BC Skin Journal

BC Blog

Makeup for sensitive skin: What works and what to avoid

by Jo Boyden on Mar 20 2026

You’ve finally found a foundation that sounds perfect! The coverage is gorgeous, the finish is flawless, but minutes after first applying it, your skin is itching, burning, or turning bright red. Sound like something you’ve experienced? The truth is a lot of everyday makeup is packed with ingredients that sensitive skin simply can’t tolerate. But that doesn’t mean you have to choose between a flawless finish and a calm complexion, and it certainly doesn't mean you have to skip makeup altogether (because let’s be honest, who would want to do that!) You just need to choose formulas that actually work with your skin, not against it. Keep reading to discover the products and ingredients you need to avoid, plus how to build a makeup routine your sensitive skin will genuinely love! Firstly, what to avoid when it comes to sensitive skin Just as important as what you use, is what to avoid! When you have sensitive skin, your makeup should essentially be an extension of your skincare. If a product is sitting on your face for 8–10 hours a day, it needs to be "breathable" and free from the common irritants that trigger irritation. Firstly, make sure you steer clear of matte, heavy and full-coverage foundations, this is because they can sit on the skin and trap heat. Any makeup that is highly fragranced or is formulated with harsh or drying formulas that disrupt the skin barrier are a no no (so make sure you check the ingredients before buying! Nothing labelled with "parfum" or "fragrance, alcohol denat, isopropyl alcohol, or ethanol, and try to avoid talc‑heavy powders as they can be drying and aggravating. You’ll also want to avoid highly pigmented eye products as they are more likely to cause stinging or redness. And finally, while I preach about SPF all the time you need to be careful what sunscreen you are putting on your skin! Chemical filters work by absorbing UV rays and turning them into heat in the skin. For someone with rosacea or heat-sensitive skin, this extra heat can trigger a massive flush! So make sure if your foundation has SPF in it, it’s of the physical (mineral) kind like Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect heat away! Remember sensitive skin doesn’t need more, it simply needs better, more considered formulas! What your sensitive skin needs Whether you deal with rosacea, eczema, or just general sensitivity and reactivity, you want to keep things gentle, breathable and supportive of your skin barrier. Mineral-based formulas work wonders but make sure you look for additional hydrating and soothing ingredients too, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, green tea, calendula or allantoin. Why mineral makeup works so well if you have sensitive skin Mineral makeup is often a game-changer for those with reactive or easily irritated skin. This is because of a number of reasons including; It’s lightweight and breathable Mineral makeup is less likely to clog pores It’s so much gentler on the skin barrier It treats skin while you wear it (yes please) Many mineral foundations are buildable without ever looking heavy And finally mineral makeup enhances the complexion without overwhelming it And also when done well, it gives that beautiful “your skin, but better” finish that so many of us are looking for! Your sensitive skin-friendly make routine If you’re looking to simplify your routine while keeping your skin calm and comfortable, here’s an easy, go-to approach using ELES mineral makeup. Step 1: Start with a lightweight, skin-loving base A heavy foundation is often where things go wrong for sensitive skin. You want to conceal any redness, but your full coverage foundation can exacerbate any irritation! Instead, opt for something breathable and hydrating like the ELES Mineral Glow Skin Tint SPF 15. It’s one of my personal new absolute favourites, but more so it’s perfect for sensitive skin because it provides sheer, buildable coverage, it contains mineral SPF for gentle protection, it’s enriched with hyaluronic acid and squalane for hydration and it includes calming botanicals to help soothe and support the skin! What more can you ask? Oh and it evens out the complexion to perfection while still letting your natural skin shine through, no heaviness, no irritation just a subtle flawless glow – really! Step 2: Conceal only where you need it Rather than layering foundation everywhere, use a small amount of concealer just where needed. This helps avoid overloading the skin while still giving covering any blemishes to give you a polished finish. Less really is more here. Try the ELES Adjustable Coverage Concealer. It really is a dream for sensitive skin, delivering creamy, hydrating coverage that brightens and conceals redness and blemishes without caking or creasing. Enriched with soothing, nourishing ingredients, it softens, conditions, and protects while blending seamlessly for a natural, skin‑like finish. Comfortable, buildable, and beautifully gentle. Step 3: Make sure you add soft, natural definition Sensitive skin often looks best with soft, natural makeup rather than anything too heavy or structured. Mineral-based blushes are ideal because they sit lightly on the skin, blend seamlessly and add colour without irritation. And I know you might be thinking no to blush when you are already dealing with facial redness but a soft flush of blush in the right place (apples of cheeks) can instantly bring life back to the complexion. Step 4: Keep powder to a minimum Setting powder is where a lot of sensitive skin routines fall apart, heavy powders can feel suffocating and trigger congestion then can also be drying. Make sure you choose the right setting powder for your skin and apply just a small amount only where needed (usually the T-zone), this will keep your skin looking fresh and avoids that dry, tight feeling. The ELES Baked Finishing Powder is feather-light and sheer, taming shine and adding a soft radiance without sitting heavily on your skin. A light dusting is all you need to set your base and keep everything in place. Step 5: Finish with a few subtle touches Keeping the overall look fresh and minimal not only suits sensitive skin it also enhances your natural features beautifully. So to complete your look add a light coat of mascara to your lashes (for sensitive eyes the ELES Sensitive Eyes Mascara is great!) if you like to use eyeshadow for colour and definition stick with mineral shadows as they are clinically formulated for the fragile eye area, hypoallergenic, and sensitivity-tested, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin! Softly define your blows and add a light touch of lippie that won't dry out or irritate. The ELES lip range is hydrating, fragrance-free, and comes in gorgeous wearable shades. Each lipstick delivers rich colour with a comfortable, non-drying formula, and the Pucker Up Lip Gloss gives you a plumping, high-shine finish that feels as good as it looks. Voila! Remember makeup for sensitive skin isn’t about giving up on coverage, glow or a polished look, it’s about working with your skin, not against it. With gentle, mineral-based formulas, hydrating ingredients and a lighter approach to application, you can achieve a beautiful, radiant finish while keeping your skin calm and happy (no burn, itch or redness flare-up in sight!)

The best tinted sunscreen for a natural, no-makeup look

by Jo Boyden on Mar 10 2026

Who doesn’t love makeup? Especially on those days when our skin is feeling a little meh and a good foundation can feel like a total saving grace. But sometimes we just don’t feel like wearing a full face, or the foundation we love can feel like a little too much! Cue tinted sunscreen or skin tint foundation (with SPF!) These clever multi-taskers blur imperfections, add a healthy, natural glow and protect skin in one simple step! Exactly what the new ELES Mineral Glow Skin Tint SPF 15 was designed to do! If you haven’t heard of it yet, consider this your official introduction to what could be your new makeup favourite (it certainly is now mine!) It’s not quite a foundation, and it’s far more than just a tinted moisturiser. Instead, it’s a mineral-infused skin tint created for those days when you want your skin to look like your skin, just a much more rested, radiant and flawless version! Firstly though, why choose a tinted foundation with SPF you might be asking? We all know we should be wearing sunscreen every single day, but the routine of layering moisturiser, SPF, and then makeup can sometimes feel like a lot especially if you are time poor! A tinted sunscreen or tint with SPF changes the game completely. You're streamlining your morning routine, protecting your skin, and still walking out the door looking fresh, polished and glowy. It's the ultimate beauty multi-tasker! Why we love the ELES Mineral Glow Skin Tint SPF 15 Beyond its everyday mineral SPF 15 protection, the first thing you’ll notice about the ELES Mineral Glow Skin Tint is the texture! It’s lightweight and silky and glides on like a dream. It doesn't "mask" your face, instead, it blurs imperfections and softens the look of pores while letting your real skin shine through. It also has the most gorgeous subtle uplifting citrus scent too thanks to its blend of blood orange, grapefruit, lime and lemon essential oils, which makes applying it feel like a little morning mood boost. What really sets this tinted sunscreen apart however, is how many skincare ingredients are built into the formula! A blend of botanical extracts including pomegranate, sea buckthorn, kiwi seed and cucumber helps revitalise and brighten the skin, while antioxidant ingredients help defend against environmental stress. Meanwhile calming extracts like green tea and marigold help soothe and support the skin barrier, while hyaluronic acid delivers long-lasting hydration and plumping benefits. The result is makeup that doesn’t just look good, it actually helps support healthier skin. Why it’s perfect for no‑makeup makeup days 1. Sheer, buildable coverage that still looks like skin No‑makeup makeup is all about restraint. You want enough coverage to feel confident, but not so much that it looks like a full base! The Mineral Glow Skin Tint provides light‑medium when you build it up where you need it (around the nose, a bit on the chin, over redness) and you can easily apply it with fingers or a sponge, blend it in like a moisturiser, and be done. It’s that easy! 2. Hydration and glow in one step Dry, tired skin is the fastest way to ruin a no‑makeup makeup look. This tint is packed with skin‑loving and skin plumping hydrators including squalane, glycerin and of course hyaluronic acid so your glow isn’t just from pigment, it’s from genuine hydration. The result? Skin that looks fresh and naturally dewy, not flat or powdery! 3. Calming, soothing and kind to sensitive skin If your skin flares up, flushes easily or just doesn’t like heavy formulas, this is a very gentle option. It’s been formulated for all skin types, including sensitive or easily irritated. The green tea and marigold extracts in the formulation help soothe redness and protect against environmental stress which allantoin helps comfort and support compromised or reactive skin 4. Mineral SPF 15 built in As mentioned, sun protection is non‑negotiable, even on rainy, cloudy or in the office all day, days! Titanium dioxide provides gentle mineral SPF 15 protection which is ideal for sensitive or easily irritated skin. 5. Antioxidant glow from botanicals This isn’t just a tint with SPF, it’s skincare with serious antioxidant support! Ingredients like pomegranate and sea buckthorn help brighten, nourish and support more radiant, even toned skin while the kiwi seed and cucumber refresh, soothe and de‑puff tired, dull complexions. Worn daily, you’re not only faking good skin, you’re gradually supporting it to look better bare as well! To use it Simply apply after your morning skincare (and sunscreen if you're in high UV! Remember, SPF 15 is a great everyday shield, but you may want a higher SPF on beach days). Use your fingertips for the most natural finish, a brush for more coverage, or a damp sponge for that seamless, skin-like look. One layer gives you that effortless 'my skin but better' finish. Build it up on areas you want a little more coverage (around the nose, any redness, blemishes) and you've got a look that's polished without being heavy. It also works beautifully for professional application, so if you're a therapist or makeup artist, this one's a brilliant addition to your kit! Add a touch of concealer, a little mascara and lip balm and your fresh, glowing everyday “no-makeup, makeup” look is complete! If you are over foundations that appear to settle into your fine lines, your skin feels dull and dehydrated, or perhaps it’s on the more sensitive side? Or maybe you are looking for a makeup base that acts like skincare packed with the latest and greatest ingredients, you’ll love ELES Mineral Glow Skin Tint SPF 15 And if you’ve ever wished your sunscreen looked more like your favourite foundation and your foundation behaved more like skincare, this one is for you!

BC’s best-selling foundation just got better: Why you’ll love it

by Jo Boyden on Feb 28 2026

If you’ve been part of the BC family for a while, you’ll know there’s one makeup product that consistently steals the spotlight! The ELES Mineral Liquid Powder Foundation. With countless five-star reviews and a truly dedicated following, it’s been an undisputed best-seller for years and for very good reason! Well now this beloved favourite has had a refresh! Introducing the ELES Mineral Flawless Finish Foundation SPF 15, a luxurious mineral liquid foundation that perfects your complexion while genuinely caring for your skin. Skincare makeup at its best! Why you’ll love the new formula The new ELES Mineral Flawless Finish Foundation takes everything you already love about the original, (think beautiful, natural coverage, breathable wear, a soft powder finish and skin-friendly minerals) and enhances it with even more skincare benefits, cleaner ingredients, and more… 1. It softly blurs the complexion without feeling heavy If you loved the silky glide and soft-focus finish of the Mineral Liquid Powder Foundation, you’ll appreciate this! While the original used Silica to control shine, the new formula introduces a sophisticated blend of Kaolin Clay and Rice Powder. These natural ingredients don't just sit on the skin, they refine your skin's texture and absorb excess oil without drying you out. The result? A "soft-focus" effect that blurs pores and fine lines better than any camera filter. 2. It’s even better for sensitive skin If you struggle with redness or reactive skin, this is the perfect foundation! The new formula is infused with Green Tea and Marigold (Calendula) extract. These botanical powerhouses work to soothe inflammation and support skin resilience throughout the day. Plus, the Zinc Oxide provides gentle, mineral-based SPF 15 protection while calming the skin barrier. 3. Next-level hydration ELES has kept the Hyaluronic Acid you loved for that plump, hydrated look, but added Squalane and Jojoba Esters. These are "skin-identical" emollients, meaning they mimic your skin’s natural oils. This ensures the foundation melts into your skin rather than sitting on top, keeping you comfortable and balanced from morning till night! 4. Comfortable, long-lasting, everyday wear Whether you want a sheer, natural, everyday look or a full-glam "flawless" finish, this formula is incredibly buildable and long-lasting. Because it's so lightweight and breathable, you can layer it to your heart's content without it ever feeling heavy or looking "mask-like." It wears beautifully from morning till night, controls shine, refines pores and keeps the complexion looking smooth, supple and fresh! It’s the kind of base you can trust for a full day at work, a wedding, or back-to-back events without needing constant touch-ups. 5. Cleaner, greener, and Australian-made We know that what’s not in your makeup is just as important as what is. The new Mineral Flawless Finish is Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Talc-Free, and Fragrance-Free. What’s more, it’s proudly made in Australia. It’s professional-grade skincare makeup that aligns perfectly with clean beauty values! If you already love the original, this feels like a natural next step. And if you’re new to ELES foundations, this is the perfect place to start! A luxurious, skin-loving base that does it all! Perfects, protects, nourishes and cares, in one effortless step. Because the best makeup doesn’t just cover, it enhances, supports and works with your skin!

