. Be sure to steer clear of those rich anti-ageing creams though (save those for night-time!) and instead opt for a light face cream that will hydrate skin without being greasy. Consider using a serum too. I’m obsessed with serums and for good reason. To learn more about the best anti-ageing serums for every skin type and why you should include one in your daily routine, click here.Then once or twice a week, use a treatment mask. Masks formulated with clay and charcoal are best for oily skin types as they naturally absorb excess oil and impurities while calming any irritation.For a great skincare ritual for oily skin, we can’t recommend more highly the following products;Vie Collection Cleansing Gel with Glycolic, Lactic & Salicylic Acids – suited to those with oily skin, this gel deeply cleanses the skin removing excess and unnecessary oil while unclogging pores and ridding skin of impurities and surface toxins. The result? Skin is purified, skin texture is more even, and pores are tightened.Pevonia Mattifying Oily Skin Cream -- this beautifully light-textured and non-greasy cream hydrates, refines and mattifies skin, visibly controlling excess oiliness.Pevonia Pure Skin Charcoal Mask – an amazing mask for many skin types including combination to oily skin, this mask is formulated with charcoal, kaolin clay, grapefruit, shea butter and squalane, so it effectively nourishes skin while absorbing unwanted, excess oil. Thanks to the charcoal it’ easily pulls toxins out of the skin for a clean, purified, and healthy complexion as it restores a normalized cellular function!Apply a small amount of the mask with your fingers. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and then rinse off with cool or lukewarm water for an immediate matte finish. Don’t forget your sunscreen When you have oily skin, it can be tempting to skip on the sunscreen in fear of making your skin even oilier. However, not only can UV rays lead to serious skin damage and premature ageing, but sunburn can dry out surface oils which can in turn make your sebaceous glands even more active! Eek!The key is to select an oil-free sunscreen that will protect your skin without making it oilier!After you’ve applied it, place a tissue flat on your face and press gently to remove any excess before starting your makeup regime. Always, I mean ALWAYS prime your skin Finding that perfect makeup primer and using it religiously is key when it comes to preventing your makeup from literally sliding off your face. Makeup primers are the one product that have the power to literally make your makeup stay put all day long!Simply apply it after you’ve cleansed and moisturised your skin, prior to your foundation and you’ll be good to go!We LOVE the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking flawless! Genius! Opt for matte, semi-matte or oil-free “long-wear” makeup If you are prone to oily skin, it’s best to steer clear of liquid foundation with a dewy finish. After all, since your skin naturally produces more than enough oil, you don’t want to choose makeup products that’ll only exacerbate your condition. Instead invest in makeup products that are matte, semi-matte powder or oil-free and noncomedogenic. Plus you want to prevent any slippage to make sure you choose ‘long-wear’ formulations!Mineral makeup will be best as it provides outstanding coverage while allowing skin to breath freely (no pore clogging in sight and let’s face it clogged pores means even more oil flow! No thanks!). The ELES best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation should be your go-to. It’s long-lasting staying power is second to none, it’s packed with goodness including an exclusive multi mineral complex as well as vitamins A, C & E and its formula while it goes on as a silky liquid, sets to a soft powder finish, perfect for those with combination and oily skin. Use powder, but don’t overdo it! Yes, a good powder compact is great for soaking up oil and eliminating shine but going overboard can have the adverse effect and actually clog pores in turn causing skin to produce even more oil.It’s best to apply your power to the shiny areas like an oily t-zone. And use a mineral translucent formula which will look natural as well as allow skin to breath freely. We LOVE ELES’s Mineral Powder Foundation. Mineral makeup works wonders on oily skin because the particles tend to absorb moisture, preventing shine and the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation enables you to adjust your coverage from a translucent powder to a buildable coverage foundation with a richer, more opaque finish. What’s more, it’s formulated with skin loving ingredients including vitamins A & E, so it’ll provide antioxidant protection as well as condition skin!N.B Be sure to avoid illuminating powder with shimmer as this will only draw attention to skin texture and exacerbate pore size.
5 skincare essentials for glowing spring skin
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 29 2021
Halfway through spring but your skin isn’t looking it’s best? Want to achieve that healthy spring glow but not sure where to start? We’ve got you! Unfortunately, with spring comes a change in our skin thanks to an increase in temperature, sun exposure and humidity levels so it’s important to up the ante when it comes to your skincare! Below are five of our favourite beauty buys to achieve your healthiest skin this spring! We promise you’ll love them too! Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating CleanserMany people avoid exfoliation during the winter months because they feel it can dry out their skin, but as the weather warms up and the humidity increases, it’s a good time to exfoliate at least once a week if not more, to brighten a dull lacklustre complexion. A good weekly exfoliation will break up dead surface skin cells and reveal a fresh glowy complexion instead! For the perfect all-rounder exfoliator for all skin types we LOVE Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile, it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, revealing a softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single use!To learn all about the beautifying benefits of exfoliation and which other exfoliators might be best for your skin this spring click here. Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing CreamAs the weather continues to warm up, it’s time to be rid of our richer creams and reach for a lightweight moisturiser instead! Something that will absorb quickly and keep pores clear. And remember even oily skin needs daily moisturising! Why? Because without daily hydration it can produce even more oil to compensate!I highly suggest you give Phytomer’s Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream a go! Perfect for all skin types, it’s a beautifully light yet deeply nourishing cream that provides skin with that ‘invigorating boost’ for fresh, moisturized skin all day long. Rich in hyaluronic and vitamins, it really will transform skin from lacklustre to soft, supple, and visibly radiant. ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50We get it, no one likes slathering on sunscreen, but it is THE most important step in your daily routine, and we don’t need to remind you why! Sunscreen IS essential all year round, but with more time out and about in spring, it really is time to find that SPF favourite and use it religiously.My personal go-to in spring is ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. It’s lovely and light (none of this thick white greasy emulsion!) plus not only does it protect skin against the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent discolouration while diminishing existing dark spots, all whilst calming and brightening your complexion too! Pevonia “C” ComplexeIn the warmer months, when the sun is shining, UVB radiation is at its strongest, so it’s important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C in our skincare too! Vitamin C when applied topically not only boosts our skin’s natural tolerance to the sun, but it is able to help control the formation of pigmentation as well as significantly lightening its appearance too! So make sure you are armed with a great vitamin C serum or cream. I can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complexe with Oxyzomes. The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equals radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh and it feels a-mazing too thanks to it’s combination of vitamin c and hydrating powerhouse hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing CreamDon’t forget a good night-time ritual that includes a nurturing night-time cream! Looking after your skin before bed will have a profound effect by morning. My go-to for spring is Phytomer’s beautiful silky, lightweight Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. It literally cocoons my skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning. One of my personal all time favourites!
5 makeup products that’ll seriously benefit your skin
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 27 2021
When it comes to maintaining healthy skin there are those non-negotiable steps that shouldn’t be skimped on….You know the drill, follow a daily skincare routine, drink all the water, do an ample amount of exercise and get plenty of shut eye to name a few, yet when it comes to covering up any facial flaws from blemishes to redness, or simply not being game to go makeup-free, we are quick to slap on that thick layer of concealer, foundation, blush, bronzer and more…in turn clogging pores and reversing the good we’ve done! This is because our makeup choices can sometimes have a less desirable effect on our skin, often causing blemishes and skin irritations! And doesn’t it seem crazy to spend so much time and money perfecting our morning skincare ritual, using the best of the best for our specific skincare needs, only to undo all the good by applying makeup that’s full of toxic ingredients on top!Luckily, here at BC, we are spoilt with an abundance of skin nurturing makeup essentials! Products that not only create the illusion of flawless skin, but actually do good for our skin too! From foundations that provide both breathable coverage and anti-ageing benefits, to illuminators that will also work to hydrate the skin. Read on for our top 5 recommendations, also known as ‘skincare makeup’, and why our customers keep buying them over and over too! ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15Foundation, in the past, has always been categorised as makeup, a short term ‘fix’ or superficial layer to conceal flaws and help create the illusion of perfect skin. But who says your foundation can’t have long-term skin benefits like your skincare products? After all shouldn’t your foundation enhance your complexion not mask it? Well ELES’s best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation does just this! Not only is it formulated with anti-inflammatory zinc as well as Vitamins A, C and E, it allows skin to “breathe freely” whilst shielding against age aggressors. It’s free of heavy fillers and pore-clogging ingredients (phew!) and the skin-safe formula contains no chemical ‘nasties’ or potential irritants, such as fragrance, talc, oil and dyes.If you are a lover of liquid foundation but after something silky and light, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, soft, subtle powder finish, it also provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for!“This is the best foundation I have ever used! Firstly, it's mineral makeup so it doesn't clog your skin. Secondly. the coverage is amazing, and it makes your skin look and feel like velvet - honestly the best I have ever used. I have been using this for years and just love it. I get compliments on my makeup all the time.” Sia P ELES Luminous CC Cream 20Colour correcting and broad-spectrum protection in one, the ELES Luminous CC Cream 20 is amazing for everyone but especially those with facial redness or hyperpigmentation as it adapts to your skin tone so it will darken and lighten as needed to blend and conceal!Its multi-Mineral Complex helps to condition skin and provide antioxidant protection while skin nourishing and brightening ingredients help balance your complexion and fight free radicals for a more even, youthful glow!“I just recently purchased the luminous cc cream and I’m very satisfied. The coverage is perfect for my mature skin, and having oily skin I find this cc cream controls it.” Adele K ELES Age-Defying BB Cream 30Not to be mistaken for its sister – the CC Cream, BB Creams or otherwise known as beauty balms, are infused with antioxidants, brightening agents, acids, broad-spectrum SPF to treat the skin while giving it a fresh, even glow, and let me tell you the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30 is no exception! Multi-faceted it really packs a punch as it quite literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, evens out skin tone, and helps to strengthen skin on contact. So if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this is for you! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one! It's skin caring and skin perfecting in one simple step!! What’s more, 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! Yessss!“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 W ELES Dual Action ConcealerPacked with collagen, vitamins C & E, hyaluronic, Tetrapeptide 5 and Matrixyl® Synthe 6™, this anti-aging concealer not only conceals fine lines and dark circles, it smooths, brightens, depuffs and treats them too, all whilst helping gradually improve skin's texture and elasticity around the eyes! Eyes look beautifully refreshed and radiant. Its medium coverage formula provides continuous hydration and a natural longwearing finish. Apply beneath the eyes and pat into the skin to look as though you’ve just slept 10 hours.“I love this product, been using it for 2 years. You only need the littlest amount to hide dark under eyes reduce the look of wrinkles around your nose and mouth. I always have to have it.” Josephine P ELES Mineral Eyeshadows Let’s face it our delicate eye area is just as important as our skin, in fact it’s the first area to show signs of ageing so surely, we want to treat it to good products as we do our complexion! I love a good eye shadow to take my eyes from awake to stand out and the ELES Mineral Shadows have become a firm favourite (and no not just because I biased!) Ingeniously blended with real minerals and vitamins, each individual eye shadow is free of oils, fragrances and other ingredients that can irritate skin. Also free of talc so colour is fresh, clear and incredibly vibrant! The shadows sweep over eyelids without creasing or fading, while reflecting light away from bruises and dark circles, as well as fine lines.They can be applied dry for soft, low-key shadings, or wet for more vibrant effects and come available in a range of matte and pearlized shades in single inserts or a trio compact so you can mix and match colours.“These eye shadows just blend so easily and remain in place for hours without creasing or flaking. They are light enough to use for a sheer wash of colour but are so easy to build for a strong look. The hard part is deciding which colours i want/need/have to have next.” Naomi F
Don’t feel like wearing foundation? 4 alternative skin-perfecting products
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 22 2021
We all have those days when we feel like paring back on the myriad of makeup we wear every day. You know swapping out our foundation for something less ‘full coverage’ so to speak, or even going makeup-free! But then for many of us we still need something to hide those unforgiving flaws or simply to enhance our complexion while making it look naturally flawless of course! Well here at BC we’ve got you covered. Read on for four skin-perfecting products that you can use instead of your foundation, they’ll boost your natural glow too! ELES Retexturizing Face PrimerOften overlooked, a good primer can be a godsend when it comes to achieving flawless skin. We are loving the ELES Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, try this! ELES Age Defying BB Cream SPF 30If you’re looking to simplify your products because you’re a busy mum on the go like me or for days when you want little coverage a BB Cream is a must. Formulated with skincare benefits that include hydration, anti-ageing properties, and SPF protection, BB Creams are a quick and easy way to effectively even out your skin tone without caking on the makeup!I am a huge advocate for the ELES Luminous 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, it really does feel like you aren’t even wearing makeup, no easy feat for a product with SPF for that matter! ELES Luminous CC Cream SPF 20While the idea of going foundation free in hindsight is great, having your imperfections out there for all to see isn’t so much. You know those obvious undereye dark circles, the hyperpigmentation you normally hide, or your rouge complexion thanks to facial flushing. Opting for a CC Cream though is the perfect solution! Plus, if you have rosacea or are suffering from acne the likelihood is your foundation could well have been exacerbating your condition!Unlike tinted moisturisers, foundations and even BB Creams, these miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover your imperfections, the ELES Luminous CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, and other skin flaws, subtly illuminating the skin. ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightWe are all on the quest for those lightweight multi-tasking miracle products, and ELES’s Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light is just that! Your bronzer, highlighter and foundation powder combined into one clever compact that you can lightly brush over your face for beautiful ‘lit from within’ skin in seconds!The glow-giving base contains light-reflecting pigments to make skin look impossibly fresh while the gorgeous warm tones act like a photo filter on your skin.
