Your Guide to Sebaceous Filaments
đ¤ Let's get started... What exactly are sebaceous filaments? If you look very closely at your nose, you might be able to see the light coloured dots at the surface of your pores. These are sebaceous filaments, which are thread-like structures that reside in the lining of your pores. Their job is to help guide oil flow from the sebaceous gland, through the dermis and to the surface of your skin where that oil can fulfill its purpose fighting dehydration and protecting the skin from environmental triggers. They are a completely natural and normal part of the skin. Many people find that sebaceous filaments are particularly visible on their nose, and they are often mistaken for blackheads. đ¤Â Sebaceous filaments vs Blackheads While sebaceous filaments and blackheads can look similar, they serve almost opposite purposes. Sebaceous filaments assist oil flow from deep within the pore to the outer layer of skin. On the other hand, blackheads occur when too much oil is produced and combines with dead skin cells to block pores. In terms of appearance, sebaceous filaments are usually not very noticeable, while blackheads stand out on the skin due to their dark colour. đ¤Â How sebaceous filaments improve your skin Sebaceous filaments are an unsung hero. As long as they are functioning properly, they should be almost invisible and help to hydrate your skin and fight any skin aggravators. They are the âladderâ that your natural oils use to move from deep within the dermis to the skinâs surface. These oils moisturise your skin and improve elasticity. They also create a coating on your skin that helps to protect you from things like sun, wind and other environmental triggers. đ¤Â The problem with sebaceous filaments The problem with sebaceous filaments occurs when an overproduction of oil causes the pore to fill up with sebum, making the filaments much more visible as they begin to take on the appearance of a blackhead. A sebaceous filament and a blackhead are not the same thing, but if the pore becomes clogged then it can turn into a blackhead. Sebaceous filaments are a naturally occurring part of the skin, and even if they are squeezed or removed they will always come back. However, there are ways to manage the appearance of sebaceous filaments when they become clogged and start to contribute to enlarged pores. đ¤Â Sebaceous filaments treatment The best treatment for sebaceous filaments is to have a healthy skin routine that targets congestion. This will prevent pores from overfilling with oil, and help the filaments to do their job properly. We recommend the following routine to ease congestion. 1. Gentle and regular cleaning Gentle and regular cleansing with a detoxifying cleanser will help to draw out impurities from deep within the pores, refreshing and refining your skin texture. We recommend looking for a cleanser with charcoal, as this ingredient will bind to detritus and pull it out of your skin. Our Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal is ideal for skin prone to congestion, and will reduce the appearance of sebaceous filaments by flushing out the pore. Cleanser should be applied every day, remembering to cleanse twice if you are wearing makeup. 2. Exfoliating to prevent clogged pores Regular exfoliation will prevent dead skin cells from accumulating in your pores so that your sebaceous filaments can keep doing their job. Look for a gentle physical exfoliant with antibacterial additives to help thoroughly cleanser the pores. We recommend our Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant to keep your skin fresh, clear and bright. Exfoliant should be applied 1-3 times each week. 3. Serums to buff, detox and purify Find a congestion targeting serum to help your sebaceous filaments pull oil to the skin's surface and clear the pore of any impurities. Our Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum is designed for congested skin to polish away any pore-clogging debris. đ¤Â Tips for dealing with sebaceous filaments It is best not to squeeze the skin to try to remove your sebaceous filaments. This can cause skin damage and scarring, and the filaments will be back before long anyway. It is never a good idea to use harsh products on your skin. To treat sebaceous filaments, look for gentle skin products that will cleanse and exfoliate your skin without stripping it of natural oils. Remember that sebaceous filaments are a completely natural and normal part of your skin and that they have an important role to play in directing your skinâs oil flow. More questions on sebaceous filaments and how to manage them? Get in touch with our skin care experts! At esmi, we are here to support you at every step of your skin care journey. Contact us today with any questions you may have. Â
Face Serum & Why You Should Have One
What is a face serum? Your skinâs superhero! Formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients, serums deliver a potent hit of ingredients quickly and deeply into the skin. We take a look at how and why to incorporate a serum into your routine to help improve everything from dehydration and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and wrinkles What does a serum do for your face? What sets face serum apart from other products in your skincare routine? Theyâre the fastest, most potent way to deliver the active ingredients your skin needs to help correct skin concerns. The small molecular structure of a serum - theyâre usually water based - allows it to penetrate the skin more deeply than other products. A cream-based moisturiser, for example, sits on the top layer of skin. A serum, on the other hand, absorbs more rapidly and deeply into the skin. Serums arenât designed to take the place of your moisturiser, they work together as a skin saving team. The serum delivers a potent hit of active ingredients and your moisturiser works to lock those nutrients in. Weâll cover more on exactly how to use serum in your routine in a moment! Serums target different skin concerns Theyâre formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants including vitamin A, C, and E. Some heavy hitting anti-ageing serums contain high doses of topical retinoids (Vitamin A). You can also find concentrated levels of omega 3, 6 and 9 in serums formulated with a combination of water and oil based ingredients. Here are a few key ingredients to look out for in a face serum to target some everyday skin complaints: Dehydration: Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Dullness: Vitamin C Fine lines & wrinkles: Peptides, retinol, and Vitamin C Redness & irritation: Niacinamide, linoleic acid (omega 6 fatty acid), Vitamin E Oily skin & congestion: Vitamin B and hyaluronic acid Our recommendations from the esmi Skin Minerals range of serums to address some of the most common concerns: 𧥠Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator for all skin types, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for more hydrated, plumper, repaired skin. âLove this product. Makes my skin feel so soft and hydrated. I'm addicted! I've noticed a dramatic difference in my skins texture.â â Tia đ§ĄÂ Hyperpigmentation and dullness: Pomegranate Brightening Serum Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. âHave definitely noticed a difference in my skin texture and appearance! I used to have really bad discoloration and acne scars and this product has made me confident enough to not feel like I need to cover up the discoloration with makeup anymore! Others have commented on how much nicer my skin looks and I definitely feel it, as well. Would highly recommend!!â â Abygail 𧥠Redness and inflammation: Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Suitable for all skin types to treat red, puffy or acne inflamed skin itâs ideal to use after laser, IPL or diathermy treatment. âLove this one! Really helps with evening my skin tone and lessening my rosacea in my cheeks. I use this at night before bed and in the morning any acne spots are noticeably reduced. Would recommend!â - Tara How to use a face serum If youâve asked yourself âWhat is face serum?â youâve probably wondered when and how to use a face serum too. Letâs find out! 𧥠Apply face serum after the cleansing step in your routine and while skin is still a little damp to encourage absorption.𧥠Drop a pearl sized amount of serum from the dropper onto your fingertips. Serums are potent so a little goes a long way.𧥠Massage into cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area.đ§ĄÂ Allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin.đ§ĄÂ Follow with a moisturising lotion (morning and evening) and then sunscreen (morning). A moisturiser works to seal the active ingredients of the serum into the skin. Itâs important to use both a serum and moisturiser for the best results. Should you use face serum everyday? Many serums can be used twice a day (morning and evening) for the best results. The exception here may be a serum containing a high concentration of retinol (Vitamin A) which is usually recommended to apply at night. Always wear sunscreen the following day as retinol products make skin extremely photosensitive. If youâre using multiple serums to treat different skin concerns - dehydration and hyperpigmentation, for example - you could apply one serum in the evening and the other in the morning. Do I need a face serum? What is a face serum going to do for your skin? Plenty. You can move your skin results forward in leaps and bounds by incorporating a serum. Theyâre designed to intensify the strength of your skincare regimen and compliment your other products in addressing your skincare concerns. Depending on the ingredients theyâre formulated with, face serums can provide antioxidant protection against free radical damage, boost hydration, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyperpigmentation and dullness can also be improved with the addition of a face serum. No matter your skin type or concern, youâll see speedier results and a significant improvement in the overall health of your skin with a serum.