How to treat sun-damaged skin: Expert solutions that work

by Jo Boyden on Dec 24 2025

We all want that gorgeously glowing skin synonymous with the sizzling summer months but sadly said glowing summer skin can come at a cost! Even with sunscreen, UV exposure can compromise the skin barrier and accelerate visible ageing! We are talking pigmentation and dehydration to loss of firmness and uneven texture! And sun damage can show up long after summer ends too! The good news? With the right approach and clinically proven skincare, sun-damaged skin can be soothed, repaired, and visibly restored. Keep reading as we count down 10 expert solutions that really do work! Firstly, what sun damage really does to the skin Sun damage isn’t just about visible redness or peeling. UV exposure affects the skin on multiple levels, leading to dehydration and compromised barrier function, pigmentation and uneven skin tone, breakdown of collagen and elastin and accelerated signs of ageing, including fine lines and loss of firmness! Effective treatment focuses on soothing inflammation, repairing cellular damage, replenishing hydration, and preventing further UV stress. Our expert solutions Pevonia Phyto Aromatic Mist This soothing and calming facial mist isn’t just the perfect post-sun products, it’s also the perfect pick-me-up to pack in your bag when on the go! It instantly refreshes parched, overheated or stressed skin while delivering lightweight hydration. It really is ideal for anytime skin feels tight or sensitised. “I love this! This is a really great product. It's cool, soothing and refreshing on a hot day. Makes skin feel softer, a great pick me up after a stressful and tiring day!” – Nicky W Pevonia After Sun Soothing Gel After sun exposure, skin needs cooling, calming care to reduce inflammation and restore comfort. This seriously cooling and soothing, fast absorbing moisturising gel is cleverly formulated with a potent compound of proline, chamomile and water lily extract to not only relieve and desensitize painful sunburn but also deeply hydrate and calm parched, itchy or reactive overexposed skin. It’s it Pevonia best-seller for very good reason! “Best product for moisture after sun or for allergy/itchy skin - miracle!” – Sherry C Phytomer Sun Reset – Advanced Recovery Protective Sunscreen Sun damage occurs at a cellular level, which is why advanced repair formulas are essential! This innovative sunscreen does more than protect. It helps reset the skin as if it had never been damaged by UV rays, limiting the number of damaged cells while promoting recovery. By combining high-level SPF50 protection with marine-based repair actives, it supports long-term skin health and helps delay sun-induced ageing! Brilliant. “Great product as described. I love the Phytomer sunscreens (as do my kids!) They are lightweight, easy to apply, feel comfortable on the skin (not at all thick, greasy or with that awful white cast) and the thing I love about this particular sunscreen is the fact it protects and resets your skin!” – Adele S Pevonia’s “C” Complex with Oxyzomes To help counteract sun damage, it is important to not only prioritise SPF but Vitamin C too (the must-have treatment for dark spots!)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! I personally can’t speak more highly of Pevonia’s “C” Complex 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 its combination of vitamin c and hydrating dynamo hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Heaven. “Product helps to diminish redness caused by the sun. Very light lotion, one needs small amount, very good choice for coming summer!” – Emma K Derma Max Brightening Clinic This deeply moisturising night cream as a true multitasker! Formulated with a vitamin complex and Tranexamic acid it not only helps correct pigmentation but deeply nourishes and soothe irritation too while also improving skin elasticity! So if your skin has been compromised and you want to achieve smoother, more refined skin with an even tone consider this your new go-to! ‘‘This is a beautiful rich cream. I use it nightly and I wake to smoother, plumper skin! It has definitely helped reduce some of my sun spots too! I love it.” Shioban F ELES Hydrating and Brightening Sheet Mask Sun-damaged skin often struggles to retain moisture so replenishing hydration is essential for recovery and glow! This easy-to-use sheet mask delivers an instant hydration boost while helping brighten and refresh tired, sun-exposed skin. Perfect as a weekly treatment or after a day outdoors when skin needs immediate care! “These are truly delicious. I use one once a week. I have dry skin and the only way I can manage it is by using Pevonia and ELES products. This mask truly does exactly what it says with immediate results. I highly recommend.” – Kellie Pevonia Stem Cells Body Corrector And we definitely don’t want to forget our body! Sun damage doesn’t stop at the face! Our body skin is equally vulnerable to dryness, loss of elasticity, and visible ageing! This advanced body treatment isn’t just a moisturiser it actually helps firm, smooth, and restore sun-exposed skin too! All while delivering deep hydration. Formulated with argan and comfrey stem cells, it visibly renews skin, diminishing the appearance of age spots, sun damage and cellulite! Ideal for areas prone to sun damage, it supports skin regeneration and improves overall tone and texture. “Love it!!! I bought the Stem Cells Phyto-Elite Intensive Body Corrector a few weeks ago and absolutely love it!!! I have seen a visible improvement!!! My skin it tighter, firmer and has more elasticity than before!!! Highly recommend this product!!!!” – Deana S Remember treating your sun damaged skin goes hand in hand with prevention! So always make sure you apply your SPF (even on cloudy days!) Use antioxidant rich skincare all year around and hydrate skin consistently to support skin barrier health!

The biggest skincare trends to watch in 2026

by Jo Boyden on Dec 24 2025

From countless ingredients to multi-step routines, we know skincare can be somewhat overwhelming! Well, 2026 has good news for you! This coming year skincare becomes smarter, simpler, and more intentional. The focus is on longevity-driven formulas, barrier support, and bio-intelligent skincare, delivering fewer steps with more meaningful results! It’s a refreshingly practical approach that puts skin health first! No more chasing quick fixes or viral trends. Read on to find out the skincare trends the experts predict will be big! 1. Exosome-infused products If 2025 was the year of skin boosters, 2026 is all about exosomes. These microscopic messengers, released by stem cells, carry growth factors, peptides, and genetic material that help skin cells “talk” to each other. Applied topically, they supercharge regeneration, boost collagen production, and accelerate recovery. Expect exosome serums to dominate, a true shift toward results-driven skincare that prioritises tolerance, performance, and long-term skin health. 2. Skinimalism 2.0 Skinimalism isn’t going anywhere, but in 2026 it isn’t about owning fewer products to declutter your bathroom. This year it’s all about using fewer products to protect your skin’s biology. We are talking smarter skincare formulations that protect the skin microbiome, reduce inflammation and support long-term skin resilience. Think nourishing face oils, hybrid moisturisers, and serums that deliver multiple benefits in one. Simple routines, smarter formulas, maximum impact. 3. Bio-intelligent skincare 2026 will see beauty and wellness come together like never before. Bio-intelligent skincare goes beyond surface-level results to focus on cellular health, energy optimisation, and skin function. These advanced formulas help your skin perform better under stress, rather than just masking symptoms. Concepts like “metabolic beauty” are set to reshape routines, giving consumers personalised, science-backed solutions that really work. 4. Sustainable, transparent and “Blue Beauty” formulations Sustainability continues to define the future of skincare. “Blue Beauty”, focused on marine ecosystem-friendly sourcing, waste-reducing packaging, and ethical formulations is becoming a standard. Expect more refillable, biodegradable, and waterless products, alongside full ingredient transparency. Beauty that looks good on you and the planet is officially non-negotiable. 5. Prejuvenation Why wait for signs of ageing when you can prevent them? Prejuvenation is all about early intervention. Think consistent SPF, antioxidant-rich formulas, and ingredients that protect collagen and fight oxidative stress, before wrinkles, dullness, or sagging appear. 2026 celebrates skincare that works proactively, not reactively. 6. Personalisation & tech integration 2026 takes personalised beauty to the next level. With AI tools, skin diagnostics, and adaptive formulas, products will be tailored to your unique biology, environment, and lifestyle. From smart apps to wearable devices, consumers can expect fully custom skincare routines that actually understand their skin, making every product personal, precise, and performance driven. From cutting-edge science to sustainable formulations, 2026 promises a new era of skincare that’s as intelligent as it is indulgent!

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

by Jo Boyden on Dec 19 2025

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

Summer proof beauty: 10 makeup tips for makeup that lasts

by Jo Boyden on Dec 12 2025

Summer is well and truly under way with the hot weather we’ve had of late! But hot, humid days don’t have to mean compromised makeup! With the right prep, formulas, and application techniques, you can create makeup that stays polished and in place! no matter how high the temperature gets! From long-wear bases to humidity-resistant hacks, these 10 pro-approved makeup tips will keep your summer makeup looking seamless all day long! Tip 1. Start with a super clean canvas Makeup lasts longer on skin that’s clean, balanced, and free from excess oil.Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser each morning to remove overnight sebum and prep your skin for smooth application. Tip 2. Change to moisturisers that suit the warmer weather Heavy creams and rich oils can make makeup slip faster in warm weather. So as much as you might love your trusty moisturiser it’s time to switch to lighter, gel or lotion textures that hydrate without leaving a greasy film. Focus on non-comedogenic formulas so your base sits smoothly and holds up better as the day goes on. Tip 3. Always let your skincare fully absorb Rushing from moisturiser straight to foundation is a recipe for slipping and pilling! While I know so many of us are time poor, if you want to prevent your makeup sliding off your face by mid-morning you need to give your skincare a couple of minutes to sink in before applying your makeup. This creates a more even canvas and helps your base adhere instead of sliding around on top. Tip 4. Use a primer Primer is your summer secret weapon I’m telling you! especially if you have oily or combination skin you’ll benefit from a mattifying or pore-perfecting formula, while normal to dry skin often prefers a hydrating but slightly tacky primer that grips makeup. Apply a thin layer where you get most shiny, then press foundation on top rather than rubbing. Tip 5. Choose long-wear and transfer-resistant formulas In hot weather, longevity matters more than full coverage. Look for long-wear or transfer-resistant foundations, tinted serums or tinted moisturisers that set down but still feel breathable. Waterproof mascaras, long-lasting brow products and budge-proof gel eyeliners also make a big difference in humidity! Tip 6. Apply thin layers and build slowly Thick layers of base are the first to crack, crease and melt. Instead, use sheer layers and build only where needed (around the nose, chin or blemishes). A light layer of a long-lasting formula wears far better than a heavy layer of anything, especially in the heat. Tip 7. Set strategically with powder You don’t need to mattify your entire face. Use a finely milled, translucent powder just on the areas prone to shine, typically the forehead, sides of the nose and chin. Press it in with a sponge or small brush rather than dusting; this helps lock products in without looking flat or cakey. Tip 8. Set with a long-lasting setting spray A good setting spray can act like a soft “seal” for your makeup. Mist your face after finishing your routine, and for extra staying power, lightly spray your sponge or brush before tapping on foundation or concealer. This helps fuse the layers together and improves longevity. Tip 9. Blot skin! Don’t pile on more product When shine appears, reach for blotting papers or a clean tissue to gently lift excess oil before adding any powder. Adding layer after layer of product over sweat and oil can lead to caking and separation. Blot first, then, if needed, tap a small amount of powder just where you need it. Tip 10. Choose lip and eye products that can take the heat Glosses and creamy liners can smear quickly in warm weather. Opt for long-wear lip pencils (gel is best), that fade more gracefully, and go for waterproof or smudge-resistant liners and mascaras. Bonus tip from the pros Before applying primer or foundation, lightly spritz your makeup sponge or a clean, flat foundation brush with a cooling mist or place it in the fridge for a few minutes. Applying your base with a cold tool helps to temporarily constrict pores and calm the skin, which improves the longevity and seamless blend of your foundation. So there you have it! summer makeup doesn’t have to melt! With the right prep, the right formulas, and these heat-proof tips, you can enjoy flawless, glowing, stay-all-day beauty no matter what!

