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Menopause and your skin: The effects and the best solutions

Menopause and your skin: The effects and the best solutions

by Jo Boyden on Oct 11 2024
If you’re perimenopausal (or perhaps you’ve already reached the menopause), you’ll likely feeling it’s effects. Your body is going through changes, your hormones are out of sync and your skincare routine that once worked wonders is now having little to no effect! But why is this you may be thinking? We all know Menopause is a natural part of ageing, but some of the changes it brings can be somewhat of a surprise – especially when it comes to our skin! From unexpected dryness to deep set wrinkles, keep reading as we discuss exactly how the menopause affects our skin and the best solutions to care for it.   So what exactly happens to your skin during perimenopause and menopause? During perimenopause and menopause, your skin starts to undergo noticeable changes due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in estrogen levels.   Common Skin Concerns During Menopause Wrinkles and sagging skin Estrogen stimulates collagen production, which keeps skin firm and plump. As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause, collagen production starts to dramatically decrease, leading to thinning skin, sagging, and more pronounced, deeper wrinkles especially around the mouth, eyes and neck! Reduced elasticity Along with collagen loss, elastin fibers—responsible for skin's elasticity—also break down, resulting in looser, less resilient skin. Increased dryness Estrogen also helps regulate the skin’s moisture levels by boosting natural oil production. As this decreases, your skin may become drier, rougher, tighter and more prone to irritation. It may also become more sensitive to products that once felt fine. Thinning skin As estrogen levels drop, and therefore with less collagen and moisture the skin’s protective barrier weakens, causing it to thin and making it more fragile and prone to bruising, sensitivity, and damage. Age spots Hormonal changes combined with years of sun exposure can exacerbate pigmentation issues resulting in the appearance of more age spots or dark patches, particularly on the face, hands, and chest. Slower cell turnover The rate at which your skin regenerates, slows down, leading to a dull, uneven complexion and a buildup of dead skin cells. These changes can affect your overall skin texture and appearance, but the right skincare routine can help manage and improve these concerns. Blemishes Pimples and breakouts are surprisingly common as you approach the menopause transition. And if you had a history of acne as a teenager, you’ll more susceptible to getting acne flare ups around the menopause too! This typically happens due to fluctuations in hormone levels. As estrogen levels decrease, the effects of male sex hormones called androgens increase. Androgens increase the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. This excess oil can then mix with bacteria, dead skin and debris to clog pores resulting in breakouts! The best skincare tips and products for perimenopausal and menopausal skin Perimenopausal and menopausal skin requires extra care due to hormonal changes that affect its texture, hydration, and elasticity. Here are some of the best skincare tips and products to keep your skin healthy and radiant during this phase!   Hydration is key As estrogen levels drop, your skin produces less natural oil, leading to dryness. To combat this you need to use a rich, hydrating moisturiser. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. Solution: We highly recommend Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. This Pevonia global best-seller and beautifully nourishing cream is not only rich in ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid but collagen too! Deeply hydrating, it rejuvenates skin, replenishing vital nutrients while softening fine lines and wrinkles. It’s so good! Boost collagen production Loss of collagen and elastin leads to sagging and wrinkles. To promote collagen synthesis you’ll want to use products rich in retinol and or peptides: Retinol increases cell turnover and collagen production, while peptides help stimulate collagen to improve firmness. Solution: Hailed the anti-ageing wonder serum, Medicalia's Retinol Concentrate is designed to normalize and boost cellular performance with Micro-Retinol technology. Ideal for all mature skin types or as preventative care, the serum helps improve elasticity, plump the skin and diminish the look of wrinkles, resulting in a brighter, more evenly toned complexion. Protect from UV damage Menopausal skin is more prone to sun damage, which can lead to age spots and further loss of elasticity so youll need to be sure that you are religious about applying broad-spectrum SPF daily. Make sure you choose at least SPF 30 to prevent further UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Solution: From Hubislab's Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF50+ PA+++ to Vie Collection's Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF 30 find out all about SPF protection and the best one for you here. Gentle exfoliation is a must When youre going through the perimenopause and menopause cell turnover starts to really slow down, leading to dull, uneven skin. Regular exfoliation is therefore essential as it helps slough off dead skin cells to reveal new hidden ones underneath! Just make sure you opt for chemical exfoliants. AHAs (like glycolic acid) or BHAs (like salicylic acid) will gently exfoliate without irritating sensitive skin. Solution: Pevonia Renewing Glycocides Cream. Combining glycolic acid with hydration hero hyaluronic acid, this exfoliating treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Skin resurfaces soother, brighter and younger…seriously. Strengthen the skin barrier Another symptom of menopause is thinner more fragile skin so it's crucial to keep the barrier strong. Use products with ceramides and niacinamide as these ingredients help repair and strengthen the skin barrier, reducing irritation and sensitivity. Solution: We can’t get enough of Vie Collection's Serum De Vie - High Performance Youth Concentrate! For those serious about combating the signs of ageing, this powerful, beautifully nourishing serum is a game-changer. Its advanced formula works at a cellular level to protect skin cells while targeting fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and hyperpigmentation, helping to restore a youthful, firm and smooth complexion. With its powerful blend of antioxidants and peptides, it helps to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity while niacinamide slows the transfer of melanin to key parts of the skin to fade the look of dark spots and age spots. It’s the ultimate weapon in your anti-ageing arsenal, believe me! Fight hyperpigmentation Hormonal changes can increase pigmentation issues, leading to age spots. To help this you need to use brightening serums with Vitamin C or niacinamide: These ingredients help fade dark spots and brighten the skin. Solution: Phytomer Oligoforce Lumination Targeted Dark Spot Mask with Vitamin B3 (rich in Niacinamide) This sheet mask soaked with a lotion enriched with Vitamin B3 visibly smoothes, plumps and evens skin tone after each application. Day after day, wrinkles are reduced, dark spots faded and skin tone evened out.  When it comes to Vitamin C (paired with niacinamide) , our absolute favourite is Derma Max Vitamin-C Complex 50% Ampoule. This perfectly nourishing Vitamin C based brightening complex helps reduce discolouration and lighten skin tone. Paired with niacinamide, it prevents the formation of hyperpigmentation and reduces melanin production. The result, brighter, more even skin!   Soothe with anti-inflammatory ingredients Menopausal skin can become more sensitive and prone to redness or irritation so try incorporating calming ingredients. Look for products with aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation. Solution: Hubislab Post Rays Chamomile Complex 70% Ampoule. We have tried and tested this powerhouse product ourselves and are here to tell you just how good it really is! Firstly it’s deeply nourishing and soothing at the same time. It feels like silk when applied to the skin and it instantaneously calms irritation. It’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and we love that it purifies, protects and strengthens too, thanks to its outstanding cocktail of 70% Chamomile combined with other natural soothing ingredients.   Use night treatments Nighttime is when your skin repairs itself, making it a crucial time to use targeted treatments. Solution: Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream. Sometimes the moisturiser we use in the day isn’t quite enough at night. This is when a night cream is a great option! At night, our skin goes into repair and regeneration mode so a richer night cream can make all the difference. In fact, a good night cream will not only sooth and calm skin while you sleep, but also deliver lasting moisture while addressing common skin concerns such as moisture loss and skin ageing! They also help in the skin repair and renewal process by improving cell turnover! The Phytomer Night Recharge is a beautiful rich textured cream which literally cocoons skin while restoring youthful vitality with a nourishing blend of active marine botanicals, alpha hydroxy acids and conditioning oils.   Be armed with treatment creams for blemish and acne flare ups Following a specific skincare routine can really help to keep acne at bay.  By using a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser, and targeted treatments, you can make all the difference to your skin. Some spot treatments can work wonders at reducing, and in some cases eliminating, unwanted blemishes overnight. This is because they encourage rapid healing by controlling bacteria, reducing inflammation and diminishing the follicular accumulation of keratin. For the most effective results look for spot treatments formulated with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. We highly recommend Phytomer's Oligopur Blemish Target Gel as the best spot treatment! It targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Simply apply a small amount of product to your pimples and let the powerful ingredients keep your skin follicles clean to achieve an even and bright complexion by morning. Also, don't forget sunscreen – it's like armour for your skin, yes even for those of us with acne! And I know it sounds counterintuitive, slathering sunscreen all over acne flareups but believe me when I say avoiding sunscreen can worsen the appearance of acne, and if the skin gets sunburnt, the symptoms of acne can be painfully exasperated. Just be sure to choose your sunscreen wisely. Using the right sunscreen can prevent and heal acne, soothe the skin, keep dark spots and clogged pores at bay, all while protecting from harmful UV rays. We love Hubislab Herb 8 Soothing Blemish Balm SPF30 PA++   By combining these tips and using the right products to address the unique needs of your skin you can maintain healthy, glowing skin during perimenopause and menopause.
The most searched skin concerns: Expert approved solutions

The most searched skin concerns: Expert approved solutions

by Jo Boyden on Oct 04 2024
When it comes to our skin, we all have our individual concerns, but how many of us have actually taken to google to seek solutions? And what skin conditions are people searching the most? Well we did a little investigating, and the results might actually surprise you, especially if you’ve been feeling alone with your skin woes. From rosacea and acne to hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, keep reading as we count down the most searched skin conditions on google this year and our expert solutions to tackle them! Rosacea As a supplier or some of the worlds leading professional products, it comes as no surprise to our team at BC that this skin condition is the most searched. Rosacea is said to affect up to a fifth of the population so if you are a sufferer you most certainly are not alone! To learn more about Rosacea, it’s causes and the best solutions, click here. Or if it’s makeup recommendations you’re after, you can find our expert suggestions here. Acne As the second most commonly searched skin condition, acne continues to be a leading concern, especially among younger demographics. I’m sure many of us have experienced unruly blemishes in our time, whether we suffered from pimples as an adolescent or if they have come to haunt you in adulthood, but many amongst us are prone to acne. What exactly is acne you might ask? And could you have it? Click here to find out all there is you know. And if you’re searching for the best makeup products to conceal and heal your acne you can find our top recommendations here. Blackheads Not far behind acne is blackheads. And yes, I’m certain when I say we have all dealt with a black head or two, or many more in our time! Blackheads are in fact a type of acne (acne vulgaris). They're open bumps on the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. They look as if dirt is in the bump, but an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle actually causes the dark spots. To learn more about blackheads and shop our highly recommended solutions click here. Hyperpigmentation Hyperpigmentation, including melasma and age spots (also known as dark spots, sun spots and liver spots), is another frequent search, particularly as people seek solutions to even out their skin tone and reduce dark spots. The condition most commonly occurs due to overproduction of melanin, the natural pigment in the skin, which is why it’s often exacerbated during the sunny summer months (thank you sunshine!) However, it can also occur due to inflammation caused from conditions like acne, just what you don’t need, and while hyperpigmentation can be hard to avoid for some, you can definitely help reduce its severity by following a few key steps. To learn everything you need to know about hyperpigmentation including the causes and the best treatments click here. Age spots Next on the list is age spots. As mentioned above age spots are a common form of hyperpigmentation. They are flat, dark patches that commonly appear on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun (like the face, hands, shoulders and arms) this is due to prolonged sun exposure as well as ageing. Age spots are harmless they can make people feel self conscious. The great news is there are means to dramatically reduce their appearance with skincare solutions as previously mentioned.  The best skincare solutions include using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to prevent further darkening, and incorporating brightening treatments with ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hydroquinone. Regular exfoliation with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or retinol can also help fade existing spots by promoting skin cell turnover and revealing fresher, clearer skin underneath. If you want to know the best products to treat your age spots click here. Whiteheads At the top of many people’s woes are whiteheads. Like with blackheads, I’m sure the majority, if not all of us have not experienced these little bumps many a time. Another common type of acne, whiteheads occur when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Unlike blackheads though, which as previously mentioned are open to the surface and turn dark due to oxidation, whiteheads remain closed, creating small, white or flesh-coloured bumps. They typically appear on the face, particularly in areas like the forehead, nose, and chin, but can also occur on the chest, shoulders, and back. While they may seem harmless, we know whiteheads can be frustrating to deal with, especially if they keep coming back. Luckily, with the right skincare routine, you can keep whiteheads at bay and maintain a clearer, healthier complexion. Just be sure you cleanse twice a day, morning and night and look for ingredients like salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and prevent new whiteheads from forming. Exfoliation is also paramount as it helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to whiteheads. Opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid. These acids help dissolve the buildup inside pores, keeping them clear and preventing future breakouts. We LOVE the ProCorrective Clear Control Exfoliator.  Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Caviar Lime, Tea Tree and Rosemary, it provides gentle but effective exfoliating action to open and clear pores, combatting acne-causing bacteria. Dry skin I’m sure we’ve all experienced dry skin at some point in our lives but many struggle with this skin condition all year round. If your skin has been feeling somewhat tight of late, itchy and irritated even, or if you’re prone to dry patches and flakiness on your face, it’s likely you have dry skin too! But what exactly is causing your dry complexion you might ask? And why doesn’t your current skincare routine appear to be working to help counteract this condition? As we can see from the search volume, at #7 on the most searched skin conditions, dry skin is very common and can affect anyone at any age. Typically, it happens when our sebaceous glands don’t produce enough oil (sebum) and our skin in turn loses too much water. This is because our natural oils help trap in moisture to keep the skin soft, smooth and supple, if there isn’t enough oil, moisture can escape, leaving the top layer of skin prone to dryness. Unfortunately, the lack of oil production is caused by a number of external factors including genetics (thanks parents!), dry air or indoor heating, over exfoliating, long hot shower (who doesn’t love one of those!). harsh products, ageing and hard water (tap water that contains a high concentration of minerals including calcium and magnesium, this hard water can change the pH balance of your skin as well as leave a film over your skin’s surface that may clog pores, cause dryness and even trigger breakouts, itching and flaking! Ouch. When it comes to improving your dry skin we cant go past these top skincare recommendations from the experts.   Wrinkles Starting to see signs of ageing on your face? Worried about wrinkles? According to the google search you are most definitely not alone! In fact, wrinkles are a major concern for both men and women, so much so that wrinkle injections are a fast-growing market, accounting for almost 40% of cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the world, and 70% of aesthetic medicine interventions. But what if Botox and the likes aren’t for you? Are there safer, natural and needle-free alternatives that really work to diminish the appearance of wrinkles? In short yes! While there is no serum or wrinkle cream that can magically make wrinkles disappear in a week quite like Botox, thanks to the advancement in both technology and skincare ingredients, the natural alternatives can seriously achieve similar smoothing and plumping results. What’s more these non-invasive topical alternatives give you more control over the change in your appearance (no poker-face in sight!), provide a much more natural look, plus when used daily as part of your skincare routine will achieve outstanding on-going results. Want to know what the best products to fight skin ageing and reduce your wrinkles are? Click here.   Oily skin If you’re fed up with your face feeling greasy every single day, you’re constantly looking for ways to prevent your makeup sliding off your skin by mid-morning, or you’re simply over staring in the mirror and seeing a super shiny complexion staring back (and not because you’ve been adopting the ‘hyper glowing skin’ trend of late), it’s time to get serious about your oily skin condition. Despite oily skin being a nuisance, believe it or not, it’s actually not all doom and gloom! Oily skin happens when the sebaceous glands in your skin make too much sebum. Sebum is the waxy, oily substance that protects and hydrates the skin (it’s actually a blessing as it’s vital for keeping the skin super healthy and youthful looking) however, too much sebum can lead to oily skin! This in turn results in your greasy, shiny complexion and can also result in clogged pores, and unwanted acne if not treated! Fear not though, with the right routine for oily skin you can keep this skin condition of yours at bay!
The award-winning serum for instantly brighter skin