Eye Serum vs. Eye Cream
Eye serum vs eye cream. Whatâs the difference and how exactly do they work? We explain the benefits of both and how they fit into your routine to help address signs of ageing, fatigue, and puffiness around the eyes. Which is better: Eye serum or eye cream? Under eye serum and eye cream both offer benefits for perking up tired, puffy, crepey or dull skin but they work in different ways. What is eye cream? Moisturising and nourishing Reduces under eye dryness Improves skin texture Works on the skinâs surface Heavier texture Cream-based formula Eye creams and eye balms are a cream-based formula with a richer texture than a serum. What does eye cream do? They focus on delivering intense moisturisation to the delicate eye area to improve texture, nourishment and concerns of puffiness and dryness. Eye creams and balms contain emollient and occlusive ingredients which work on the skinâs surface to lock moisture in. What is eye serum? Target specific under-eye concerns: wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, loss of firmness Contain active ingredients Penetrate deeply into the skin Light texture Rapidly absorbed Water-based formula Lighter than a cream, under eye serum contains active ingredients like anti-aging peptides, antioxidants, and humectants to target specific skin concerns. With less (or no) occlusive or emollient ingredients, they donât offer the same moisturising benefits as a cream. Eye serums are quickly and deeply absorbed into the skin where the active ingredients get to work targeting under-eye concerns like dark circles, fine lines, dark spots, and sagging. You might be wondering âIf Iâm using a serum is eye cream necessary?â They make a great team to address moisturisation (cream) and specific concerns (serum). Our favourite under-eye serums Which eye serum is best? esmi range of Intensive Eye Serums are designed to help address a range of common concerns from fine lines and puffiness to dehydration and dullness. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Ideal for: Crows feet, puffiness, fine lines, and dryness. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum fights signs of ageing around the delicate eye area - crows feet, puffiness, dryness, and fine lines. Eyes are instantly refreshed and results are reinforced over time. This lightweight serum lifts, tightens, and reduces wrinkle depth in the eye area. Hydrating Eye Serum Ideal for: Dehydration, signs of fatigue, puffiness and fine lines. The hero ingredient of our Hydrating Eye Serum is hyaluronic acid, which delivers long-lasting hydration to help restore under-eye skin. This lightweight serum also contains a potent formulation of marine extracts and antioxidants for skin conditioning and nourishment. Used consistently, it helps promote a firmer, softer and brighter eye area. Brightening Eye Serum Ideal for: Dark circles, age spots, eye bags, and wrinkles. Feeling less than bright-eyed? With a unique blend of plankton extract, peptides, and active ingredients (including potent skin brightener Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) Brightening Eye Serum acts on signs of dark circles, eye bags, and wrinkles. Promote a brighter, tighter and more youthful eye area with this lightweight, fast absorbing serum. How to apply eye serum After cleansing or exfoliating, and before moisturising, apply a grain of rice-sized amount (per eye) and massage to below the eye area and above on to the brow bone in an outwards motion. Massage until the product has completely absorbed. How to layer eye cream + eye serum Using an under eye serum and cream? Make sure youâre layering these eye care products correctly to maximise results. After cleansing, apply the eye serum in the step outlined above. When the serum is absorbed, follow with your eye cream or eye balm. Apply a rice grain size of the cream or balm (per eye) and massage in. The cream locks in the active ingredients of the serum (remember those actives are working deep in the skin layers!) while moisturising and nourishing the surface. Both eye serum and eye cream can fit into your daily AM and PM routine. If you are using a heavier eye cream, you may prefer to apply it only in your PM routine. View the range of esmi Intensive Eye Treatments
How & When to Double Cleanse Your Face
Weâre sharing how to double cleanse your skin for a deep yet gentle cleanse. Most skin types, especially if you wear makeup and have oily, congestion-prone skin, will benefit from a double cleanse. What Does it Mean to Double Cleanse? This double cleansing method uses a cream cleanser. The first cleanse helps remove makeup, SPF, and any impurities. The second cleanse clears any remaining residue from within the pores. How to Double Cleanse So, how to double cleanse your face, exactly? By cleansing with a gentle cream cleanser not once, but twice! Step 1: Use a Cream Cleanser Splash your skin with lukewarm water and massage a cream cleanser into damp skin with clean fingers. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean, soft face cloth. Why choose a cream cleanser? Theyâre ideal for a double cleanse as theyâre formulated with ingredients to help the skin retain moisture, like plant-based oils, and maintain the skinâs important oil / water balance. Avoid double cleansing with a strong gel-based cleanser or foaming face wash. Even a single cleanse with a strong product can leave the skin stripped of oils and moisture. A double cleanse will do even more damage! The Uncomplicated Cleanser is a great choice. All skin types will love this cream cleanser - especially mature, dry, and sensitive skin. Step 2: Cleanse again. Consider a cleanser with actives for the second cleanse It really is that simple for your double cleanse routine; simply repeat the first step. After the first cleanse, most of the daily build up (SPF, makeup, dirt, etc) will be washed away but a second cleanse makes sure all impurities are removed. You might like to consider a cleanser with active ingredients for the second step. The actives in esmi Uncomplicated Cleanser range help target different skin concerns. With makeup and SPF out of the way, the active ingredients can better penetrate your skin. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness Suited to: Sensitive skin prone to redness and inflammation. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Suited to: All skin types dealing with fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Brightening Suited to: All skin types prone to dullness, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin ton The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal Suited to: Oily and combination skin types prone to acne, congestion, and large pores. Finally, rinse away with lukewarm water. You might like to use the esmi Microfibre Face Cleansing Mitt to remove all traces of product residue. Follow with a Skin Treat facial oil or moisturising lotion of your choice. Who Should Double Cleanse? Most skin types, especially oily, congestion-prone skin, will benefit from the double cleanse process weâve shared above. Now you know how to double cleanse, when should you do it? You can double cleanse in your morning and evening routine. If youâve worn makeup and SPF during the day, a double cleanse will help remove all traces of product. In the morning, it helps remove excess oil, sweat and bacteria that has accumulated on your skin overnight. Plus, itâs a great way to remove any residue from night time products and prep your skin for makeup! View The Uncomplicated Cleanser range. Reach out to our esmi skin team if you have any questions about the right choice for your skin! You may also like to read: What Is A Facial Cleanser vs A Face Wash The Complete Guide To Cream Cleansers