Your complete sun care guide: From tan acceleration and SPF to soothing after-sun relief

by Jo Boyden on Dec 05 2025

When it comes to sun season essentials, we want the best of both worlds, a gorgeous glowing tan but without compromising our skin’s health! The key? Knowing exactly which products to use before, during, and after sun exposure! At Beauty Collective, we’ve handpicked a new, firm favourite of ours that will help accelerate your tan naturally, along with four of our best-selling sun creams trusted for their high performance, skin-loving formulas, and ultra-comfortable textures! And to top it off, a soothing post-sun essential that restores and hydrates skin beautifully. Whether you want to achieve that golden holiday glow or simply want smarter sun protection, keep reading for the products team BC are loving this summer season, 6 essentials for radiant (and safe!) summer skin! The perfect pre-sun step Naturys Tan Accelerating Spray Oil Best for: Those who’d love a gorgeously golden, even tan without endless sun exposure or simply want to accelerate their tan, naturally. If you love tanning but also love the idea of tanning more evenly, quickly, and with less UV exposure (because we all know it’s not great for our skin!) Naturys Tan Accelerating Spray Oil could be your new go-to! Packed with carotenoid-rich oils including Annatto, Carrot, and Karanja, this lightweight, non-greasy, delicious summer scented spray boosts melanin production, allowing your skin to develop colour faster when you’re in the sun. The result? A richer, smoother, more even tan in less time! And unlike fake tan, there’s no instant “faux” colour. Instead, it enhances your natural tanning process while hydrating, softening, and leaving your skin with a subtle golden sheen. Simply apply it before going out in the sun (allowing it to absorb for a few minutes) and always pair with sunscreen for proper UV protection. Remember this product accelerates your tan, it does not protect! The sunscreens Now it’s time for our favourite sunscreens for all skin types. These four SPF essentials are loved for their textures, finishes, skin-boosting benefits, and serious protection! HUBISLAB Post Rays Derma Perfect Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ – 50g Best for: Everyday anti-ageing protection, as well as sensitive, rosacea, post-treatment or reactive skin. If you’re looking for a featherlight, quick absorbing, comfortable sunscreen (with maximum protection) that feels like skincare, this is it! HUBISLAB’s Derma Perfect formula delivers ultra-high UVA/UVB protection with a silky, non-greasy finish that sits flawlessly under makeup with zero white cast in sight! The dermatologist-friendly nourishing formula, rich in soothing, barrier-strengthening ingredients, is a dream for sensitive, post-treatment, or easily reactive skin. So, if you struggle with heavy, greasy sunscreens or your skin freaks out at the thought of sunscreen altogether because… redness, irritation, breakouts…this Korean cosmeceutical formula is your saviour! Specifically designed for post-treatment it provides maximum protection without any of the typical sunscreen irritation. Naturys Sun Cream High Protection SPF 50 (Spray) – 100ml Best for: Families, those seeking natural, vegan-friendly formulations, body application & quick, fuss-free application. It’s basically great for all skin types including sensitive complexions! This ultralight, fast-absorbing 100% mineral (physical) sunscreen using non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (,he safest, most gentle UV filters available), is perfect for beach days, pool days, outdoor adventures, or simply making full-body SPF daily application effortless. The skin-nourishing formula combining hyaluronic acid, golden kelp, and centella asiatica deeply hydrates skin while protecting skin against UVA, UVB and blue light exposure, making it ideal for both adults and kids. And there is no intense rubbing required like so many thick natural suncreams or the horrid white cast synonymous with sunscreen!! Simply spray, smooth over skin and voila! Phytomer Sun Solution Ocean SPF50+ Moisturizing Protective Sunscreen Best for: Dry or dehydrated skin, beach lovers, and environmentally conscious users. A favourite for those who love a premium, deeply hydrating feel, this SPF50+ cream offers broad spectrum protection while infusing skin with marine bioactives, oh and it’s ocean-friendly too! Richly hydrating (without the heaviness you can get from other moisturising sun creams), it not only protects your skin but leaves it soft and luminous. Marine algae extracts provide additional antioxidant defense against free radicals, while Phytomer's signature Oligomer (concentrated seawater) delivers essential minerals that strengthen skin's natural defenses. So you're not just blocking UV rays, you're actively supporting your skin's resilience and repair processes. It’s creamy and comforting and is perfect for dry or mature skin types, It’s a firm favourite of mine! Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield – 150ml Best for: Daily protection from screens, devices & urban exposure This multi-defence tinted sunscreen shields not just against UVA & UVB rays but also blue light, making it the perfect sunscreen for those of us with our digital-heavy lifestyles! The formula is superb for normal to oily skin types thanks to its non-greasy texture and invisible finish. Lightweight and breathable it’s the perfect SPF to wear every single day, whether you're indoors or out, combatting the digital damage contributing to premature ageing! Eek. The post-sun soother Best for: Everyone post sun exposure Pevonia After Sun Soothing Gel After a day of sun exposure (even with SPF on all day!) our skin needs replenishment, cooling, and hydration. Well, this outstanding soothing gel and one of Pevonia’s global best-sellers delivers just that! Instant cooling and comfort (as well as deep nourishment) with water lily, chamomile and antioxidant botanicals including green tea that decrease redness, alleviate irritation, and restore balance, reducing the look and feel of sun stressed skin. It’s non-sticky, gel texture is both calming and refreshing and perfect for face and body. So, for the ultimate routine to not only protect your skin but ensure that beautiful golden glow, you’ll want to apply your tan accelerator before heading out, next select your ideal SPF based on your skin type & lifestyle and then at the end apply your after sun to calm, cool, and restore your skin! Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling boost!

Day cream vs. night cream: Are both necessary for your skin?

by Jo Boyden on Jul 25 2025

We all know moisturising in the morning is essential, after all a good day cream acts as a protective barrier, locking in hydration, smoothing the skin, helping sunscreen apply more evenly, and even boosting the staying power of your makeup! But what about a night cream? Is it really essential too? Or is this extra step in your skincare routine just a clever marketing ploy? Can’t you just use your trusty day cream at night? And what even is the difference between a day cream and night cream anyway? Well, we have the answers! Keep reading as we explain how using a night cream (not just a day cream!) can make a huge difference to your skin and the night cream we can’t get enough of! Understanding the difference between a day and night cream When it comes to optimizing your skincare, using both a day cream and a night cream isn’t just an indulgence, it’s one of the smartest ways to care for your skin around the clock! Why? Because each cream is uniquely formulated to cater to your skin’s shifting needs throughout the day, and while you sleep! During the day, your skin faces a barrage of environmental stressors, think UV rays, pollution, blue light damage, fluctuating temperature and oxidative stress. Day creams are your skin’s first line of defence! Their primary duties are to protect, hydrate, and reinforce the skin’s barrier, leaving it smooth and comfortable. At Night, however, while you sleep your body enters repair mode, and your skin is no exception. Cell regeneration is at its peak overnight, making it the ideal time to deliver deep hydration, skin-repairing actives, and nutrients that restore the complexion. Night creams tend to be richer in texture and packed with higher concentrations of active ingredients to promote renewal without the interruption of external aggressors. The Perfect Pair for 24/7 skincare Day: Phytomer Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream This luxurious cream is a powerhouse of marine biotechnology, designed to smooth fine lines, plump the skin, and support firmness throughout the day. Formulated with Red Vegetal Coral and Brown Algae, it works beautifully under makeup and helps defend against visible signs of ageing, all while keeping skin supple and radiant. I personally LOVE it! And when you purchase the Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream this July, you will receive a FREE best-selling Phytomer Cleanser – The Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream! Night: Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream This night cream is specially designed to help skin recover from daily stress! It’s skin-replenishing formula is enriched with marine extracts that help detoxify, firm, and deeply nourish the skin overnight. Beautifully silky and ultra-comforting, it literally cocoons skin while you sleep working to reduce signs of fatigue, improve elasticity and bring back your glow by morning, seriously! It’s formulated with the best in marine ingredients including D-Tox Microalgae (designed to promote the elimination of free radicals, toxins, and pollutants detoxifying the skin while you sleep), and Marine Mannitol (an active ingredient which helps to re-oxygenate tired and "asphyxiated" cells) as well as Laminaria Digitata Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract and Jojoba & Sunflower Seed Wax to deeply nourish, revitalise and strengthen the skin! Both my colleagues and I simply love how it makes our skin look and feel when we wake (I’m talking glowy, plumper and just more youthful looking!) What’s more it complements the Phytomer Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream beautifully, working in sync to boost cell renewal, reinforce the skin barrier, and ensure you wake up to a plumper, more youthful glow every morning! So, do you really need both a day and night cream? If your goal is healthy, youthful, and balanced skin the answer is yes! By choosing creams tailored to your skin’s needs at different times of the day, you’re giving your complexion the full spectrum of care it deserves!