Rejuvenate your skin. The 7 beautifying benefits of exfoliating
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 20 2021
With spring well and truly underway and lockdown over, it’s time to get serious about our skin! We all know the importance of daily cleansing and how much of a necessity moisturising both morning and night is but are we all aware of the numerous benefits of exfoliation, an essential step in our skincare routine but sadly one, that not all of us stick to!It doesn’t matter if you suffer from sensitive skin, a dry complexion or if you’re prone to acne, a good weekly exfoliation is vital! Not only because it’ll get rid of dead surface skin cells but because it’ll also improve the effectiveness of your regular skincare routine so you can experience glowing skin faster! You just need to know which exfoliators are best for your skin type and how often to use them. But first we are here to tell you about 7 benefits of exfoliation, and why you need to make sure it’s part of your regular routine from now one! Exfoliating will give your skin back its radiance! As we age our cell turnover slows down and dead skin cells sitting on our skin’s surface can give us a dull, devitalized complexion! Exfoliating is THE one step in your skincare routine that effectively removes this layer of dead skin, restoring your healthy, vibrant glow. It’s that simple! It smooths your skin tone and texture If you are prone to bumpy skin or dry patches you need to get scrubbing! Exfoliation helps to smooth the skin beautifully and will even out uneven tone and texture for a baby soft complexion! It will enable your moisturiser and serum to better penetrate your skin for optimum results There is little point in splurging on fancy face creams and superlative serums if they are simply going to sit on the surface of your skin! Applying your skincare to a surface of dead skin cells (yuck) is ineffective, that’s because ingredients only work if they can get deep down into the dermis. Often people with dry skin tend to gravitate towards rich, heavy moisturisers not realising that the dryness they feel is in fact a layer of dead skin preventing their moisturiser from absorbing! Regular exfoliating will ensure you are reaping the benefits of your regular skincare routine. So get scrubbing people. It will unblock pores reducing the chances of pimples! If we don’t exfoliate and in turn remove the dead cells sitting on our skin’s surface, in time, our pores can become blocked, which often leads to a breakout, acne or oily skin, even if you aren’t usually susceptible to those skincare conditions! Your makeup won’t be able to sit smoothly on your skin without it Yup. Exfoliating creates a clean, smooth canvas so applying your makeup becomes a breeze, this is because it helps your foundation glide on smoothly instead of sitting atop flaky skin. Plus without that clear canvas, they’ll be no way of avoiding that nasty patchy look! It boosts circulation making skin glow! Exfoliation can also help detoxify your skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage by removing toxins as well as dead skin cells. The results, a beautiful instant, rosy flush. It stimulates collagen production Exfoliating also helps stimulate collagen synthesis to improve the skin's texture, integrity, and keep the skin looking plump, tight, and young! Yes, it’s THAT important! What exactly is exfoliation?Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells. Our bodies actually naturally shed some of these dead cells by itself, but as we age the cycle of new cells to dead cells slows down significantly, therefore speeding up this cycle with weekly exfoliation is paramount to keeping skin young and healthy.There are two types of exfoliation methods - physical and chemical. They share the same goals - clearing dead skin cells, helping speed cell turnover, and leaving skin brighter and smoother - but while acids and skin peels are forms of chemical exfoliation, facial scrubs are forms of physical. How often should I exfoliate?Just once or twice a week depending on your skin type will suffice. As much as exfoliating is good for our skin, over-exfoliating—either by doing it too often or by using an exfoliant that’s too harsh or doesn’t agree with our skin—can lead to adverse reactions such as redness, peeling, and flaking. Just be sure to listen to your skin! What is the best exfoliator for my skin type?With so many exfoliators on the market, it’s hard to know where to begin. Finding one to suit your skin can be tricky but paramount to your skin’s health! Below we’ve listed four of our favourites (and that of our customers!) dependant on your skin type. BLEMISH PRONE SKINTo fight those pesky pimples We LOVE Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Jojoba Seed Extract and Grapefruit oil, it provides gentle but effective exfoliating action to open and clear pores, combatting acne-causing bacteria! “BEST CLEANSER EVER! I’ve tried so many cleansers with salicylic acid, glycolic acid or a mix of both to help my blemished skin but they are all too drying. This cleanser is by far the best I have ever found. It thoroughly cleans my skin of all makeup and impurities and my skin feels so smooth afterwards. This is a winner!” Shelley SENSITIVE /ROSACEA PRONE SKINIf you are a sufferer of sensitive skin, we 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.“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can't use exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs...this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It's the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R DRY, DULL SKINIf your complexion is dry, dull or devitalized, I’d highly recommend investing in Phytomer’s Cyfolia Radiance Exfoliating Cream! It is amazing and does exactly what the name says! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! It features two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, as well as Algae, Oligomer and Orange water that work together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application.“I love this product. It does wonders for my dehydrated, dull skin! It has a beautiful texture, is not harsh at all and the results speak for themselves. My skin is so soft and almost glowy after I use it. LOVE” Tina R ALL SKIN TYPESNo matter what your skin type if you are a fan of enzyme exfoliators over physical scrubs you are going to fall in love with Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. This little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) does wonders for the skin. And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me.“Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It's gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft.” Lisa W SHOP ALL EXFOLIATORS.
5 ways to look fresh faced everyday
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 15 2021
Wouldn’t we all love to wake to a fresh face every day? You know that perky looking, glowy skin we once donned many a year ago. Unfortunately, due to daily stresses, lack of sleep, environmental factors and more, our skin can look far from fresh and youthful! And instead, tired, dull and lacklustre. Urgh.The good news is however, that armed with a few key products and some insider tips, you can fake that fresh faced look daily! Firm and tighten your face with a supercharged serum It’ll leave your skin feeling super soft with a dewy, plumped appearance!Ok I have to admit I’m obsessed with my serums. And will not go a day without applying one before my moisturiser. They are the perfect skin booster, and in my eyes a complete necessity to your daily skincare routine, why? Because they help lock in moisture, working deep into your dermis thanks to their ability to penetrate the layers of the skin and work their magic. But also, because they tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products, due to their higher concentration of targeted active ingredients. To find out more about why you need a serum in your life click here.I have tried many a serum in my time, and while there are very few I don’t love, the two that stand out personally for me are Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & MyOxy Caviar and Pevonia’s Vitamin C Complex.Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & MyOxy Caviar is packed with anti-ageing and rehydrating goodness including collagen and hyaluronic acid that effectively nourish and oxygenate skin, repair cells, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles! Outstanding stuff.And when my skin needs a boost of radiance Pevonia’s C Complex becomes my other trusty go-to. Superhero glow-getter Vitamin C comes together with hydrating and anti-ageing powerhouse hyaluronic acid to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourish and correct photo-damage! The citrus scent is simply heavenly, and it feels amazingly refreshing on application! But more importantly, the results speak for themselves! Radiant looking skin instantly. It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up! Seriously. Choose a multi-tasking moisturiser When skin is looking far from fresh, you really need to up the ante with your moisturiser. Look for moisturisers formulated with ingredients that will both refresh and brighten your complexion. Some ingredients to look out for include;Hyaluronic Acid (plumpness and firmness)Vitamin C (skin tone and brightness)Alpha Hydroxy Acids (fine lines, wrinkles, smoothness)Retinol (fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture)Marine Collagen (hydration, strength, elasticity)Peptides (skin texture and fine lines)As many of you will already know I have personally been in love with Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream for years now! As have millions of others (since it is Pevonia’s global best-seller and for good reason!) Formulated with anti-ageing wonder ingredients marine collagen and hyaluronic, it’s a deeply nourishing, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin radiant, super soft and supple, like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture! I apply it every morning without fail!If I feel my skin is looking a little dull and needs that extra bit of pizzazz, I will up my night-time routine and turn to Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream before bed. It’s rich in AHA Glycolic, the super acid which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skins cells together. As the dead skin cells shed, the new smoother, brighter and younger looking skin underneath is revealed, so yes I do wake up to radiant, glowing skin as a result! Apply a de-puffing eye gel or serum An eye gel or serum will really help you refresh your tired eyes as well as improve with fine lines and wrinkles! Just look for products with key ingredients such as Green coffee, Vitamin C and Ginko Biloba, as they will help shrink capillaries and stimulate lymphatic drainage.Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel is a personal favourite of mine when it comes to tired, puffy eyes. Formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C and skin saviours hyaluronic acid and Ginko Biloba it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application! Lift and open your eyes by curling your eye lashes This can be really effective and makes sleepy eyes look all the more awake. Then apply two coats of mascara to lock in curls.For more tips on how to master bright, wide-awake eyes, click here. Buff highlighter into cheekbones for that lit from within glow If your skin is dull you need a little dose of liquid glow in the shape of an illuminator or highlighter! Apply to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow for a natural glow that will leave you looking rejuvenated and refreshed. Try ELES’s Stick Illuminator. I personally can’t get enough of it!You can also freshen the look of your skin instantly with more makeup you just need to follow a few key tips.