The Difference Between Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Although theyâre often confused as the same thing, dehydrated skin and dry skin are actually different skin concerns. While dehydrated skin lacks water and is a temporary skin condition, dry skin lacks natural oils and is a skin type. Read on to understand more about the difference between dry and dehydrated skin and how to treat each one. What is dry skin? Dry skin lacks oil in the stratum corneum - the skinâs outer layer. If you have a dry skin type, your skin produces less of its natural oil (sebum) than other skin types. Your skin needs a healthy balance of sebum to function at its best; oil helps hold moisture into the skin and keep it soft and smooth. When the skin doesnât produce enough oil, it loses the capacity to hold onto moisture and dry skin is the result. The skin barrier is also more susceptible to sensitivity and damage without a sufficient layer of protective oils. Signs of dry skin include: Rough or itchy skin Flaky skin Redness and irritation Skin feels tight Small, fine wrinkles Thin, fragile skin Those with dry skin types are also prone to inflammatory and excessively dry skin concerns like atopic dermatitis (eczema) characterised by redness, cracking and inflammation. How to look after dry skin Caring for dry skin means focusing on products that help counteract the natural lack of oil on the skinâs surface. This is why oil-based skin care is a great choice for dry skin types. The right blends of plant oils can make a big difference for a dry, flaky complexion as they supplement the sebum your skin isnât producing. Some of the best plant oils for dry skin include; Jojoba: With a molecular structure close to your skinâs natural sebum, jojoba is readily accepted by the skin and is an ideal facial oil. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, restore balance, and promote hydration. Avocado: Rich in antioxidant, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties, avocado oil promotes skin hydration, soothes and fights free radical damage. Rosehip: Packed with omega-6âs and omega-3âs fatty acids, rosehip is revered for its moisturising and regenerative properties for dry, itchy, damaged skin. Itâs also rapidly absorbed and creates a protective barrier on the skin to guard against moisture loss. Itâs also important to avoid products with strong ingredients that remove moisture and oil leaving skin dry, flaky and tight. For example; Benzoyl peroxide Salicylic acid Alcohol Witch hazel Sodium lauryl sulfate For dry skin we recommend 24k Gold Nourishing Oil One of our best sellers and an excellent moisturiser for dry skin, 24k Gold Nourishing Oil helps to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles on the face, neck, and decolletage. Non-greasy, it contains a blend of rosehip, coconut, avocado, and jojoba oil plus the anti-ageing, antioxidant power of 24k gold flakes. What is dehydrated skin? While dry skin lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks water and, unlike dry skin (which is a skin type), dehydration is a temporary skin condition that can happen to all skin types. Even oily ones! Signs of a dehydrated face include; Skin feeling tight and uncomfortable - even after moisturising Redness Congestion An oily, shiny complexion Inflammation Fine lines and wrinkles are more pronounced Dehydration caused by external factors, for example weather, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol or not enough water. How to look after dehydrated skin Using dehydrated skin products with ingredients that replenish the skinâs water content is key for treating thirsty skin. The best ingredient to beat dehydration is hyaluronic acid. It delivers a mega hit of moisture to the skin thanks to its ability to hold 1000 times its weight in hydration! A humectant ingredient, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the air to the skin, plumping and rehydrating cells from the inside out. Using a serum containing hyaluronic acid is the quickest way to deliver moisture to a thirsty complexion as serums are quickly and deeply absorbed into the skin. For dehydrated skin we recommend Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum This water-based serum is your ultimate skin hydrator! Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your skin containing triple action Hyaluronic Acid which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours. The serum also contains aloe vera, niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and allantoin which work together to improve skin hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. The hydrating serum isnât a moisturiser and needs to be followed by a moisturiser or face oil on top to lock in the hydration for best results. We recommend following with 24K Gold Nourishing Oil or Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil. Take a holistic approach to treating dehydrated skin Tackling dehydration isnât only about using the right dehydrated skin products. For the best results, you may need to make lifestyle changes too. For example, eating more water-rich foods and less salty ones (salt dehydrates the skin) and drinking more water and less alcohol. To view more skincare options for dry vs dehydrated skin click through to the Dehydration shop by concern or Dryness shop by concern. You might also like to read: The Different Skin Types Why Skin Gets Oily And How To Stop It What Causes Dry Skin
How to Remove Blackheads
Did you know that blackheads are one of the most common forms of acne? Blackheads look like small, black dots on your face, often forming around the nose and chin. Blackheads are formed deep in the pore, making them hard to remove. The deep set nature of blackheads makes hard scrubbing and squeezing very tempting. However, once you understand how blackheads are formed and why you have them, the way to safely remove them is much clearer. What exactly are blackheads? Blackheads (also called comedones) form when pores become clogged with dead skin cells, sebum and excess oil. Despite their appearance, blackheads arenât due to dirty skin. They have open surfaces, meaning the oil and build up of dead skin at the top of the pore is exposed to air. This exposure creates oxidation, which is why blackheads appear dark in colour. Blackheads are most common in the t-zone, which is the forehead, nose and chin, as this area tends to produce more oil than the rest of the face. How are blackheads formed? Blackheads are caused by two key things: 1. Overproduction of oil People who have oily skin can be more vulnerable to blackheads. This is because the excess oil (or sebum) makes it hard for it to flow naturally to the surface of the skin. The obstruction causes the sebum to sit in the pore for longer, where it can coagulate, narrowing and blocking the pore. Sebum accumulating at the âtopâ of the pore is exposed to air, which turns it black and causes a blackhead. 2. Dead skin cells Dead skin cells that accumulate on the skin surface also contribute to the narrowing of the pore exit. They gather in the pore, preventing sebum from being secreted naturally. This blocks the pore and causes the formation of a blackhead. This overproduction of oil and dead skin cells can occur for a number of reasons, including: Lifestyle and diet Medical conditions and medications Use of the wrong skin care and cosmetics Hormones The difference between blackheads and whiteheads Blackheads occur when pores become clogged with sebum, with the open pore exposing the sebum to air and causing oxidation. Whiteheads are formed in a similar way, however the pore is closed by a thin layer of skin. This covering prevents the sebum from reaching the pore surface and causes the bumpy, whitehead appearance. Guide to removing and preventing blackheads Many people try to remove blackheads by squeezing them out of the skin, which can cause serious damage to the skin and leads to scarring. The key to removing blackheads safely is to use gentle and safe products to flush out and deep clean your pores. The steps to remove blackheads are: 1. Remove the blackhead The best way to do this is by using a mask that you can leave on your face for some time so it can really work itâs magic. Look for a face mask that is gentle but includes charcoal. Charcoal deep cleans pores using a process called adsorption, where toxic particles cling to the charcoalâs porous surface. It will bind to the sebum and skin cells clogged to your pores and pull it out. 2. Exfoliate to prevent further blackheads Ensure you exfoliate your skin gently to remove dead skin cells and prevent build up. Steer clear of harsh exfoliators which will dry and damage your skin, making blackheads more likely. Instead, choose something gentle with antibacterial properties to aid in removing pore clogging debris. We recommend our Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant used 1-3 times per week. 3. Use a daily cleanser Using a gentle cleanser each day will help keep oil production in check without stripping your face of all natural oils (which can actually send oil production into overdrive). Our Uncomplicated Cleanser with Charcoal is infused with the detoxifying power of charcoal, making it ideal for skin types prone to blackheads and congestion. 