ELES Cosmetics: Where skincare meets makeup

by Jo Boyden on Jul 11 2025

We all want makeup that enhances our beauty, but what if your favourite products could also actively care for your skin? Cue ELES Cosmetics, the Australian born makeup brand that blends the best of makeup and skincare to create formulas that are lightweight, breathable, and packed with skin-loving ingredients. Think vitamins, botanicals, and minerals that soothe, smooth, protect, and boost your glow, all while delivering flawless coverage! Sound good? Keep reading to discover more about ELES and 5 best-sellers that truly live up to the hype. Products loved by the team at BC and our customers too! What makes ELES different to other makeup brands? ELES Cosmetics is more than just makeup, it’s skincare makeup. Free from harsh chemicals and pore-clogging ingredients, every product is infused with powerful anti-ageing, nourishing and skin-soothing actives like hyaluronic acid, Vitamins A, C, and E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, aloe, and chamomile, plus micronized minerals that protect and correct without irritation. The result? A virtually weightless “second skin” effect that lets your skin breathe while shielding it from age aggressors and environmental stressors. The range features multi-use, skin-loving products that are easy to apply, feel beautiful on the skin, and leave you glowing, not cakey! It really is the perfect fusion of high-performance makeup and gentle, effective skincare, ideal for all skin types including acne, sensitive skin and rosacea. 5 ELES top sellers Whether you’re after lightweight coverage, a pop of colour, or a radiant finish that lasts all day, these best-selling beauty buys from ELES are guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your makeup bag 1. ELES Mineral Sheer Tint SPF 20 If you’re after that “your skin but better” look, this should be your go-to! The Mineral Sheer Tint is a multitasking marvel I’m telling you, part tinted moisturiser, part sun protection, and a lot of beautifully natural glow! Infused with hyaluronic acid, antioxidants (vitamins A, C and E) and natural SPF 20 (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), it provides a veil of coverage while actively protecting your skin from environmental damage. The mineral-rich formula hydrates, smooths, and evens out skin tone, leaving a dewy, natural finish. In short, it’s lightweight, breathable, and skin-nourishing and perfect for daily wear! Especially ideal for busy mornings or if you’re doing a minimal makeup routine. It’s my personal daily go-to year-round but don’t just take my word for it. Our customers are obsessed too! “I could not be more in love with this product. The coverage is wonderful, blending any blemishes without having to use a lot of product. It lasts all day and I don't ever have that oily gloss at the end of the day.” – Dione “This is a beautiful sheer tinted moisturiser, with SPF. It looks and feels like skin. I love the Natural Glow. it is perfect for mature skin making it look a little dewy and more youthful.” – Christina “Lightweight, sheer and absolutely divine to wear. This little wonder provides beautiful light cover, illuminates the skin and is perfect for everyday wear. There is not a better tinted moisturiser on the market.” – Naomi F SPECIAL OFFER: When you purchase the best-selling ELES Mineral Sheer Tint, you’ll receive a FREE Pro Blender Sponge for makeup application precision. 2. ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation If you like a more matte coverage but you’re worried about it settling into your fine lines and wrinkles you need worry no more when it comes to this ELES best-seller! It’s a global best-seller for many a reason! One being its long-lasting staying power no matter what your skin condition. It’s packed with goodness including an exclusive multi mineral complex, as well as vitamins A, C & E, but its formula while it goes on as a silky liquid, sets to a soft powder finish. What’s more, it allows skin to breath freely, so it won’t clog up pores leading to unwanted blemishes! “Amazing foundation! So easy to apply with fingertips and has great coverage whilst looking natural and not settling into lines. Excellent match for my skin colour with smooth luminous finish that’s perfect for my late 40’s skin needs.” – Clarissa “I have been using this product for 10 years+ and cannot fault it. It is light, silky and even though my skin is oil based it does not leave it clogged like many other foundations I have used previously. I absolutely recommend anyone to try it to see how beautiful it is to wear.” – Debrah L “An amazing product that I have used for years. Gives a natural flawless finish. I am the “Queen of Cosmetics” and without a doubt, this is the best product I’ve ever used!” – Catherine A 3. Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light This powder is like a soft-focus filter in a compact. It sets makeup, blurs imperfections, and adds a subtle luminosity that makes skin look airbrushed, but still real! Its baked formula means zero chalkiness (like you get with some powders) and a silky texture. What’s more light-reflective pigments soften fine lines and pores. Oh, and it’s hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic making it idea for all skin types, even sensitive skin. “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 “I love this powder, it gives a natural glow, great coverage and is very light on.” – Niamh K “I have never used a finishing powder before & can't believe the difference when worn over my foundation. I feel glamoured when i wear it. Its light & you don't know you have it on” – Lauri B 4. Dual Action Concealer Dark circles, blemishes, redness, this concealer tackles it all with a creamy, blendable formula that doesn’t crease or settle! Enriched with the best in skincare ingredients including hyaluronic acid, marine collagen, caffeine, vitamin C and vitamin e it works to depuff, smooth, brighten and improve elasticity around the eyes. While an advanced ceramide peptide helps to visibly correct skin imperfections and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles! Amazing stuff. “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 “This concealer is perfection. It goes on smooth, doesn't crease, and covers dark circles completely. The concealer lasts forever because you don't need to use a lot to get full coverage” – Marwa Y “Great coverage concealer. I can use it under my eyes without it settling into any fine lines. It also has staying power when used on blemishes on my oily skin.” – Cassy M 5. Retexture Crème Face Primer Want your makeup to last longer and look smoother? This primer is your secret weapon I’m telling you! It’s silky texture literally glides onto skin instantly smoothing it. It fills in fine lines, combats shine, absorbs oil, reduces the appearance of pores and creates a flawless base for foundation so it lasts all day (no sliding off your face by mid-morning!) Oh, and it’s enriched with anti-aging peptides and hydrating botanicals to so it’s great for your skin too! Simply outstanding. “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 P “This is the best, the only thing that works on my combination skin. Lightweight and blends in smooth. I use this as my everyday primer just on it's own - add finishing powder on top for a nighttime look.” – Mon “This product is great, lightweight and helps your foundation look flawless. Highly recommend.” – Pauline W If you are after a lipstick to complete your look, ELES has just launched a brand-new collection of Essence de Nude Lipsticks! 9 perfectly contrasting nude shades (from delicate porcelain to warm caramel and deep mocha) to match every skin tone and type. With creamy textures and a satin finish, each lipstick feels like a second skin! When applied, the formula literally glides over lips with powerful pigments and a blend of moisture-rich, vitamins, oils, butters and waxes to help lips remain supple, comfortable, soft and protected. ELES Cosmetics isn't just another makeup brand, it’s skincare makeup that nurtures and protects your skin just as your skincare does! These 5 products work together to create a routine that's both effective and nurturing, giving you that coveted "your skin but better" look that we're all after!

Mature skin? The forgotten steps you need in your routine

by Jo Boyden on Apr 24 2025

When it comes to beauty and our daily routine, we all know the basics – cleanse daily, nourish skin with a quality serum and moisturiser and never skip SPF in the morning! But if your skin is starting to age, sticking to just the essentials simply isn’t enough. To support your skin as it matures, it’s important to up the ante with a few extra targeted steps. These often-over-looked additions will make all the difference in how your skin both looks and feels! Want to know what they are? Keep reading as we count down 7 additional steps you need in your routine and our expert approved product recommendations. 1. Eye cream The area around your eyes is the most delicate on your face, and sadly the first to show obvious signs of ageing! Unfortunately, many of us get a little lazy though when it comes to applying eye cream or simply think our moisturiser will be sufficient which is sadly not the case! Eye treatments tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns – crow’s feet, under eye bags, dark circles and more, and have the ability to penetrate deep into the skin for optimal results keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay! For the best eye creams for ageing eyes. We highly recommend trying one of these! 2. Exfoliator As we age our skin's natural ability to shed dead cells declines, and without weekly exfoliation skin can become uneven, dull and lacklustre. This is why exfoliation is so imperative, and not a step that should be ignored! To learn more about the benefits of exfoliation and which exfoliator will be best for your skin click here 3. Lip cream Just like our eyes, our lips are one of the first areas to show signs of ageing because the skin is thinner and more delicate and quickly loses volume, moisture, and elasticity, leading to thinning, fine lines, and dryness. Eek! So it’s important to show them as much love as you would your face. This means applying a lip cream daily. We are huge advocates for Phytomer’s Youth Contour Smoothing Eye and Lip Cream which deeply moisturises and volumizes the lips, blurs imperfections, and, unlike other lip products, also smooths the surrounding skin folds, lines and wrinkles! 4. Neck and decollete cream This is usually the #1 forgotten area but the area of your skin which can actually age you the most! Exposed to sunlight just as much as your face, if your neck and decolletage aren't cared for daily or protected with SPF, they can end up crepey and wrinkly so much earlier than they should! Whatever you do for your face you should do for your neck and decolletage too. We love (and I personally use!) Phytomer's Decollete Parfait Neck and Decollete Renewing Care, it hydrates, nourishes refines and brightens skin for a more youthful appearance while smoothing wrinkles too! But there is also nothing wrong with using your daily moisturiser or a hydrating body cream instead! Just start doing it now! 5. Hand cream We often focus all our anti-ageing efforts on our face but like with our delicate eye area or neck and chest, our hands can give away our age since the delicate skin is often exposed to the sun and environmental damage! And I can bet your bottom dollar that many of us are not using a good hand cream daily! I know I am guilty of missing this step! Start by applying sunscreen to the back of your hands and then moisturise them as you would your face daily. We highly recommend Pevonia’s Collagen Hand Cream, it's divinely nourishing and gives hands an instant lift in appearance and texture thanks to its Vitamin C, Marine Collagen Polypeptides and hyaluronic acid formulation! 6. Primer A good primer can work wonders for mature skin by filling in fine lines and wrinkles, blurring imperfections, and ensuring longer-lasting makeup. In fact, I’d safely save it will become your secret weapon when it comes to prepping mature skin for makeup since it’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing too! It’s best to look for a silicone-based primer that offers a smoothing effect without clogging pores. Apply it evenly to your face after moisturizing, focusing on areas prone to fine lines, such as around the eyes and mouth. Try ELES Retexture Crème Face Primer. It hydrates, soothes, calms and plumps skin with Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel & Marigold. 7. Concealer As we mature and our face loses its youthful “plumpness”, shadows start to really appear under our eyes, around the nose, and at the corners of our mouth. It’s tempting to reach for a heavy duty, foundation to hide these dark areas. The problem is that they just make the dark shadows look grey as opposed to concealing them! Instead opt for peachy toned, lightweight concealers that won’t cake on the skin and counteract the blue in the shadows. ELES Dual Action Concealer is an excellent option.

Why skincare makeup is transforming our routines

by Jo Boyden on Apr 16 2025

Gone are the days when makeup was mainly about concealing skin. These days, just as we expect results from our skincare, we want them from our makeup too! Makeup that not only perfects our look but also actively cares for our skin. Enter skincare makeup, the next generation of makeup that does it all! Skincare makeup conceals, corrects and actively improves your complexion every time you wear it. Whether you're chasing that healthy glow, seeking age-defying benefits, or simply want makeup that works with your skin (not against it), skincare makeup could be what you’ve been waiting for! Keep reading for everything there is to know about skincare makeup and how it will transform your skin! What is skincare makeup? Skincare makeup is exactly what it sounds like! Cosmetic products infused with skin-loving ingredients, designed to enhance your look and improve your skin over time. Think foundations packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid, primers that soothe redness with botanical extracts, or powders that offer sun protection alongside a flawless finish. The result? Effortless beauty with long-term benefits. Why skincare makeup is a game-changer for your skin Unlike traditional makeup that can clog pores or sit heavily on the skin, skincare makeup combines the best of both worlds – makeup and skincare for long-lasting results. Instead of just covering imperfections, it actively works to improve your skin while you wear it, oh and it allows skin to breathe freely so no clogged pores in sight! Packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides and SPF, skincare makeup helps target skin concerns like dullness, redness and uneven skin tone. It hydrates, protects, and nourishes your complexion, helping to reduce inflammation, smooth fine lines, boost radiance, and improve overall skin health over time. And thanks to this formulation it reduces the likelihood of irritation, making it great for sensitive and mature skin types! It’s basically makeup that not only makes you look good instantly, but also supports long-term skin benefits making your daily beauty routine more effective and efficient. Our top skincare makeup recommendations We can’t get enough of ELES Skincare Makeup, loved by the BC experts and customers alike, every product in the range blends high performance cosmetics with powerful skincare benefits meaning you’re not just enhancing your complexion, you’re nourishing and protecting it too. 1. ELES Mineral Liquid Powder Foundation SPF 15 This isn’t ELES Cosmetics #1 global best-seller for no reason! This outstanding foundation is infused with a multi-mineral complex, vitamins A, C and E and hyaluronic acid to provide skin with all the benefits of the best skincare while concealing skin for a truly flawless yet natural finish! It literally glides onto skin as a liquid but sets to a beautiful soft powder finish that looks smooth, even and radiant (no sign of settling into fine lines at all!) What’s more, its breathable formula means it will never clog or irritate skin and it’s ideal for even sensitive and rosacea prone skin! 2. ELES Mineral Powder Foundation For those who love a no-fuss, polished finish, this pressed powder foundation is a dream, I’m telling you. Formulated with no chemical nasties, just skin loving ingredients including Vitamins A and E and minerals, it's lightweight and soft and easily adjusts from sheer to richer, more opaque coverage while effectively camouflaging any imperfections. The coverage also lasts longer than other foundations and feels like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! It also allows skin to breathe freely so no clogging pores and aggravating irritated skin and helps to protect and heal skin as you wear it! Basically, expect smoother, clearer, and brighter skin with every wear! 3. ELES Baked Blush More than just a pop of colour! This blush blends seamlessly and provides a youthful finish without settling into fine lines! What’s more it’s enriched with micro-fine minerals that deliver a sheer, healthy glow while letting skin breathe. It’s buildable, blendable, and ultra-gentle, perfect for all skin types!