Prep your skin this spring: 5 body products to firm, tone, smooth and sooth
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 13 2021
I have to admit when it comes to keeping up with my body buffing, exfoliating and moisturising routine I’ve been a little lazy of late! But with lockdown nearing an end for many, and the days heating up thanks to spring, it’s now time to dust off those cobwebs and start prepping our bodies for the warmer months ahead!If like me, that smooth, supple skin you once donned has been replaced with dry, scaley, lumpy and lacklustre skin, eek! Worry not! With a little bit of dedication and a few of our favourite firming and smoothing beauty buys, you’ll have your skin back to its former glory in a matter of weeks! Promise! Just make sure you up the exercise and water intake too! Silky skin body scrub Oh, how I love me an indulgent body scrub and this most certainly is no exception! One of my favourite body products for a number of years now, Pevonia’s Silky Skin Body Scrub does exactly that – gives you seriously silky skin, no jokes! Oh, and its subtle scent is divine thanks to its key ingredients Chamomile, Rosemary, Lemon and Sage.Apply it to wet skin (use warm water) and gently massage all over the body in a circular motion. Then rinse and cleanse thoroughly with a gentle shower gel. By exfoliating the skin, it will eliminate any dead skin cells as well as dry flaky skin, making way for that silky smooth skin everytime. NEW Pevonia Crepe-No-More Body Cream This latest innovation from Pevonia is a necessity for anyone wanting to achieve truly smooth, supple skin. Rich in superfood Longan Fruit, anti-inflammatory actives, plant-based antioxidants, hydrating powerhouse Hyaluronic Acid, firming Marine Collagen and nourishing Shea Butter! it will both firm and tighten the look of skin (yup!) reduce any crepiness and fat accumulations, all while deeply hydrating your skin. Honestly, after every use my skin feels super soft, supple but also looks visibly radiant and I’ve noticed how much firmer it feels in just a few weeks of use!What I will say though is for the best results apply both morning and night and use in unison with dry body brushing – I’m a huge advocate! Just a few minutes each day will stimulate blood flow and circulation, detoxify as well as assist in firming your skin. If you haven’t tried body brushing no worries! Simply brush your body in upward movements towards your heart and then jump in the shower (or bath!) to wash off any excess dead skin cells. Then apply your Crepe-No-More Body Cream to put the moisture back into your skin! Voila!Oh and if you purchase Pevonia’s Crepe-No-More Body Cream in the month of October, the kind folk at BC will give you a Body Brush for FREE! Go on give it a go and thank me later! Phytomer Celluli Attack Concentrate This is my faithful go-to every spring and for good reason! It really is an intensive treatment for cellulite and when used religiously every morning for a minimum of a month you will see results! While it can’t eliminate cellulite completely (can any product really do that) it can and will improve your skin texture significantly. Phytomer Celluli Night Coach Intensive Cellulite Sleeping Mask I love the name of this product and of course the product itself! While Celluli Attack is a liquid consistency, this mask is a light soothing gel formulation which instantly melts into your skin as soon as you apply! It literally ‘coaches’ your skin while you sleep, working deep into the dermis to eliminate fat. Night after Night it visibly improves the appearance of ‘orange peel’ skin (or cellulite dimpling as you might better know!)What’s more for a limited time these two outstanding anti-cellulite products (Celluli Attack and Cellui Night Coach) come together in one duo gift set to provide an intensive two step program for day and night! Phytomer Sun Radiance Self-Tanning Cream If you’ve neglected to exfoliate, moisturise and buff your body over the winter months I’m betting that your skin hasn’t had a tan for a while either. With the pins making an appearance once again it’s time to get your glow on with a good self-tanner! Just be sure to steer clear of spray and mousse self-tans though as these can be slightly drying for the skin. Instead, try a nourishing self-tanning cream like Phytomer’s Sun Radiance. Its white satin texture makes it so easy to apply without leaving any streaks, it quickly absorbs into the skin and within a few hours, you’ll have the most perfect long-lasting natural tan! Result.
7 steps to bright, wide-awake eyes
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 08 2021
If you've had a late night recently, or many like me! your eyes are likely to give it away. The constant late nights I’ve been pulling to play catch up on the work I’ve missed in the day because #homeschooling have my eyes looking forever tired in the mornings. I’m talking the whole shebang. Puffy and red with dark under eye circles. Eek. However, just because I’m not getting enough shut-eye of a night doesn’t mean I’m stuck with this look by day! Luckily with the right products and a few makeup tricks, it’s possible to transform tired peepers to bright, wide awake eyes no matter how exhausted you feel! All you need to do is follow a few simple steps; Use a good depuffing eye gel or creamNever underestimate the power of a good eye gel! It can feel like heaven on your tired, puffy peepers, but more importantly, it has the ability to transform eyes in a matter of minutes. Tired eyes tend to look smaller, especially if the area beneath them is puffy. You can look more awake by applying a good eye gel or cream designed to de-puff your undereye area.Look for products that contain 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 fluid that’s accumulated under the delicate eye area. Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel is a personal favourite of mine. 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! If you are also battling dark, undereye circles we LOVE 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! Invest in a gemstone rollerFrom rejuvenating jade to calm and soothing rose quartz, detoxifying Obsidian to purifying amethyst, we highly recommend introducing a gemstone roller into your morning ritual. 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. Use a colour-correcting concealerWhen it comes to camouflaging dark circle under eye circles, a concealer is by far your best bet. A good undereye concealer can give you complete coverage as well as make you look bright-eyed in seconds! Choose a shade that’s lighter than your natural skin tone as this will help brighten the area so you look like you’ve had plenty of sleep.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 powder to set the concealer so it doesn’t crease.ELES’s Mineral Phototouch Concealer is my secret weapon for concealing my dark under eye circles, and helping me look like I’ve had 8 hours of blissful slumber as opposed to only 5! It’s formulated with Hyaluronic, Squalane, Vitamins A, C & E as well as light-reflective minerals and line filing micro-spheres to camouflage flaws, dark circles, blemishes and fine lines!And for the month of October when you purchase the ELES Mineral Phototouch concealer you get a small concealer brush for free - the ultimate duo for camouflaging dark under eye circles. Highlight corner of eyesAdd a little bit of white eye shadow to the inner corner of your eye. This quick trick can make eyes look wide awake and bright with one little dot of the finger. Equally apply with a small makeup brush.Use a white eyeliner or waterliner pencilTo make your eyes appear instantly wider, invest in a nude waterliner pencil, I promise you you’ll never look back. Simply apply your normal eyeliner (although don’t make the mistake I used to by applying black liner all around your eyes - top and bottom as well as your waterline - as this will only make your eyes appear so much smaller than they are!) then apply your waterliner to the inner rim of your lower lash line. (I use ELES’s Waterline liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter. It works a treat! Curl Those LashesWhile 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, doe-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. Pay attention to your browsAdding definition and shape to your eyebrows can completely transform your face and give the appearance of an instant eye lift….really! 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. Next define and ‘lift’ brows by using a white eyeliner as a brow highlighter. Line below and above your eyebrows and smudge it out with a sponge or fingertip. You can also opt to use a highlighter if you don’t have a white liner on hand. Read more on how to create the perfect brows.