The award-winning serum for instantly brighter skin

by Jo Boyden on Sep 27 2024
If you’ve been searching for a quick and effective way to truly brighten your complexion, you need search no more! The award-winning C Complexe with Oxyzomes from natural skincare brand Pevonia, delivers skin with an instant glow while working overtime to revitalise and brighten your complexion. Whether you’re battling dullness, uneven skin tone, or early signs of ageing, this powerhouse product is the secret weapon your skincare routine has been missing. Loved by the team at BC, our customers and beauty experts alike, I’m telling you this serum is soon to become your new skincare obsession too! Keep reading to find out why…   What sets this serum apart? Its all in the ingredients and advanced delivery technology. Pevonia has harnessed the powerful, skin-transforming benefits of Vitamin C, hydration powerhouse hyaluronic acid, and brightening botanicals and packed them into a beautifully lightweight formula that provides both immediate and long-term results. Plus, Pevonia's C Complex with Oxyzomes is loaded with repairing antioxidants that not only brighten but also protect your skin from environmental stressors. The Oxyzomes in the serum refer to an advanced delivery system that encapsulates and stabilizes Vitamin C, ensuring it remains potent and effective. This technology allows the Vitamin C to penetrate deeper into the skin, providing sustained release over time. The microencapsulation of the Vitamin C in Oxyzomes also protects it from oxidation, which often reduces the efficacy of Vitamin C in skincare products. As a result, this delivery system helps to maximize the serum's brightening, anti-ageing, and antioxidant benefits, making it more effective in reducing dark spots, boosting collagen, and improving overall skin radiance.   What you’ll love about Pevonia's C Complexe So, why should Pevonia’s C Complexe with Oxyzomes earn a spot in your skincare routine? Here are a few reasons you’re going to love it: Instant Brightness: The serum provides an immediate boost of radiance, perfect for those mornings when your skin feels dull or tired. Fights Dark Spots and Pigmentation: With regular use, this serum fades dark spots and evens out your skin tone for a flawless complexion. Boosts Collagen Production: Say goodbye to fine lines and sagging skin—Vitamin C stimulates collagen to keep your skin firm and smooth. Deep Hydration: Thanks to its advanced formula, this serum hydrates while it brightens, leaving your skin plump and moisturized.   How to Use this serum Incorporating this serum into your routine will be a breeze! After cleansing and toning, simply apply a few drops to your face, focusing on areas that need brightening. Follow up with your favourite moisturiser and sunscreen during the day. Apply in the evening to perfectly cleansed skin and let the serum work its magic while you sleep. With consistent use, you’ll notice your skin becoming more luminous and even toned. Oh and the best part? It’s suitable for all skin types working wonders without irritation (oh and it smells amazing too!)   Real Results This serum isn’t just hype—it’s backed by glowing (pardon the pun!) reviews (and awards!) that prove its effectiveness. Here are just a few; “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” Deborah “Absolute best results ever! C Complex gives immediate result in pore structure. Skin looks more radiant. Love it!” Anna “This is my absolute favourite skin care product of all time. For a few months when I didn't use it people noticed the difference asking if I was tired or didn't feel great because my skin didn't have the same glow. I would suggest to anybody to buy this, I can't say enough how much I love this product and will sacrifice buying something else to keep this in my daily regime.” Gin “I can't say enough good things about this product! It was recommended by a woman who did my facial at a spa. She seemed sincere in her recommendation, so I took a chance. 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 “I've been using this serum for years now and as usual it does not disappoint. My skin always looks so much brighter and hydrated everytime I use it.” Oreilly “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 “Can’t live without this product. The best vitamin c serum out if any product I’ve used” Madeleine   So, if brighter skin is on your beauty wishlist, this award-winning serum deserves a spot in your skincare routine. It really does deliver results that you’ll notice almost immediately. I promise!
Want smoother skin? Try these skincare essentials

Want smoother skin? Try these skincare essentials

by Jo Boyden on Sep 13 2024
I’m sure many of us who are no longer blessed with “smooth as a babies bottom” skin, only dream of having a silky soft, even complexion again! The thing is, it shouldn’t just be a dream or feel like too big of a challenge for that matter because with the right beauty products and a strict skincare routine, I’m here to tell you a flawless skin texture is definitely achievable! Whether you’re dealing with rough patches, uneven texture, or just want that silky soft feel, keep reading as we reveal the beauty essentials you’ll need.   The skincare essentials you need for smooth, refined skin Achieving smoother skin requires a combination of skincare products to improve texture and promote cell turnover. These include; Exfoliators Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can cause roughness and dullness. Look for exfoliators formulated with AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) Serums Serum’s rich in vitamin c and niacinamide can make all the difference to skin tone and texture, boosting radiance and refining pores! Moisturisers You’ll want to opt for a hydrating moisturiser with hyaluronic acid or ceramides to lock in moisture and maintain a smooth, supple texture. Retinol treatments By incorporating retinol at night you will help to boost cell turnover, smooth fine lines, and improve overall skin texture. Start with a low concentration and increase as your skin builds tolerance. To learn more about retinol click here.   Our skin smoothing recommendations: Pevonia Renewing Glycocides Cream Combining glycolic acid with hydration hero hyaluronic acid, this treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Moisture-bonding, it prevents epidermal thickening while promoting visible renewal and maximum hydration. Skin resurfaces smoother, brighter and younger…seriously. “WOW, talk about overnight results! Minimizes my pores, smooths out my skin, and reduces redness. I’m not sure if it’s supposed to do all those things, but it’s been 2 months now since I’ve been using it every night and i LOVE this cream!” - Sally O   Phytomer Resurfacing Peel Enriched with “marine AHAs” derived from seaweed and vegetable and mineral silica beads, coupled with oligomer to prevent cellular fatigue, this Resurfacing Peel gently but effectively exfoliates skin for optimal results. Skin texture is visibly refined and your complexion even and radiant. After a few weeks of using this product twice weekly I noticed my skin was smoother, more refined, my pores were tighter, and my skin looked almost like it had been polished!! “This peel makes my skin soft, clean and glowy (well, as glowy as 39 year old skin can be). It is spectacular.” - Johnsee   Vie Collection Night Peel Progressive Resurfacing Cream This ultra-soft night version of the chemical peel is a modern balm with a creamy texture that offers complete exfoliation to the skin, helping to brighten, refine and improve smoothness for a younger-looking complexion. Its formula is enriched with benchmark acids and has a progressive diffusion to act continuously all through the night. When you use this product at night, you’ll wake each morning to a smooth and glowy complexion! “I just turned 63 and decided to spend a bit more money on a night peel product. I saw that this product and thought I would give it a try. I did and couldn't be happier! My face looks smoother, definitely softer and any imperfections are gone. I only use a little bit so I know it will last a long time. Love it and will definitely buy again.” – Nicole   Vie Collection Glyco 10 Resurfacing Acid Concentrate Inspired by the acid peel, this light gel, aqueous serum concentrates all the effectiveness of glycolic acid at optimal concentration to offer skin a gentle and complete exfoliation. Upon application, the skin looks refreshed and visibly smoother. Day after day, skin looks smoothed, its texture is finer and pores are tightened. “My therapist recommended this concentrate to me for daily exfoliation. I have rosacea and very sensitive skin and this is gentle enough to not cause any irritation but it’s extremely effective. I use it twice daily and my skin is very soft and smooth as a result.” – Amelia   Phytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining Serum This lightweight, refining face serum formulated with a powerful AHA formulation, visibly reduces the appearances of imperfections. It diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots and it leaves skin visibly softer and smoother! “I first received this as a sample and decided to purchase it because I saw a huge difference in the texture of my skin. I now use it daily and would not be without it. I am in my 30s and have large pores with acne scaring. This product makes my skin so much smoother and beautiful.” – June   Phytomer Pionniere XMF Radiance Retexturing Serum Hands down my skincare must-have of the moment, this serum is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Yes it carries a hefty price tag but for very good reason! Within days of introducing this beauty into your skincare routine, you will notice a HUGE different to your skin. I’m talking smoother, plumper and well just flawless skin really. It’s been a game-changer for me and having used many amazing products over my time working in the skincare industry this is one I tend to never replace oh and it feels divine when applied thanks to its luxurious melting texture too! A little more about the product though – its formulated with XMF and VMR, two new generation marine  2 reviewssugars. VMR (Visible Marine Refiner) is a 100% natural biotechnological ingredient that provides skin with immediate rehydrating and retexturing benefits. XMF (Extra Marine Filler), is a smoothing and redensifying 100% natural biotechnological ingredient. Combined they provide skin with the best of the best when it comes to skin retexturing and smoothing! Honestly day after day of using it your skin texture is refined, pores look visibly reduced, the appearance of wrinkles is smoothed, and skin suppleness is restored! Its outstanding!   Chrono Lines Ultra Smoothing Cream This really is an ultra-smoothing cream (perfect name really!) with a light texture that literally melts into your skin on application combating visible signs of ageing. One of Vie Collections best-sellers it combats signs of fatigue whilst seriously smoothing skin thanks to its powerful blend of anti-ageing ingredients including peptides, hyaluronic acid and AHAs. “I love the scent and texture of this luxurious cream and it is the best wrinkle reducer I have have found yet. I went to lunch with a friend the other day and had to convince her I did not get botox! Thanks Vie Collection for keeping me youthful!” – Jenny   Medicalia Retinol and C Care Cream Powered for exceptional youth-boosting results, this cream features the latest in anti-aging technology. Micro-Retinol® micro particles facilitate the exceptional and swift delivery of potent retinol deep within the skin to normalize mitosis, enhance cellular performance, and restructure skin layers. Combined with stabilized Vitamin “C”, Hyaluronic Acid and Elastin Peptides, it delivers resurfacing, tightening, hydrating and revitalizing benefits, while lightening hyperpigmentation and leaving a luminous effect on the skin. Recommended for mature skin or as preventive care. Ideal as part of an anti-aging program. “Great product especially for older more mature skin. Reduces wrinkles and keeps facial skin moisturised.” - Judith   Medicalia L-Retinol Smoothing Cream Taking advantage of the powerful benefits of Micro- Retinol®, Glycolic, and Lactic Acid, this resurfacing and lightening cream is an anti-aging must for photodamaged skin. It provides a stabilized, deeply absorbing Retinol for optimized regeneration and resurfacing, while lightening and reducing accumulated keratin for a smoother and brighter skin. We recommend you use it nightly (since its formulated with retinol) and it's best for those concerned with advanced signs of aging including photo-damaged skin and non-inflammatory hyperkeratosis. “I love this night cream! When I stop using it, I can see the difference. It really helps reduce the appearance of my lines and makes my skin feel hydrated and soft.” - Nikita
Hyperpigmentation: The causes and the best treatments

Hyperpigmentation: The causes and the best treatments

by Jo Boyden on Aug 30 2024
Hyperpigmentation is a fairly common skin condition and affects people of all ages. But if you are one of the many dealing with stubborn dark spots or patches on your skin you are likely wondering why and how you can get rid of it! Understanding what causes hyperpigmentation is the first step in effectively treating it. Read on to discover everything you need to know about hyperpigmentation, what the most common causes are, as well as the best options for achieving a more even, radiant complexion.   What is hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is when certain areas of your skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This happens because of an excess production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour. Hyperpigmentation can appear as very small brown, black, grey or pink spots, or patches but can also cover larger areas of your skin, usually on your face. These spots or patches are more commonly known as brown spots, age spots, sun spots or as our grandparents used to call them, liver spots. While hyperpigmentation is not harmful, and can be common in people of all ages and skin types, it can definitely be frustrating! Fortunately, with the right treatments, you can effectively reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and restore a more even complexion!   What are the most common types of hyperpigmentation? Age Spots Also known as liver spots (as our grandparents would have called them back in the day!), age spots are flat, brown, grey, or black spots that typically appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin as you age. In short, age spots tend to develop in people over the age of 50 and are the result of prolonged UV exposure over the years.  Sun Spots Also caused by UV exposure, sun spots, medically known as actinic keratoses, are similar in appearance to age spots but can occur at any age. Although they can commonly appear on the face, you can also find sun spots all over areas of the body which has been exposed to the sun. The biggest difference between harmless age spots and sun spots is the texture. Age spots are smooth and flat, but potentially dangerous sun spots usually feel rough and scaly. Melasma Also known as chloasma, or “the mask of pregnancy”! the potential main triggers for Melasma is genetics, hormonal fluctuations and sun overexposure. Very common in pregnancy, melasma can suddenly appear in the form of brown patches usually on your face.   What causes hyperpigmentation? Several factors can actually contribute to hyperpigmentation, although sun exposure is the no.1 cause! Sun Exposure UV rays from the sun trigger melanin production, leading to sunspots and dark patches, especially on areas frequently exposed to the sun. Hormonal Changes Conditions like melasma, often triggered by pregnancy or birth control pills, cause dark, blotchy patches on the skin. Inflammation Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can result from acne, injuries, or skin conditions like eczema, where the skin overproduces melanin during healing. Age Over time, the skin’s ability to regulate melanin production diminishes, leading to age spots.   How to get rid of hyperpigmentation Ultimately to prevent or reduce hyperpigmentation you need to do 4 things; Wear sunscreen Sadly exposure to the sun, (which we know ramps up over the summer months!) can both worsen existing age spots and sun spots, as well as encourage new ones to form! The most effective way to therefore prevent this from happening is to apply sunscreen (at least SPF 30) liberally and religiously even single day. You know I preach about how sunscreen should be a non-negotiable step in your skincare routine come rain, hail or shine though! Use brightening products Products containing Vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol are all powerful allies in the fight against pigmentation. These ingredients work to lighten dark spots and even out your skin tone, leaving you with a brighter, more uniform complexion. Look for formulas with high concentrations of active ingredients for maximum efficacy. Just remember skincare requires patience and consistency to reap the long-term benefits!  Exfoliate regularly Regular exfoliation is key to fading age spots and pigmentation. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) help slough off dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing fresher, more evenly-toned skin. Consider using a gentle chemical exfoliant a few times a week to target discolouration without irritating your skin. Wear protective clothing Wearing protective clothing will also help fight hyperpigmentation by shielding your skin from harmful UV rays, which as we know are a major cause of age spots, sun spots and uneven skin tone. Fabrics with a tight weave and sun-protective properties will block the penetration of UV rays, reducing the risk of sun-induced pigmentation. Wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and UV-protective fabrics are effective at minimizing direct sun exposure, preventing existing pigmentation from worsening, and helping to maintain an even skin tone over time. And don’t forget your peepers! sunglasses are a must too!   The best products to fade hyperpigmentation As mentioned, one of the simplest ways to protect your skin from hyperpigmentation is to wear sunscreen daily, no matter what the weather is like. However if you are looking for products to fade your already pigmentated skin, we have the solution for you!   Vie Collection Mela White Protective Sunscreen SPF 30 This is not only an amazing daily sunscreen to protect skin from UV rays, but it’s also formulated with two high-tech ingredients that act against dark spots and free radicals. With regular use your dark spots will become less visible and your skin more unified. It’s fantastic!  Pevonia C Complex with oxyzomes Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid work together to hydrate, correct photo damage and drench your skin with repairing antioxidants for a revitalized, youthful glow. It’s really good stuff and I’m testament to that!  Medicalia L Retinol Smoothing Cream This powerful yet gentle retinol cream is a must in the fight against Hyperpigmentation! Formulated with retinol and Glycolic and Lactic Acid, it’s an excellent resurfacing and lightening cream for photodamaged skin. Just be sure to introduce it slowly and apply before bed. To learn more about retinol click here. Derma Max Vitamin-C Complex 50% Ampoule This perfectly nourishing Vitamin C based brightening complex helps reduce discolouration and lighten skin tone. Paired with niacinamide, it prevents the formation of hyperpigmentation and reduces melanin production. The result, brighter, more even skin! Vita B3 Concentrated Solution Boost your skincare routine with a shot of vitamin B3 to visibly improve skins radiance while reducing the appearance of dark spots. 10% vitamin B3 (niacinamide) acts by slowing down the transport of melanin to the keratinocytes (the most common type of skin cell constituting the epidermis) effectively decreasing pigmentation while reinforcing the protective functions of the skin barrier for the optimal skin health. The concentrate’s light, melting texture allows the active ingredients to penetrate the skin for outstanding efficiency and immediate results. Skin is brighter, more uniform and more visibly radiant. After continued use, hyperpigmentation is significantly reduced.
The best beauty products for glowing skin