4. Keep skin hydrated Ensure you are drinking plenty of water and using hydrating products each day. Dry skin can send oil production into overdrive, so itâs important to keep moisturised. We recommend our best selling Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, which is the ultimate skin hydrator to fight dehydration, plump skin and boost radiance. For a full skin care routine to target blackheads, check out our article Getting Rid of Blackheads. Blackhead doâs and don'ts 1. DONâT squeeze, scrub or pick, DO deep cleanse pores. We know how tempting it can be to squeeze blackheads. However, this can cause damage to your skin, which can sometimes be permanent. Also, the bacteria on your hands can worsen skin condition and cause further blackheads and breakouts. Instead of squeezing, scrubbing and picking, use a gentle mask to draw out impurities from deep within the pores. 2. DONâT use hard peels and blackhead strips, DO draw out impurities with a mask. There has been a recent trend for peel off masks and pore strips that adhere to the face and must then be torn off to âremoveâ the blackhead. The truth is, these products only remove the surface of the blackhead (and your skin!), so youâll see it back before long. Stay away from these products, and instead use a charcoal mask to draw out dirt and impurities from the pore. 3. DONâT use jagged and abrasive scrubs, DO use a soft exfoliator. Steer clear of harsh scrubs, which can damage and tear the skin. Products that irritate skin will trigger more oil production, and more blackheads. Instead, use an ever-so-gentle exfoliator with fine sand to clear congestion. 4. DONâT overwash your face with harsh products, DO use a gentle cleanser. Harsh cleansers with salicylic acid are popular products to get rid of blackheads. The problem is, salicylic acid can excessively irritate and dry the skin. This leads to the skin compensating by overproducing oil, worsening blackheads. Instead, use a gentle cleanser with low doses of active ingredients. Can I remove blackheads at home? If you still have very stubborn blackheads that wonât shift, you can visit a skin aesthetician who will be able to extract blackheads without damaging your skin. However, we strongly recommend against attempting to do this without a trained professional, as when done incorrectly extraction can cause permanent skin damage and scarring. More questions? Not sure where to start? Get in touch with our skin specialist team to create your own free personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. Learn more about skincare 10 Ways to Get Rid of Pimples Oily Skin Care Routine How To Get Rid Of Acne Scars
The Benefits of Face Steaming
Face steaming is making a comeback! Give yourself a salon-worthy facial at home with our tips on how to steam your face and the skin beautifying benefits of doing so. The benefits of face steaming Facial steaming has been around for a long time. It's a traditional way to cleanse and invigorate the skin and often done during an in-salon facial. Lately, though, it seems more of us are incorporating face steaming into our home DIY facials! Itâs not surprising. The benefits of steaming your face are big, especially if you have large pores and congestion-prone skin. What are the benefits of face steaming for your skin? Most skin types can benefit with a regular, gentle face steaming session which can help; Open pores to release trapped sebum and debris The heat from the steam does a wonderful job at loosening dirt, sebum, and any other debris trapped deep within the pore. It softens the build-up, allowing stubborn blackheads to be purged from the pore, leaving skin brighter and clearer. Energise and brighten skin Face steaming boosts circulation. The result is a natural, glowing flush - a sign of blood stimulation energising the skin. Improve product absorption One of the lesser-known benefits of steaming your face? It helps your other skincare products do their best work. Steam makes skin more permeable which means products and ingredients are better absorbed into the skin. Any skincare you apply directly after your steam your face will be working extra hard! Release toxins Sweating helps cleanse your body's largest organ (your skin) of impurities by releasing toxins. If youâre not up for a sweaty HIIT session, a gentle facial steam or sauna is a great alternative to purge toxins from within your body. You relax! Itâs the perfect soothing self-care activity Face steaming is skincare, relaxation, and self-care all wrapped up together. Include steaming your face as part of your at home pamper session to unwind and enjoy the calming benefits. Steaming your face at home Steaming your face at home is simple, effective, and so enjoyable! Hereâs how to do it; Step 1: Cleanse with a gentle cleanser Start by using a gentle cleanser to wash away any impurities, dirt, and oil. We recommend using a cleanser from The Uncomplicated Cleanser range. Have oily, congestion-prone skin? Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal is an ideal choice. If you wear makeup, double cleanse at this step. This helps remove every trace of makeup and sunscreen from your skin. Step 2: Heat water and add to a big bowl Ideally, itâs safest to heat the water to around 40 degrees. You can bring the water to the boil in a jug, pour it into a large bowl and wait for it to cool down. Never steam your face using boiling water or youâll risk scalding your skin and broken capillaries. Step 3: Steam your face Once the water is at a safe temperature, hover your face about 30-45 cms above the bowl. Staying a comfortable distance away will avoid overheating your skin. If this is your first time steaming, we recommend face steaming initially for 2 minutes and observe how your skin reacts. If everything seems to be fine, without irritation, steam for another 8 minutes. Then, blot your face with a clean, soft towel. Tips for using a facial steamer You can turn up the salon-type experience up a notch with a facial steaming machine. A few tips for getting the most out of your face steamer; Always use purified or distilled water in your face steamer. Tap water contains minerals that build up and mess with the facial steamer functionality. Donât put essential oils or any other additives into the water. Clean your facial steamer regularly - at least monthly - to demineralise the steamer and keep it working properly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Step 4: Apply a face mask Next, itâs time to take advantage of your fresh, open pores and put a face mask to work! While your skin is extra permeable and warm, the active ingredients in your masking product will be deeply absorbed. Discover our range of Booster Face Masks. Theyâre designed to treat a range of common skin concerns. Dull skin and pigmentation: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask Ageing concerns: Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Congested, oily skin: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Redness and inflammation: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Dry, sensitive, and mature skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Refer to the âHow to useâ guide (located on the product page) to apply your mask of choice as per the application directions. Step 5: Apply a serum After removing the mask apply a serum from our Skin Treats range to clean skin to double down on post-steam benefits. Face serums and masks can be mixed and matched but see our handy guide for suggested pairing below. Dull skin and pigmentation: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask | Pomegranate Brightening Serum or Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Ageing concerns: Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Congested, oily skin: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster | Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Redness and inflammation: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask | Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Dry, sensitive, and mature skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Always finish with a moisturising lotion or facial oil to quench the skin after steaming and lock in moisture. What to avoid Unfortunately, not all skin types will benefit from steaming. If you have inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, steaming is not recommended. It will only aggravate sensitive skin and trigger uncomfortable flares of prolonged flushing and heat for rosacea-prone complexions. Even if your skin can benefit from steaming, please donât go overboard! Ease facial steaming into your routine with sessions once a fortnight. See how your skin reacts and increase to once a week (at most) if your skin is reacting well. If youâve got any questions about how to steam your face or what products to use reach out to the esmi Skin Team! You might also like to read: How to Give Yourself an At-Home Facial Skin Care for Rosacea How to Get Glowing SkinÂ
Q + A with Loni Jane