10 steps to radically reduce pimples overnight
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 06 2021
Dealing with spots can be frustrating. Just as you think you’ve beaten those blemishes, along pops up more! Well, it is possible to radically reduce their appearance overnight, you just need to follow these 10 simple steps, according to the experts at BC. Use a warm compress then pop ice on your pimpleApply a warm compress to the problem area or steam your face to bring your blemish to the surface. Then use a cold compress or ice, as this will help to decrease inflammation, reducing redness, size and visibility of the spot. Don’t pick that pimpleAs tempting as it can be, and I’m sure we’ve all been there, you should never, ever pick at your pimple as this will only do damage to your skin. Why? Because it can spread the area of bacteria, creating more blemishes and trauma to your skin, which in turn leads to inflammation, infection, and potentially even scarring. Picking your pimple can also result in it taking much longer than usual for it to disappear, rather than overnight like you are wanting!Watch what you eatSadly, there are particular foods that can exacerbate blemishes so if you want your spots to do one, make sure you eliminate them from your diet! Avoid cow’s milk and whey protein as they can be known to aggravate acne and try to stick to a low sugar diet as yes sadly that chocolate bar or delicious cupcake can be a cause of a sudden breakout.Make sure your skincare features the following blemish fighting ingredientsWhile there are 3 key ingredients to look out for when searching for that overnight miracle product; Benzoyl peroxide to kill acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid to help exfoliate and unclog pores Retinol to help boost cell turnover, prompting cells to shed and preventing them from clogging. If you are prone to blemishes and you want to keep them under control, you really need to be armed with skincare featuring 6 key ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinol, Charcoal/Clay and Hyaluronic Acid. For more information on the benefits and effects of these ingredients and the best products to use click here.And use a good spot treatment for those pop-up pimples!While there is no way to get rid of a pimple in 5 minutes you can see huge improvements in a matter of hours by immediately treating it with a topical spot treatment rich in Salicylic Acid. Salicylic acid is very potent when it comes to getting rid of blemishes. By applying this spot attacking ingredient directly to the problem area, immediately removes excess oil and dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, meaning it effectively unclogs pores while simultaneously reducing any infection, swelling and redness.The team at BC can’t recommend the following skin saviours enough. Medicalia spot treatment This potent professional-grade targeted treatment diminishes follicular build-up, controls bacteria, and reduces inflammation with noticeable improvement in skin healing. It infuses skin with high performing ingredients including; Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid Mucor Meihei, Phytic Acid, and Sea Whip to effectively control, combat, and clear blemishes and acne lesions. What’s more it effectively decreases the risk of scarring and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. “This product is fantastic - have used this on random spots which appear and they always go away after using this product for a couple of days in a row. Highly recommended!” Natasha M Phytomer Oligopur Blemish Target GelThis blemish treatment gel dries and corrects, targeting blemishes with precision. It rapidly improves the skin's appearance, significantly reducing spots overnight. “This is an amazing blemish gel! I'm 37 and still get a few monthly breakouts. The Phytomer Blemish Gel works almost overnight, or over the course of the day as you can apply it over make up without worrying that it will show or mess up your foundation or powder. It doesn't dry you out and absorbs quickly.” Leanne Pevonia SpaTeen Blemish-B-GoneCombining both organic Benzoyl Peroxide with organic Salicylic Acid, this spot treatment radically heals blemishes while counteracting bacteria, as well as preventing future breakouts. Phew.“This is the BEST spot treatment that I have ever tried. I use it once at night and once in the morning. It totally took care of my breakouts. I can carry it in my bag with no problems, and it is easy to use. I’m hooked!” Ella W Tie your hair backKeep your hair off your face as the natural oil from your hair can touch your face and worsen the pimple. Make sure you remove your makeup at the end of the day!Whether you’re prone to the odd spot or suffer from all out acne, you’ll soon see that sleeping with a face full of makeup can result in a bigger breakout of blemishes. Eek! Makeup, unfortunately, clogs pores, and when your pores are blocked, your skin can’t breathe, and therefore it can’t regenerate. The oil in your pores builds-up and transform itself into spots. Fact. So make sure you always remove your makeup before bed with a good makeup remover!We love Vie Collection’s Micellar Water. It literally purifies, conditions and cleanses your complexion in one easy step thoroughly removing makeup from your lips, eyes and face. “All makeup removal products I have purchased, has always broke me out. So this is just what I was looking for. This product does leave your facial area's feeling well hydrated, nourished, and well cleansed” SophiaFor more information on sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin, click here. And do use a blemish busting cleanser before bedDon't ignore the power of a good cleanser formulated with some of the 6 key ingredients. Using your cleanser religiously will not only treat the pimples you do have, but prevent future emergencies. We highly recommend thoroughly cleansing your skin with one of these blemish busting cleansers, before zapping that zit with your spot treatment. Pevonia Clarigel Exfoliating CleanserExfoliating cleansers are perfect for blemish prone skin, as they help reduce breakouts by removing excess dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Pevonia’s Clarigel Exfoliating Cleanser combines Salicylic Acid and Citric Acid with Jojoba, Soapwort, Triclosan and Grapefruit Oil, to gently exfoliate skin’s surface as well as deeply penetrate the pores, decreasing microbe growth and calming inflammation. “I bought this product after being “prescribed” it by my beauty therapist for my mild adult acne. Firstly, the scent is light and non-intrusive, which is a huge plus. I also like that it contains both manual (small grains) chemical (citric acid) exfoliating properties. It helps to make my skin feel clean, smooth and prepared for moisturising. After a week or so I noticed a HUGE improvement in my breakouts.” Leah Medicalia Clarifying CleanserIn general, foaming cleansers are also great for oily and acne-prone skin, specifically because of their pore penetrating capabilities. If you want to get rid of blemishes or excess oil/sebum fast, you need a cleanser that can go deep in your pores and get rid of the debris without too much effort. We LOVE Medicalia’s Clarifying Cleanser. Specifically created for those with breakout prone and sensitive/oily skin, it’s formulated with both Salicylic and Lactic acids (so we know that’s a good thing!) Its potent foaming suds work very quickly to eliminate surface bacteria, toxins, impurities and makeup while combatting inflammation too! “I have used this cleanser for over 15 years now and it is just awesome! I used to suffer from acne and this cleanser helped no end and without drying my skin out!” Bec Change your pillowcaseI know we all change our pillowcases but do we do it frequently enough? Keeping your pillowcase clean and we are talking about changing it every 3-4 days, is a top beauty secret! This is because they have a build-up of oils, dirt, and sweat from daily use (yuck) which means they can harbor bacteria and in turn become a breeding ground for blemishes, as well as exacerbating them! Go to bed in a relaxed state and get your 8-9 hours of beauty sleep!I’ve said this many a time and for good reason. Stress and lack of sleep induce the hormone cortisol, which triggers our skin to produce more sebum or oil. This increase of oil can then clog pores and in turn not only exacerbate the blemish you are wanting gone by morning but can also lead to even more breakouts.And yes, we know what we are saying isn’t as simple as it sounds, especially when many of us are dealing with work, kids, home-schooling, and lockdown, but from personal experience, I do highly recommend having a relaxing mineral bath before bed. Little instantly reduces stress quite like it. I LOVE Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath. It’s a lightly foaming, ultra-relaxing fragranced bath enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater – to strengthen and restore the skin while releasing all pent-up tension in the body. Amazing stuff right?Then either meditating for a few minutes, I love the Calm app, OR playing soothing sounds. This can have a profound effect on your mental state, significantly reducing stress and leading to blissful slumber.
6 ingredients you need in your skincare for clear, blemish-free skin
by Jo Boyden
on Oct 01 2021
If you are prone to breakouts and tired of battling them, you may want to consider switching up your skincare routine and introduce products that incorporate these 6 blemish-fighting ingredients into your everyday life. Salicylic AcidWhen it comes to breakouts, salicylic acid should always be your trusty go-to. The most potent ingredient when it comes to battling blemishes and every dermatologist’s go-to, Salicylic is a superstar purifying BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) that’s calming, decongesting and antibacterial. Don’t let the word ‘acid’ put you off though, as even those with sensitive skin can tolerate it. It works by penetrating deep into the skin to exfoliate clogged pores, as well as dissolve oil build-up and dead cells from the skin’s surface!To fight pimples, we suggest using a salicylic acid-based cleanser like Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser which provides pore-clearing benefits in a super gentle lather that won’t dry out the skin, stripping it of moisture. We also love Phytomer’s’ Oligopur Blemish Target Gel, it’s a phenomenal spot treatment which targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! “This is an amazing blemish gel! I'm 37 and still get a few monthly breakouts. The Phytomer Blemish Gel works almost overnight, or over the course of the day as you can apply it over make up without worrying that it will show or mess up your foundation or powder. It doesn't dry you out and absorbs quickly.” Leanne Glycolic AcidA natural exfoliant derived from sugar cane, this glow-giving hero ingredient seems to do it all! Not only is it very effective at exfoliating skin and treating/preventing acne (thanks to its ability to penetrate deep within the skin), it also has the power to reduce fine lines, fade dark spots, increase skin thickness, and even out skin tone and texture! It’s therefore no surprise that you’ll find it in many a product!So, if your skin is looking dull, devitalised and it feels like you are forever battling blemishes, we highly recommend Pevonia’s Problematic Skincare Cream rich in Glycolic Acid. It works amazingly on problematic skin reducing overall breakouts while leaving your complexion soft, supple and pores clog-free! “It works great on my problematic skin reducing overall breakouts. Leaves my skin soft and does not clog my pores.” Tara Benzoyl PeroxideAnother truly effective ingredient for actually treating spots as opposed to preventing them. This is because it actually kills bacteria! It can however be a little drying and irritating which is why it’s best used in specific targeted spot treatments. Pevonia’s SpaTeen Blemish B-Gone combines both organic Benzoyl Peroxide with organic Salicylic Acid to counteract bacteria and well as preventing future breakouts. “This is the BEST spot treatment that I have ever tried. I use it once at night and once in the morning. It totally took care of my breakouts. I can carry it in my bag with no problems, and it is easy to use. I'm hooked!” Ella W Charcoal and clayIt’s tricky to soak up excess oil without over-drying the skin but products containing charcoal and clay do just that! They work by attracting and absorbing dirt and oil. As a lightweight natural ash residue hydrocarbon, charcoal easily pulls toxins out of the skin for a clean, purified, and healthy complexion as it restores a normalized cellular function. Try Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask. Apply once a week to oily and blemish prone skin and watch it work its magic. “I love this mask so much. It feels creamy to apply and then slightly dry’s to touch. It is my new favourite mask, drawing out impurities and clearing any outbreaks.” Lorraine RetinolThe master magician, retinol is the superstar of all ingredients thanks to its multitude of benefits including its ability to increase cell turnover, instructing damaged cells to produce healthier cells faster! As a result, pores are less likely to become blocked so blemishes unlikely to form! We are loving Pevonia’s Micro Retinol Serum. “I ran out of a previous retinol product and gradually my skin started to look awful, dull and dehydrated. I love the Pevonia Power Rich repair moisturizer, so I thought I would try this as well. Literally could see and feel the difference overnight!” Winner! LeahTo find out more about retinol and the right products for you click here. Hyaluronic AcidProbably the most famous skincare ingredient of them all, and renowned as every beauty expert’s ‘must-have’, hyaluronic acid has the ability to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin. It binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant and thanks to its sponge-like effect, every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water so when topically applied it’s like a burst of intense hydration to the skin yet will not clog pores, making it the perfect hydrator for blemish prone skin. Even though when you are suffering from oily blemish prone skin you think applying moisturiser is the last thing you need, it’s actually one of the most important aspects of lessening pesky pimples and all out acne alike! Making sure the epidermis, your skin’s top layer, is hydrated is paramount for your skin’s health. Hyaluronic acid is also different from normal hydrators because it acts like a water magnet and maintains skin’s oil and water balance.We are hands down in awe of Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market. “I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” Mary C For more information on which type of blemishes you suffer from and how to best treat them click here as well as the best makeup tips for blemish/acne prone skin.