The best beauty products for glowing skin

by Jo Boyden on Jun 27 2024
If you are battling the winter blues, it’s likely your skin will be too, and nobody likes donning a dull, lacklustre complexion especially when we are all on the quest for that coveted radiant glow! The good news is there are a number of products that can truly transform your skin from drab to fab, and in little to no time too! Keep reading as we countdown the best beauty products for glowing skin, as recommended by the BC experts, and according to the reviews our customers highly recommend them too! The Cleanser When you have dull skin cleansing should be the first step in your skin care routine. So, look for a cleanser that not only deeply cleanses your skin but is formulated to help brighten the appearance of your complexion too! Phytomer Cyfolia Radiance Cleansing Cream This rich, velvety cleanser literally melts on contact with your skin to gently cleanse and remove makeup, oil and impurities! Organic Orange water delivers vitamin C for skin radiance and optimal glow while Cyfolia Algae enhances the glow by providing a reflective effect! Like a burst of radiance to the complexion, skin is soft, supple and glowing after every cleanse! “I love this cleanser from Phytomer. I’ve been using it for a few months now and can say my skin is definitely softer and more radiant after use and I love the scent too.” – Sarah M The Rejuvenating Exfoliators Pevonia Renewing Glycocides Cream If your skin is looking a tad dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘insta-glow’, this product is your answer! Formulated with most renowned AHA glycolic acid combined with hydration hero Hyaluronic Acid, this exfoliating treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Skin resurfaces soother, brighter and younger…seriously. “My absolute favourite Pevonia cream. I ran out a couple of months ago and used up a couple of other moisturizers I had lying around and really noticed the difference - not good. After ordering again and using for only 1 night, my skin was radiant and glowing again. This is a must!” - Melinda Phytomer Cyfolia Radiance Exfoliating Cream This outstanding exfoliating cream does exactly what the name suggests! It gently exfoliates skin to reveal a truly radiant complexion! It features two organic exfoliants – argan kernels and pomegranate seeds, as well as Algae, Oligomer and Orange water that work together to immediately clear away rough and dull skin for a visibly softer, smoother and brighter complexion after every single application. “I love this product. It does wonders for my dehydrated, dull skin! It has a beautiful texture, is not harsh at all and the results speak for themselves. My skin is so soft and almost glowy after I use it. LOVE” - Tina R The Moisturising cream Phytomer Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream This is a beautifully nourishing but lightweight cream with a velvety finish. The products name definitely reflects the results, as this subtly scented moisturiser is both energising and radiance inducing that’s for sure! I couldn’t rave more about it myself! “I have been using this moisturizer for a number of years. It is creamy without being too heavy. My skin feels glowing when I use it each morning. I recommend it highly.” – Veronica The Radiance Boosting Serums Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe For the ultimate skin brightening boost, this product is a must! Skin brightening Vitamin C and hydration powerhouse hyaluronic acid, work together to quite literally drench skin with repairing antioxidants, deeply nourishing skin while correcting photo-damage. Not only does it have the most beautiful citrus aroma, when applied skin looks instantly brighter and dewier too! “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” - Deborah Phytomer Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum This silky soft, lightweight serum coats the skin in pure oxygen providing the cells with vivid rejuvenation. Formulated with marine extracts, this serum protects against environmental pollution and free radical damage, so it’s outstanding for dull, devitalized skin or skin that is in real need of a pick-me-up! Looking for an increase in radiance? Softer more youthful skin perhaps? This is your guy! “This is a fabulous product! My skin used to look dull all the time due to stress and pollution. After using this product it improved my skin with overall radiance. It makes my skin look brighter, fresher and younger looking ….! Love it.” - Joanne The Skin Brightening Face Masks Treat yourself to a weekly mask session to give your skin an extra boost of hydration and nourishment. Like concentrated serums, masks are infused with potent ingredients that deliver visible results in just minutes. Vie Collection Photo C Bright Radiance Mask If you’re looking to brighten your skin tone and even out your complexion, look no further than a vitamin C mask. Inspired by phototherapy, this cream-mask restores the skin’s original radiance and luminosity. Its formula combines Vitamin C with a refreshing molecule to reveal an incredibly radiant and brightened skin appearance right after the first application. “I bought this mask to get rid of dullness after reading about it. I have used it 1-2 times a week for the last few weeks and have definitely noticed a difference in my skin. It’s starting to get the glow back after months of lack lustre. My skin always feels beautifully soft after washing it off too!” - Mia Pevonia Bright Skin Green Apple Mask This glow-giving mask not only tightens and brightens skin, but it’s formulated with green apple and green tea to help boost energy too! Expect to wake up with plumped, firmed, glowing skin. “This mask is amazing,, my skin always looks so much brighter, it also helps to minimize my pores and brighten my skin.” - Oreilly Hubislab e+ Epiderma Nova Cell Brightening Mask For clearer, brighter skin, this is definitely a step you want to add to this routine! Unlike any other mask you may have experienced this anti-ageing and brightening mask is formulated with strawberry, rose and mango extract, providing skin with antioxidant protection while brightening, toning, lifting and improving elasticity! “I use this mask once a week and what a difference it makes to my skin! Instantly dewy and brighter! I love it and highly recommend it!” - Jo The Replenishing Face Oils Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate The radical treatment for skin lacking lustre, combats dehydration with a burst of vitamins A and E and Mandarin Essential Oil, so your complexion really will look brighter and rejuvenated by morning. What’s more it has the most amazing aroma and even though it’s an oil, it’s fast absorbing so you know it’s doing great stuff to your skin! “This is beautiful and everything it promises. My skin absorbs it really quickly, there's no greasy finish, just a glow.” - Melinda Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil This is one of those silky, soothing oils with a heavenly rose petal scent that quite literally makes you go ahhhhh” as it melts into your skin. It’s a lightweight dry oil so it absorbs immediately creating a velvety finish without the greasy residue of many an oil. Nourishing marine extracts and botanical oils work together to eliminate impurities while brightening, hydrating, and restoring your skin’s natural luster! So while you sleep, your skin repairs and you wake up with a baby soft, radiant complexion that strengthens and firms with every application. “I love this product it makes my skin feel soft and subtle and gives it a beautiful glow. I suffer from redness and this helps to soothe my skin. Amazing product.” - Jenni    The Nourishing Night Creams Don’t forget a good night-time ritual that includes a nurturing night-time cream! Looking after your skin before bed will have a profound effect by morning. Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream This beautifully silky, lightweight cream literally cocoons skin in nourishing hydration and really does restore youthful vitality by morning. One of my personal all-time favourites! “I am in love with this product! I've been using it for a few months now and every morning after I've applied it the night before my skin feels smoother and looks so much more radiant! Its texture is silky and rich and the scent is subtle but wonderful!” – Rillie  Hubislab Derma Max Brightening Clinic This deeply moisturising night cream formulated with Tranexamic acid, antioxidants and vitamins, nourishes the skin whilst soothing irritation, improving elasticity, correcting pigmentation and brightening the complexion all whilst you sleep! “I have been using this cream for two months now and wow the difference it has made to my skin! I get comments all the time on how my skin looks so much younger and brighter. I have started to recommend it to everyone!” – Kellie Pevonia Micro Retinol Essential Moisturiser This light and gentle moisturiser increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen and elastin production (essential for youthful, plump skin), fades hyperpigmentation and helps skin stay hydrated and glowing without irritation. It’s a multi-tasking wonder! You should introduce it slowly though and at night. This is because Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays and sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product. To find out more about retinol and this Pevonia’s Micro Retinol range click here. “This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non greasy, non shiny. Changes in my skin are an increased smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. It appears luminous and more refined. So, I am going to purchase the whole range. It’s a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age. (60)” - Annie The Revitalizing Eye Cream Lumafirm Lift & Glow Eye Contour This powerhouse product reveals instant results to the delicate eye zone. it contains a Pevonia exclusive collection of the latest high-tech cosmetic ingredients to visibly smooth lines and wrinkles, diminish dark circles, ease puffiness and brighten the eye area! “Excellent product really lifting the eye area and creating glow throughout the day.” Maria D The Illuminating makeup ELES Mineral Sheer Tint For those with dull, devitalised skin this tinted moisturiser is a dream come true! It provides a radiant, dewy finish that hydrates and brightens your complexion. The buildable coverage ensures you can achieve anything from a natural look to a more polished finish. “This tint is the best thing EVER - really sheer but it just evens out your skin tone and gives it a lovely glow. It stays in place and seems to be incredibly sweat resistant and also doesn't wipe off on clothes or settle into pores. Miracle!” - Jenni ELES Baked Finishing Powder in Diffused Light This is the compact of miracles I tell you and will totally transform your skin in seconds! It acts itself like a photo filter on your skin, subtle enough for daily wear, yet gives you that truly “lit from within glow”! The microfine powder’s jet milled pigments bring a soft-focus finish for a blurring effect over imperfections and fine lines. The deeper tones in the powder enhance contours, while the highlight softly strobe and reflect away imperfections to make skin look professionally retouched and simply sublime every time! Incredibly light, it never gets chalky, weighs down the skin or even looks like your wearing powder, yet keeps any shine at bay. And all you have to do is apply your morning skincare, then simply brush a light layer all over your face with a makeup brush and watch your skin truly transform to beautifully glowy! “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 Aside from our beauty products, there are a number of dos and don’ts you can also follow to achieve healthy glowing skin. Say goodbye to that dull devitalised complexion of yours now!
all about retinol

All you need to know about Retinol

by Jo Boyden on Mar 14 2024
If you’ve ever wondered what the secret is to some people's youthful, or ageless glow, despite the fact they are in their 40s, 50s and beyond, it's likely retinol!The holy grail of the skincare world, retinol is a true multi-tasker, providing skin with a multitude of benefits from wrinkle reduction to pore perfecting and everything in between! Whether you're a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, we are here to tell you all you need to know about retinol and why you’ll want to add this powerhouse ingredient into your skincare routine. What is retinol? When it comes to reducing visible signs of ageing, retinol is the “super-ingredient” every beauty professional raves about. A derivative of vitamin A, retinol helps to radially reduce the appearance of fine lines and prevents premature skin ageing including wrinkles and age spots. But there is so much more retinol can do for your skin… What does retinol do? In short, retinol is a true multi-taster! Here is the low down on what retinol actually does for your skin! Retinol promotes cell turnover When skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun it absorbs free radicals, which attack healthy cells. Retinol interrupts this process by attaching itself to damaged cells and communicating with them, helping them to act like healthy cells again. It also accelerates the turnover of skin cells encouraging the shedding of old, damaged skin cells and stimulating the production of new, healthy ones. This process helps in maintaining smoother and more youthful-looking skin. Retinol reduces fine lines and wrinkles One of retinol's shining talents is its ability to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By promoting collagen production, it helps improve skin elasticity and firmness, reducing the signs of ageing. Retinol fades dark spots Retinol is a champion in tackling hyperpigmentation. It can lighten dark spots, sun spots, and even out skin tone by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for discolouration. Retinol unclogs pores If you're dealing with pesky blackheads or whiteheads, retinol can be your best friend. It helps prevent the clogging of pores, reducing the chances of acne and promoting clearer skin. Retinol improves skin texture Using retinol regularly can lead to smoother and softer skin. It aids in minimizing rough patches, refining texture, and giving your skin a more polished appearance. Retinol boosts collagen production Collagen is like the glue that holds your skin together. Retinol stimulates collagen synthesis, which contributes to improved skin structure, firmness, and overall resilience. Retinol addresses acne If you're battling acne, retinol can be beneficial. It helps regulate oil production, prevents the formation of comedones (clogged pores), and promotes a clearer complexion. Is retinol good for acne? Absolutely! Retinol is a powerhouse against acne, regulating oil production, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. In fact its skin-renewing properties fade post-acne marks. Can you use hyaluronic acid with retinol? Yes! Hyaluronic acid and retinol are actually a dream team when it comes to skincare. While retinol addresses signs of ageing and acne, hyaluronic acid provides a burst of essential hydration. The combination of both ingredients ensures skin remains moisturised, plump, and balanced.Apply hyaluronic acid first to hydrate, followed by retinol for its transformative effects. If the two ingredients are in the same product even better! Together, they create the perfect routine for a radiant and youthful complexion. Can you use retinol and vitamin C together? Yes, you can use retinol and vitamin C together in your skincare routine, but it's important to use them strategically to maximize their benefits without causing irritation. Both ingredients offer potent anti-aging and skin-brightening effects.Apply vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection and brighter skin. Use retinol in the evening to promote cell turnover and reduce signs of ageing. Start with lower concentrations, gradually increasing as your skin adjusts. Always use sunscreen during the day as both ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Can I use niacinamide with retinol? Yes, you can use niacinamide (vitamin B3) with retinol in your skincare routine. These two ingredients are generally considered compatible and can work well together to address various skin concerns. Niacinamide offers soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, complementing retinol's anti-aging and skin-renewing benefits. Using them together can help minimize potential irritation sometimes associated with retinol use. Incorporating niacinamide and retinol into your routine can contribute to a balanced approach for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin health. Can you use salicylic acid and retinol together? When using two potent, acne-fighting ingredients, it's best to take precautions before combining them. Salicylic acid and other BHAs and AHAs are exfoliating ingredients that can potentially increase skin sensitivity when combined with retinol. If you are wanting to use both ingredients in your skincare routine, it is best to use them at night, on different days, and at different times and built up from there. Can you use retinol when pregnant? Unfortunately, retinol is generally discouraged during pregnancy due to potential risks. High doses of vitamin A, (of which as previously mentioned retinol is a derivative) may pose concerns for foetal development. Instead look at alternative skincare ingredients safe for pregnancy, like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid. Does retinol help with pigmentation? Yes, retinol is effective in addressing pigmentation issues. It works by promoting skin cell turnover, which helps fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. By encouraging the shedding of old, pigmented skin cells and promoting the growth of new, evenly pigmented cells, retinol contributes to a more even skin tone. Regular use of retinol can be beneficial in reducing the appearance of sunspots, age spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation, leading to a brighter and more radiant complexion. Is retinol good for sun damage? Yes, retinol is definitely beneficial for addressing sun damage. Its ability to promote skin renewal and collagen production helps reduce the appearance of sun-induced wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. Don’t forget though, it's essential to use sunscreen alongside retinol to protect the skin from further sun damage and maximize its effectiveness. Can everyone use retinol? While retinol is great for those concerned with wrinkles, sun damage and acne, it can cause dryness, redness and peeling, so people with sensitive skin need to be cautious. Sensitive skin can however be trained to tolerate retinol with slow introduction. Retinol is not recommended however for sensitized skin (reactive, inflamed and sunburn skin). Always perform a patch test before applying retinol to the entire face to check for any adverse reactions. And remember retinol is a no go for pregnant woman or women breast feeding. Can I use retinol every night? Once your skin adjusts to retinol you can definitely use it every night! You need to understand that to reap the rewards of retinol though, there will likely be an adjustment period first. When you introduce retinol to your skincare routine, your skin might experience some initial side effects like redness, flakiness, or dryness. It's like the initiation phase, but don't worry, it's usually just your skin getting used to this powerhouse ingredient. Gradual introduction and consistent use can help your skin adapt and benefit long term. Start by applying it one or two times a week for the first week and gradually increase application. Remember retinol is best applied at night, particularly because it makes your skin more photosensitive. Oh and don’t forget your sunscreen! Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so you’ll need to slather on SPF every morning (but you should be anyway!!) How long does retinol take to work? Results from retinol skincare can vary. Some people may notice improvements in a few weeks, days even, while others might take a couple of months. Generally, it takes at least 12 weeks to see significant changes in terms of reduced fine lines, improved texture, and diminished dark spots. Consistency is key, and it's crucial to be patient as the benefits of retinol often accumulate over time. Once you see results you will never look back! What are the best retinol products? With so many retinol products on the market, it can be hard to know which to trust, that’s where we, the BC professionals can help! We highly recommend Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol® range. Every product in the range which includes Micro-Retinol® Foaming Cleanser, Micro-Retinol® Essential Toner, Micro-Retinol® Serum and Micro-Retinol® Essential Moisturiser utilizes a specialized technology to create Retinol micro-particles that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation, and immediate results! It’s a great, safe, and side-effect free alternative to using prescription Retinoic Acid. What’s more, every product in the Micro-Retinol® line contains a powerhouse trio of vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Micro-Retinol®! The addition of Vitamins C and E not only ensures Micro-Retinol®’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved! Looking for the best anti-ageing results? This range should be your go to.But don’t just take it from us, our customers love the range too: “I have been using this product for 18 months and I now have compliments all the time from strangers about my “amazing skin”. I use this product in conjunction with the cleanser/toner/serum and would recommend to anyone looking to improve skin texture!” - Alice P “This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non greasy, non shiny. Changes in my skin are an increased smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. I am 60 and tried this after other brands became ineffective. Now my skin appears luminous and more refined. So, I am going to purchase the whole range. Its a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age.” - Annie “I wake up with my skin glowing after using this. I noticed a smoothing of my skin's texture and fine lines almost immediately.” - Sam F “I love this retinol serum! I have been using it for a while now and find it smooths out fine lines and adds an overall healthy glow to my skin. Love it!” Veronica“As soon as the micro retinol moisturiser soaks in (takes a couple of minutes), my skin immediately looks smoother. Pores look smaller, and skin tone looks evener. I can’t recommend this enough.” - Sabrina Thompson “I've been using other Pevonia products for about a year and decided to try the Micro Retinol Serum to bump things up a bit. I saw almost instant results! Coarse lines, especially around my mouth have quite literally disappeared. Same thing for smile lines and crows feet. My 60 year old skin feels as smooth, soft, and healthy as when I was....well, I can't even remember when my skin was this glowing.” Julie M
superfood