Expert approved: The best makeup for rosacea

by Jo Boyden on Apr 04 2025

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

Team BC reveal the 5 foundations we can’t live without

by Jo Boyden on Mar 21 2025

At BC, we’re passionate about all things skincare and makeup, but if there’s one makeup product we simply can’t live without, it’s foundation! That doesn’t mean we all swear by the same one though, far from it! However, we do all agree that the key to a great foundation lies in its skin-loving ingredients and how it makes our complexion feel. Beauty Collective is all about providing nurturing, anti-ageing skincare makeup, foundations that don’t just cover imperfections but actively treat and improve the skin, just like our skincare does. From tinted moisturisers to long-wearing full coverage formulas, keep reading as we share five makeup bases we’re obsessed with! ELES Mineral Sheer Tint Favourite of: Jo Boyden, PR & Marketing Manager “I’ve never been a full coverage foundation girl, in fact I like to look and feel like I’m not wearing any makeup at all! This is why the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint has been a staple in my makeup kit for YEARS. I love how it glides on effortlessly, evens out my skin tone, provides perfectly light, natural coverage and immediately gives me a subtle dewy glow, making me look younger than the 45 years that I am! Plus, it is packed with antioxidant goodness including vitamins A and E, and minerals to nourish, moisturise and protect my skin. I also love to pair it with the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation for touch ups on the go and the Baked Blush in Bouquet to add a flush of colour to my cheeks.” ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation Loved by: Liane Scior, Director of Marketing & Education "While I love creating full makeup looks for special occasions and photography, when it comes to my own makeup I am a minimalist. My daily go-to base is the new Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation. I use the ELES Foundation Brush to apply it only to the areas I need coverage; around the mouth, in the nose creases and on any hyperpigmented patches that pop up from time to time. I love this base because it's lightweight yet offers good coverage that moves with my skin, it doesn't fall into fine lines and lasts well throughout the day with no need for touchups which is a bonus. When I want a more "airbrushed" look I add a light dusting of the Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light. It gives my skin a more refined texture and subtle glow that looks healthy yet natural." ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation Loved by: Elaine Palapag, Social Media Manager "My absolute favourite foundation is the ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation which literally applies as a liquid and turns into this velvety matte powder on application! I love how this foundation is full coverage but gives me a lightweight yet flawless, natural finish. What makes it even better is knowing that it's good for my skin too as it's non-comedogenic and packed with skin-loving minerals that nourish and protect. For me it really is the perfect choice for an effortless, elegant everyday look without compromising my skin's health! Occasionally if I’m out all day into the evening I will also apply a light dusting of the ELES Finishing Powder which keeps everything looking fresh and polished and complete my look with the ELES Velvet Satin Lipstick which adds just the right touch of elegance.” ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation Loved by: May Scior, Operations Assistant “I have been using the new ELES Mineral Veil Cream to Powder Foundation for a few months now and it’s definitely become my daily go-to! I love the way it feels on my skin! Unlike some foundations that can feel sticky or tacky, it’s soft, creamy and light yet covers up any imperfections perfectly leaving my skin with a flawless matte finish. I also love the fact that it’s anti-ageing thanks to its formulation of antioxidants and firming and nourishing ingredients.” ELES HD Luminous Foundation Loved by: Kellie Deveney, International Educator & Business Development Manager “I love this foundation and have been using it for a number of years now. It is the perfect medium coverage, long lasting makeup base! I love its creamy texture and soft light finish and how beautifully it blends leaving my skin with a subtle dewy glow. Plus it’s enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients so my complexion feels hydrated and healthy all day.”

Breaking out at 40 and beyond? How to fight adult acne

by Jo Boyden on Mar 14 2025

Waking to breakouts when you thought acne was behind you? Feeling frustrated but not sure what to do? Believe it or not, adult acne is more common than you think, and it can be just as frustrating, if not more, than those pesky teenage pimples we all endured! From hormonal changes and stress to skincare mistakes and environmental factors, there are a number of reasons why blemishes can return in adulthood. The good news? With the right targeted skincare routine and lifestyle changes, you can achieve clear skin once again! Keep reading as we discuss what’s causing your breakouts and, more importantly, our expert approved tips and solutions on how to treat them! Why you’re getting breakouts - the most common triggers for adult acne Unfortunately, adult acne can be caused by a number of factors, often different from the breakouts we experienced in our teens, so it’s important to try and identify your specific root cause. Everything from hormonal imbalances, stress, diet, and even the medication you might be taking can contribute to your breakouts. Here are the most common triggers: 1. Hormonal Imbalances If you are experiencing blemishes and acne in your 40’s and 50’s, chances are it could be to do with perimenopause and the menopause. And if you had a history of pimples and acne as a teenager, you’ll more likely to be susceptible to getting acne flare ups now too! Unfortunately, fluctuations in our hormones, particularly androgens (like testosterone), can increase oil production, this excess oil can then mix with bacteria, dead skin and debris leading to clogged pores and breakouts! This is why acne also often flares up around the menstrual cycle, and during pregnancy, as well as due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 2. Stress When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can stimulate oil glands and worsen acne. Stress-induced inflammation can also slow healing, making breakouts last longer. 3. Skincare & Makeup products Using the wrong skincare or makeup or simply overloading your skin with it, can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Too many products, as well as heavy, oil-based, or comedogenic products can worsen acne, while harsh cleansers can strip your skin and in turn cause it to go into overdrive and overproduce oil, which is where the cycle comes into play! 4. Diet Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods (like white bread, potatoes, rice, cereals), dairy, and processed sugars can trigger acne by increasing inflammation and oil production so if you are ingesting much of these foods it could be one reason for your increased blemishes! 5. Lifestyle It can be hard to get that 8-9 hours of sleep a night believe me! But lack of sleep, as well as other lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking alcohol and sugary drinks can and will affect your skin in one way or another and it’s usually through the increase in blemishes. 6. Environmental Factors Pollution, sweat, and even your phone screen or pillowcase can harbor bacteria that contribute to breakouts. Regularly cleaning your phone and changing pillowcases can help reduce bacteria exposure. 6. Medications Certain medications, including steroids, birth control pills, and antidepressants, can disrupt hormones or increase oil production, leading to breakouts. 7. Over-Exfoliating or Harsh Skincare Too much exfoliation or harsh acne treatments can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to more oil production and irritation, making acne worse instead of better! How to treat breakouts and adult acne 1. Cleanse gently (but effectively!) Many people with acne-prone skin make the mistake of over-cleansing or using harsh scrubs, which can strip the skin and lead to even more breakouts. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. We highly recommend Hubislab A.C Clearing Purifying Cleansing Gel. It’s a soothing gel-based cleanser which has been especially formulated (salicylic acid and powerful antioxidant green tea) for congested and acne prone skin to completely but gently clear pores, removing makeup, dirt and grime from the skin without over-drying, all whilst protecting the skin against oxidative damage. 2. Don’t skimp on moisturiser It’s a common misconception that oily or acne-prone skin doesn’t need moisture! The truth is, when your skin is dehydrated it can actually produce even more oil to over compensate, leading to further breakouts, eek! You do need to be careful about the moisturisers you choose though! When looking for the best moisturisers for acne prone skin, you’ll want to choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without clogging pores, like the ProCorrective Clear-Control Moisturiser for balancing hydration and oil control. It’s carefully selected non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) super skin-clearing, calming and hydrating ingredients (we are talking Zinc Chloride, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Cinnamon, Thyme, Mallow, Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Glycolic and Salicylic Acids, Microcitrus Australasica, a.k.a. Caviar Lime and Hyaluronic Acid!)combine to deeply target acne by rapidly clearing away blemishes and clogging, while moisturising and smoothing uneven texture. It’s so good! In fact the whole Pevonia ProCorrective line is outstanding for the management of adult acne! 3. Exfoliate regularly (but don’t overdo it!) Exfoliation is key to unclogging pores and preventing breakouts, but doing it daily can damage your skin barrier. Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs (like glycolic or salicylic acid) two times per week to keep your skin smooth and clear. We love Pevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. Do not let the name ‘peeling cream’ put you off though! Papaya and Pineapple have been selected for their enzyme peeling action, an action that gently digests away impurities, sebum, toxins and the dead skin cells, instead of abrading or burning them off. So, it’s gentle, really gentle, and it’s effective too! Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, lighter or more purified than this jar of goodness and it’s easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer on cleansed skin, wet the fingertips with warm water, this will help to “wake up” the enzymes, then leave them to do their thing for 5-10 minutes, then rinse away. 4. Spot treat your skin When a breakout appears, resist the urge to squeeze it please! And yes, I know how tempting it can be, but squeezing spots can spread bacteria and exacerbate your acne! Instead, use a targeted spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, or tea tree oil to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. 5. Manage your stress Easier said than done we know, but there are some amazing aids and coping mechanisms when it comes to stress. Try to give yourself a little “me” time. This might feel like an impossibility especially if you are a busy, working mum! But we are simply talking even a few minutes a day to soak in a bath, read your book, listen to a podcast, meditate, exercise or simply listen to music! Breathing exercises can also be game-changing and I know have seriously helped me! One of the main symptoms of perimenopause is anxiety and being in my mid 40’s I have definitely been hard hit. I find music and breathing has helped no end. I’m telling you just a little time out can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s clarity. 6. Choose your makeup wisely Heavy, oil-based foundations can clog pores and worsen acne so you’ll want to opt for non-comedogenic, breathable makeup formulas, and always remove your makeup before bed to prevent buildup and irritation! Mineral makeup is the best makeup for acne prone skin, its free from common irritants such as fragrances, preservatives, and synthetic dyes, making it less likely to cause breakouts or allergic reactions plus so many formulations are lightweight and breathable, so you literally feel like you aren’t wearing makeup (even though it will help conceal those blemishes) and will literally allow your inflamed skin to breathe and not be clogged! I know I am biased but I have been using ELES Mineral Makeup for YEARS. And I will never use anything else. I can hand on heart say their products have helped my skin, prevented me from getting spots even! I personally love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Mineral Powder Foundation, but the no. 1 ELES best-seller is the Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation, and the reviews speak volumes! All three products are mineral, filled to the brim with skin friendly, anti-ageing ingredients and do not ever clog pores! Brillant stuff. 7. Watch your diet If you are struggling with adult acne, you should try and cut down on high-glycemic foods which have been linked to acne flare-ups. Also try reducing your intake of processed sugars and dairy products. Instead eat a diet rich in antioxidants (like leafy greens, nuts, and berries) and healthy fats (like fish, avocado and unsalted nuts), and increase hydration to help balance skin. 8. Try to get enough sleep Sometimes getting that 7-9 hours of solid sleep a night can seem like an impossibility, I know! But sleep really is essential for skin health because it allows for cellular repair, collagen production, and hydration balance. During deep sleep, our body boosts blood flow to the skin, helping to reduce inflammation, prevent premature ageing, and promote a radiant complexion (crazy right?) 9. Stay kind to your skin and consistent with your routine From spots to adult acne, we know how frustrating breakouts can be! But constantly switching products can often make things worse! Remember to treat your skin with gentle, nourishing care and give products time to work their magic. Clear skin doesn’t happen overnight! Sticking to a consistent skincare routine with the right products for your skin type really is key to preventing breakouts in the long run. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can take control of adult acne and enjoy a clearer, healthier complexion, we promise!

Travel sized beauty: Compact essentials for your next holiday

by Jo Boyden on Dec 20 2024

Packing for a getaway I know, can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to fitting your beauty routine into a carry-on (and I personally love to pack everything but the kitchen sink when heading on holidays!) Well to save the stress, and to help streamline the packing process, we have rounded up the best travel-sized beauty essentials that we promise will keep you looking and feeling fabulous wherever you might be headed this holiday season! From multi-tasking skincare saviours to compact makeup must-haves, these mini-sized heroes are perfect for saving space! Keep reading for the ultimate compact essentials for your travel bag. 1. Pevonia Flight Essentials Kit This kit really is the ultimate travel companion! Each product in the kit (which includes a gentle cleanser, a hydrating and soothing facial mist, a dry oil body moisturiser, eye cream, eye gel and anti-ageing moisturiser), work together to maintain your skin’s health and radiance! The carefully curated set is designed to combat the dehydrating effects of travel, keeping your skin refreshed, hydrated, and glowing from head to toe! All the products in the kit are 50ml and under and come packed in a sleek cosmetics pouch so you can easily fit it into your carry on and use as you need during or after your flight! Game-changing! 2. BC Starter Kits No matter your skin type BC have an essential starter kit for you! Full of best sellers each pack comes with 3 or 4 travel sizes for convenience while building your perfect skincare routine. From anti-ageing kits to kits for dry, dull, sensitive, combination, rosacea and blemished skin, we couldn’t recommend these kits more, but a real favourite of ours, for thirsty, ageing skin, is the Pevonia Power Repair Starter Kit. It includes 3 x 50ml travel essentials including the best-selling Age Correction Hydrating Toner, Age Correction Hydrating Cleanser, and Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream! 3. Vie Collection Vita C Concentrated Solution A good vitamin c serum can be game-changing for skin all year round, but if you’re heading on holidays for some sun and sangria, or simply staying put and enjoying the warmer weather at home, it’s an important step to incorporate into your morning skincare routine since vitamin c helps protect your skin from UV rays and pollution. This is because this powerful antioxidant neutralizes free radicals, brightens skin and boosts collagen production and we can’t get enough of Vie Collections Vita C Concentrated Solution! It almost immediately revitalizes skin restoring its original radiance and luminosity, oh and it enhances skin tone and texture too! Another firm vitamin C favourite of ours and many of the BC customers is Pevonia’s Optimal C Complexe with Oxyzomes 4. Hubislab Moisture Max Hyaluron Complex 65% Ampoule While we can’t get enough of a good vitamin c serum in the morning, if your skin is feeling parched after a day at the beach, a deeply nourishing serum to rehydrate skin is a must! Hubislab’s outstanding complex serum combines hyaluronic acid, collagen and rosa centifolia flower water to quite literally blast skin with intensive moisture restoring elasticity and balance while protecting skin cells from free radical damage. It’s outstanding! 5. ELES Radiant BB Cream 30 with Blue Light Protection Who doesn’t love a BB Cream (AKA Beauty Balm) it’s a multi-tasking masterpiece which primes, tints, corrects and protects skin and the ELES Radiance BB Cream is no exception! This best-seller should be your go-to beauty essential when on holidays because let’s face it who wants a full face of makeup when they are sipping cocktails by the pool or seeing the sights in the sun! Not only does it contain high factor SPF for sun protection, it protects your skin against the harsh effects of blue light damage (emitted from the sun and your digital devices) and if you’re like me your be guilty of doing a bit of phone scrolling these holidays! This tinted cream melts into the skin to cover blemishes for a unified dewy, and visibly radiant complexion too! What’s more, it has the added skincare benefits of hyaluronic, vitamin e, squalane and a multi-mineral complex too! Plus, it feels like you aren’t wearing makeup either! Amazing stuff. 6. ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light You might be going somewhere which involves sun, sea and sand these holidays but it’s still essential to be sun smart. Instead of getting that sun kissed glow from well laying in the sun (which we all know isn’t good for our skin), arm yourself with the ELES Baked Finishing Power in Diffused Light. This compact multi-tasking essential which acts as your power, bronzer and highlighter will have your skin glowing in a matter of seconds. 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” healthy glow. 7. ELES Sheet Masks Perfectly compact, sheet masks are perfect for a pampering pick-me-up! They are a great way to provide your skin with a big boost of hydration, nourishment and other skincare benefits, plus they are so quick and easy to use (unlike most cream masks). ELES Sheet Masks come in 4 options from calming and soothing to hydrating and brightening and I promise you’ll love the way your skin will lap up the moisture from the mask leaving it cool, calm, deeply nourished and visibly refreshed.Not familiar with sheet masks? For everything you need to know click here.