8 of the most loved products on BC and why you’d love them too
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 29 2021
Beauty trends come and go but there are some products that really do stand the test of time. Those products many of us can’t live without. Why? Because they have the ability to transform our skin for the better and in turn have a positive impact on our mental wellbeing, something that is so important especially in today’s climate!Whether it’s your skin smoothing moisturiser, your favourite foundation, or your false lash effect mascara, we all have those favourites we’ve fallen in love with. These are some of our most loved products on BC, adored by our team and our customers alike. ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15I never stop raving about this gem of a product and neither do our customers! If you are a lover of liquid foundation but after something silky and light, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, soft, subtle powder finish, it’s also mineral-enriched (so great for your skin) and provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for! “I've been using this foundation for years and I can't live without it. The texture and the way it makes my skin feel is amazing. It gives such even, natural and flawless coverage. It's seriously the best foundation I've ever used”. Sia P ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused LightWe are all on the quest for those multi-tasking miracle products, and this product is just that! Your bronzer, highlighter and foundation powder combined into one clever compact that you can simply swipe all over for your healthiest, natural looking glow! Yess!It’s a palette of gorgeous glowing warm tones that acts like a photo filter on your skin, subtle enough for daily wear, yet gives you that truly “lit from within glow” in seconds. I LOVE it and so do so many! “I recently purchased this beautiful product and use it over my SPF with no foundation. It gives my skin a beautiful healthy luminosity without the look of shimmer. It looks like my skin only better.” Christina ELES Luminous BB Cream 30I am a huge advocate for this multifaceted wonder cream! It has the perfect light, dewy coverage and literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects (thanks to its SPF of 30) and evens out skin tone all in one! for a truly natural and flawless finish, plus it feels like you aren’t wearing anything, no easy feat for makeup with SPF that’s for sure! Honestly, if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this product is one you should seriously consider too! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one!What’s more, 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! “I 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 W Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamMy personal absolute can’t live without product and the no. 1 global favourite too, the Marine Collagen Cream isn’t Pevonia’s global bestseller for nothing! Formulated with anti-ageing wonder ingredients marine collagen and hyaluronic, It’s a deeply nourishing, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application and really does leave skin radiant, super soft and supple, like it’s had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day! I swear I have less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! “I love this daily face cream....I use it morning and night! My skin looks and feels amazing. I'm 52 and am told constantly that I look so young....I give Pevonia products the credit. Thank you for making such great skin care products!” LindaPevonia C ComplexeIf your skin needs a boost of radiance this should be your go-to. Instantly brighter, dewier skin and who doesn’t want that right? Superhero glow-getter Vitamin C comes together with hydrating and anti-ageing powerhouse hyaluronic acid to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourish and correct photo-damage! The citrus scent is simply heavenly, and it feels amazingly refreshing on application! But more importantly, the results speak for themselves! Radiant looking skin instantly. It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up! Seriously. “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps, and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment”. Deborah W Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing LotionThis all-in-one cleanser, makeup remover and toner is quick, effective and wonderful to use. Alcohol-free and infinitely gentle, it thoroughly cleanses the complexion, removes makeup and tones skin without leaving an oily film just a silky soft and supple complexion instead! “Holy Grail Toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all-time favourite. There’s just something in this toner that truly leaves my skin better for use. Even after it dries off my skin does not feel tight or dry. If you’re in the market for a new toner I highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara Enzymo Spherides Peeling CreamThis little beauty (a mini facial in a jar as I call it!) will do wonders for your skin, I promise! And no don’t let the word ‘peel’ put you off! It combines natural fruit pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently and effectively eliminate impurities, blackheads, dead cells and toxins and it’s so easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, wet your fingertips with warm water (this will help to ‘wake up’ the enzymes) and work the peeling cream with gentle massage movements into skin, leave on for 5 minutes and then thoroughly rinse away. Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, softer, smoother and brighter than this jar of goodness!! Trust me. “Absolutely the best product on the market. Perfect for all skin types and ages. Truly amazing. It's gentle and effective, skin is left bright and soft”. Lisa W Pevonia Dry Oil Body MoisturiserHands down my favourite body moisturiser (and another of Pevonia’s global bestsellers), this beauty feels like silk on application, is not greasy at all (despite it being an ‘oil’) and absorbs immediately, quite literally nourishing every inch of your body. Formulated with Lavender and Chamomile the scent is heaven, and it renders skin beautifully soft and supple with a radiant healthy glow. It will not disappoint, and the many customer reviews speak for themselves! “This is amazing, I feel like I have been to a day spa when I put it on, luxury & pampering at home! It smells divine. Feels like silk, not too greasy, goes on easy, love this product ;-)” Lisa C
Makeup tips for acne prone skin
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 24 2021
Has your skin been feeling the effects of the last however many weeks thanks to the likes of lockdown, home-schooling and working from home!? Or are you simply prone to pesky pimples and adult acne?Whatever your situation we are here to tell you that when armed with the right makeup products and tips on how to best apply, you can effectively conceal those blemishes and feel confident in your skin! Simply read on as we reveal the top 7 makeup tips for acne prone skin according to the pros at BC. Use a primerFirst things first, before you can start to conceal your blemish prone skin you need to prep your face with a primer. A primer is an amazing must-have when it comes to prolonging the wear of your foundation, and let’s face it acne-prone skin tends to be on the oily side and the last thing you’ll want is for your foundation to slide right off your face by lunchtime! No sireee. Primers also add a ‘blurring effect’ to your skin to give the illusion of a smoother complexion. Phew!Just be sure to look for primers that will hydrate, soothe or replenish your skin and if your complexion tends to be oily as well as acne prone, be sure to pick a mattifying primer as it’ll help to combat the excess oil and shine and reduce the appearance of pore size. Try ELES’s Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s a light-textured oil free face primer which combats shine, absorbs excess oil, reduces the appearance of large open pores, promotes antiseptic properties which is great for blemish and breakout prone skin, and it really does keep your foundation looking flawless all day long! This is a great primer – I've been using it for a few years now. It helps keep my foundation looking amazing all day. It's mattifying but won't dry your skin. Sia PapageorgiouDo not cake on your makeup! Remember less is more so keep makeup simpleWearing multiple products from concealer to foundation to blush to illuminator can cause over stimulation so it’s best to keep things simple! Use a skin-friendly breathable foundation and opt for a concealer with some yellow tones to help colour correct any redness.Be sure to always use your foundation first, then apply concealer to affected areas only. This will ensure a smoother even base and a more natural finish but be sure to keep every layer light though – the secret to successful makeup for blemish prone skin! Less product to block the skin causing heat!Mineral makeup will be your best friend, and I know we are biased, but ELES Cosmetics is simply the best and the reviews speak volumes! Choose your foundation wiselySlathering thick foundation all over your face to hide pesky pimples and blemishes can be tempting we know, but it will only end up drawing attention to the bumps on your face as well as exacerbating your condition, so you need to choose your foundation wisely!You really need to navigate the ingredients in a foundation plus it’s best to steer clear of oil-based makeup, as excess oil production is a key cause of blemishes so oil-free formulas will be your best friend! Also avoid skin irritants like alcohol and fragrance which can be found in many a foundation. We recommend opting for a mineral formula every time. These contain no chemical nasties and will allow your skin to breathe freely. Try best-selling ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. “I love love love this product. It has a velvety feel as it glides on your skin and finishes with a plumping matte finish. It always covers my blemishes and gives great coverage without over doing it. Would not use any other foundation!!” Kassey Newell If your acne seems particularly sensitive to makeup, you might want to consider swapping out your love of liquid formulas for powder. Powder will control oil and help your makeup last longer. Just be sure you choose the right sort of powder though as cakey makeup will just highlight your blemishes even more. Foundations with nylon and kaolin give skin a blurred, airbrushed effect. Try ELES Mineral Powder Foundation. “I’m a bit of a powder lover when it comes to foundations as I find liquid formulations a little too much. I have however become more sceptical as I get older as a few power compacts I have tried have enhanced my fine lines. However not this one! It’s amazing! The coverage is just perfect! It looks so natural, in fact like I’m not wearing foundation at all, yet it completely hides my imperfections. I’m in my late 40’s but would recommend this product to anyone, any age whether you are simply looking for a translucent powder, a foundation to conceal your blemishes, or a wonderful base for ageing skin. It has become my daily go-to!” Melissa B Protect your skin with natural SPFWe all know wearing sun protection is a daily necessity, but we understand that if you suffer from blemishes the last thing you feel like doing is smothering your skin in oily sunscreen! Cue mineral makeup rich in zinc oxide! Zinc oxide, which is an anti-inflammatory was once used to treat acne and when mixed with other subtle ingredients, can give you everything from sun protection to coverage. Mineral-based makeup with zinc alone or combined with titanium dioxide provides a good, balanced UV protection and ‘natural’ coverage for those who have acne.ELES Cosmetics range of foundations have an SPF of 15 and above and feel like you aren’t wearing sunscreen at all! Genius. Use the right makeup toolsThe way you apply your makeup is almost as important as the products you use.We’ve all heard it before, touch your face with your hands and you’ll likely cause a breakout so it comes as no surprise that you might well have heard that it’s best not to use your fingers to apply your makeup since even the oil and bacteria on your fingers can irritate skin, also hand heat can add more warmth to an already warm, aggravated complexion. Instead, use a damp Beautyblender. It is the least irritating way to apply your product and honestly provides the most effective results! Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, but it also provides a more natural-looking coverage. Makeup brushes are another option but just beware that the brush bristles can irritate your sensitive skin, therefore opt for brush bristles made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Its smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean! And make sure you wash those tools!It’s easy to forget about our washing our brushes and makeup sponges but by keeping them clean you’ll ensure you won’t be using grubby, bacteria-filled tools all the time! Eek. Besides bacteria, both makeup brushes and sponges also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to further 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 and healthier skin! Always remove makeup before bedSleeping with a face full of makeup can and will result in skin irritability and breakouts. Makeup not only traps dead skin cells it also blocks our pores and when pores are blocked the skin can’t breathe and therefore regenerate so make sure you commit to removing every inch of makeup before hitting the hay. For more on sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here. To learn more about acne, what type your suffer from and how to best treat it click here.
5 makeup mistakes that make your skin look dull and lacklustre
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 17 2021
You’re religiously using your skin brightening, vitamin c packed serum, you’ve upped your weekly exercise regime, are practicing self-care rituals like there is no tomorrow, your drinking water like it’s going out of fashion, AND you’ve got super foods coming out of your ears, yet your skin is still looking dull and lifeless! Why? Chances are you could be doing a few things wrong when it comes to your makeup and we are here to tell you what! Read on as we divulge five common makeup mistakes that can actually make skin look dull and lacklustre! If you’re guilty of making them, stop now and transform dreary skin to deliciously radiant in no time! #1 You are not prepping your skin correctlyMakeup needs as smooth a canvas as possible to apply flawlessly, so if your face is covered with dead skin cells it’s not going to make for easy application! This is why weekly exfoliation followed by daily moisturising (before applying your makeup) is a must! A good exfoliator will remove any unwanted pesky dead cells, as well as dry flaky skin. Just be sure, after applying your moisturiser that you leave it to soak in for a few minutes before putting on your makeup, as the last thing you want is for that foundation of yours to slide right back off your face! #2 You are wearing too much foundationMakeup is meant to enhance, not mask your skin so we need to be mindful about the amount we apply! We get it, you’re having a bad skin day and those pesky pimples have reared their ugly head, or your skin is looking a little on the flushed side, but if you pile on the foundation in an attempt to hide those flaws, you can end up with a complexion that looks flat, heavy and lacklustre. So no matter what your skin type or condition don’t overdo it! Be sure to conceal only problem areas rather than slathering foundation all over. Opt for a translucent powder to eliminate shine or prep with a primer and follow with a skin care-infused foundation like ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation. If your skin tends to be on the more dry side steer clear of powder as dry, powdered skin tends to look older, duller and drained! Instead, opt for a multi-faceted base like the ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30. This benefit-packed, innovative treatment cream primes, tints, nourishes, evens out skin tone and helps to strengthen and protect skin on contact. What’s more, it has SPF 30 to shelter skin against UV rays.For more information on which foundation type might be best for your skin click here. #3 You’re using the wrong colour for your complexionFoundations have a tendency to turn grey if the shade applied is lighter than your natural skin colour. At times, some foundations can even react with the natural oils in your skin giving your complexion a somewhat ashy look! This is where a primer can be beneficial as it serves as a barrier between your skin and makeup and soaks up any excess unwanted oil!Finding the perfection foundation shade according to your skin type can be tricky so it’s best to either seek assistance! Click here to understand what steps you need to take to find the foundation shade that’ll work best for you! #4 You don’t use a blushLack of colour on your face can result on slight lifeless looking skin. Blush is supposed to fake flushed cheeks and give your complexion a natural-looking rosy glow so be sure not to skip this vital step! Make sure you apply blush correctly though! Natural flushing occurs on the apples of your cheeks and a little below. It shouldn’t veer towards your nose or up to your temples! I am personally crazy about my blush and wear is all year around! My go-to is the ELES Baked Blush in Bouquet it adds a supple, rosy shimmer glow to my face and makes my cheek bones stand out! #5 You skip highlighterA girl can’t have enough glow, and if we are suffering from dullness, we could use all the help we can get! Even if skin is dry and lacklustre you can fake the appearance of a dewy complexion by applying a good highlighter or illuminator to your face, just be sure not to overdo it though! Simply apply to your brow bone, down the bridge of your nose and above your cheekbone and see it transform skin from dull to radiant. I love the ELES Stick illuminator, it honestly highlights my complexion like never before!