âHydration and dewy plumpness, that is always the goal for me.â Â Loni Jane thrives on vibrant, simple healthy living across all aspects of her life. Mum of 2, author of Feel the Lean, and all-round glowing goddess, Loni believes in a sustainable lifestyle without fad diets, quick fixes, calorie restriction or excessive exercise. Real, relatable, and brimming with knowledge on plant-fueled eating, Loni inspires her hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers to take a step (or leap!) towards living their healthiest, most authentic lives. She also loves her skincare routine and sees it as a vital part of self-care in her daily routine. Enjoy our chat with Loni! What made you want to try esmi for the first time? The beautiful glass bottles hehe. There is something so classic and classy about glass cosmetics. Also, the clean ingredients and they are cruelty-free! What esmi product can you not live without? I would have to say the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum hands down. My skin just drinks it up and gives me such a plump dewy feel. Itâs good any time of the day, a great base for anything you're putting on. What specific results can you share? Overall results would be hydration and dewy plumpness, that is always the goal for me but it's not always simple to get! but using the combo of the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, then the Probiotic Skin Mylck then finishing with a touch of the 24k Gold Nourishing Oil. These three steps reap wonderful dewy results. What are some ways that you practice self-care in such a busy, demanding world? I think just by caring about yourself and putting your health and wellness as a priority just as you would your meetings, phone calls, bills, job, kids, partnerships or family. even if you literally have to put in time with yourself then book it in. I literally say to my partner "I've got a 30-minute appointment in the bathroom, do not disturb" haha. I tell the kids too and they know that this is my time I need to look after me. I love to light up a candle, put some music on, run a bubble salt bath, start with some skin brushing to get the blood flowing and get into my beauty self-care routine. I can tell you I emerge from that bathroom a new woman! Also, in the morning, as soon as I get up I wash my face and apply my skincare, let it soak in while I'm getting the family ready and then my skin base is ready for some natural makeup and the day ahead. What is something that people donât know about you? Mmm, maybe that I'm a twin to a brother that was born first that is 7 foot tall has dark skin, brown eyes and brown hair. It's wild to think how different we are but shared the same blood, time of conception and womb!
Guide to Niacinamide Skin Care
Niacinamide - tricky to say (and spell!), but this powerful ingredient is taking the skin care world by storm. You might recognise the name from your favourite skin products. Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient, which is what makes it stand out. Itâs a skin care all-rounder, with a range of benefits from reducing inflammation and redness, to strengthening the skin barrier, to improving overall skin texture and appearance. Almost every skin type can benefit from niacinamide, a crowd-pleasing ingredient that deserves the hype. What is topical niacinamide? Niacinamide is a water-soluble version of vitamin b3 which has extensive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically in skin care. Many topical niacinamide or vitamin b3 products come in the form of serums, treatments or masks. How to introduce niacinamide to your skin routine For acne prone skin Vitamin B3/niacinamide will assist in regulating oil flow and reducing pore size. This is ideal for acne or breakout prone skin, where niacinamide can help to reduce breakouts and make your skin more manageable. Niacinamide regulates oil flow without stripping the skin of itâs natural barrier, allowing you to skip harsh ingredients that cause overproduction of oil and worsens breakouts in the long term. For acne prone skin, we recommend niacinamide as found in our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie. This lightweight formula with a gorgeous wild mint aroma will help to repair and restore skin and treat post breakout redness. For further information on an acne prone skin routine, see our Guide to Getting Rid of Acne. For red or inflamed skin Niacinamide calms the skin and reduces inflammation, making it a great ingredient to treat rosacea, skin redness and sensitivity. It has also been found to strengthen the skin barrier, which is the first line of defence against environmental triggers. This means that skin is less likely to become inflamed to begin with. For inflamed skin, we recommend our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie alongside our Anti Inflammatory Mint Gel Booster Mask. These products will help calm existing inflammation and reduce the likelihood of future inflammation by strengthening the skin. For pigmentation Vitamin B3/niacinamide can help to lighten pigmentation, age spots and melasma by stopping the transfer of melanin at a cellular level. Niacinamide does this by helping to rebuild healthy skin cells and protecting the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet rays. To harness the power of niacinamide for pigmentation, we recommend using our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. This plumping serum will give your skin a boost of hydration in conjunction with pigment targeting niacinamide. To target pigmentation potently, use in conjunction with our Pomegranate Brightening Serum. Layer your serums with the Pomegranate Brightening serum followed by the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. For fine lines and wrinkles It is suggested that Niacinamide works to increase collagen production in the dermis. The effect of this is a significant improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To slow the signs of ageing, we recommend our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum used in conjunction with our Anti-Ageing Eye Serum to really target lines in the delicate eye area. Layer with the eye serum first to really treat your skin. For dry skin Niacinamide can also be used to treat dry skin. It works preventatively and decreases water loss from the skin, meaning the skin remains more hydrated across all layers. For a massive hydration injection, you cannot go past our best selling Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. This is the ultimate skin hydrater that moisturises from the inside out. Reap the benefits of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid combined. Combining niacinamide and vitamin c It is a common skin care myth that niacinamide and vitamin c canât be combined. However, niacinamide has actually been shown to improve and enhance the effectiveness of vitamin c. Since both of these ingredients target pigmentation and ageing, combining them will potently (but gently) target these concerns. The science behind niacinamide in skin care The research around niacinamide is impressive, with studies showing it can offer a wide range of skin care benefits, including: Niacinamide is used to improve overall skin texture. In one study, 3.5% niacinamide was administered topically to a sample group for four weeks and demonstrated a 14.8% reduction in skin roughness (compared to a placebo). It can be used to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a 2004 clinical trial, a 50 person sample group applied 5% niacinamide twice daily for 12 weeks. Results showed significant improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, redness, yellowing, and skin elasticity. Niacinamide increases the barrier function of the skin, resulting in less irritation when the skin encounters environmental triggers and reducing inflammation. As a powerful antioxidant, niacinamide has been shown to reduce skin redness and inflammation like acne. A 12-week study cited found that niacinamide (used in conjunction with salicylic acid) significantly reduced pore size and bumpy skin texture. Niacinamide is a fantastic skin care ingredient for a huge range of skin concerns. This incredible ingredient will supercharge your skin care routine and enhance the effectiveness of many other skin products. Still not sure if niacinamide is right for you? Not sure where to start? We are here to support you on your skin journey. Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today.  Citations Gehring W. Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2004 Apr;3(2):88-93. doi: 10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x. PMID: 17147561. Hakozaki, T., et al. "The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer." British Journal of Dermatology 147.1 (2002): 20-31.