Skincare superfoods: 8 ingredients for healthy, glowing skin

by Jo Boyden on Mar 01 2024
From green leafy vegetables to bright coloured fruits, we are told we should include superfoods in our daily diet for optimum health and wellbeing, but what about applying superfoods to our skin too? That’s right, superfoods aren’t just for congesting, you can also find them in some skincare products! And when applied directly to your face, superfood infused skincare can do everything from increasing moisture levels and boosting collagen production, to reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and redness. Want to know which superfoods you should be looking out for when it comes to skincare and why? Read on… Cacao (chocolate)This skincare superhero and superfood, is rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals, protecting the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. Packed with flavonoids, cacao enhances blood flow, promoting a healthy complexion and reducing inflammation.Its high levels of magnesium and omega-6 fatty acids also contribute to skin hydration, aiding in maintaining suppleness. What’s more, cacao stimulates endorphin release, promoting a sense of well-being that reflects positively on your skin's appearance. With its decadent benefits, incorporating cacao into your skincare routine unveils a radiant glow while indulging your senses in the delicious essence of chocolatey goodness. Yum!Try: Pevonia Chocolate Indulgence CreamApplesApples, the unsung heroes of skincare, are abundant in benefits! Packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, apples shield the skin from oxidative stress, reducing signs of ageing. Their natural acidity gently exfoliates, promoting a brighter complexion. Apples are also rich in collagen-boosting compounds, contributing to skin elasticity and combating sagging.Quercetin, found in apple peels, has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritated skin. Apples also contain hydrating and detoxifying properties, boosting hydration for plumper, softer skin! Incorporating apples into your skincare routine is a great way to nourish your skin and promote a naturally healthy glow.Try: Pevonia Green Apple Face MaskKakadu PlumsThis skincare powerhouse and Australia superfruit boasts high levels of vitamin C, in fact higher than any other fruit including oranges! Antioxidant-rich they fight free radicals, preventing premature ageing and support collagen synthesis for firm, youthful skin.The plums' anti-inflammatory properties also soothe and calm irritated skin, while their natural astringency aids in minimizing pores and promoting a smoother complexion. Kakadu plums also boast gallic and ellagic acids, contributing to skin brightening and reducing hyperpigmentation. Incorporating this superfood into your skincare routine delivers a potent dose of skin-loving nutrients, unveiling a radiant complexion with a revitalized and nourished glow!Try: ELES Blue Light Radiant BB CreamPapayaEnriched with enzymes like papain, it acts as a natural exfoliator, revealing a brighter complexion by removing dead skin cells. Bursting with vitamins A, C, and E, papaya promotes skin repair, fights inflammation, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Its hydrating properties nourish the skin, leaving it supple and moisturised.The fruit's antioxidants also protect against environmental stressors, preventing premature ageing. Papaya's natural alpha hydroxy acids contribute to a smoother texture, making it an ideal ingredient for achieving a luminous, revitalized skin tone.Try: Hubislab Papaya Enzyme Peeling Wash HoneyThe nectar of the gods! Honey, is like liquid gold for the skin. A superfood packed with benefits, its natural humectant properties lock in moisture, providing deep hydration and a radiant glow for dull, dry skin. Antimicrobial elements in honey soothe and heal the skin, making it an effective remedy for acne-prone complexions. Also rich in antioxidants, honey combats free radicals, preventing premature ageing.Honey’s multifaceted nature makes it a skincare superhero, promoting a complexion that's not only nourished but also radiant and resilient.Try: Pevonia Rejuvenating Dry Skin CreamGreen TeaGreen tea, a skincare elixir, is loaded with antioxidants called polyphenols (particularly EGCG), that combat free radicals, shielding the skin from environmental damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe redness and irritation, promoting a calm complexion.Green tea's polyphenols also contribute to collagen preservation, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing signs of ageing. With natural astringent qualities, it helps control excess oil and minimizes pores.Incorporating green tea into your skincare routine revitalizes and rejuvenates, unveiling a refreshed, radiant complexion.Try: Naturys Anti-Age Well Ageing Eye Contour CreamGoji BerriesThese vitality boosters, are rich in antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene and vitamin C, shielding skin against free radicals and promoting a youthful glow. The super berries contain essential amino acids crucial for collagen production, ensuring skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.Packed with vitamins A, B, and E, goji berries aid in skin repair, hydration, and protection against environmental stressors. Their anti-inflammatory properties calm irritated skin, while beta-carotene contributes to a natural radiance.Incorporating goji berries into your skincare routine infuses your complexion with a burst of nourishment, leaving your skin looking rejuvenated and revitalized.Try: ELES Age Defying BB Cream 30 CeleryLike apples, celery is another unsung skincare hero. It’s a real powerhouse offering a myriad of benefits. Rich in vitamins A, K, and C, celery aids in collagen production, promoting skin elasticity and resilience. Its antioxidants combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress for a radiant complexion.With anti-inflammatory properties, celery soothes skin irritation and redness. The high water content provides essential hydration, contributing to a supple and plump appearance. Celery also contains minerals like potassium, supporting overall skin health.Including celery in skincare deeply hydrates skin, enhancing its natural glow and well-beingTry: Naturys Moisturising Hydra Cream 24HTomatoesFilled with important nutrients including fibre, vitamin c, vitamin a, potassium, calcium and more, tomatoes don’t get the name superfood for nothing! One of the most important nutrients that truly makes the tomato a superfood (and gives it its vivid red colour!) is however lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off free radical damage! It shields the skin from UV damage, reducing the risk of sunspots and premature ageing.Tomatoes also promote collagen production ensuring skin elasticity and firmness. Their natural acidity acts as a gentle exfoliant, revealing a brighter, smoother skin surface. With anti-inflammatory properties, tomatoes also soothe irritated skin and manage conditions like acne.Ensuring these juicy fruits are in your skincare provides a refreshing dose of nutrients, fostering a radiant complexion and supporting overall skin health.Try: Naturys Sensitive Hydra OilBlueberriesThis small but mighty berry is bursting with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and phytochemicals that help combat free radicals, reduce inflammation, and promote a youthful, brighter complexion. They encourage cell repair, help minimise dark spots and uneven skin tone and contribute to skin radiance too, while their anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness.Incorporating these sweet gems into your skincare ensures a bounty of nutrients, unveiling a refreshed, revitalized, and radiant skin tone.Try: Naturys De-Sensitive CreamAvocadoRich in healthy fats, vitamins E, A and C, and antioxidants, avocados protect skin against free radical damage and deeply nourish and moisturise the skin, promoting a soft, supple complexion. Rich in oleic acid, they aid in collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.Avocado's anti-inflammatory properties also soothe and calm irritated skin, providing relief from redness.When in skincare avocado will ensure radiant, hydrated and resilient skin.Try: Naturys Anti-Age Double Action Peel MaskWhether you're combating signs of ageing, managing specific skin conditions, or simply want to brighten your dull, devitalized complexion, superfoods in skincare can play an essential roll in achieving your skincare goals.
best eye cream ingredients

Want more youthful eyes? The best eye cream ingredients

by Jo Boyden on Jan 26 2024
If you’ve recently noticed that your eyes are beginning to show obvious signs of ageing and it's starting to concern you, it's time you thought about investing in a good quality eye cream. You might be wondering where to start though, since let’s face it, there are many eye creams, gels, serums and treatments on the market, and you don’t want to fork out for something and not see results right? This is why, when it comes to eye creams, the right ingredients can make all the difference, especially when it comes to addressing specific concerns around your delicate eye area.Whether you are battling dark circles, puffiness perhaps? Or it’s the fine lines and wrinkles that are concerning you, below is a list of the best ingredients you’ll want to look out for when making your eye cream purchase. Firstly though, why is an eye cream so important? Will a moisturiser 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.The bottom line is that eye creams are essentially facial moisturisers that are modified for use on the more delicate skin around the eyes this includes the use of specific ingredients. Here are the ones you should be looking out for…. Hyaluronic Acid A truly powerhouse ingredient for hydration, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.For more on hyaluronic acid and the reasons why you should use this ingredient under your eyes click here Retinol Known for its anti-ageing properties, retinol helps stimulate collagen production and promote cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Just be sure to start with a lower concentration of retinol and gradually increase to avoid any irritation as the eye area is sensitive. Collagen This powerhouse protein helps improve elasticity and firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines, making those crow’s feet less noticeable! Vitamin C A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C brightens dark circles, helps with collagen synthesis, and protects the skin from environmental damage. Niacinamide (Vit B3) Niacinamide helps improve the elasticity of the skin, reduces inflammation, and brightens the under-eye area. Caffeine Caffeine constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness and dark circles. It also has antioxidant properties. Caviar Caviar extract is as close as we'll come to a time machine for those fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes. Eye treatment formulated with caviar have powerful anti-ageing effects by tightening fibres in the skin while replenishing them with key nutrients. Peptides Peptides stimulate collagen production, improving skin firmness and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Ceramides Ceramides strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and addressing dryness around the eyes. Green Tea Green tea is rich in antioxidants that soothe and protect the delicate eye area. Licorice With anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties, licorice extract can help reduce puffiness and dark circles. Our top eye treatment recommendations; Pevonia Age Correction Eye ContourThis power repair eye contour 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?“Reduces wrinkles and firms eyelids. It’s also cool and soothing to eye area. No oily film to interfere with applying eye makeup. Have seen reduction in fine lines in crow’s feet area.” Laura L, BC customer Pevonia MyOxy Caviar® Timeless Eye ContourThis eye cream is luxury in a bottle. It provides optimum results but yes, you’d want to expect that from the price tag! Packed with all the best anti-ageing eyecare ingredients including; Marine Collagen, Caviar Extract; Niacinamide, Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol and Escutox® – the natural alternative to Botox. This eye cream quite literally takes 10 years off your eyes. We are talking less puffy peepers, smoother skin around the eyes, noticeable decrease in wrinkles in next to no time!“This product is really awesome! It erased the wrinkles around my eyes and gave them a brighter look.” Kylie O, BC CustomerPevonia C Evolutive Eye GelIf you prefer the feeling of a cooling eye gel to soothe and depuff your peepers, this product is the one for you. 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.“I had a problem with puffy old looking eyes and was hoping that this gel would do the job as I was hating the way my eyes looked and I’ll tell you, this gel worked INSTANTLY on me! It’s a very good de-puffer for sure!” Suzette, BC Customer
Lactic Acid

Say goodbye to dull skin: How Lactic Acid revives your glow

by Jo Boyden on Oct 19 2023
If you've been on a quest to transform your dull skin into a gorgeously glowing complexion but have yet to see results, it could be due to the skincare products you are using.When it comes to reviving your skin's radiance you need to make sure you are using products rich in certain essential ingredients. We all know that vitamin C has the ability to dramatically brighten your complexion, but if you really want to achieve that much coveted healthy skin glow, the secret weapon so many of us aren’t familiar with is Lactic Acid. What is Lactic Acid?Don’t let the word acid scare you! Yes, lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), but this potent ingredient is derived from milk and is one of the gentlest AHAs there is. In fact, lactic acid is suitable for dry and sensitive skin.A natural exfoliant, lactic acid can breathe life into your lacklustre complexion. It works by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, revealing the fresh, radiant skin underneath, the reason why it’s a favourite among those looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliation solution. Why your skin will love lactic acidLactic acid is a multitasker, here’s how it works it magic!Exfoliation without irritationLactic acid gently exfoliates the top layer of your skin, unclogging pores and sloughing away dead skin cells sitting on your skins surface. The result? Smoother, brighter skin without the redness and irritation that some other exfoliants can cause.Boosts hydrationUnlike some exfoliants that can leave your skin feeling stripped and dry, lactic acid actually has a moisturizing effect. It helps your skin retain moisture, which is key for maintaining a healthy glow.Fades dark spotsWhether you're dealing with sun spots, age spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, Lactic Acid is a hero at fading these pesky dark spots and promoting a more even skin tone.Softens fine linesReady for a little wrinkle-smoothing action? Another impressive feat of lactic acid is its ability to stimulate collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a plumper, more youthful look.How to incorporate lactic acid into your skincare routineReady to add this skin-loving ingredient to your skincare routine? Here's how:Choose wiselyLook for lactic acid in the form of serums, toners, or moisturisers. Pick products that suit your skin type and concerns.Patch testAs with any new skincare product, especially one with active ingredients, it's a good idea to do a patch test before slathering it all over your face. Apply a small amount to a small area of your skin to make sure your skin agrees with it.Start slowlyIf you're new to lactic acid, start with a lower concentration and gradually work your way up. This gives your skin time to adjust and reduces the risk of irritation.Use at nightSince lactic acid can make your skin a bit more sensitive to the sun, it's best to use it at night. Make sure to follow up with a good sunscreen during the day to protect your newly revitalized skin.Follow up with hydrationAfter using lactic acid, be sure to hydrate your skin with a nourishing moisturiser to keep it plump and supple. Our favourite products rich in lactic acidPhytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumInfused with both lactic acid and glycolic acid, this lightweight serum is a must for reducing the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots.Medicalia Clarifying CleanserWith a balanced blend of lactic and salicylic acid the gentle cleanser works quickly and effectively to eliminate toxins, impurities, surface bacteria, and make-up. It’s ideal for inflamed, sensitive, acne prone and oily skin types.Medicalia L Retinol Smoothing CreamThe ultimate anti-ageing night cream, Medicalia's L Retinol Smoothing Cream is a must have for photodamaged skin. Formulated with micro-retinol®, glycolic, and lactic acid, it effectively lightens, brightens and smooths skin. Lacid acid is indeed a game-changer when it comes to your skin. Its ability to gently exfoliate, brighten and hydrate the skin makes it a must have for anyone looking to revive their natural glow. By incorporating lactic acid into your routine a few times a week, you'll be amazed at the transformation, trust me!
Beauty Collective - protect skin from skin pollution