Skincare Makeup - What’s in your foundation? The top 5 ingredients to look out for
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 16 2021
Almost every day there’s a new skincare superstar set to transform your complexion, the latest and greatest skincare ingredients that promise to deliver outstanding results, and while some become just passing fads, others remain true ingredient classics that we all look for when selecting products for our specific skincare needs. But have you ever really considered what ingredients you should be looking for in your foundation?Foundation, in the past, has always been categorised as makeup, a short term ‘fix’ or superficial layer to conceal flaws and help create the illusion of perfect skin. But who says your foundation can’t have long-term skin benefits like your skincare products? After all shouldn’t your foundation enhance your complexion not mask it? It seems crazy to spend so much time and money on perfecting your morning skincare ritual, using the best of the best for your specific skincare needs, only to undo all the good by applying makeup that’s full of toxic ingredients on top.From clogging pores, causing blemishes to more serious skin irritations what you are putting on your face can have a less than desirable effect! So what ingredients should you be looking out for in your foundation for your best skin yet?If you ask any expert, there are five key ingredients which we’ve highlighted below, and fortunately the clever people at ELES Cosmetics have ensured they feature in their entire range of foundations! Vitamin EThis nurturing, powerful antioxidant offers a heap of skin benefits. It works to nourish and protect skin from the effects of pollution and free radical damage, as well as help block blue light rays (all of which are known to speed up the ageing process eek). It is also helps maintain healthy skin by assisting in the repairing of damaged cells.Zinc OxideThis outstanding mineral is hypoallergenic which means it’s ideal for all skin types even those with the most sensitive of complexions. When applied topically in makeup, it offers several important benefits for the skin; it protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays preventing skin damage, it helps to reduce skin inflammation and repair skin cells, and finally it keeps excess oil at bay.Titanium DioxideOne of the cosmetics industry’s best kept secrets, this mineral, like Zinc Oxide is ideal for those suffering from sensitive prone skin. It helps soak up oils in the skin, reducing any unwanted shine while absorbing and scattering both UVA and UVB rays thus preventing sun damage and premature ageing. Finally it is prized for its long-lasting and waterproof properties.Sodium HyaluronateOtherwise known as Hyaluronic Acid it works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much of it as possible so that your skin feels and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.A single gram of hyaluronic acid has the impressive ability to hold up to six litres of water. Add to that, a super smart ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them and you've got one genius ingredient.Vitamin AVitamin A is essential when it comes to the health of your skin. It’s involved in the production of fresh, new cells, which keeps your skin both functioning and looking its best. It can also minimize fine lines and wrinkles by boosting the production of collagen, fight signs of UV damage and slough away dead skin cells helping to prevent clogged pores.
Why you need a serum: The best anti-ageing serums for every skin type
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 15 2021
I’m a self-proclaimed skincare buff and for good reason. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in the industry for 20 years now (oh my!) and as a result, try many an amazing product during this time. But the one product I swear by (aside from my daily moisturiser of course!) and know my skin hugely benefits from, is my serum.Now you might well have your reservations when it comes to serums (or concentrates as otherwise known) because a) how does it really differ from your moisturiser I hear you say and b) because let’s face it keeping up with your daily skincare ritual can be costly and since you are already using a cleanser, exfoliator, moisturiser, eye cream and face oil, surely a serum isn’t necessary as well? Well if you want your skin to live its best life, I’m here to tell you it really will be worth that extra investment, but firstly, it’s important you understand why. So what exactly is serum and what is its purpose?Serums are like a shot for the skin. Firstly they tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products, this is because they are developed with a higher concentration of targeted active ingredients. Secondly, the purpose of a serum is to target a specific concern.Most often, serums are clear, gel-based or liquid formulations and are applied before moisturisers to help lock in moisture. Packed with potent anti-ageing ingredients, they have the ability to hydrate more effectively than even the heaviest of creams because the molecules are able to truly penetrate the skin and hydrate on the deepest level, while your cream tends to sit on and nourish the top layers of your skin. Serums do not however replace your moisturiser, but instead boost the effects of your moisturiser. What serum is right for me?There are a multitude of serums out here ranging from anti-ageing to anti-acne, hydration to skin brightening and more, so in order to work out what will be best for you, you need to decipher what it is your skin really needs from the serum. For dry complexions, look for formulas that incorporate hydrating proteins such as hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin. While ageing, dull or combination skin will benefit from serums with both vitamin C and retinol.Below we have selected our most loved serums for each common skin type and concern so read on to see which could be a game-changer for your complexion! Best serum for photo-damaged and lacklustre skinPevonia Optimal C ComplexTargets: Dullness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Vitamin C helps to stimulate collagen production for younger-looking skin, Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and drenches skin with repairing antioxidants while Chitosan Ascorbate accelerates tissue regeneration.This unique microemulsified gel boosts skins radiance and renders it bright, smooth and revitalized. “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps, and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” - Deborah WBest serum for dry, thirsty skinPevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra SerumTargets: Dehydration, lack of suppleness, fine lines and wrinklesHero Ingredients: Features one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market (12%), combined with the powerful anti-ageing duo of marine collagen and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus extract which relaxes harsh wrinkles similar to that of Botox), to deliver immediate skin soothing results and deep hydrationThe ultimate for seriously thirsty skin, this serum eliminates dryness almost instantly as it quite literally blasts even the most dehydrated of complexions with a surge of moisture, maintaining surface hydration throughout the day. By adding moisture back into your skin, this serum immediately boosts skin’s suppleness and combats ageing in multiple ways thanks to its skin-plumping properties.“I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” - Marie C Best for sensitive and breakout prone skinPevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateTargets: Inflammation, rosacea, acneHero Ingredients: Propolis, lavender and vetiver oil to desensitize, decongest, heal and strengthen fragile skin.With anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, Pevonia’s Soothing Propolis Concentrate is the perfect elixir for inflamed, sensitive or acne prone skin.“I love this product, I bought it while i was pregnant and had severe hormonal acne and it seemed to calm, soothe and reduce the “angriness” of my skin! Since having baby I have continued to use this product and it has since reduced my pore size and also made my skin more evenly toned. I recommend to anyone who has skin problems as it also contains anti-microbial properties and antibacterial to keep those yukky breakouts to a minimum!” – Melinda L Best serum for mature, ageing skinPevonia MyOxy – Caviar Timeless Repair SerumTargets: Fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticityHero Ingredients: Formulated with a high concentration of age-defying Caviar and Escutox® (Hibiscus Esculentus Blend)An all-rounder for tackling advanced signs of ageing Pevonia’s Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair serum works to immediately increase skins plumpness, softening and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Skin’s texture and elasticity is noticeably improved, resulting in a tighter, finer, resurfaced complexion and an unequivocal youthful radiance.“I LOVE this stuff. Pricey yes but I noticed a dramatic decrease in my wrinkles as well as a smoother texture in a matter of weeks.” - Tanya L Best serum for mature, photo-damaged and hyperpigmented skinMedicalia Retinol ConcentrateTargets: Uneven skin tone, dark spots, lines and wrinkles, sagging skinHero Ingredients: Micro Retinol, Vitamin E, Vitamin CFormulated to amplify results, this serum’s innovative ‘age-reversing’ Micro-Retinol® technology normalizes mitosis, boosts cellular performance, and restructures skin layers for visible rejuvenation. Skin appears dense and supple with a smoothed surface and diminished wrinkles resulting in brighter, more youthful looking complexion.“This is the best product for ageing skin I have found.” - Heather Best serum for oily skin with enlarged poresPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Micro-Pores Bio Active SerumTargets: pore size, oil excess, uneven skin textureHero Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Red Clover and pseudoalteromonas ferment extract; a ground-breaking peptide that contains three skin perfecting amino acids; Glycine, Histidine and LysineDeeply hydrating microemulsified gel with a light texture. Formulated with bio-active breakthrough ingredients that work deep within hair follicles to normalise sebum production, reduce pore size for a matte and even complexion.“This is a wonderful product, it does exactly what it says. It minimises large pores and reduces oily skin around my nose and cheeks. Highly recommend!” - Rhiannon K Best serum for dehydration and signs of ageingPevonia Age Correction Intensifier Collagen and Myoxy caviarTargets: Fine lines, lack of suppleness, damaged skin cellsHero Ingredients: Marine Collagen Polypeptides, Caviar Extract Hibiscus Esculentus extractThis rich silky-smooth gel formula in concentrated Marine Collagen and Myoxy Caviar, has been designed to combat signs of ageing in multiple ways by nourishing, oxygenating and plumping the skin. Luminous skin surfaces as cells are repairs and fine lines and wrinkles diminished.“I absolutely LOVE this serum. It gives my dry skin an instant boost! My skin is immediately hydrated and looks smoother with renewed luminosity.” - Jo BBest New Serum for firming and plumpingPhytomer Structuriste Firming Contour Serum Targets: loose, slackened, uneven skinHero Ingredients: Marine Algae, Squalane, Lily of the Valley, Jasmine, PeonyThis beautifully lightweight milky serum effectively moisturises and improves skin tissue density by smoothing, firming and plumping the skin as well as enhancing the look of facial contours! “I was recommended this serum by a friend and am so glad I was! I’m in my 60’s and have been concerned about my skin getting looser as I age. This serum smells divine and feels light and silky on application and in the month I’ve been using it, it has definitely made a difference to my skin. It is now more supple and visibly firmer too!” wonderful! - Kylie D