The Truth About Alcohol in Skincare
Alcohol in skin care doesnât have the best reputation. While some alcohol deserves its skin-ruining rep, alcohols are an extremely diverse bunch and many are beneficial! The truth is, Benzyl alcohol and fatty alcohols can be helpful and even necessary in your skincare routine. Depending on the type of alcohol, it can play a few different roles in your products. Most commonly alcohol in skin care acts as a preservative to keep mould from growing. No one likes to find fungus in their face cream or cleanser! If a product contains water, it needs a preservative to keep bacteria out and keep the formulation stable. Alcohols can also be used to enhance product texture for a silky smooth feeling and help boost moisture levels in the skin. Some alcohols are also known to increase the penetration of active ingredients like vitamin C and retinol in the skin.  Benzyl Alcohol in Skin Care  Benzyl alcohol is found naturally in essential oils, plants and can also be synthetically made. Thanks to its preservative properties itâs commonly used in skincare to prevent bacteria growing and formulations becoming mouldy. Is benzyl alcohol bad for the skin? When used in a correct concentration, benzyl alcohol is considered a safe ingredient. Itâs an approved preservative under the COSMOS Organic Certification criteria. Although it is a very safe ingredient, if you have sensitive skin, we always recommend doing a patch test with any product containing benzyl alcohol.  Alcohols Derived from Fats  Fatty alcohols are derived from natural plant and animal fats. The different types of fatty alcohols you might see on an ingredients list include cetearyl, steararyl, cetyl and behenyl alcohol. Theyâre usually included in products used as emollients and thickeners to improve the texture of the product and help trap moisture into the skin. Fatty alcohols are very safe and unlikely to irritate the skin. They can actually be very beneficial for dry skin thanks to their emollient properties which help make the outer layer of the skin feel smoother and softer.  Alcohol Denat in Skin Care  This is the type of alcohol you want to avoid in skincare! Denatured alcohol, also known as alcohol denat, isopropyl alcohol, and SD alcohol is often used to preserve products. Itâs also used in some over-the-counter acne treatments as the alcohol acts as an astringent to target bacteria and excess oil. While you might see an improvement initially using acne products with alcohol denat in skin care, itâs very harsh on the skin. Over time it will damage the skin barrier, stripping the skin of the healthy oils it needs. This results in inflammation, sensitivity, patches of extremely dry skin as well as increased oiliness and more breakouts.  Is Alcohol Bad in Skin Care?  Ultimately, it depends on the kind of alcohol and the concentration in your skin care products. Benzyl alcohol and fatty alcohols are generally considered very safe for skin. When used in safe concentration, some alcohols are necessary preservatives used to create high quality, long lasting products and prevent formulations going bad. Plus, some have the added benefit of improving moisture levels and softening the skin. If youâre concerned, the best thing to do is patch test a small amount of your neck area. This can help you avoid a potential allergic reaction to any type of alcohol in the product. If you have any questions at all about the ingredients used in esmi Skin Minerals range, reach out! Our expert team of skin consultants are here to help you! Â
Learning to Love the Skin You're In
Learning to love the skin youâre in⌠Are we overcomplicating it? Letâs explore. Have you ever met that person that just seems to have a bounce in their step? You know the one weâre talking about⌠Theyâve got the social energy of a golden retriever, their skin looks like they just swam in the deep waters of the swiss alps and they just exude confidence! And youâre left thinkingâŚ. How can I get that?! Well, we have just the trick for you! *No plane ticket to Switzerland required. The truth is, we all deserve to feel great physically, mentally, spiritually & even socially. YOU deserve to feel good in the skin youâre in. Before we get to the good stuff, letâs just remember this very important perspective. The art of self-love is a JOURNEY, not a destination. We are all LEARNING. And the person we mentioned above, she LEARNED ways in which they could feel and live the way they do. They made a decision to lean in, prioritise their worth and STOP COMPARING! Iâm not sure if youâve figured this out yet, but the skin weâre in isnât going anywhere. You are you. (light bulb!) And no one else on the planet can do it better than you. Physical changes, money, success and fame may change the exterior of you. But they are not going to directly change (for the better) the love you have for yourself. Thereâs a reason why the rich and famous share in interviews that a budding career and loads of money, really doesnât give you happiness. Becoming famous, didnât increase the love they had for themselves and really, it has usually done quite the opposite for them. Itâs time to stop being so hard on yourself - donât worry, we got you. So, how do we learn to love the skin weâre in? Glad you asked! Letâs dive in. Step 1: Stop! First and foremost, letâs stop the negativity. STOP comparing ourselves to others. Where they are in their journey, is not reflective of where you are in yours. STOP people-pleasing. Yep, weâve ALL been there! Live your life through your eyes, not of those around you. Itâs like needing glasses... Yep, go with me. Without them, is like seeing yourself through others eyes - itâs blurry, distorted, not in focus. With them, youâre seeing yourself through your own eyes - itâs clear, contextualised and you can focus! Youâre seeing the ACTUAL picture. So, put those glasses on and see yourself for who you really are! STOP and take time to reflect. If weâre going to learn to love the skin weâre in, we need to first find those things that are important to us. What gives you excitement, joy, love, purpose, passion, happiness, and health? Write them down! This way, you will have them laid out in front of you, ready to set action within each area. Step 2: Set Now that we've STOPPED it's time to set ourselves up with new habits and routines, to create time for ourselves and get the 'self-love boat' going. Positives Itâs time to find the positives in who we are. The world weâre in and the environment around us. What are the things you love about who you are? (No, this is not arrogant unless youâre updating your Facebook status to reflect your findingâs). Is it your ability to see the good in everyone? Is it your smile? Is it your heart for the environment? And then, to your world. The free country you may be blessed enough to live in? The fact you have access to clean running water? The feeling of sunshine on your face? Jot them down and watch the positivity flow. Priorities What is important to you? What are the aspects of your life you wish to devote time and energy to? Family, religion, the environment, helping others, your career, living a healthy life etc. Itâs important to focus on what these are so you can invest time into those things that matter most to YOU. Practices What are the practical things you want to do in your life that you feel will increase your enjoyment of it? Time invested in YOU. Regular time for things like family/friends, meditation, learning how to eat healthier, exercise, taking more time for rest, regular pamper time at home with good skincare (We know who we would pick!). The list is endless and different for everyone! So get yours going. If youâre having trouble coming up with ideas, here are some of our favourites! Get up 20 mins earlier than you would for some âme timeâ Do a quick morning yoga flow or go for a quick walk - get that body moving! Guided or silent meditation while sipping on a sleep tea before bed Develop a good skin care routine to start and end each day (chat with our skin service team to help you with this!) Set a weekly date night - with your friends or significant other Take a class - learn a new skill or just have some fun! Pamper night once a week - face mask, hair mask, bath, however you do pamper! (We love the Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask for a pamper night in!) Digital detox - maybe itâs from 5pm at night until 5am the next morning, maybe itâs one day a week with no screens - you do you! Step 3: Start! Aaaaandddd GO! Start looking over everything you just put down and putting it into practice, DAILY. Spending time to discover these things, and starting to invest your time and energy into them IS learning to love the skin youâre in. Youâre practising self-love. And giving value to who you are. So maybe itâs really not as complicated as we once thought? STOP listening to outside voices of dictation of how you should be living your life. SET yourself up for the freedom to live unapologetically who you are! START loving the skin youâre in. Get living beautiful people. Not sure where to start? Reach out to our team of skin experts for a complimentary skin consultation. Weâd so love to hear from you.