Summer skin: 9 beauty essentials you need

by Jo Boyden on Dec 13 2024

Summer is here! and with it comes the sun, the sea (for some of us) outdoor adventures, and well, the inevitable battle against the heat, humidity, and sun damage, so it’s important to be armed with a few must-have beauty essentials to keep skin radiant, protected and refreshed all season long. From multitasking face products to nourishing body care, we’ve rounded up BCs best summer beauty buys to add to your summer skincare routine. Broad-spectrum sunscreen: Your skin’s best defence The golden rule of summer skincare is sunscreen, and it should be non-negotiable. A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy formula to avoid clogged pores. Must-Try: Hubislab Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF50+ PA+++ This amazing multi-tasking sun block provides complete UV and antioxidant protection for ageing or stressed-out skin! Its non-irritating, has an SPF of 50+ and protects the skin against UV radiation, preventing dryness, dullness and signs of premature ageing including hyperpigmentation. Rich in peptides and collagen it keeps skin nourished, healthy and elastic and the invisible matte formula applies smoothly and stays on all day. With zinc oxide as its main ingredient, there is zero irritation, so it is ideal for all skin types including those with extremely sensitive and/or ageing skin. N.B Don’t forget to reapply every two hours when outdoors, especially after swimming or sweating! Lightweight moisturiser for hydration Even in humid weather, your skin needs hydration! But you need to be mindful to not overdo it on the rich, nourishing creams as these can lead to clogged pores, inflammation and even acne in some cases! Its best to switch up your moisturiser for a more lightweight, oil-free formulation to keep your skin hydrated and dewy without feeling greasy. I currently can’t get enough of Phytomer Hydracontinue Radiance Energizing Cream. Thanks to its beautifully lightweight texture, it helps keep that outer layer of skin perfectly nourished without feeling too heavy. Rich in vitamins, it revitalizes, activates your skin’s cellular activity to promote natural regrowth, hydrates, softens and smooths skin for a radiant youthful appearance. A Brightening Vitamin C Serum In 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, brighten your complexion, improve the appearance of fine lines and help with collagen production too! Our skincare go-to: Pevonia Optimal C Complex It's outstanding! The citrus scent is divine and just two pumps equal radiant looking skin instantaneously. Oh, and it feels a-mazing too thanks to its combination of vitamin c and hydrating powerhouse hyaluronic which quite literally drenches skin with repairing antioxidants. Layer a few drops on your skin before moisturising. Heaven. A cooling face mist for instant refreshment Beat the summer heat with a refreshing face mist! A refreshing facial mist is a lifesaver on hot, humid days. It hydrates your skin, sets your makeup, and can help soothe sunburned skin. Look for mists with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. These spritzes not only cool you down but also provide an instant hydration boost, soothe irritation, and give your skin a dewy glow. We LOVE: Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist Pro Tip: Keep your mist in the fridge for an extra cooling effect! Exfoliating Scrub for Smooth skin While sunscreen is imperative and excess oil from sweating is a given, both can do a number on your pores! Cue exfoliation. It’ll help unclog unwanted debris from pores which in turn reduces the chances of blemishes. Just be sure not to overdo it though (use once or twice weekly at the most) and it’s best to steer clear if you are sunburned and allow skin to naturally heal. Must-Try: Phytomer Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream Featuring two organic gentle exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, combined with orange water, oligomer and Cyfolia algae, this beautifully gentle exfoliator immediately clears debris and dull, dead skin to reveal a softer, smoother and more radiant complexion. Self-Tanner for a safe summer glow Let’s face it we all want a gorgeously golden tan but without the sun damage! This is where self-tanners are a must! They really do give you that natural sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV exposure. 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 and choose gradual formulas for a natural finish. Must-Try: Phytomer Sun Radiance Self-Tanning Cream 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. After sun treatment Too much sun can result in itchy, irritated or sun burnt skin. An after-sun gel is a summer essential as it soothes and hydrates skin exposed to the sun, reducing redness, inflammation, and dryness. Enriched with cooling and restorative ingredients like aloe vera and water Lily, it helps repair UV damage, prolong your tan, and keep your skin calm, refreshed, and glowing all season long. Highly recommended: Pevonia After Sun Soothing Gel It is the perfect after sun skin remedy. It is a beautifully refreshing gel which literally soothes, cools and comforts the skin immediately. Water Lily extract and proline combine to decrease skin’s temperate, gently alleviating sun sensitive skin. Rich body cream for soft, smooth skin A rich body moisturiser really is another essential go-to in summer to combat dehydration from sun exposure, heat, and frequent swimming. It replenishes lost moisture, prevents dryness, and maintains your skin’s softness and elasticity. Our favourite: Pevonia De-Ageing Body Balm Papaya Pineapple This product might carry a hefty price tag but its for very good reason! Its literally heaven in a jar. The gorgeous subtle summer scent quite literally takes you on a tropical beach escape! But more importantly it has a beautifully luxurious rich and silky texture that quite literally envelopes skin While its formulation is packed with nourishing ingredients, from microemulsified Shea Butter, to Collagen and Elastin Polypeptides, Tegospheres with Retinol, Pomegranate, and other anti-ageing tropical fruit extracts to quite literally smooth, firm, tone and brighten skin almost instantly! Waterproof makeup for long-lasting wear Sweat and water can wreak havoc on your makeup in the summer so its best to switch to waterproof formulas for mascara, eyeliner, and long-lasting foundation formulations to keep your look intact, and introduce (if you haven’t already) a primer! You’ll wish you had earlier! Try: ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer Humidity and hot weather tend to stimulate the production of sebum, leading to more oil on the skin! This primer not only keeps makeup in place all day long, it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking flawless! Genius! With these 9 summer beauty essentials, you really can maintain a radiant, healthy glow while protecting your skin from the challenges of the season.

12 steps to minimise large pores: Your ultimate guide

by Jo Boyden on Dec 06 2024

If you’re one of the many blessed with oily skin, you might find your struggling with large pores too, especially as the weather is heating up and oil production can go into overdrive! That said, large pores are one of the most common (and searched) skin concerns affecting people of all ages and skin types (not just oily skin). They can make your skin appear uneven, textured, or oily, leaving many of us wondering what exactly is causing them and how we can reduce their size stat! Keep reading as we reveal the reasons behind your large pores and, more importantly, how you can minimize their appearance with targeted products and expert tips too! So, why do you have large pores? Believe it or not there are actually many reasons your pores might be a lot larger than you’d like! Excess oil production Pores are essential for releasing oil (sebum) to keep your skin moisturised. However, overactive sebaceous glands can cause pores to stretch, making them appear larger. Oily skin types are particularly prone to this issue. Clogged pores When oil mixes with dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells, it can clog pores, causing them to expand. This can lead to blackheads and a bumpy skin texture Loss of collagen and elastin As you age, your skin loses collagen and elastin, which are responsible for keeping it firm and tight. With less support, pores may appear more prominent. Sun damage Prolonged exposure to UV rays breaks down collagen and thickens the skin, stretching out pores over time. Genetics Yes you can thank your parents for those unruly large pores of yours! Your skin type and pore size are largely determined by your genetics. If your family has visible pores, chances are you will too. Improper skincare routine Using the wrong skincare products or skipping essential steps like cleansing can exacerbate the appearance of enlarged pores. How to minimize large pores While you can’t actually change your pore size completely (thanks to genetics), you can take steps to minimize their appearance and achieve a smoother, healthier-looking complexion; 1. Cleanse thoroughly Keeping your pores clean really is the first step to minimising their appearance. This means using a gentle cleanser specific to your skin type both morning and night to effectively remove oil, dirt, sunscreen and makeup. If your skin is combination to oily, it’s best to opt for gel or foaming cleaners, if your skin tends to be on the sensitive side, there are some amazing sensitive skin cream cleansers for that too! Specific ingredients will make a big difference to the appearance of your pore size too. Cleansers formulated with AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) such as Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid, and/or BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids) such as Salicylic acid can make all the difference! While all four acids exfoliate on a cellular level, Glycolic, Citric and Lactic works on a more surface level to brighten and smooth your skin, whereas Salicylic Acid penetrates much deeper to effectively remove dead skin cells clogged in pores. We highly recommend Vie Collection Cleansing Gel with Glycolic, Lactic and Salicylic Acids. This foaming cleansing gel combines glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to stimulate cellular activity, break the intercellular glue between dead cells and thoroughly cleanse skin. Remember harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing your pores to become larger so do consider which cleaner is right for your skin! 2. Exfoliate Regularly When it comes to large pores, exfoliation is paramount! You want to ensure pores are unclogged to prevent further stretching, and exfoliating effectively removes dead skin cells and prevents pore-clogging buildup. Try Pure Balance Papaya Enzyme Peeling Wash. This plant enzyme-based deep cleanser formulated with natural papaya extract dissolves easily in cold water and eliminates dead skin cells without irritation, breaking down proteins to produce peptone, which washes away dirt and sebum within the pores without irritation. Tip: Exfoliate 1–3 times per week based on your skin type. 3. Incorporate retinol into your routine Believe me when I say retinol is a game-changer for pore refinement. A good retinol serum will boost cell turnover and collagen production, which tightens the skin around pores. Just remember though if you haven’t used retinol before you’ll want to introduce it slowly and at night to avoid any irritation. For more information on retinol click here. 4. Use Clay Masks Who doesn’t love a good mask and clay masks are no exception. In fact clay masks will absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from pores when applied. For a real deep clean use your clay mask once or twice a week. And look for masks that specifically have kaolin or bentonite clay. We love Phytomer CityLife Radiance Reviving Mask This unique cream-mousse mask instantly counters dehydration, signs of fatigue, dark spots and enlarged pores. Combining 100% natural red and white clays, blue microalgae, red algae and a comprehensive depolluting complex of 3 marine sugars, it reveals luminosity, radiance and refined pores after just one application! 5. Hydrate Wisely Dehydrated skin can overcompensate by producing more oil, in turn worsening the appearance of your pores! Be sure to use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers rich in hyaluronic acid, not heavy, greasy creams that could potentially clog your pores. We love: Hubislab Moisture Max Hydro Cream. It’s a powerful, fast-acting moisturiser that quickly locks in hydration while soothing skin. Formulated with a unique blend of hyaluronic compounds that work to form a protective moisture barrier, its lightweight texture provides a primer-like finish without any greasiness! 6. Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen UV damage breaks down collagen and makes pores look larger so you need to be armed with a good broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply every single morning. Try to minimise sun exposure too and always wear a hat! 7. Use pore-minimizing products As well as your hydrating moisturiser and retinol serum, we recommend you invest in products specifically designed to refine pores too like Pevonia’s Age Correction Micro-Pores Refine Cream. it’s a mattifying treatment cream that minimizes pores by combining cutting-edge natural actives like red clover extract and retinol to regulate oil production and refine skin texture. This lightweight cream also hydrates while delivering antioxidants, leaving your skin smoother, balanced, and visibly clearer with regular use. 8. Avoid squeezing or picking pimples from clogged pores It’s tempting to squeeze clogged pores, but this can damage the skin and make pores appear larger. Use proper skincare tools or visit a professional for extractions. 9. Use a primer before applying makeup A good primer will become your lifeline if you are prone to enlarged pores. Not only will it stop your foundation from sliding off your face quite literally, it’ll keep your base smooth while reducing the appearance of pores (and fine lines!) if you are a sufferer of oily skin and pores on the, let’s say slightly larger side! Our recommended go-to is the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. It’s oil-free (of course), perfectly lightweight and seems to combat shine almost instantly. It contains a natural Dermat Complex which enables it to absorb oil and effectively reduce pore size in one hit. 10. Choose your makeup wisely Unfortunately, our makeup can make pores seem bigger than they actually are. Products like our powders and foundation can settle into our pores over the course of the day, making them appear larger, so your best bet because, let’s face it we aren’t going to want to forego our miraculous makeup, is opt for mineral products! A huge benefit of using mineral makeup is that it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores! We love ELES Cosmetics range of mineral formulations. Try the best-selling Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation or if you’re a lover of powder foundations we highly recommend the Mineral Powder Foundation. 11. Give professional treatments a go if you are really concerned about your pore size, professional in-salon treatments can deliver dramatic results. Treatments such as chemical peels exfoliate intensively and deeply to unclog and refine pores. Microneedling boosts collagen production for firmer, smoother skin. And laser therapy reduces oil production and tightens skin. 12. Be Consistent Achieving smoother skin takes time. Stick to a routine and give products time to work, remember consistency is key to long-term improvement! While you can’t change your pore size, you can control how they look by keeping them clean, unclogged, and supported with the right skincare routine. With a mix of at-home care and professional treatments, your pores can go from prominent to practically invisible.