7 self-care rituals to help you and your skin indulge in blissful slumber
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 15 2021
The month of September is recognized as Self Care Awareness Month and what better time to practice self-care than now, when so many of us are living through what feels like forever in lockdown!And yes, I hear and echo many of those mum’s (and dad’s!) who are likely thinking self-care? Who has time for that! But self-care can be as simple as getting an extra hour (or minutes even!) of invaluable zzzzz’s! In fact, sleep is probably the most important part of self-care! Why? Because it can improve your mindset, memory, concentration, energy, productivity, and skin too! 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 your quality of sleep and in turn have a positive impact of your life and complexion too!Below are 7 self-care tips that will help induce sleep as well as seriously benefit your skin. And if they are working for me, I’m pretty sure they’ll work for you too! Get outdoors and get activeSpending time in the great outdoors in nature is paramount to our mental wellbeing, but it is also known to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, lower blood pressure and induce peaceful sleep! If you aren’t already doing so, or are becoming a wee bit complacent in lockdown, as part of your daily self-care routine, try and force yourself to get that 20 minutes plus of exercise daily and release those feel-good endorphins it induces.Eat your way to sleepWe all know eating too close to bedtime can impact the quality of our sleep but so can the foods we eat! Now is the time to make changes to your daily diet and incorporate the following foods and drinks that are known to have sleep promoting properties!Nuts – such as almonds, are a great source of the hormone melatonin which regulates your internal clock and signals your body to prepare for sleep. They are also an excellent source of magnesium which has the ability to reduce inflammation and stress levels, in turn helping to improve sleep quality, especially in those who suffer from insomnia.Dairy – such as a glass of milk or plain yogurt are known sources of the amino acid tryptophan which increases the production of melatonin. A glass of milk before bed has been proven to improve sleep.Bananas – like milk contain tryptophan, and the fruit itself is a modest source of magnesium.Oatmeal & rice – are high in carbs and fibre and have been reported to induce drowsiness when consumed close to bedtime. Additionally, oats are a known source of melatoninChamomile tea – offers a variety of health benefits! From being rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, to boosting your immunity, reducing anxiety and depression! In addition, this popular tea contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain that help promote sleepiness.Indulge in a salt infused bubble bathIf you can’t remember the last time you let yourself enjoy a long soak in the bath free from distraction, then now’s the time to treat yourself to a salts-infused bath. Little instantly promotes relaxation quite like taking a remineralizing bath. Ahhhhhh. Begin by creating a spa-like atmosphere so your entire body is relaxed – I’m talking soothing music, burning essential oils, lighting your favourite candle, whatever it takes to set the mood. Next, fill your bath with Phytomer’s Oligomer Well Being Sensation Essential Minerals Relaxing Bath. This amazing lightly foaming product is enriched with Oligomer – a partially sodium-reduced seawater concentrate that contains all of the remineralizing properties of seawater –to strengthen and restore the skin and release all pent-up tension, helping you drift off into a world of utter relaxation.Create a night-time skincare ritualIt only takes minutes to apply your skincare products before bed but what a difference it will make to your skin! If you want to drift off to peaceful slumber and awake to gorgeous glowy skin these are my personal night-time go-to’s; Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream - Skin cells do their greatest renewal and repair whist we sleep, so applying much needed hydration at night is encouraged to maximise absorption and to enhance your skin barrier. I personally LOVE Phytomer’s Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream and use it religiously because my skin demands that extra layer of rich fluffy moisturiser. The cream literally cocoons my skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning.Pevonia Aromatic Oil – with all the benefits of 4 mood enhancing essential oils – lavender, grapefruit, chamomile and rose, combined with squalane and vitamin e, this soothing and indulgent face oil combats dehydration and dryness while soothing, calming and brightening skin. It also promotes an immediate feeling of increased wellbeing and total relaxation from the moment you apply it! Heaven.Say goodbye to dark undereye circles and bagsIt's not an urban legend — falling short on your zzz's, whether due to insomnia or late nights, can cause circles under your eyes to appear or become more prominent. This happens because lack of sleep tends to cause the blood vessels under the thin skin of the eyes to dilate, creating a dark tint. Not getting enough sleep can also increase stress which too can exacerbate dark circles.Fed up of waking with bulbous bags and black circles under your eyes? Try to get more of the necessary shut-eye, but also apply an eye cream like this beauty before bed and when you wake in the morning;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! Meditate to clear your mindMeditation is one of the best ways to take care of yourself. I couldn’t imagine not having my nightly 5-minute meditation ritual, which my little one’s love to do before their bedtime too! It’s my way to wind down and calm my mind before bed and has vastly improved my quality of sleep too (because prior to committing to my bedtime meditation I was guilty of sitting staring at a screen until at least 11.30 pm at night and we all know how this can interfere with our circadian rhythm (our natural, internal process that regulates our sleep-wake cycle.)Meditation has a whole heap of benefits from reducing stress and negative emotions to increasing self-awareness, creativity, and patience. So, if you haven’t already and are keen to give it a try, I recommend both the Headspace and Calm apps. They have a range of guided meditations for an array of concerns such as sleep deprivation, anxiety, stress and productivity. It might take you a few goes before you start to relax into it and feel a change but believe me when I stay stick with it as you’ll soon wonder why you didn’t give it a go before now! Play soothing soundsThis one gets me every time! Not only when I go to bed but when I’m putting my kids to bed and pass out too!! In addition to facilitating quickly falling asleep and improving sleep quality, playing relaxing music before bed can improve sleep efficiency, which means more time that you are in bed is actually spent sleeping. Improved sleep efficiency equals more consistent rest and less waking up during the night. Result!Our family favourite is Relaxing Deep Sleep Music on Mindful Kids! Bliss. For more ideas on how to practice self-care at home, check our team BC’s beauty recommendations.
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 09 2021
It wasn't that long ago that I discovered the secret to many of my friends looking forever young on their social media pages, yet looking less, should I say, spritely in person; Makeup Apps or 'facetuning' as it's otherwise known. Sure, they've been around for a long while, but what I didn't know, until now, was just how advanced the apps are and how dramatically they can change both the look and tone of your face and skin! The thing is when I gave it a go, I realised just how fake I really did look! Why pretend to be something I'm not when I can actually create the illusion of younger, airbrushed skin in a few simple steps, using only a few makeup items?Let's face it, we do all want to look younger than our years. We all want that perfect skin with little or no evidence of makeup. Well, we are here to tell you how to get it and look completely natural at the same time! Step one: THE PREPIf you want to compete with an airbrushing app you've got to prep your skin correctly before reaching for your foundation!Firstly ensure you cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any remnants of makeup and oil, then gently exfoliate to slough away those dead skin cells – remember you want a smooth, even surface to apply the perfect base, plus removing any unwanted dry skin and clogged pores will also allow your serum and moisturiser to seep into skin allowing it to properly work its magic. Next apply your serum according to your skin's specific needs, before layering with your chosen moisturiser. Moisturisers rich in hyaluronic acid will plump skin, providing the perfect cushioned effect. Step two: THE TOOLS OF THE TRADEWhen it comes to makeup application every makeup artist will tell you they swear by their tools.Many might opt for a foundation brush, but we are in love with the Pro Blender Sponge when applying our base. Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, it provides a more flawless, natural-looking coverage without effort. Step three: THE MULTI-TASKERNow it's time to get down to the nitty gritty. You might have a love for liquid foundations or maybe matte is your thing, but loaded with goji berries, minerals, vitamins and sun protection, we can't recommend enough the ELES Age-Defying BB Cream as your go-to base. This wonder cream is an extension of your skincare, your primer and your base in one. Simply apply it all over your cleansed skin for the silkiest and most undetectable coverage ever!Step four: THE PERFECTORNothing takes the years off more than a great under-eye concealer and the ELES Dual Action Concealer packed with collagen and vitamins C & E, not only conceals fine lines and dark circles, it smooths, brightens and treats them too! Apply beneath the eyes and pat into the skin to look as though you've just slept 10 hours. Step five: THE AIRBRUSHERFor that soft airbrushed finished to any base sweep the ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light over skin. It's the compact of miracles! The deeper tones in the powder enhance contours, while the highlight softly strobe and reflect away imperfections to make skin look professionally retouched and simply sublime every time!Step six: THE YOUTH ENHANCERFor a pop of colour that looks fresh, dewy and youthful try ELES's Baked Blush. It comes in six gorgeous shades that multi-task as blush, eye shadow and when applied with a damp brushcan even work as a matte lip colour!The end result? Skin is left looking flawless – like a real-life insta-filter. And there you have it – six simple steps to skin so good, no filter required! The beauty of this routine is that it works with your skin rather than masking it, giving you that effortlessly polished look that turns heads both on and off screen. Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or love a full glam moment, these steps are your new go-to. Ready to get started? Shop the full ELES collection at Beauty Collective and discover the products that will transform your everyday routine.