Q + A with Kylie Camps
âI love having make-up free days now. My skin feels soft and hydrated.â Kylie Camps is one incredible mum, owner of The Kind Parenting Company, sleep consultant, podcast host, and parenting influencer. Kylieâs podcast and Instagram are spaces dedicated entirely to making a difference in womenâs lives by focusing on taking small, positive actions each day. She pours energy, curiosity, truth, and #mumlife tips into her social posts and podcast episodes. When she turned 30, Kylie made a pact to really focus on taking care of her skin and esmi Skin Minerals has been part of her routine for years. Sheâs achieved healthier, softer skin with esmi and weâre delighted to share our chat with Kylie on skincare, self-care, and more. Best piece of advice you give yourself for 2021: 100% my focus right now is to really practice self-compassion. 2020 was a strange year for all. For me personally it had a lot of positive moments and lessons but I have also been moving through a divorce and all that entails, with two kids. It is a LOT! So self-compassion for doing my best and my best can look different each day. What is something that people donât know about you? Probably the fact that despite liking a tidy house and getting ready most days, my car is messy, really messy!! Youâll find all sorts of things in my car! What did you wish you knew 10 years ago? How much motherhood would change me. What is your favourite thing about being a woman? The fluidity of being feminine, the energy and ability we have to be super soft and nurturing one moment and then focused and effective in the next. The friendships with other women too, female friendship is magic. If you could meet anyone that you look up to, man or woman, living or dead, who would you want to meet? Brene Brown for sure, the work she has done to uncover and share the importance of vulnerability, shame, resilience and worthiness is life-changing. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? I really admire the strength and grace of really great yogis. Whenever I see someone really fluid in handstands, I think âI want to do thatâ. The opposite end of that is I really admire mathematically-minded thinkers, I canât imagine being excited by numbers but I do appreciate that trait in others and often wish I was naturally inclined to be that way! What was your biggest skin challenge prior to using esmi? My biggest challenge with my skin was the fact it was often dry. I felt like I needed a really heavy moisturiser to hydrate but then it had implications of clogged pores etc. What changed after starting with esmi? The most notable change is that people often ask about my skincare regime! Which I think is a big compliment!! My skin texture has improved, my makeup sits well on my skin and I love having make-up free days now. My skin feels soft and hydrated. What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? Over the years I have had countless people thank me for putting them onto esmi and the most common thing I hear is âIt actually worksâ. Iâve had people stop me in Coles before to tell me how much they love the range. Our skin is so important, we canât take it off - we need to look after it. If you are on the fence about trying the esmi range, I strongly suggest you speak with the esmi skin consultants to chat about your own specific skin concerns and goals. You can work out a plan tailored to you. Try it for a few weeks and I bet you see and feel a difference. What esmi product can you not live without? 24k Gold Nourishing Oil, the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Skin Treat and the Bamboo Rose Gentle-Foliant ... Oh, and the Hydrating Booster Mask! What are some ways that you practice self-care in such a busy, demanding world? Self-care can mean different things on different days for me. Sometimes self-care is pushing through a hard workout or a bath with a face mask. Other times self-care is making hard phone calls and having boundaries. Life can get busy and self-care can fall off the priority list for many so I love my skincare routine, it is a constant easy way to look after me. A moment of peace and self-care can go a long way on a busy day!
Q + A with Brooke Iseppi
âSelf-care has helped me feel myself again after so many months of focusing on my little one!â Â Brooke Iseppiâs Instagram feed chronicles family life with her 3 stunning daughters, Isabella, Mia, and Quinn - her â3 queens.â With close to 1 million followers, Brooke is one of the most popular Aussie influencers on Instagram. Brooke simply glows. But, like so many mummas, finding time to take care of her skin and fit self-care into her day wasnât always easy. After having her youngest daughter Quinn, Brooke wanted to step up her skincare routine and rediscover her âme timeâ. She turned to esmi Skin Minerals (hooray!) to tackle her skin concerns. We had a quick chat with this glowing mumma about her esmi experience. What made you want to try esmi for the first time? A few of my girlfriends had started using it and we're seeing great results so of course, I had to jump on the bandwagon! What specific results can you share? After having my youngest daughter last year, I really let myself go. My skin was very dull, congested and overall didnât look good. After 2-3 months using esmi products, my skin looks so much brighter and healthier! Also allowing myself a few minutes twice a day for some self-care has helped me feel myself again after so many months of focusing on my little one! What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? Itâs 100% worth it! My skin has never looked or felt this good! Who is someone you look up to and why? My Mama Bear - she's everything I hope to be and more. She is the most selfless, strong-willed, caring person I have ever met, not to mention the best âLollieâ to my girls! What is your favourite thing about being a woman? Being able to grow life - it still blows my mind how amazing a womanâs body is and what it is capable of! We have a caring and dedicated esmi Skin Service team available 7 days a week to reach out to. Book your complimentary skin consultation today!