How to protect your skin from pollution

by Jo Boyden on Sep 08 2023
We all know that the sun’s UV rays can wreak havoc on our skin, but are we all aware of how damaging pollution can be too? We’re talking everything from soot, dust or smoke to even smaller specs, which cannot be seen by the naked eye!If you’ve ever suffered from dull, devitalised skin, blotchiness and breakouts, discolouration, inflammation and premature ageing even, chances are it could be the result of pollution, and if you live in an urban area like me, there is sadly no escaping it! The good news however, is you can take many measures to protect your skin from it, keep reading as we reveal them all. Smart Cleansing I’m certain when I say we all cleanse our skin daily, but cleansing your skin properly (not aggressively) each night is an essential when it comes to protecting your skin from pollution. While pollutants can be like cell munching monsters that stick to the skin like velcro, a great cleanser, used gently will help remove them and still maintain your skin’s natural barrier. And the great news is there are cleansers that have been designed specifically to target pollution. They thoroughly remove dirt, grime, makeup, pollution and impurities, but do not strip the skin like harsher cleansers can.Consider a double cleansing routine too if your wear makeup everyday, starting with an oil-based cleanser followed by Phytomer Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream. Formulated with depolluting armeria maritima, an anti-pollution marine sugar and oligomer (seawater concentrate rich in minerals and trace elements), it cleanses, purifies, and invigorates the skin with a beautifully fresh, clean feeling. Effective exfoliation Just cleansing your face is likely not enough to remove all the polluting particles once they have entered your pores which is why you need a good exfoliating cleanser too! Cue award winning product Phytomer CITYLIFE Ultra Cleansing Flash Peel. This is the first of its kind, a pollution defence deep cleanser. Power packed with a high concentration of exfoliating enzymes, it leaves the skin healthy, purified, smooth, soft and with an incredible glow. Love. Skin barrier boost Your skin has its own protective barrier, but it could use some reinforcements. Look for an added boost of hydration and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and niacinamide, in the form of a serum or concentrate. These superheros fight off free radicals and help further repair skin damage caused by pollution.Try Phytomer Oligo 6 Marine Concentrate with Vitamins, Prebiotic Complex and Trace Elements which includes vitamins C, E, B and B3, Phytomer’s marine prebiotic complex and OLIGOMER®, to effectively help fight free radicals on the skins surface. This moisturising gel really is the perfect antidote for tired, dull complexions. You’ll love the way it rebalances, hydrates and boosts lacklustre skin (as well as protecting it of course!) Sun protection Never, ever underestimate the power of sunscreen! Sunscreen not only shields your skin from harmful UV rays but also acts as a protective barrier against pollution. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and wear it daily, even on cloudy days! Face Mask Treat yourself to a detoxifying face mask once or twice a week. Your skin will thank you for it! Clay masks, charcoal masks and masks with activated charcoal can help draw out impurities and pollutants from your pores. The face mask we can’t recommend more highly is Phytomer Radiance Reviving Mask with Clay. It combines 100% natural red and white clays, blue microalgae, red algae and a comprehensive depolluting complex of 3 marine sugars, and instantly unclogs pores and counters the effects of pollution (dehydration, signs of fatigue, dark spots and a dull complexion!) Want your skin to look less tired and to recover its original radiance? Try this! Hydrate, inside and out When we talk about skin and hydration we aren’t just talking about moisturising, it’s about maintaining your skins natural barrier. You want to protect your skin as best you can! Remember to drink water like it’s going out of fashion and apply your moisturiser religiously as it can help in lock that much needed moisture as well as create a protective layer on your skin. Better still look for a moisturiser specifically formulated to combat the effects of pollution. We love Phytomer Citylife Face and Eye Contour Sorbet Cream. With its Citysafe complex (a trio of anti-oxidant biotech marine sugars) and Oligomer, it literally sweeps away toxic micro-particles and repairs skin damage caused by pollution! Even better, its suitable for face and eyes, re-oxygenating tired, dull and dehydrated skin. And finally, don’t skip on an antioxidant-rich diet! Weve talked about antioxidants in your skincare, but a diet rich in antioxidants can also do wonders for your skin, especially if you’re living in an urban area. Be sure to load up on colourful fruits and veggies, and add nuts and fatty fish into the equation too. These are the best foods to provide your body with the tools it needs to fight free radicals and repair skin damage!So, the long and the short of it is pollution is bad, antioxidants are good and implementing these protective measures into your daily routine can help your skin stay healthy.
under eye crepiness

Top tips to improve under eye crepiness

by Jo Boyden on Sep 01 2023
If like me, you’re in your 40’s (or older), you may have fallen victim to under eye crepiness – that undesirable loose, wrinkled skin that can make you look tired, but also older than you actually are!This is because as we age the collagen and elastin levels in our skin starts to decline, as it does the delicate skin around our eyes (one of the first and most prevalent areas to show premature ageing) becomes dryer and thinner, and well crepey! Luckily all is not lost though! There are a number of steps you can take to improve its appearance, and we aren’t talking chemical peels, dermal fillers, laser and Botox, no siree, we are all about natural, non-intrusive alternatives. Keep reading as we reveal them all!Firstly though, why might you be more susceptible to under eye crepiness?The most common cause of fine lines, wrinkles and crepey skin under your eyes is unfortunately ageing, which can of course be influenced by genetics (thank you Mum and Dad!) But other common contributing factors which may be possible to avoid include;UV radiation – exposure to UV rays accelerates the breakdown of collagen leading to premature ageing, this is why it’s essential to protect our peepers! If you don’t wear sunnies every single day like you do your sunscreen, you should now!Smoking – smoking exposures your skin to extra oxidative stress, in turn damaging its collagen and elastin. Smoking also constricts the blood vessels under your eyes by blocking circulation to your blood vessels and depriving your skin of necessary vitamin A.Environmental factors - environmental factors, such as dry weather, wind, and pollution can all contribute to undereye ageing.Pulling repetitive expressions – well I’m definitely guilty of this! Facial expressions, like smiling, frowning, and furrowing your brow, can cause fine lines to develop prematurely around your delicate eye area. Eek!Even the way we sleep can have a negative impact on our eyes! What you might say? Yup, if you sleep with your face buried in your pillow (guilty as charged) you are likely to be more prone to premature fine lines, wrinkles and eye crepiness, than those that don’t! Aghhh.How can you improve undereye crepiness?Although crepey skin will not disappear overnight, it can be drastically improved with time, the right anti-aging products, as well as lifestyle changes. It can take weeks or even months to see results, but by following these top 10 tips you can bid adieu to that saggy, sullen, crepey skin under your eyes. Stay hydrated. All. The. Time. Yes, you’ve heard it a million times before, drink all the water. Hydration is key my friends. Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day (we’re talking 8 glasses minimum). When you drink water, it’s like giving your skin a drink from the inside out too (and that water has to nourish all your other vital organise too! Treat sunscreen like is your BFF Never underestimate the power of sunscreen. Those harmful UV rays are a major contributor to premature aging. So, slather on that sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days. Your future self will thank you!Not a huge fan of sunscreen? We get it. Soo many sunscreens feel greasy, don’t smell great or simply don’t sit well on our skin, and then there are those thick white sunscreens that look like a paste when applied too! That’s why we love the ELES Luminous Defence Brightening Day Protection SPF 50. It’s not greasy but instead silky soft, the scent isn’t unpleasant, and it applies beautifully to my skin. And thanks to its formulation its helps nourish and restore skins luminosity too, not to mention it’s high SPF of 50! Invest in an eye cream rich in hyaluronic acid and use it day and night Investing in a good quality eye cream that's packed with hydrating and skin-loving ingredients including hyaluronic acid and peptides will do wonders for ageing eyes. Gently pat the product around your eyes morning and night for that extra boost of moisture and optimal results.For more on the benefits of using hyaluronic acid under your eyes and our 3 favourite eye treatments click here. Add a gemstone facial roller to your daily beauty routine The roller will, not only help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, when used correctly, it can dramatically reduce puffiness by moving excess fluid around your eyes towards your lymph nodes where it filters out the toxins too. Cool right? To find out more about the facial rollers and how to use them click here. Introduce tea time for your eyes Tea isn’t just for drinking you know, it’s also good for soothing your eyes too! Try placing cold tea bags (caffeine free, herbal tea is best!) on your closed eyes for a few minutes. The tannins in tea can help tighten the skin and reduce puffiness too! Consider practicing eye massage Light massage with your ring finger can improve bloody circulation and actually help your skin appear smoother. Remember gentle, gentle though as applying too much pressure to already thin, delicate skin can have the adverse effect! Give your eyes a rest from screen time Increased time in front of your laptop and on your phone can reap havoc with your precious peepers. In fact, spending just two consecutive hours on a digital device can cause eyestrain or fatigue while overexposure to blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, therefore disrupting our normal sleep pattern. And we all know poor sleep can lead to premature ageing, especially around the delicate eye area! Make healthy lifestyle choices Your overall health reflects on your skin, including the delicate eye area. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. And if you're a smoker, consider kicking the habit – smoking accelerates skin aging like nobody's business. Using gentle cleansing is a must Be kind to your skin when you cleanse but also never skip on cleansing, it’s a must, just be sure to use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn't strip away your skin's natural oils. Harsh cleansers can contribute to dryness and crepiness. Try Medicalia’s Gentle Cleanser. Introduce cold compress magic Incorporate cold compresses into your routine. Applying a cold, damp cloth or chilled spoons over your eyes for a few minutes can help reduce puffiness and refresh your skin. Keep skin hydrated Invest in a good hydrating mist. A quick spritz throughout the day can give your skin the moisture it craves, helping to minimize crepiness. We love Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist. It’s one of my all time favourites. Make sure you get enough Zzzz’s Beauty sleep is real people! After all it’s not dubbed beauty sleep for nothing! Make sure you're getting enough restful sleep each night. Elevate your head slightly with an extra pillow to prevent fluid from pooling around your eyes, which can lead to puffiness and crepiness. Upgrade your pillow case If you are one for sleeping with your face in the pillow, you might want to consider switching up your cotton pillowcase to a silk or satin alternative instead.Silk has natural moisturising properties to retain moisture around the eyes. The dense weave of the silky-smooth fibres also keep moisture close to your skin, this extra moisture can help to reduce dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles.Just remember, Rome wasn’t built in day, and your under-eye skin won’t transform overnight either sadly (if only!) Be patient and be religious with these steps and you’ll be waking up to smoother, brighter and younger looking eyes soon!
VItamin C sources

7 of the best ingredients to brighten your skin

by Jo Boyden on Aug 17 2023
If you’re fed up with having a dull, lacklustre complexion, it might be time to change up your skincare routine. By introducing a few simple steps, you can take your skin from drab to radiant in next to no time! And no we aren’t talking makeup, even though you can achieve a ‘brighter glow’ with a good stick illuminator or power highlighter, it’s the ‘lit from within’ glow we are all after which can only truly be achieved by using the right skincare products, skincare products formulated with the best skin brightening ingredients that is!From the infamous vitamin C to powerhouse retinol, keep reading as we countdown the best skincare ingredients to brighten your dull skin, 7 ingredients that will reduce dark spots, fade hyperpigmentation, clear pores, smooth skins surface and well, create an overall radiant complexion…. Vitamin CThis outstanding brightening ingredient is like a burst of sunshine for your skin. It’s a powerful antioxidant that fights off free radicals and prevents skin from developing photodamage and dark spots caused by sun exposure. It also evens out skin tone and promotes collagen production. This translates to a smoother, more radiant complexion that is free from dullness and discolouration. All hail Vitamin C!Try: Pevonia C Complex - How can we describe a serum that smells like a fresh orange, is silkier than silk and once applied leaves your skin looking as though you’ve just returned from a tropical island holiday? A bit over the top? Ok, maybe… but seriously, this is an addictive product and when applied beneath your regular moisturiser offers a vibrancy and luminosity rarely seen without a pound of makeup. Many clients comment that it has in fact helped eliminate the need for foundation! Pretty serious claim but true nonetheless. It’s seriously good stuff! So if dullness and tiredness are your skin woes, try this glow getter! You won’t be disappointed. Glycolic AcidDon’t let the word ‘acid’ scare you. Glycolic acid is a water soluble AHA (otherwise known as alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugar cane! It’s a type of natural exfoliant which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells together, enabling them to be easily sloughed away revealing fresh, healthy skin underneath. And because of its small molecule size (glycolic acid actually has the smallest molecular size among all AHAs) it is able to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin where it can help treat everything from fine lines to uneven texture, blemishes, and of course dullness!Try: Pevonia Renewing Glycocides Cream - If your skin is looking a tad dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘insta-glow’, this product is your answer! Formulated with most renowned AHA glycolic acid combined with hydration hero Hyaluronic Acid, this treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Skin resurfaces soother, brighter and younger…seriously. RetinolIf you’re searching for a way to turn back the clock and reveal a brighter, more youthful complexion, look no further than this holy grail anti-ageing wonder ingredient! A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol stimulates cell turnover, inhibits melanin production (which helps dimmish hyperpigmentation, dark spots and acne scars), boosts collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The results? Skin looks plump, firm and positively luminous!Try: Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Line – this outstanding range of retinol products contains all-natural retinol, sourced from green leafy vegetables, paired with powerhouse duo Vitamin C and Vitamin E for optimal results! Each product in the range also utilizes a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and beautifully brighter skin.Tip: Apply in the evening, always wear SPF the morning after application, and avoid layering with exfoliating acids and vitamin c.Lactic AcidSimilarly to glycolic acid, lactic acid dissolves the upper layers of dead skin cells, kickstarting a process of renewal that means fresh new cells come to the surface and make skin appear brighter. Lactic acid has larger molecules than glycolic acid, so doesn’t penetrate as deeply and is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.Try: Phytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumThis lightweight, refining face serum formulated with a powerful AHA formulation, visibly reduces the appearances of imperfections. It diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots, making your skin appear younger, brighter and healthier! EnzymesWhen it comes to exfoliation, papaya enzymes are the gentle giants (so if you have sensitive skin this is the way to go!) They provide skin with a very gentle form of exfoliation as they don’t adjust the skin’s pH. Enzymes literally dissolve dead skin cells by breaking down the keratin protein in the upper layers of your skin, revealing brighter skin underneath. It’s like a mini day spa for your face!Try: Pevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream- There’s something so wholesome about this peeling cream that smells so delicious you could eat it! Papaya and Pineapple have been selected for their enzyme peeling action, in other words, an action that gently digests away 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. What you are left with is skin that looks reborn and with a lustrous sheen.Hyaluronic AcidBright skin doesn't just mean saying goodbye to dark spots – it's also about having plump, hydrated skin that looks youthful and alive. Hyaluronic acid is a master at retaining moisture, giving your skin that dewy, healthy glow that turns heads.Try: Vie Collection Mesoforce Hyaluronic acid vitamin mask containing a cocktail of vitamins and hyaluronic acid, this sensational mask reveals hydrated skin and a radiant complexion. With each application, skin is visibly smoothed and plumped. NiacinamideIf you're dealing with pesky dark spots, redness, or an uneven skin tone, niacinamide might just become your new best friend. This B-vitamin helps regulate sebum production, soothes inflammation, and minimizes the appearance of pores. The result? Clearer, more even skin that's positively glowing.Try: ELES Hydrating and Brightening Sheet Mask - if you’re dealing with dryness, dehydration, discolouration and dullness and could do with an instant pick-me-up, as well as boost of hydration, a sheet mask that contains nourishing and brightening ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin c or niacinamide is the way to go! We can’t get enough of this sheet mask by ELES Cosmetics, it plumps the skin from within, radically reducing moisture loss, plus extra bonus it helps to prevent hyperpigmentation and give your skin a fabulous, healthy glow.Remember, achieving bright, glowing skin isn’t an overnight process. Consistency is key, so introduce these ingredients into your skincare routine gradually and listen to your skin’s needs. Whether you’re dealing with dark spots, dullness, or simply want to enhance your natural radiance, these 7 outstanding ingredients will have you covered!
Pre-mature ageing