The top trending beauty hacks that really do work
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 09 2021
From flawless skin to big beautiful lips and everything in between, we are all in pursuit of quick beauty fixes that promise to deliver, but do they really work?Read on to reveal our favourite beauty hacks of all time. You might well have heard of a few before now, but we are here as testament to their success having personally tried, tested and lived by each and every one of them. LIPS – THE PERFECT POUTIf filler isn’t your thing, and the many lip plumping products out there are either short lived or seem to somewhat irritate your skin, you can perfect your pout by simply creating the illusion of plumper lips with a few key steps; Exfoliate Firstly creating a smooth canvas is a necessity to perfecting your pout. The way to achieve this is to start sloughing away any dead skin cells on the surface of your lips by using a gentle lip scrub. Don’t have a lip scrub?No worries, a face scrub such as Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser will suffice! It’ll leave lips silky smooth and lipstick ready! Line those lips Lip liner is used to define the look of your lips but it can also make lips look bigger instantly. Apply before lipstick and use either a neutral shade or match the shade of your lipstick. Begin by applying a fine line just outside your natural lip line starting from the centre of the lips and working out to the corners, keep it light and fine, then blend it inwards. Try ELES Gel Lipliner for ultimate staying power. Apply long lasting lippie Next apply your lipstick, then simply place a tissue over your lips and dust translucent powder onto your lips through the tissue with a brush. Doing so will help set the pigment without dulling the colour and make it instantly longer lasting. Another option is to give a lip stain a go! The ELES Lip Stain imparts lips with long lasting vibrant colour that protects the lips and stays in place for hours even after eating, drinking and kissing! Plump up the volume After applying and setting your chosen lipstick, brush either a little shimmer eyeshadow in an ivory shade or some concealer in light, to the middle of your lips. This creates a 3D effect that makes lips look fuller and no irritation or special products are required! The same goes for your lipgloss – for a little extra lip plumping apply in nude to the centre of your lips.FACE – A FLAWLESS FACEWe are all on the quest of a flawless face and you really can fake it till you make it! A perfect base Skin still feel and look a little dry and patchy even after you’ve completed your morning skincare ritual? You can prevent your foundation from collecting in any flaky spots by simply adding a few drops of face oil directly to your foundation. The oil primes your face enabling the foundation to glide on easily for a seamless finish. Fake your cheekbones Sadly we aren’t all born with striking cheekbones but we can all fake it! All it takes is some simple sculpting. Start by puckering to find the hollows of your cheeks and apply a deep nude blush (my go-to is the ELES Baked Blush in Posey) or contour powder in the sunken area under your cheekbones. Next, apply a peachy blush (try ELES Baked Blush in Bouquet) starting from the apples of your cheeks and moving outwards while lightly blending. Finish by applying illuminator along the top of your cheekbones and under your temples. EYES – AN INSTANT EYE LIFT Big bright eyes Who doesn’t want to achieve brighter instantly awake eyes? Yup I’m talking for all the tired mums out there and some! I promise if you invest in a nude waterliner you’ll never look back. Firstly don’t make the mistake I used to by applying black liner all around your eyes (top and bottom as well as your waterline! This will only make your eyes appear so much smaller than they are. Instead just line the top lashes with black liner and the bottom with brown, applied very lightly just to add eye definition, then apply the waterliner (I use daily ELES’s Waterline Liner) to really open up your eyes. It works a treat. You can thank me later. Thicker lashes Using an eye shadow brush or cotton tip, dust a little powder over your eyelashes between the first and second coats of mascara to plump up your lashes. Translucent powder has grip so it will stick to your lashes in between each coat of mascara making your lashes appear more voluminous.Oh and if your mascara has dried up a little, just add some saline to the tube, this will give it that little moisture it needs for flawless application. Brow perfection Adding definition and shape to your eyebrows can completely transform your face! For an instant eye lift firstly shape your brows. 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. Next define and ‘lift’ brows by using a white eyeliner as a brow highlighter. Line below and above your eyebrows and smudge it out with a sponge or fingertip. You can also opt to use a highlighter if you don’t have a while liner on hand.
Disguise redness fast – tips and tricks from the BC experts
by Jo Boyden
on Sep 08 2021
Whether you suffer from rosacea, are prone to acne, or you are simply just over having a flushed face, you’ll be happy to know that it is possible to cover up nearly any skin imperfection with specific makeup. While adopting a tailored skincare routine is the best way to treat facial redness long-term, the right makeup will conceal your flaws fast, you just need to know what products to use and how to use them!Many of us, when we think of concealing flaws, we think foundation, and the thicker the more likely to hide those imperfections right? But what we don’t often consider is that slathering on foundation can and will only exacerbate certain skin conditions. The less you apply to your skin the less likely it will react! So before making your makeup choices you’ll need to understand what type of facial redness you actually suffer from first, then by following these daily tips from the experts at BC, your redness will be corrected and concealed and your confidence boosted in minutes too! Identify your skin condition Red, flushed and irritated skin can be attributed to a number of factors ranging from heat, alcohol, exercise or embarrassment to underlying skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, dermatitis and more. So your first port of call is to try and establish why you suffer from facial redness. This will then help you to select the right skincare and makeup products to best nurture and conceal your complexion. Get a clean start Prior to commencing your makeup routine, make sure you cleanse and moisturise your face with appropriate products for your specific skin condition. Just remember though, as much as you think your skin might need that soothing surge of moisture, applying too much cream can overdose our skin with actives which can sensitize it. Take only the size of a pea and gently pat the product into the skin to allow it to absorb slowly.If you have rosacea, Pevonia’s RS2 line is an absolute must! Specifically designed for those suffering from rosacea or skin conditions linked to rosacea, the RS2 Cleanser and RS2 Moisturiser will target those problems such as broken capillaries, persistent redness and congestion, desensitizing, soothing and decongesting skin.“I have had mild rosacea for about 10 years, and I've tried many products and I can honestly say that this is the only one I love and trust. It comforts and soothes my skin, reducing redness and leaving my skin wonderfully soft. I've learnt not to experiment with anything else now - this is all that I need.” Michelle W For blemishes and breakouts, we highly recommend Medicalia’s Clarifying Cleanser and Cream, as they work to effectively combat inflammation while controlling bacteria and acne lesions with Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sorbitol, and other soothing and protective ingredients.“Been using this cleanser for a year now. Keeps my sebaceous filaments in check and has helped control my hormonal acne better than any other cleanser I’ve used.” Sophie H If it’s a flushed face we love Phytomer Accept Soothing Cleansing Milk and Douceur Marine Velvety Soothing Cream. This dream team soothes skin without irritation and acts to reduce redness while calming the sensations of any burning or stinging. Phytomer’s Douceur Marine Velvety Soothing Cream also strengthens the skin's natural defences against environmental aggression (climate, pollution, stress etc.).“After much trial and error, I’ve finally found a moisturizer that protects, softens, and reduces the look of redness on my very sensitive skin. I’ve been using it for a year and still can’t believe how cool, calm, and smooth its made my skin feel. This moisturizer is everything and I would recommend it to anyone who suffers from redness and sensitivities. Thank you Phytomer!” Samantha A Apply an SPF Applying a daily spf is a must. You already know your skin is sensitive, so overexposure to sunlight will only aggravate this, and remember even on cool, cloudy days it is possible for your skin to still burn.If you have rosacea, we are in love with Medicalia’s Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield. Featuring an ultra-hydrating, non-comedogenic and light textured formula it delivers anti-irritation benefits, hydration, comfort and coolness to sensitive, hyperpigmented and allergy prone skin.For blemishes and breakouts we highly recommend Pevonia’s YouthRenew Tinted Cream SPF 30. Lightweight, age-defying and pore refining, it delivers instant radiance while effectively protecting your complexion.“I love how smooth and blemish free this makes my face look. It is the best tinted cream I have tried.” Kylie J If it’s a flushed face we suggest ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection 50. Formulated with White Lotus Flower extract, it helps calm, repair and brighten skin. “I haven't used this product for long but it feels great going on and leaves my skin feeling soft and bright.” Natalee C Use a primer A makeup primer will help ensure your makeup remains in place all day! And let’s face it we don’t be wanting that makeup to slide off our skin and reveal a flushed complexion or unruly blemishes at any point right? Plus wearing a primer also creates a barrier between your skin and your makeup therefore preventing any further irritation.If you have rosacea, opt for ELES’s Retexturising Face Primer. The lightweight serum helps protect and condition sensitive skin, neutralize imperfections and give foundation a fault-free base.“One word to describe this product? Incredible. I had no idea makeup would stay put on my face so long before this product - just thought it was not possible!I'd tried other primers, and yes they smoothed out my skin, but as for lasting power? Non-existent. I'm never changing from Retexturising Primer ever! The tiniest bit really does go the longest way too. Great value. Great product.” Lucy G For blemishes and breakouts ELES’s Pore Perfecting Face Primer is a must-have! This light-textured, oil free face primer combats shine, absorbs excess oil, reduces the appearance of large open pores, promotes antiseptic properties and keeps foundation looking flawless!“A small amount goes a long way. Helps keep my oil controlled. Also, feels lovely.” Laurie B If it’s a flushed face we can’t get enough of ELES’s Retexture Crème Face Primer, it hydrates, soothes, calms and plumps skin with Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel & Marigold.“Recently Received this Primer and it's now kicked my other primer out of the running for "go to" primer.” Sakura M Use the right tools The way you apply your makeup is almost as important as the products you use.We’ve all heard it before, touch your face with your hands and you’ll likely cause a breakout so it comes as no surprise that you might well have heard that it’s best not to use your fingers to apply your makeup since even the oil and bacteria on your fingers can irritate skin, also hand heat can add more warmth to an already warm, aggravated complexion. Instead use a damp Pro-blender! It is the least irritating way to apply your product and honestly provides the most effective results! Not only is the sponge strangely soothing on your skin, it provides a more natural-looking coverage. Makeup brushes are another option but just beware that the brush bristles can irritate your sensitive skin, therefore opt for brush bristles made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Its smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean! Less is more so keep makeup simple If you have rosacea or are suffering from acne the likelihood is your foundation could be exacerbating your condition and wearing multiple products from concealer to foundation to blush to illuminator can cause over stimulation, so you need to choose wisely - there are a number of amazing products out there that actually work with your skin to correct its colour rather than just conceal it.If you have rosacea, you don’t want to over stimulate the skin by using too many products! So reach for multi-tasking products that treat, prime, conceal and even tone in one. We are talking about CC Creams. Unlike tinted moisturisers, foundations and even BB Creams, these miracle formulas are colour correcting. So instead of applying a thick layer of opaque makeup to cover the redness, the ELES CC Cream’s Photonic Crystal Technology “offsets” redness, and other skin imperfections, subtly illuminating the skin.“I have only just tried the ELES CC Cream after years of using the Mineral Foundation. I am really enjoying the CC cream! I find it smooths and evens out my pigments and lasts all throughout the day. I also have been mixing it with my Mineral Foundation for nighttime! Great product ELES, thank you!!” Georgina F For blemishes and breakouts excess oil production is a key cause of blemishes so oil-free formulas will be your best friend. Always apply your foundation first, then apply concealer to affected areas only. This will ensure a smoother even base and a more natural finish but be sure to keep every layer light though – the secret to successful makeup for blemish prone skin! Less product to block the skin causing heat! The ELES global best-seller – Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation will be your perfect pick, hypoallergenic and oil-free it allows your skin to breathe freely while providing the sunscreen and anti-oxidant protection ultrasensitive and reactive skin needs.It’s also best to opt for a concealer with some yellow tones to help colour correct redness.“Great product that I have been using for some time. It looks natural on and covers blemishes beautifully.” Kylie J If it’s a flushed face but neither of the above, you have a lot more flexibility with product choice. A CC Cream or Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation are still both great options, but if powder tends to be your go-to try the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation, a firm favourite of mine! The lightweight powder easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage as you build and is highly compatible with common skin sensitivities. It perfectly camouflages imperfections and facial redness and protects against ultraviolet damage too.“This is the only mineral powder foundation I have come across that I can actually use - the others leave my dry skin parched - but not this one. Blends beautifully and provides excellent coverage. Feels light as a feather. I sponge a little extra over my blemishes - covers redness and uneven skin tone without the caked on feeling of foundation and/or concealer, and I also use an eyeshadow brush to apply it to my eyelids as it is a fantastic base for eyeshadow. The packaging is just gorgeous too!” Rebecca V Always remove makeup before bed Sleeping with a face full of makeup can and will result in skin irritability and breakouts. Makeup not only traps dead skin cells it also blocks our pores and when pores are blocked the skin can’t breathe and therefore regenerate so make sure you commit to removing every inch of makeup before hitting the hay.To learn more about sleeping in makeup and what it really does to our skin click here.
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