10 Makeup tips to beat the heat

by Jo Boyden on Dec 05 2024

Summer is finally here! and if you’re anything like me you’ll be loving the longer sunny days, but with sunny days comes rising temperatures and let’s face the last thing any of us want is our carefully applied makeup melting away by mid-morning! The good news is you don’t need to forgo your daily makeup routine this time of year, you might just need to tweak it since the key to staying flawless lies in the right techniques and products you’re using! Keep reading as we reveal BC expert-approved tips to keep your makeup sweat-proof, smudge-free and picture-perfect all day long…seriously. Prep skin for long-lasting makeup! The secret to long-lasting makeup begins with your skincare routine. And yes, you might be loving the products you’ve been using for months now, but you may find they’ll start to be a little too rich for your skin as the weather heats up. In summer, it’s best to switch to lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without feeling heavy. If your skin tends to get a little oily in summer due to the humidity you can also look for mattifying or gel-based formulas to control excess oil. Also, because I don’t say it enough, do not skip on your sunscreen. You just need to opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ that doesn’t feel oily and will protect your skin while acting as a barrier under your makeup. Try: Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield The one and only reason why so many people are reluctant to use sunscreen (despite knowing how important it is) is because they can’t stand the oily slick on their skin or the obvious sunscreen smell. Well with this outstanding tinted formulation there is no thick white paste, oily residue or unruly smell in sight! It feels like a lightweight moisturiser, smells divine, is loaded with anti-ageing goodies and it won’t cause itchiness thanks to its mineral formulation including both zinc and iron oxides. Very slightly tinted (though most of the tint disappears once it’s absorbed) it leaves your skin looking smoother and calmer. Oh and it protects skin against not only UVA and UVB rays (yes it provides skin with broad spectrum protection) but pollution and blue light damage omitted from our screens too! What’s more the formula is reef-safe and works for all skin types and tones too! Its outstanding! Prime for perfection Primer is your best friend in hot weather. Trust me. People often forget to prime their skin but I’m here to tell you a good primer not only creates a beautifully smooth base for your makeup, helping it to stay put all day long, but it can also enhance the pigmentation of your makeup while targeting specific skin concerns! Be sure to choose a mattifying primer for oily skin or a hydrating primer if your skin tends to feel dehydrated and dry in the heat and simply apply it after you’ve cleansed and moisturised your skin and prior to your foundation and you’ll be good to go all day long! Try: ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer This primer is our go-to! 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! Choose lightweight formulas when it comes to your foundation You might love your full coverage foundation, but sadly heavy foundations and heat don’t mix well. We recommend swapping your full-coverage foundation for a lightweight alternative like a tinted moisturizer, BB cream, or if matte is your formula opt for a breathable matte foundation, mineral is best. All these products will even out your skin tone without clogging pores or feeling cakey. Try: Mineral Sheer Tint For warm summer days, or those days when you want a no-makeup makeup look or don’t feel like wearing much makeup at all, this sheer tint is a winner. It offers a light, breathable coverage while providing sun protection. The mineral-based formula is gentle on the skin, making it perfect for everyday wear. Try: ELES Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation For a beautifully flawless, matte finish, this best-selling breathable mineral foundation should be your go-to! It starts as a liquid and transforms into a velvety powder finish, providing the perfect balance between coverage and lightweight wear. It's enriched with vitamins A, C and E, making it ideal for those who want a foundation that cares for their skin and provide antioxidant, UVA and UVB protection. N.B If you need extra coverage because you’re concerned about blemishes, use a spot concealer only where necessary. Opt for creamy-based products Matte powder products can sometimes cake and settle into fine lines in humid conditions. Instead, go for cream-based or baked blushes, bronzers, and highlighters. These formulas blend seamlessly into the skin and give you a natural, dewy glow that lasts. Try: ELES Baked Blush, Bronzer and Finishing Powders This trio will highlight and contour while adding instant radiance to the face with soft, highly pigmentated creamy textured formulas. Lock in your look While cream products are ideal for a natural look, a touch of translucent setting powder is key to locking your makeup base in place. Focus on oil-prone areas like your T-zone to prevent shine without over-powdering your face. Try: Try ELES HD Translucent Powder This loose setting powder doubles as a photo filter, blurring the appearance of pores, uneven texture and imperfections for an air-brushed, soft-focus effect on the skin. It provides sheer, natural coverage without any “caking” to lock in your look, plus it reduces the appearance of shine too thanks to its formulation of 100% mineral silica powder, perfect for absorbing that unwanted excess oil! And that’s not all! Using silica topically will also improve skin’s elasticity, texture and hydration, reducing visible signs of ageing over time. Oh, and it’s vegan, gluten free, paraben free, sulphate free and talc free! Win, win, win in our books! Waterproof is the only way to go Waterproof and smudge-proof formulas are essential for summer, after all no one likes to look in the mirror at the end of the day and be confronted by horrendous panda eyes! From mascara and eyeliner to brow gels, these products resist sweat and humidity, ensuring your features stay defined all day! For mascara try: ELES Lash Fortify Waterproof Mascara The ergonomic brush and fortifying formula coats lashes to quickly lengthen, curl, volumize and lock them into place for all day wear. The result is instantly impressive eyes with lashes that are lusciously conditioned and protected all day long! For eyeliner try: ELES Superwear Gel Liner This eyeliner is not only super smooth to apply thanks to its moisturising and hydrating ingredients, but it’s also a long-wearing liner with intense colour pay-off! For eyebrow pencil try: ELES Precision Brow Pencil It’s easy to blend formula last for up to 10 hours and creates polished, better defined and filled in brows! Use Setting Spray A good setting spray is like an invisible shield for your makeup. Choose one with hydrating properties and spritz it over your finished look to keep everything in place—even through sweat and heat. Try: Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist This beautifully nourishing spray is a multi-tasking wonder, not only rehydrating skin with a burst of hyaluronic but also doubling up as a setting spray to keep makeup at bay all day long. Embrace minimalism As much as many of us might like a full makeup look, it’s important to remember that less is more when it comes to summer. Keep blotting papers or a powder compact handy Even with the best products, a little shine might break through. You can either keep blotting papers in your bag or use a mineral pressed power company to quickly absorb oil without disturbing your overall makeup look. They’re both a lifesaver for touch-ups throughout the day. Try: ELES Mineral Powder Foundation It’s the perfect product for any touch-ups, as well as eliminating shine I tell you! Unlike other heavier powders which can clog pores and in turn, lead to excess oil production (no thanks!) the ELES Mineral Powder Foundation is a translucent formula which not only looks beautifully natural but allows the skin to breathe freely too. The particles in the powder tend to absorb moisture, preventing shine and 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! Cool down your makeup tools Pop your beauty blender or makeup brushes in the fridge for a few minutes before use. Applying makeup with cool tools can help reduce redness and make your application feel refreshing! Beating the heat doesn’t mean sacrificing your beauty routine. By choosing the right products and techniques, you can stay radiant and melt-proof no matter how hot it gets. Experiment with these tips to find what works best for you, and enjoy a flawless, summer-ready look all season long.