9 tips for improving your skin’s elasticity

by Jo Boyden on May 24 2023
We are all on the constant quest for youthful and supple skin, after all who doesn’t want to look that little bit younger for a long as possible right? Unfortunately as we age our skin does naturally loose it’s elasticity though (which is what makes it look younger and firmer!) and while there is no stopping this from happening, after all ageing is inevitable, there are several things we can do to improve our skin’s elasticity, and prevent premature ageing. Keep reading as we reveal 9 steps you should follow daily.Firstly though, what exactly is elasticity?Elasticity is our skin’s ability to stretch and then literally bounce to its original shape. It’s what gives our skin that smooth, supple texture.When we’re young, our skin is naturally more elastic, but as we age our production of both elastin and collagen (the proteins responsible for skin elasticity) slows down. This can lead to skin sagging, wrinkles and loss of firmness!What causes our skin to prematurely lose elasticity?Collagen and Elastin begins to decline prematurely due to a number of factors. These include genetics, sun exposure, poor nutrition, pollution and smoking.The good news is that there are a few things you can do to improve your skin’s elasticity, keep reading… Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! And I’m talking the surface of your skin and the water you congest Staying hydrated is crucial for overall skin health, including its elasticity. Drinking enough water helps to keep your skin cells plump and hydrated, which in turn promotes elasticity. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day and incorporate hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges into your diet.As well as ingesting water to hydrate your skin you also want to hydrate skin topically! The best way to do this is to use skincare products such as moisturisers and serums rich in hydration hero hyaluronic acid! Hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate skin to instantly deliver a supple, dewy complexion in a matter of seconds! In fact, it literally binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant! The extra moisture also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles! For everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid and the best hyaluronic acid skincare products, click here. Use skin firming products If you’re worried about ageing and want to improve your skin’s elasticity you need to make sure that your skincare routine incorporates skincare ingredients such as elastin, collagen, peptides, and vitamin c.And we mustn’t forget retinol! Touted the “holy grail of the skincare world” retinol has been shown to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. You can find retinol in many skincare products, from creams to serums to prescription-strength options. Just be sure to start slowly and follow the instructions carefully, as retinol can be irritating to some people's skin.We can’t recommend more highly the Pevonia Micro Retinol collection. The collection utilizes a specialized technology to create micro-particles of retinol that get delivered deep into the epidermis. This means complete product absorption, no skin irritation and immediate results.Every product in the Micro Retinol Line contains all-natural micro-retinol®, sourced from green leafy vegetables, combined with a powerhouse duo of vitamin C and vitamin E. The addition of vitamins c and e not only ensures micro-retinol’s stability, but also that the skin’s nutrients and density are renewed and preserved.To find out more about the many benefits of retinol, how to use it and the best retinol products click here. Exfoliate Exfoliating has many benefits including removing dead skin cells, clearing up clogged pores, and rejuvenating flaky skin. After long-term exfoliating, it will help to increase collagen production, resulting in better skin elasticity and a minimized appearance of fine lines. Massage skin regularly Massaging your skin helps to stimulate blood flow and collagen production. Because it stimulates the facial muscles, a massage is like a mini-workout for your face. It engorges the muscles with blood to oxygenate the skin cells and gives “tone” to your muscles.Massage your face with your favourite moisturiser or try massaging with a night oil before bed. You can massage with your fingers or better still use a gemstone facial roller. You won’t regret it! Nourish your skin from within with a balanced diet What you put into your body reflects on your skin. Fact. To improve skin elasticity, focus on a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Include foods high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, avocado and nuts, as they help protect your skin from free radicals that can damage collagen and elastin fibres, crucial for maintaining elasticity! And try to avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats, as they can contribute to inflammation and accelerate the aging process. Eek! Sun protection is key We can't stress this enough! Sun damage is one of THE biggest contributors to a loss in skin elasticity. Overexposure to the sun's rays can accelerate collagen breakdown, which leads to loss of skin elasticity and subsequent saggy skin - aghh Make sunscreen (with a broad spectrum of SPF 30 or higher) your best friend, and wear it every. single. day, come rain, hail or shine! Additionally, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to further shield your skin from sun damage. Get moving Exercise does wonders for your overall well-being, and it turns out, it's fantastic for your skin too! Engaging in regular physical activity boosts blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. This increased circulation aids in collagen production and supports skin elasticity. So, find an activity you enjoy – whether it's jogging, dancing, or yoga – and make it a part of your daily routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Get enough zzzz’s We all know that getting enough sleep is important for our overall health, but did you know it can also improve your skin's elasticity? During sleep, our body produces collagen and repairs any damage that's been done to our skin throughout the day. However when we are sleep deprived, our bodies produce more cortisol, a stress hormone that can actually break down collagen!It’s best to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night to give your skin the rest it needs, and consider sleeping on your back to prevent sleep lines and wrinkles caused by constant facial pressure on the pillow. However if you are a dedicated side or tummy sleeper you could invest in a good pillowcase made of silk or satin to reduce friction and prevent those creases while you sleep! Avoid smoking and try to limit alcohol consumption Smoking harms your skin and makes it more susceptible to wrinkles and age spots. Fact. This is because it damages collagen and elastin fibres, leading to accelerated skin ageing and reduced elasticity!So, if you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your skin's health. Excessive alcohol consumption can also dehydrate the skin and contribute to premature aging. We aren’t saying quit alcohol, like smoking, moderation is what’s key, so try to limit your alcohol intake and balance it with an increased water consumption.Just remember improving your skin’s elasticity requires consistency! By following these steps and sticking to them daily you’ll notice a positive change to your skin’s texture and firmness in next to no time (it won’t happen overnight though!)
Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid: The key to smoother, more radiant skin

by Jo Boyden on Apr 17 2023
We all know there are many go-to ingredients we need to look for when it comes to our skincare. From Retinol for the best in anti-ageing to hyaluronic acid for supercharged hydration, but if your skin is looking a little dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘instaglow’, glycolic acid is the ingredient you need to be looking out for.But what is glycolic acid exactly?Don’t let the word ‘acid’ scare you. Glycolic acid is a water soluble AHA (otherwise known as alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugar cane! It’s a type of natural exfoliant which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells together, enabling them to be easily sloughed away revealing fresh, healthy skin underneath. And because of its small molecule size (glycolic acid actually has the smallest molecular size among all AHAs) it is able to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin where it can help treat everything from fine lines to uneven texture, blemishes, and of course dullness!So now we know what glycolic acid is, what exactly are the benefits of this popular skincare ingredient? Exfoliation Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover. This leads to smoother, brighter skin and can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyperpigmentation Glycolic acid can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, sun damage, and melasma. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, which is responsible for skin pigmentation. Acne Glycolic acid can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin as it helps to unclog pores and reduce the production of sebum. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. Anti-ageing Glycolic acid can help to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance. What is the best way to use glycolic acid?Glycolic acid is a potent ingredient and should be used with caution. It is important to start with a low concentration and gradually increase the strength over time. Also, because glycolic acid works by exfoliating the top layer of the skin it can increase UV sensitivity from the sun so it’s essential to use sunscreen when using glycolic acid.There are several ways to incorporate glycolic acid into your skincare routine. It can be found in cleansers, toners, serums, and moisturizers. It is recommended to use glycolic acid once or twice a week initially, and then gradually increase the frequency as your skin becomes more accustomed to it. With regular use, this hero ingredient will help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin. Glycolic acid products we and our customers highly recommend;Pevonia Renewing Glycocides CreamCombining glycolic acid with hydration hero hyaluronic acid, this treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Skin resurfaces soother, brighter and younger…seriously.“WOW, talk about overnight results! Minimizes my pores, smooths out my skin, and reduces redness. I’m not sure if it’s supposed to do all those things, but it’s been 2 months now since I’ve been using it every night and i LOVE this cream!” Sally OPhytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining SerumThis lightweight, refining face serum formulated with a powerful AHA formulation, visibly reduces the appearances of imperfections. It diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots!“On my third bottle now and loved how it made a few of my dark spots disappear. It does take a while to see the results but it’s definitely worth the price!” Vickie KPevonia Problematic Skincare CreamFormulated with glycolic acid, calendula and panthenol, this beautifully light-textured and oil free cream with UV protection is excellent for preventing pore clogging and blackheads. It renders skin soothed, hydrated and desensitized.“Great cream for problem skin! I LOVE this product. I have tried everything, and this has been the one that I will stick with. It is not too heavy and absorbs nicely.” Olive G
Beauty Collective - Best Reviews

10 BC beauty buys with the best reviews

by Jo Boyden on Mar 02 2023
Whether you are after a soothing serum to help your sensitive skin, are in search of the best glow-getting products to revitalise your dull, lack-lustre complexion, are looking for the latest acne treatment to calm irritation and eliminate spots, or are simply in need of some healthy makeup options, at Beauty Collective we have something for everyone! and yes it’s easy for the team at BC to be biased, we love our brands and all things beauty! But you don’t just need to take our word for it! Our customers say the best things about our products too!Read on as we count down 10 beauty products we love, and our customers do too! Here are just a few of their reviews to prove it. The CleanserPevonia Hydrating CleanserFormulated with marine collagen, marine elastin and other natural nourishing ingredients this beautifully creamy textured anti-ageing cleanser does exactly as the name says! It both hydrates and gently but deeply cleanses the skin removing impurities without any residue.“I have used this for years and have never found a comparable product. Leaves my face feeling fresh and perfectly clean.” Kerry“The best way for younger looking skin. Just a few pumps will clean your face and your face will feel silky smooth. Does not leave your skin feeling dry at all.” Sarah“Best cleanser Ever. Creamy, non-irritating cleanser. I’ve been using Pevonia for year and my skin feels great!” Kelly“This is by far the best cleanser I have ever used. My skin always feels clean after every cleanse”. Robyn“Beautiful product. A little goes a long way and it leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. Lovely as a night time cleanser to wash away the day.” NicoleThe TonerPhytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleanser LotionThis all-in-one alcohol-free cleanser, makeup remover and toner is beautifully gentle and wonderful to use. It thoroughly cleanses the complexion, removing makeup and toning skin without leaving an oily film or dry, harsh feeling like other toners can. Instead you’ll just have a silky soft and supple skin instead.“I am obsessed with this toner! I have very sensitive skin and it works great for me. I use it any my eye makeup remover as well as a toner!” Sharon“This is the absolute BEST toner I’ve ever used! It is virtually scentless and extremely gentle yet super effective. It leaves my skin soft and refreshed and is even gentle enough to use as an eye makeup remover!” Kari “This is the best toner I have used so far. I have sensitive skin and been breaking out recently due to pregnancy hormones. This has really helped keep my skin clean and refreshed. I use it in the morning and night and it does not dry out my skin like other toners can.” Angela“This is the best and most wonderful toner that I have ever used in my entire life! You can feel it being cleaned after you have done your cleanser. Does not dry or strip your skin and is also gentle to use.” Judy“Holy grail toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all time favourite. Even after it dries my skin does not feel tight or dry. It truly leaves my skin better for use. If you’re in the market for a new toner I highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara The ExfoliatorPhytomer Vegetal Exfoliant with natural enzymesThis seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant for all skin types, eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) It encourages cell turnover, revealing beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes! So if you aren’t a lover of physical exfoliators (the ones with the bits!) this Vegetal Exfoliant is for you too!“I have been using this product for over ten years because of my very sensitive skin. It isn’t gritty, which keeps my skin from getting irritated, and it very gently removes dead dull skin. Always leaves my skin glowing and even toned with no redness or irritation. I usually follow with Phytomer’s deeply hydrating Hydracontinue mask and it is like having baby skin again. Highly recommend!” Laura“I have never used this product before, the first time and I can tell you that I love this brand. It makes your skin on your face more fresher and younger. Will buy again :)” Judy“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can’t use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs…this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It’s the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sara“I bought this after reading the reviews and it makes my skin glow and feel silky. Totally worth it!!” Justine“Love this Vegetal Exfoliant, after using it twice a week I notice more clear skin without irritation or redness.I have very sensitive skin and are wary of exfoliants since most of them have chemical ingredients. No redness but fresh looking skin. My favourite exfoliant now.” Phoenix The SerumPevonia Soothing Propolis ConcentrateThis beautifully rich anti-bacterial, soothing serum is ideal for all skin types especially those with sensitive or fragile skin. It not only calms and heals skin but enrichens and strengthens it too!“I have been using this product for many years. I have sensitive skin and I find it helps with calming it down and also keeping my skin looking subtle “Sal“Truly Amazing. I knew this was the best healing treatment for my face when I ran out of it for a couple of weeks, something I'll never do again. Keeps my ultra-sensitive complexion creamy and cool. Love Propolis — and it smells divine!” Suzanna “Love it! I use it before my lotion in the mornings and it really helps soothe my skin and keep it clear. I also use a retinol cream at night, and I feel like it is a good pairing with it.” Kelly “This is the best product I've tried so far! I have skin problems on my face area in particular, doctors say it's dermatitis, and I've tried many remedies before, but this concentrate is a miracle! It makes my skin look a lot nicer and it actually improved. I only used it for less than two weeks and I already see great results! I'm very glad I discovered this product!” Nina “My beautician put me onto to this little gem years ago...and I'm still a big fan. It calms my angry red face and helps with my breakouts.” Marlee The MoisturiserPevonia Power Repair Age Correction Marine Collagen CreamFormulated with anti-ageing wonder ingredients marine collagen and hyaluronic, Pevonia’s global best-selling moisturiser is a deeply nourishing, yet fine cream that feels amazing on application! If you are worried about signs of premature ageing and dehydration this cream is for you! Skin appears radiant, super soft and supple after every use and will feel like you’ve just had that much-needed boost of moisture, a feeling that lasts all day! I’m testament to that. I also swear I have less visible lines and wrinkles thanks to this superstar cream! Our customers agree too.“I love this daily face cream....I use it morning and night! My skin looks and feels amazing. I'm 52 and am told constantly that I look so young....I give Pevonia products the credit. Thank you for making such great skin care products!” Linda“This anti-aging cream is rich yet light in texture. It makes my skin feel beautifully moisturised. I highly recommend to woman with dry aging skin.” Lorraine“I absolutely love this cream. It is a day cream and a night cream and it helps with puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing ❤️” Ana“This cream is amazing! After about 3 weeks of using it, I noticed that the lines around my eyes were softer, the red sun damage on my cheeks was lessening and the general quality of my skin was improving. I will continue to use this product indefinitely.” Sara“Best Moisturizer! I love the texture of this cream, the smell is nice and subtle. It does hydrate your skin all day and gets rid of any dry areas that you may have. You do glow, and I highly recommend this. The list of ingredients should make you want to purchase this!” ClaudineThe Eye CreamPevonia Power Repair Age Correction Eye ContourEnriched with both the anti-ageing and nourishing ingredients including; Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin, Hyaluronic Acid and Green Tea, this super repairing, non-greasy eye contour effectively fight signs of ageing and fatigue, visibly soothing puffiness and diminishing fine lines.“I love this product! The Eye Contour moisturises beautifully and softens the skin around your eyes. I would definitely recommend it to everyone.” Sam“This is a wonderful product that keeps your eyes replenished and moist. It helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles. I love it!” Siobhan“Reduces wrinkles and firms eyelids. It's also cool and soothing to eye area. No oily film to interfere with applying eye makeup. Have seen reduction in fine lines in crow's feet area.” Laura“My first time using this product and in only a week I have noticed a difference. I have naturally puffy under-eyes...this helps reduce the puffiness and smooths the skin. I am in my mid-40's’ and don’t have any wrinkles - using this as a preventative to keep my skin looking that way :-)” Sal“Beautiful product I have only recently become a Pevonia convert within days my eyes are less puffy and smoother.” Jenny The Face MaskPevonia Radiance Ageless Skin Collagen MaskThis outstanding anti-ageing, hydrating mask combats dehydration in just 10 minutes. Skin will literally drink in the moisture leaving it beautifully plumped, smooth and visibly radiant.“Pevonia Radiance Mask is a beautiful product, skin looks so clear and fresh afterwards.” Jill“I have just started using this mask, after being recommended for my skin, nice to use.” JJ“I was already using the vitamin C face oil but felt I needed something more for a boost - and this really delivered. I left it on for about 20 mins then rinsed, and my skin was literally glowing!” Melinda“Love it. It will certainly be a part of my beauty regime in future.” Julie“The most beautiful mask that leaves my skin feeling so soft and smooth! It smells divine and is gentle enough on my delicate skin. Love the plump effect it leaves my skin looking too!” Stacey The Facial MistPevonia Hyaluronic Acid HydraMistA true multi-tasker, it can be used in the morning to revitalise your senses and replenish the moisture your skin has lost overnight, after your makeup to set it in place, throughout the day to help your skin stay supple and fresh (or as the perfect pick-me-up), and as a toner to enhance your evening cleanse. What’s more it will actually improve the absorption of your serum and moisturiser optimising the benefits and overall results too!“Completely obsessed! I’m not usually into face mists or even toners but tried this and fell madly in love!!! Not only does it make my skin feel super moist and dewy first thing, but I also noticed it keeps my make-up nicely set.” Maribella“My skin was instantly hydrated and glowing after applying this product! It makes my tired skin look awake and refreshed and the scent is great and very aromatherapeutic to help with the stress of the day. I love it, I will never go without this product.” Deanne“Love it! I love how refreshing my face feels with every application of the Hyaluronic acid Hydra-mist, I guess it is safe to say that all the natural ingredients come together to sooth and calm my sensitive skin.” Shey“My New Favourite! This product has become one of my go-to favourite products. I use it all the time; after getting out of the shower, after applying makeup to help set it, and before my serum and cream at night, to give an added boost. It enhances my skin’s beautiful glow, and my skin does not feel dry later in the day. Plus, the aroma is heavenly and helps to awaken my senses, giving me a feeling calm. Best Hydrating mist out there!” Erin“Consider me hooked on the Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist! The product scent is exquisite. My skin absorbs the product nicely and I feel more hydrated, as well as a sense of calm & well-being, after a spray of this product on my face, neck, and décolleté.” Anne The Makeup Must-haveELES Liquid Powder Mineral FoundationI never stop raving about this gem of a product and neither do our customers! If you are a lover of matte foundations but after something soft, subtle and natural looking, then you should invest in this beauty! Not only does it provide a flawless, smooth, powder finish, it’s also mineral-enriched (so great for your skin) and provides broad spectrum sun protection! Honestly what more could you ask for!“I’ve been using this foundation for years and I can’t live without it. The texture and the way it makes my skin feel is amazing. It gives such even, natural and flawless coverage. It’s seriously the best foundation I’ve ever used”. Sia P“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“Love this product, beautifully sets from liquid to powder! Great for oily skin or skin which becomes shiny during the day. Love to mix it with my SPF for a lighter finish!” Laura“Have been using this product for many years and absolutely love it - will never change foundations ever again! Great coverage, never causes pore blockage, packaging is fantastic and practical for travel. Highly recommended!” Leanne“I don't say this lightly when I say that this is THE best foundation I have ever used and have not gone back to any other! Excellent coverage, texture and evens out tone. I receive compliments often when I wear it.” AlisaThe multi-taskerELES Age Defying BB Cream 30I am a huge advocate for this multifaceted wonder cream! It has the perfect light, dewy coverage and literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects (thanks to its SPF of 30) and evens out skin tone all in one! for a truly natural and flawless finish, plus it feels like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! Honestly, if you are a busy mum on the go like me, this product is one you should seriously consider too! It’s your sunscreen, primer, and foundation in one!What’s more, thanks to its skin-loving ingredients including Vitamin E, Goji berry, Squalane; its multi-mineral complex, and age defying peptides, over time it will help to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned!“I absolutely love this product. I used it years ago, tried others but nothing compares. Such a beautiful feel on your skin and the perfect amount of glowy/dewy coverage. I love the spf included, I don’t need to use any other product but this on my face of a morning. Perfect for aging skin when you want a lighter coverage that makes your skin look younger.” Krystle W“I have been using this product for about 7 years, I love the consistency of it and the glow it gives. A little really goes a long way! Highly recommend.” Tania“This product is so beautiful for older skin. It covers really well yet allows the skin to breath. It’s pearlescent finish makes the skin glow. I am really happy with my purchase and recommend it to others without reservation.” Judith“I've been using ELES BB Cream for 5 years and have not strayed. I love the coverage (you only need a little) and the dewy complexion it gives my skin! Highly recommend this product!” Joanne“I absolutely adore this product. I don’t know how I ever lived without it” Jenni
makeup primer

Makeup primer – do you really need to use it?

by Jo Boyden on Dec 23 2022
From concealers to foundations, bronzers to blushes and more, with the multitude of makeup products available to ‘perfect’ our face these days, it’s no wonder some of us might question which products are really necessary and which ones we might be ok to forgo. For many, makeup primers tend to fall into the latter category, but we are here to tell you why this underrated makeup staple is a necessity when it comes to your daily makeup routine! Keep reading as we discuss everything there is to know about makeup primers, from what they are, to their numerous benefits, as well as our favourite primers for all skin types too!What is a makeup primer and what does it really do?Creating an extra layer between your skin and makeup, face primers are used to plump fine lines, blur impurities and blemishes, smooth skin, and help makeup last all day without caking, creasing or the need for constant touch-ups. They really are key to achieving smooth, flawless skin that’s perfectly prepped for your foundation! Depending on your skin concerns, you can choose from a hydrating primer, a mattifying primer, an illuminating primer or a colour-correcting makeup primer.What are the benefits of using a makeup primer? They provide the perfect base for your foundation Even though you might well have followed a rigorous skincare routine, your complexion can sometimes still be a little uneven, enter makeup primer! A makeup primer provides the perfect base for seamless foundation application free of any patches! This is because a primers main job is to fill the open pores of your skin and smooth it in preparation for your makeup to follow. They keep makeup intact all day long Ready to say goodbye to touch-ups and reapplication throughout the day? With a face primer in your makeup arsenal, you can enjoy a long-lasting, smudge-free complexion all day long. They can blur imperfections While makeup primers won’t enhance your skin quite like a bronzer, or conceal pesky pimples like a foundation, they are formulated to hide and blur imperfections! They are in fact touted as the photoshop of the makeup world! How they actually blur imperfections is down to two key ingredients: silicone particles which “fill in the gaps” on the surface of skin to even it out, and light-diffusing particles which scatter the light that hits the surface of the skin, creating an optical illusion that tricks the eye and makes pores and fine lines less visible. Sounds ideal right? They combat shine This will be music to those of us with oily skin! Indeed mattifying face primers can combat shine by balancing out excess oil, this in turn creates a smooth base for your makeup so it won’t slide off your face come lunchtime! They correct discolouration if you struggle with discolouration or hyperpigmentation, a face primer can be an important component in your makeup routine. Colour-correcting primers even out the skin tone and neutralize discoloration as the tinted pigments, antioxidants, and vitamin E brighten skin and minimize visible imperfections. They are packed with skin loving ingredients Many face primers, including our range of ELES makeup primers, are like an extension of your skincare, enriched with skin-loving ingredients including Vitamins A, C & E and salicylic acid to not only promote skin cell turnover and nourish and hydrate the skin but tackle and conceal common concerns like dullness, dryness and redness too!When do you apply a face primer?In terms of application, a face primer should be applied to perfectly cleansed skin, after your moisturiser and before you apply your makeup.Can you use primer without makeup?Absolutely! For no-makeup days, applying a primer is one of the easiest ways to conceal imperfections, colour correct, mattify the skin and combat shine and oiliness. You can apply your face primer after your daily serums and moisturiser.Are makeup primers for everyone?Whether you love a less-is-more makeup look or prefer dramatic glam, a makeup primer is the perfect tool, and you can choose the right primer for your skin's specific needs, from hydrating to pore perfecting and more…Our top picksFor dry to sensitive skinIf your skin is a little dry, opt for a multi-functional face primer that will keep makeup in place, while hydrating, firming and plumping the skin with a gentle blend of nourishing botanical oils. Try the ELES Retexturizing Face Primer. Not only does this soothing, lightweight serum feel like actual silk on your skin, it basically helps protect, condition, smooth and blur out skin imperfections too! Want to look like a filtered goodness, and have makeup last the distance, try this!For combination to oily skinIf your skin tends to be on the oilier side, we recommend opting for the ELES Pore Perfecting Face Primer. Not only does it keep makeup in place it also combats shine, absorbs excess oil and also reduces the appearance of pores to keep your foundation looking smooth and flawless! Genius!
best concealers

Mature skin? The best way to cover under eye dark circles

by Jo Boyden on Dec 09 2022
Eyes looking tired? Dark circles more apparent? Unfortunately as we age so do our eyes! In fact our eyes experience ageing before any other part of our face, so dark under-eye circles, puffy peepers and fine lines and wrinkles are a given. All is not lost though! By arming yourself with a few key products, familiarising yourself with a couple of simple makeup tricks, and following our step-by-step guide, you can both improve and cover under-eye dark circles and other signs of eye ageing, even for those of us with mature skin! Firstly why do we get dark under-eye circles as we age? As we get older, our skin becomes thinner. This is the result of a decrease in fat and collagen production (which maintains our skin’s elasticity) As this occurs, the dark blood vessels beneath our skin become more visible, causing the area below our eyes to darken. Dark under eye circles can also be the cause of lack of sleep (which unfortunately increases with age too!) as well as poor blood circulation and insufficient toxin drainage! What is the best way to improve and cover dark under-eye circles? Start by giving yourself a mini facial massage with a gemstone roller By doing so you’ll help improve circulation, remove toxins from the eye area significantly improving dark circles and bags under the eyes, reduce inflammation, refresh the skin and tone your face! In fact gemstone rollers offer a multitude of other benefits too to your skin too. Click here to find out more. Invest in a good eye cream or gel or both! For mornings when your eyes are feeling particularly puffy, reaching for a cooling eye gel will do wonders for reviving this delectate area while reducing puffiness. We love Pevonia’s C Evolutive Eye Gel, it’s a personal favourite of mine and highly recommended by the BC Pros. It’s a wonderful, cooling gel, formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C, skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, as well as green coffee and it’ll have your peepers decongested and depuffed in one swift application! Also use a tapping motion with your finger which you apply it. This can help get rid of any fluid that’s accumulated under the delicate eye area.  If it’s dark circles you appear to be constantly suffering from, we highly recommend Vie Collection’s Chrono Eyes Puffiness-Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream. It’s a mouthful to say, but a product that does exactly what it says! It’s a beautifully fine cream enriched with moisturising ingredients to nourish the eye area while reversing puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles! Oh and it instantly brightens the eye area too! Use a primer under your eyes before applying makeup As you age your skin becomes more prone to fine lines around your eyes. You want to conceal them but it’s best to do so by using a primer first. This will help fill in any lines and make the skin appear smoother (essential if you want to prevent makeup falling into the creases and exacerbating signs of eye ageing!) Use your ring finger and gently dab your primer over the wrinkles to the sides of your eyes and spread. Invest in a good concealer When it comes to camouflaging dark under eye circles, a concealer is by far your best bet. A good undereye concealer can give you complete coverage as well as make you look bright-eyed in seconds! Choose a shade lighter than your natural skin tone (as this will help brighten the area) but also opt for a “peachy” tone as this will counteract the blueish tinge of the shadows. Try ELES Dual Action Concealer. my secret weapon for concealing my dark under eye circles and helping me look like I’ve had 8 hours of blissful slumber as opposed to only 5! It’s formulated with a myriad of anti-ageing wonder ingredients including Hyaluronic acid, Caffeine, Vitamins C & E, Collagen and more! And it actually helps to gradually improve skin’s texture while concealing those obvious under eye dark circles. Its moisturising formula provides continuous hydration as well as a natural longwearing finish meaning it lasts for hours without seeping into fine lines and wrinkles! It’s seriously good stuff. Simply apply with a small concealer brush and then finish with a powder to set the concealer so it doesn’t crease. For the most brightening effect, apply your concealer in a “V” or upside-down triangle shape beneath your eye. Swipe it directly under the eye, but bring it down to a point on your cheek beside your nostril and fill in the entire area. Don’t forget to add a little illuminator and waterline liner to your eyes too!  Adding a little white eyeshadow (or pencil or illuminator) to the inner corner of your eyes, as well as waterline pencil to the waterline of your eyes, you’ll attract attention away from ageing eyes and create the illusion of younger, brighter, more wide awake eyes with one little dot of the finger!
super ingredients

7 super ingredients in your skincare that are all the rage

by Jo Boyden on Dec 01 2022
In the pursuit of youthful skin, so many of us will buy into the ‘latest’ and ‘greatest’ skincare products and trends, especially when they promise to make you look 10 years younger! But with trends forever evolving and the multitude of skincare products out there, how are you supposed to differentiate between what actually works and what’ll likely be a passing fad? When it comes to the search for skincare, and we’re talking skincare products that will really have a significant impact on your skin, a good way to start is by looking for specific skincare ingredients. For instance, if you are looking to brighten dull, sun damaged skin, skincare products formulated with Vitamin C should be your go-to. Worried about visible signs of ageing? It’s time to introduce retinol products into your daily skincare routine. But Retinol and Vitamin C aren’t the only super skincare ingredients to look out for. There are in fact a total of 7 game-changing skincare ingredients that are all the rage right now and recommended by every beauty expert the world over! You’ve likely heard of them all before, in fact the majority have been around for many a year and are now perceived as cult favourites, but do you really know what it is they do? Read on to learn all there is to know about the beauty industries leading skincare ingredients and why they should become a constant in your skin’s daily life too!   Retinol Hailed as the Holy Grail of the skincare world, retinol counteracts ageing like no other! A derivative of Vitamin A, this ‘superhero’ ingredient offers a multitude of benefits; From reducing the appearance of fine lines and preventing wrinkles, to correcting hyperpigmentation, reducing large pores and clearing acne, retinol also has the ability to speed cell turnover making cells function like that of a child! Crazy right? Perfect for those with sun damaged, dull and discoloured skin, those suffering from large pores and adult acne, or simply because ageing is a concern, we couldn’t recommend retinol more. But be sure to understand how and when to use it first. Try Pevonia’s Micro-Retinol Moisturiser, and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about. “This is the most beautiful cream I have ever used; light texture, non-greasy, non-shiny. Changes in my skin include smoothing of lines and crepe-skin areas, softening, hydrating and contouring, and reduced pigmentation. Some results were instantly visible and now after three weeks my skin just keeps improving. Now it appears luminous and more refined. It’s a surprise to see a brighter smoother complexion at my age, I am 60!” Annie Hyaluronic Acid Probably the most famous skincare ingredient of them all, and renowned as every beauty expert’s ‘must-have’, hyaluronic acid has the ability to instantly deliver supple, dewy skin. It binds moisture to skin cells to keep skin smooth, firm, plump, and undeniably radiant and thanks to its sponge-like effect, every molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water so when topically applied it’s like a burst of intense hydration to the skin. But this skincare ingredient doesn’t stop there, not only does it benefit those with dry, dehydrated skin, it’s also a must for anyone with signs of premature ageing. So be sure you include this in your daily routine if you suffer from a dry, devitalised complexion or if you are simply in need of gentle anti-aging skincare. We are hands down in awe of Pevonia’s new Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum, featuring one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the skincare market! “I have just started using this serum and the results are already noticeable. My skin is so much more youthful! Smoother, plumper and visibly radiant! I couldn’t recommend more highly!!” Mary C   Glycolic Acid If your skin is looking a tad dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘insta-glow’, Glycolic Acid is your answer. This super acid is a type of natural exfoliant derived from sugar cane, which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skins cells together. As dead skin cells shed, the new smoother, brighter and younger looking skin underneath is revealed. Made up of small molecules, it is also has the ability to penetrate deep within the skin, making it super effective for treating, blackheads, blemishes, oiliness, uneven texture, dullness and even fine lines! So if you have normal, combination and oily skin that’s looking far from radiant, Glycolic acid will be your saving grace. Try Pevonia’s Renewing Glycocides Cream, we promise you won’t regret it! “WOW, talk about overnight results! Minimizes my pores, smooths out my skin, and reduces redness. I’m not sure if it’s supposed to do all those things, but it’s been 2 months now since i’ve been using it every night and i LOVE this cream!” Sally O Vitamin C The best of the best when it comes to topical anti-oxidants, Vitamin C has been around for donkey’s years and for very good reason! Recommended by every beauty expert, this notorious glow-getter not only brightens skin, lessening hyperpigmentation, it also increases collagen production (which diminishes with age) and protects skin against pollution and sun damage by effectively neutralising free radicals (which can wreak havoc by harming healthy skin cells as well as promoting premature ageing – we are talking fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and more…) If you suffer from hyperpigmentation or dark spots or skin is lacking life and needs some serious brightening, vitamin c should be your go-to. We can’t recommend enough the Pevonia Vitamin C Complexe, it’s a firm favourite of ours! “This is a beautiful serum. You only require two pumps and the coverage is excellent. Radiant looking skin instantaneously. Definitely worth the investment.” Deborah W Collagen Peptides Collagen is technically a protein which naturally occurs in our bodies giving our skin strength and elasticity, as well as working to replace dead skin cells. However as we age our natural collagen levels begin to decline and the more collagen we lose, the more fine lines and wrinkles appear. Scary hey? This is where topical skincare solutions are an absolute must. By applying skincare formulated with collagen peptides, you can stimulate the synthesis of new collagen production and minimise the appearance of ageing. Sound good? To keep skin soft, supple and free of fine lines we are forever in love with Pevonia’s no. 1 global best-seller, the Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream. “I absolutely love this cream. It is a day cream and night cream and it helps with my puffiness, lines, blemishes, skin tone, you name it! Totally amazing.” Anna H Caviar Similar to retinol, caviar is a multi-tasking wonder ingredient! It works to enhance skin renewal and regeneration, it boosts collagen production and prevents the breakdown of elastin (which both diminish with age), it helps protect skin against UV rays, locks in moisture to keep skin deeply nourished and plumped and it brightens skin and reduces inflammation at the same time too! In fact caviar is suitable for all skin types even ultra-sensitive and easily irritated skin because it is rich in omega-3, and ceramides - anti-inflammatories that play a great part in reducing redness while soothing troubled skin! So if you want to bring back vitality and life to ageing, tired, and depleted skin this should be a must-have ingredient in your skincare arsenal. Try: Pevonia Myoxy Caviar Timeless Repair Cream. Drenched with potent actives to effectively counteract aging, this luxurious silky textured and easily absorbed cream provides outstanding rejuvenating results, smoothing wrinkles while increasing suppleness and oxygenation. “The very best anti-aging cream I have ever used...and I've tried them all!!! The cream is so rich that just a little goes a very long way in making your skin smooth with diminished lines and a the bonus of a fresh glow!” Sarah D Niacinamide Niacinamide or otherwise known as Vitamin B3, is the new kid on the block that everyone is raving about. This gentle ingredient when used topically can improve skin hydration by preventing evaporation of moisture from the skin. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, so it's great for calming irritated and sensitive skin. What’s more it has the ability to improve skin tone and effectively fade dark spots, it can calm angry acne and it fights off harmful stressors such as UV rays, pollution, stress, lack of sleep, and other factors can all create free radicals that damage healthy skin cells. Oh and Niacinamide also improves the regulation of excess oil production, which can help minimise congestion and breakouts! What more could you ask? Try: Vie Collection Vita B3 Concentrated Solution. This light, melting textured serum is like a shot for the skin that will visibly improve skin’s radiance in next to no time! We are talking brighter, happier, healthier skin! Plus with continued use this product will significantly decrease pigmentation while reinforcing the protective functions of the skin barrier for the optimal skin health. “I love this serum! It’s become a staple in my skincare routine. It has slowly and gently removed ALL the sunspots I had on my face from never using sunscreen in my younger years. My skin is also now so much more radiant after introducing it! I’m one very happy customer.” Lorna M  
Which order should you apply your skincare?