How to keep skin looking youthful: 8 skincare essentials

by Jo Boyden on Nov 08 2024

When it comes to maintaining youthful, glowing skin, choosing the right beauty products can make all the difference! While genetics and lifestyle of course play a role, your skincare routine is key to keeping signs of ageing at bay! Investing in high-quality beauty buys, packed with proven ingredients, can help to smooth, firm, and brighten your complexion, giving you that truly coveted, youthful glow. But where do you start? With so many options out there, knowing which products to choose can be a little overwhelming! That’s why we have curated a list of the most effective beauty products we know will help keep your skin looking young. Keep reading to discover our top recommendations, the anti-ageing essentials we know you’ll love. Vitamin C Serum Using a Vitamin C serum is hands down one of the best steps you can take to achieve bright, even-toned, youthful looking skin. The powerful antioxidant is known for its ability to neutralize free radicals that cause premature ageing, helping to protect your skin from environmental damage, such as sun exposure and pollution. Vitamin C also supports collagen production, which is essential for maintaining firm, youthful skin. Try; Pevonia C Complexe with Oxyzomes We can’t get enough of this best-selling serum from Pevonia! Its nourishing but beautifully light on application, has the most divine scent and is rich in not only Vitamin C but hyaluronic acid, that work together to hydrate, correct photo-damage, and drench your skin with repairing antioxidants for a revitalized, youthful appearance. “I can't say enough good things about this product! My skin looks terrific. Apparently vitamin C is one of the best things you can 'feed' your skin. My skin looks fresher and more alive. I am 63yrs old, so am thrilled to find a product that takes a few years off my face.” – Pamela Retinol Cream Retinol is a skincare superstar when it comes to anti-ageing. Aside from SPF it is the no. 1 for maintaining youthful skin. Why? Because it boosts cell turnover, reduces fine lines, and improves skin texture. Try; Medicalia Retinol & “C” Care Cream Aside from Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, Retinol has long been worshipped by beauty professionals as the hero ingredient in the fight against wrinkles! Some even say nothing fights the signs of ageing better! Designed to stimulate your skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid and collagen which depletes with age, as well as improve its overall texture, Medicalia’s Retinol & “C” Care Cream delivers potent retinol deep within the skin to enhance cellular performance. Micro Retinol micro particles, combined with anti-agers Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Elastin peptides tighten, revitalise, resurface and rehydrate skin! “This is the best product for aging skin I have ever found.” - Heather Anti-ageing moisturiser Using an anti-ageing moisturiser is key to keeping your skin hydrated, smooth, and more resilient against the signs of ageing. Unlike regular moisturisers, anti-ageing formulas are packed with active ingredients like peptides, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, which work together to target wrinkles, loss of firmness, and dullness. By deeply hydrating and plumping the skin, an anti-aging moisturiser can minimize the appearance of fine lines and create a smoother texture. Additionally, these moisturisers help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it from environmental damage and boosting elasticity. Regular use not only keeps your skin looking fresh and youthful but also helps to prevent future signs of ageing, making it an essential step in any skincare routine for long-lasting, healthy, and radiant skin! Try; Vie Collection Time Control Deep Wrinkles Firming Rich Cream Inspired by the professional benefits of EGF (Epidermal growth factor) injections to combat deep wrinkles, loss of elasticity and devitalization, this deeply nourishing cream – formulated with powerful cosmetic ingredients including EGF-like peptides and pro-collagen peptides – visibly reverses lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, lack of density and sagging of the face. “I have been using this firming cream for a month now and I can honestly say it has reduced the appearance of even my deepest wrinkles! I was even asked if I’d had botox the other day! Winning!” – Anne K Vitamin enriched mask Using a vitamin-enriched mask is a fantastic way to keep skin youthful and glowing. Vitamins like C, E, and B3 (niacinamide) are powerful antioxidants that protect skin from environmental stressors, brighten dullness, and reduce signs of ageing. These masks also infuse your skin with intense hydration and essential nutrients, boosting elasticity and promoting a healthy, radiant complexion. Regular use helps smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and maintain a fresh, revitalized look. Plus, masks are easy and effective additions to any routine, delivering concentrated benefits to keep your skin feeling its best. Try: Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin Mask This revitalizing and nourishing mask takes its inspiration from mesotherapy to visibly revitalize the skin. Its formula contains a cocktail of vitamins along with hyaluronic acid that ensure beautifully nourished, plumped and radiant skin after every application. “Another product I have been using for years, which I can’t go past! A luxurious product that just does something amazing to my skin. Skin feels plump and toned after using. A little goes a long way…” - Erin Crawford Hyaluronic rich facial mist Hydration is key to youthful skin, and hyaluronic acid is a master at retaining moisture. It plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and giving your complexion a dewy, youthful glow. Try; Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist All hail this beautiful mist rich in not only hyaluronic acid but cooling and calming chamomile, lavender, green tea and aloe too! It is heaven! Feels soo refreshing on application and really does rejuvenate skin, plump fine lines and alleviate dry and sensitive skin too. Want to maintain youthful skin? Keep this must-have in your handbag! Perfect to refreshen your skin throughout the day and apply at night for that added burst of moisture. “My skin was instantly hydrated and glowing! Plus the scent is amazing.” - Deanne Sunscreen If you don’t already know this, because I don’t tell you enough! Sunscreen is your best defence against premature ageing caused by UV rays. If you want to keep your skin looking youth, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential every day, even on cloudy days! For more information on SPF and choosing the right one for you click here. Try: Hubislab Post Rays Derma Perfect Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ -50g Non irritating, soothing and nourishing, this sunscreen not only provides complete UV and antioxidant protection, but it is also formulated with peptides and hydrolysed collagen to combat premature ageing and hyperpigmentation. The invisible matte formula applies smoothly and stays on all day! Nourishing eye cream This skin around our peepers is in fact the most delicate on our face and the first to show signs of ageing so you want to make sure you protect them just as we would the rest of your skin! Try: Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness Dark Circles Wrinkles Cream Formulated with hyaluronic acid, injectables-like peptide, Phytosterols + Fatty acids, Vitamin C and Vitamin B3! This beautifully fine cream deeply nourishes 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! I’m testament to that! For the best eye cream ingredients and more products to maintain youthful eyes click here. “This is a wonderful eye cream, it gives immediate gratification thanks to a pearlescent finish that instantly brightens the eye area and it has definitely calmed my puffiness, lightened by dark circles and even smoothed my wrinkles! It’s truly a fabulous eye cream that is well worth the price tag.” – Lisa M Antioxidant-rich night cream An antioxidant-rich night cream is a powerhouse product for maintaining youthful, resilient skin. During the night, our skin enters repair mode, making it the ideal time to deliver nourishing ingredients that help counteract the daily damage caused by environmental stressors, like UV rays and pollution, which we know leads to premature ageing. Antioxidants in your night cream, work to neutralize free radicals that accelerate ageing, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. Additionally, these potent ingredients support the skin’s natural regeneration process, promoting a smoother, brighter, and more youthful complexion by morning. With an antioxidant-rich night cream, you’re giving your skin the tools it needs to wake up looking refreshed, healthy, and radiant. Try: Vie Collection Night Balm Rich Multi-Youth Cream This new cream really is the ultimate solution for those seeking radiant, youthful skin! It’s a beautifully rich, comforting cream infused with potent peptides, vitamins and minerals, designed to deliver a visibly younger looking complexion. What really sets this product apart though is its innovative formulation backed by Vie Collections cutting edge research. It’s not just about slathering on another product, this anti-ageing night cream uses potent ingredients, coupled with the best technology to deliver powerful actives deeper into the skin for maximum efficacy making a noticeable difference to your skin by morning! Clinically proven to comfort, regenerate and firm skin while you sleep, it also addresses a multitude of other ageing concerns including sagging skin, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, dullness and dehydration! In consumer clinical testing, a whopping 88% experienced a visible reduction in wrinkles in a matter of weeks! 79% where raving about their firmer skin while 96% talked about how their skin was more luminous than ever before. Now these are the results we want to hear!

Skincare layering: How to maximize your skincare results

by Jo Boyden on Oct 18 2024

Achieving healthy, glowing skin isn’t about relying on just one miracle product, it’s about mastering the art of skincare layering! By carefully layering the right products in the correct order in your daily routine, you will not only maximise each products efficacy, you’ll achieve your best skin yet too! But how do you get it right you might be asking? With so many lotions and potions and treatments, we know mastering your skincare routine can be somewhat overwhelming, but that’s why we are here to help you build a routine that works for your skin. From cleansing to SPF, keep reading as we count down the essential steps of skincare layering and how each step plays a vital role in maintaining a truly flawless complexion. Why skincare laying is important Skincare layering isn't just another beauty trend! It's a science-backed approach to maximizing the benefits of your products. When you layer the essentials in the correct order, the lighter, thinner ones (like serums) can penetrate deeper into your skin, allowing the heavier products (like moisturisers) to seal in the benefits for maximum results. Layering also allows you to target multiple skin concerns at once, plus, it ensures you get the most out of those high-performance ingredients! Step 1: Cleanse your skin I’m sure we all know that the first step to any skincare routine is to cleanse your skin. You want to make sure you start your day (and night!) with a clean canvas! Cleansing helps remove excess oil, dirt and impurities preparing your skin for the subsequent steps. If you don’t cleanse, the products to follow will simply not work their magic as they won’t be able to penetrate your skin effectively for optimal results. You need to be savvy with which cleanser you choose though. For more information on cleansing and the best cleanser for your skin click here. Additional tips: Make sure you use warm water when cleansing, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils causing havoc. Gently pat dry when finished, you don’t want to rub your skin! And double cleansing at night can help remove stubborn sunscreen and makeup, ensuring your skin is perfectly prepped for your nighttime ritual! Step 2: Exfoliate This isn’t a step you should be doing daily as you can over exfoliate skin and cause damage. Once or twice weekly is usually sufficient. And make sure you choose a product that suits your skins specific needs. If you have sensitive skin you are best to opt for a gentle exfoliant or enzyme exfoliant which doesn’t use abrasive granules. As the name would suggest, they exfoliate using enzymes which help to break down the keratin in the skin's upper layers, which helps lift off dead skin cells. The enzymes literally digest the dead skin on your face!! No matter what your skin type, you are going to fall in love with Pevonia’s Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream, one of our favourites at BC! 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. Remember like cleansing, exfoliating will help remove oil, dirt and impurities from your skin but by penetrating deeper into the pores. Exfoliating will slough away dead cells revealing the newer cells underneath for a smoother and brighter complexion. Step 3. Don’t forget to tone! A toner is often a step that many of us miss from our routine, but it really is a key step as it helps balance your skin's pH after cleansing. A good toner will remove any lingering impurities or makeup, and prep your skin for the next steps. Toners can also provide hydration, minimize the appearance of pores, and improve the absorption of serums and moisturisers! Additional tips: If you have sensitive skin exfoliating after toner may be gentler and less likely to cause irritation. The same goes for dry skin, exfoliating after toner can help remove dead skin cells without over-drying your skin. Also when searching for the right toner, look for ones with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or soothing agents like rosewater. Hands down one of our favourites when it comes to skin toning is Phytomer's Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion. It’s perfect for all skin types and ensures any leftover signs of residual makeup or oil is completely removed to reveal what I would describe as perfectly clean, glowing skin! Oh and its formulated with rosewater! We also highly recommend Pevonia’s best-selling Hydrating Toner. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice, and Vitamin E, it works to hydrate, revive and fully refresh the skin. Great for anyone with worried about ageing, dehydration or devitalised skin. Step 4: Apply a serum Ask any skincare expert and they’ll tell you that a really, really good serum is an imperative step in your daily skincare routine. In fact, these treatment powerhouses packed with active ingredients address specific skin issues more effectively than both moisturisers and lotions because they are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper into the skin and effectively deliver maximum results. Their job is to literally repair the skin at a cellular level and act on a wide range of skin concerns like fine lines, dark spots, dullness, rosacea and more! in fact there is a serum for every skin type and condition! Additional tips: We love a good vitamin C serum in the morning as it will not only brighten you skin but it’s the perfect product to protect against free radical damage and using a retinol serum at night will boost cell turnover and fight ageing. Just remember if you’re layering multiple serums (which is ok too), apply the water-based ones first, followed by oil-based serums. For more information on the multiple benefits of serums and our anti-ageing favourites for every skin type click here Step 5: Lock it in with moisturiser We ALL know moisturising is crucial to keeping our skin hydrated, but moisturisers also act as a sealant to lock in the benefits of that serum you just applied! And remember moisturiser is a must for all skin types, even if you have oily or combination skin! Simply use a lightweight oil free moisturiser or lotion for oily skin, or a rich cream if your skin tends to be dry. Same applies for other skin conditions or concerns, choose the right moisturiser suited to your specific needs. Additional tips: Moisturisers with hyaluronic acid are especially great at pulling moisture into the skin, giving you that plump, glowing look we all love! Step 6: Do not forget your eyes! The delicate skin around your eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so be sure to treat this area with love and care as you do the rest of your face! But using your everyday face moisturiser will not suffice. Eye treatments whether it be creams, gels or serums are specifically formulated to target and care for the delicate area around the eyes, the thinnest layer of skin on our entire bodies! In fact, the skin under our eyes is up to 1/10 thinner than other facial skin so it’s crucial to care delicately for this area to avoid any damage. Like a moisturiser, an eye cream’s main objective is to deliver brightening and anti-ageing ingredients, however in a milder, gentler, safer dose. Moisturisers tend to have a much richer consistency in comparison to their counterpart which if applied under the eyes can prove too much, resulting in irritation, allergic reactions and milia. Eye creams also tend to be targeted to specific eye concerns such as crow’s feet, under eye bags and dark circles. Additional tips: Using an eye cream packed with peptides, caffeine, or hyaluronic acid can help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. We highly recommend Pevonia Age Correction Eye Contour. It gives tired, ageing eyes the burst of hydration they need! Deeply nourishing and decongesting thanks to its combination of marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, green tea and marine elastin, it targets signs of fatigue, visibly reducing puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. What more could you want? If you prefer the feeling of a cooling eye gel to soothe and depuff your peepers though we also LOVE Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel. Anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo Biloba work together to deliver not only decongesting and brightening benefits but they also affectively target dark circles and wrinkles too! The results speak for themselves. Renewed, rejuvenated, refreshed and visibly brighter eye contour with visible reduction in wrinkles. Step 7: Now it’s time for your SPF! (Morning only) The last and arguably most important step in your morning routine is SPF. The non-negotiable! Why? Because sun exposure is the number one cause of premature ageing, from fine lines and wrinkles to hyperpigmentation, so protecting your skin from UV rays is crucial. Just be sure to opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen (to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, with at least SPF 30. Additional tip: If you’re using a product like retinol at night, SPF is even more important during the day, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. And even if you're indoors or it's cloudy, UV rays can still affect your skin. Step 8: Get masking Face masks can offer many physical and therapeutic benefits, from hydrating your complexion to improving the appearance of pores, to creating an overall sense of wellbeing and relaxation, but first and foremost masks provide cleansing on a deep deep level benefiting your skin in multiple ways. Don’t get me wrong your daily cleansing is imperative to your skincare routine, but applying a mask once or twice a week takes this process to a whole new level by removing any remaining makeup, excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities on the skin’s surface as well as beneath the upper layers of the epidermis. By removing the dirt and bacteria from deep inside your skin, face masks will refine pores, they can also help to stimulate blood circulation causing the blood vessels to expand. The result is softer skin with greater elasticity and a glow that’s instantly noticeable. Yes, please! For the best face masks for every skin concern click here. Step 9: Use a nighttime treatment At night, you have the chance to truly pamper your skin with a face oil. These can be added a couple of times a week to give your skin an extra boost of hydration, or repair, depending on your needs. Think of them as a way to supercharge your routine! Using a face oil at night helps lock in moisture, repair the skin barrier, and nourish your skin while you sleep. Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, face oils boost hydration, smooth fine lines, and leave your skin radiant and rejuvenated by morning. For more on the benefits of face oils and the best ones for your skin click here. Skincare layering might seem like an art, but once you understand the steps and how to combine them, it becomes second nature. The best part? As you refine your routine, you’ll start seeing the results you want! We are talking healthier, more radiant skin that looks and feels its best.

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