Which order should you apply your skincare?

by Jo Boyden on Nov 24 2022
With the ever-growing number of lotions and potions on the market from cleansers to toners, serums to oils, day to night creams and more, it’s no wonder there is confusion around which products are really necessary for our skin, let alone which order you should apply your skincare!Here’s the thing, we all have unique skin needs, dependant on our skin type and concern, so it’s important to create our own skincare ‘cocktail’ based on these specific needs! But if we use the wrong products (not everyone for example can tolerate AHA’s), pair two products together that are formulated with ingredients that don’t ‘gel’, or do not wear our skincare in the correct order, we just won’t see the results we are hoping for, or worse could wind up with blotchy, irritated skin instead. Eek.So to save time, stress and money! We have detailed below the exact order you should apply your skincare so you can get the most out of it! Along with what products and ingredients to use for your skin type and concern too! Cleanser Toner Serum Eye Cream Treatment (eg. Spot) Moisturiser Sunscreen (day) Face Oil (night) Step 1: CLEANSERCleansing daily is essential for skin health and the first step to layering skincare like a pro for optimum results. And despite conflicting views cleansing twice daily is imperative.Firstly, you need to cleanse at night to remove the days dirt, makeup and impurities. Then again in the morning to remove any excess oil and dead cells that are likely to have accumulated on your skin overnight. Without cleansing, your skin will be more prone to breakouts, dehydration, and premature aging. And remember you need a clean, oil and grime free face for all your skincare ingredients to properly absorb into your skin!At night opt for a cleansing oil that literally dissolves makeup (including waterproof!) without stripping your skin then follow with a gentle, creamy cleaner (which you should use in the morning too). For more information on cleansing and how it will improve your skin tenfold click here.Try;ELES Transformation Cleansing Oil - ideal for all skin types it will literally melt away makeup and impurities while maintaining a balanced, hydrated and smoothed complexion.Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk – If you love milky cleansers this is your one! Formulated for all skin types even those with super sensitive skin, it gently removes makeup and residue without disturbing the skin's protective barrier.Phytomer Oligopur Purifying Cleansing Gel – the perfect option for oily skin types this lightly foaming, velvety soft gel cleanser effectively eliminates impurities and excess sebum thoroughly cleansing and purifying the skin.Pevonia CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser – my everyday go to, this lightly foaming luxurious cleanser is suitable for all skin types, but especially recommended for dry skin! It’s lipid rich, alcohol-free and soap-free and feels a-mazing on the skin. Skin is actually clean, hydrated, softer and smoother after every use! Step 2: TONER (or lotion)Ah, the step that everyone skips, but a vital step in optimising the effect of your skincare! Essentially toners help to remove any excess dirt and traces of oil, balance the pH of your skin and prime your skin for ingredients that follow to be better absorbed!Try;Phytomer Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion – Perfect for all skin types this little gem ensures any left over signs of residual makeup or oil is completely removed.Phytomer Oligomarine Flawless Skin Tonic – perfect toner for oily, blemish-prone skin. Pevonia Hydrating Toner – Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice, and Vitamin E, it works to hydrate, revive and fully refresh the skin. Great for anyone with worried about ageing, dehydration or devitalised skin.Medicalia Gentle Toner – wonderful for those prone to rosacea and sensitive skin. Step 3: SERUMSYou might be wondering if you really need a serum in your skincare routine, but I’m here to tell you why you definitely do!Serums are the heavy lifters when it comes to your skincare routine, they are essentially shots of extremely concentrated nutrients, hydrators and antioxidants that will really amp up your skin’s health as soon as you apply it. Serums actually tend to perform above and beyond many regular skincare products because they are formulated with a higher concentration of targeted active ingredients and have the ability to penetrate deeper into the dermis. So if you want your skin to live its best life don’t skip on the serum! To learn more about why you need a serum and the best anti-ageing serums for every skin type, click here.Try;Phytomer Hydrasea Ultra-Moisturising Polarized Water Serum - the ultimate thirst quencher for dehydrated and devitalised skin.Vie Collection Vita C Concentrated Solution – the best for serious skin brightening. Vitamin C promotes a healthy, radiant glow.Phytomer Acnipur Blemish Solution Fluid – to diminish the appearance of blemishes and prevent future breakouts.Pevonia Soothing Propolis Concentrate - For seriously sensitive skin that needs calming, soothing and strengthening. Step 4: EYE CAREUnfortunately, the delicate skin around our eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, so this is not a step in your skincare routine that you should ever skip! In fact it’s essential we our eye area the same level of TLC as the rest of our face!This step needs to come before your moisturiser because thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products and eye care products tend to be lighter and thinner than moisturisers to compensate for the fragile eye area.Try;Phytomer Pionniere XMF Reset Eye Fluid – anti-ageing wonder cream, perfect for night-time.Vie Collection Chrono Eyes Puffiness – Dark Circles Wrinkle Cream – the best to combat eye ageing, dark circles and under eye puffiness.Pevonia “C” Evolutive Eye Gel - formulated with anti-ageing dynamo Vitamin C and skin saviours’ hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba, this gel is perfect is cooling and soothing congested and puffy peepers.Step 5: MOISTURISERA moisturiser not only infuses your skin with hydration but also helps trap in all of the products underneath it to make the ingredients even more effective.In the morning opt for a lighter, gentle moisturiser that will nourish and hydrate skin but not feel heavy or greasy (after all who wants that!) Just make sure you let your moisturiser of choice sink in before applying makeup as you don’t want your makeup to slide off within an hour of application!Try;Phytomer Nutritionnelle Dry Skin Rescue Cream – this is a salvation for even the driest skin, bringing comfort, hydration and protection.Phytomer Oligopur Hydra Matifying Control Cream – ideal for oily, combination or acne-prone skin, this mattifying cream restores clear and perfectly moisturised skin.Pevonia RS2 Care Cream – perfectly soothing, calming and nourishing, this global best-selling cream for sensitive, rosacea and reactive skin types will render skin visibly calmed, soothed, and completely decongested.At night skin goes into repair and regeneration mode so your moisturiser should be packed with skin ingredients to benefit your skincare concerns like hyaluronic acid, lipids, proteins and retinol.Try;Phytomer Night Recharge Youth Enhancing Cream – hydrating, nurturing and restorative, this anti-ageing night cream for all skin types is outstanding!Pevonia Micro-Retinol Essential Moisturiser – while you should introduce retinol slowly, if you are worried about ageing, this is the ingredient your skin needs. This moisturiser will deeply hydrate, smooth, brighten and firm ageing skin. It’s idea for those with advanced signs of aging and sun damage exhibited by wrinkles, loose and sagging skin and uneven skin tone or dark spots. Really, it’s great for anyone who really want smoother, firmer skin and are not sensitive or acne-prone. Step 6: SUNSCREEN/FACE OILBy day go nowhere without applying your sunscreen, it’s literally your barrier of protection against free-radical damage, the no.1 cause of premature skin ageing!Try;Medicalia Sunscreen SPF 40 with Blue Light Shield – perfect for all skin types, it’s light-textured, non-greasy, tinted and 'ocean/reef safe' and it delivers powerful sun and blue light protection whilst also combating skin-aging free radicals from UV and infrared radiation!At night you should always use a face oil – the very last step to your skincare routine. This is because the oil takes a while to penetrate and treat the skin, so applying it at night gives it time to do its job. Plus you wouldn’t want a face full of oil in the morning just when you want to apply your makeup!Try;Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil – perfect for all skin types this face oil literally does as the bottle says. Enjoy softer, radiant and revitalised skin.Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate - Fast-absorbing, this soothing, silky anti-oxidant oil radically combats premature ageing, dehydration, and excessive dryness by locking in hydration and delivering moisture that stays! So you’ll wake up to smooth, supple, and seriously glowy skin every morning. While these 6 steps include the basics for your daily skincare routine, you must not forget your exfoliator and face mask, to essentials steps to incorporate into your routine once or twice weekly as well!To find out more about the benefits of exfoliation and the best exfoliant for your skin click here. And for when and why you should use a face mask click here.
best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes

The best eyeshadow tips for ageing eyes

by Jo Boyden on Nov 17 2022
If you’re worried about ageing eyes you might well have stopped wearing eyeshadow in fear it will only exacerbate your fine lines and wrinkles. The thing is eyeshadow and all eye makeup for that matter serves a very important purpose no matter what your age! It can add depth and dimension to your eyes making them appear larger, it can complement your eye colour or simply draw attention to the eyes! And most importantly it will bring back life to your ageing eye area! Genius! So instead of forgoing eyeshadow, you just need to alter how, and which type you use! To get the lowdown, we talked to the experts at BC! Keep scrolling as we countdown 10 of the best eyeshadow tips for mature women. Start with a good eye cream It’s likely you’re doing this already, but if not, you’ll want (and need) the delicate skin around your eyes to be properly nourished! And we are talking both the eyelid and the undereye area! For a great eye cream for ageing eyes try Pevonia’s Age Correction Eye Contour. It’s formulated with Marine Collagen, Marine Elastin and Green Team which not only provide eyes with powerful anti-ageing benefits, it smooths, first and deeply nourishing the fragile eye zone too. Use a primer As our skin ages, under-eye wrinkles and crows feet become more apparent – they are a fact of life for us all! A good primer however will help reduce their appearance while increasing the longevity of your eyeshadow! It’ll also prep your eyelids preventing eye makeup from creasing, feathering, smudging or smearing! Apply a good under-eye concealer This will make eyes appear bigger and brighter in prep for your eyeshadow. Concealer isn't just for brightening up your under eyes though. Prepping the eye with a concealer that's about two shades lighter than your actual shade will make your eyeshadow more pigmented and in turn pop a lot more.You’ll need to use one with has a hydrating formula as this will add additional nourishment to the eye area as well as prevent the concealer from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.Try ELES Cosmetics Dual Action Concealer. Use a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner You don’t want to get to lunch time and find yourself with panda eyes! No sireee. By using a waterproof or long-lasting gel eyeliner, it’ll stay in place all day plus give eyes much needed depth and definition. Try ELES Cosmetics Superwear Gel Liner. Line your eyes with a waterline liner Eyes tend to look duller and tired with age. A waterline liner will open up your eyes instantly creating the illusion of bigger, brighter, more youthful looking eyes.Simply apply your normal eyeliner to your top lash line then apply your waterline liner to the inner rim of your lower lash line. (We recommend ELES Cosmetics Waterline Liner). By doing so it’ll immediately open up your eyes as well as make the whites of your eyes look whiter. It works a treat I can vouch for that! Opt for matte eyeshadow and go mineral Eye shadow comes in many different colours and textures but for ageing eyes matte eyeshadows are the way to go. Those with mature eyes might find matte eyeshadow more longwearing and less likely to fade on their skin. Your best bet is to stock up on mineral matte eyeshadows that are pigmented without emphasizing fine lines but also packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C & E to pamper lids with crease-proof perfection. Try ELES Cosmetics Mineral Matte Shadows. Better still try the ELES Build your own Shadow Palette, you get to select which ever 3 shades of mineral shadow shades you want! A trio of colours on your eyes is always better than one, they will make your eyes stand out more and can also increase their size and let’s face it bigger eyes are more youthful! Choose lighter eyeshadow shades Opt for a lighter, natural eyeshadow shades rather than dark, smoky shades on your eyelids and around the eyes. Using neutral colours like shades of light browns, light pinks, beiges, or greys are best. Also add a light colour eyeshadow shade to the inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid. Apply eye shadow correctly Don’t take your base eyeshadow shade and simply plonk it on the centre of your lid. Using a small eyeshadow brush, start from the outer corner of the eyes and work inwards, so that the colour gets gradually lighter. This will help give your eyes a bigger, wide-eyed look. Finish with mascara No matter your age, mascara will always be a go-to product. A good mascara (we are talking smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-lasting) adds volume and strengthens brittle lashes to keep them looking full and luscious. Fuller-looking lashes can also help to give a more youthful appearance to the eye area. However, it’s best not to wear mascara on the lower lashes as this can make your eyes look droopy as well as draw attention to dark circles and under eye wrinkles. Use a setting spray or powder Finally, to prevent eyeshadow fallout (after all we want it to stay in place all day or night long!) use a setting spray or if setting sprays aren't your thing, opt for a setting powder instead! Both work to lock your makeup in place. Try Pevonia Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Mist.