Q + A with Sheree Nelson
I get compliments on how my skin has that 'glowâ Â Not afraid to say it how it is, WA based influencer mamma Sheree (Ree) Nelson started her Instagram account for fun. It was her way of âgetting out thereâ and creating friendships online - her community has since grown to almost 40k. With warmth and honesty, Ree shares all things motherhood, health, beauty, and fashion. Â Reeâs intention for 2021 is to focus on self-love and do more of the things that make her feel good! Weâre thrilled esmi is part of her skincare routine and has helped boost her skin confidence. With combination skin, Ree knows the struggle of dealing with skin thatâs oily and breaking out one day and dry and irritated the next! Â We had a chat with Ree on her skin challenges and why self-care is everything in her busy world! What was your biggest skin challenge prior to using esmi? Prior to using esmi, I was at a loss as I was spending so much money on skincare that did not agree with my skin! I would say I have combination skin. It would go from being oily with constant breakouts or days where it would be dry and irritated. There was so much in-between which was frustrating. How did that challenge make you feel? It made me feel frustrated as all a girl wants is nice skin, am I right!? If my skin was not looking nice then my makeup would not sit well. I started to feel a bit self-conscious. All I've ever wanted was to be able to wear no makeup and have my skin glowing and feeling amazing! What changed after starting with esmi? The first initial change I noticed was my skin balanced out and I no longer had days of feeling dry or oily. I no longer have random breakouts (unless it's that time, haha) but I feel more confident in my skin. I can actually wear no makeup and I get compliments on how my skin has that 'glow.' What are some ways that you practice self-care in such a busy, demanding world? Being a mum, working part-time and influencing I never have much time left over in my day. But, I have learnt to put myself first as it's so important to look after yourself! Self-care to me isn't just treating yourself to getting your hair done, nails or putting on a face mask. It's really appreciating those times you have to yourself to go for a walk, read a book and really connect with yourself on a whole other level. I really appreciate the time where my daughter is in bed and I finally get to sit down and take in everything. What is something that people donât know about you? Something that shocks people is that although I am incredibly confident online - I can talk about anything and everything to my followers on my stories which get thousands of views - when it comes to in-person, I am shy as anything. It's something I've been trying to work on as to some people I come across as being rude but in reality I can be socially awkward (unless I have a drink, haha.) What did you wish you knew 10 years ago? You do you! I wish I knew that it's okay to be yourself and to put yourself first. Don't rely on other people to make you happy and to make sure you always put yourself first...PERIOD! There is so much pressure from society that you have to be a type of person and have to have your life sorted by a certain age. This is, in fact, totally incorrect as I look at my life and how far I have come at 26 and still have no idea what the hell I'm doing. I'm only just figuring out what I want to achieve, what big goals I want to accomplish and I am still so young. My life is in no way sorted but I am so thankful for my family and my beautiful daughter. Â
Q + A with Laura Jade Stone
Laura Jade Stoneâs passion for styling outfits has made her one of the biggest luxury fashion and lifestyle influencers in Australia. She shares her beautifully curated mix of cool, sultry, casual, and elegant looks for almost a million IG followers. This woman is pure inspo for how to put together pieces and shake yourself out of a fashion rut! Radiant, healthy skin is the best accessory for any outfit and Laura loves esmi Skin Minerals to turn up her glow. We had a quick chat with this fashionista to get a peek inside her skincare routine. What was your biggest skin challenge prior to using esmi? I have combination skin - so it tends to break out quite a bit and is hard to keep clear. What specific results can you share since using esmi? My skin just feels extremely hydrated since I've been using the Skin Treat Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. I also adore the Probiotic Skin Mylck morning and night. It gives my skin a great hydrated glow without breaking me out. I also love to pop the hydrating serum on before applying my makeup, my foundation just goes on so well. What have been some of your favourite Esmi products so far? I've been using the Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration daily and using the Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask. So far these are my absolute faves and a part of my daily skin routine. What is something that people donât know about you? Hmm maybe that I'm an extremely bad cook hahaha... although I hate to admit it. What is your favourite thing about being a woman? Everything. Being a woman is incredible and I think women supporting other women is an amazing force.
Q + A with Alex Centomo
One of our favourite self-love and body positivity advocates, beautiful mumma Alex Centomo is a Canadian beauty, fashion, lifestyle influencer. Welcoming her son Arkie last year, Alex has been super open and honest about her body and mental health journey during pregnancy and postpartum with her million Instagram followers. And they love her for it! Sheâs empowering new mums to embrace their bodies, focus on self-love and opening up the conversations on the realities of motherhood. Like so many women, Alex experienced big changes in her skin during pregnancy and postpartum. She also suffers from rosacea. Incorporating esmi Skin Minerals products into her routine has helped Alex calm and balance her skin. Enjoy our chat with Alex! What specific results can you share after using esmi? I've been using esmi skincare for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant difference in the texture and quality of my skin! Going through pregnancy and postpartum comes with a lot of hormone changes, and mix that in with the crazy changes in weather here in Montreal, my skin was all over the place. I finally feel like I'm at a place of balance and I'm super happy with the results! What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? Go for it! I love how they have so many different products that target different skin qualities. You can find something that fits your skin needs perfectly. HUGE bonus that they're vegan! What esmi product can you not live without? Definitely the Uncomplicated Cleanser with Anti-Redness! I suffer from rosacea and this product has really helped with that a lot. It's also not drying which I really like now that my skin is noticeably aging! What are some ways that you practice self-care in such a busy, demanding world? I take time every day to relax all my senses. Wearing comfortable clothing, listening to or watching something soothing, tasting something enjoyable, and smelling either a calming candle or essential oil! What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? I feel like the challenges that social media and technology bring will be tough for the next generation of women. I grew up in the 90s without any technology other than TV and that was limited to weekends. I feel like women now deal with a lot online. Everything is so quick and so easily at our fingertips, it's a blessing and a curse. A blessing because we can make anything of ourselves and really push to achieve goals that didn't exist for women a few years ago. But a curse because it's easier to compare ourselves and absorb almost too much information. We need reminders to disconnect once in a while to recharge.
Q + A with Milly Bannister
âFocus on what you can control and let go of the rest.â Milly Bannister is the virtual big sister and real-talk bff you always wanted! The Founder and Director of GRLKND - a female-empowerment and education organisation - Milly is on a mission to help young women self-direct their mental health journeys. Sheâs here to hold your hand through your journey towards personal power! Milly is also a digital media expert, podcaster, mentor, and influencer with a huge Instagram following. Super relatable, fun, and not afraid to get deep, Milly shares her own challenges and gems of advice on her Insta starting conversations around self-confidence, compassion, and mental health. What a treat to chat with Milly! We got the lowdown on the advice sheâll be following for 2021, what she wishes she knew 10 years ago, and her favourite esmi Skin Treat. Best piece of advice you give yourself for 2021 Focus on what you can control and let go of the rest. Find resources and ideas in the least-likely places. Take yourself and your business seriously and donât be afraid to ask for help, you sweet fool. What did you wish you knew 10 years ago? 10 years ago I was a 14-year-old - wow, I just want to give her a hug, firstly. And then tell her that everything gets really good. Go see a therapist through Headspace Australia. Join the GRLKND community. Spend less time worrying and comparing and more time living present moment to present moment. What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? I feel so heartbroken for the generation growing up online, scrolling more and exercising their childlike sense of play and wonder less. So much so, I founded a charity to improve youth collective mental health literacy, in a world that very much tells us that we're never quite good enough to feel peace, happiness, confidence or self-compassion. What specific results can you share after using esmi? My favourite product has to be the Hydrating Hyaluronic Serum with a callout ingredient of hyaluronic acid meaning my skin gets a big drink of water. Sometimes I get random dry patches that not even pawpaw ointment can fix, but somehow, this little skin treat does. If you could only use 1-2 skincare/beauty products for the rest of your life, what would they be? Rough! 1-2!? Gosh, if I had to dwindle my multi-step skin and beauty routine down to 2 items, it would definitely include a soft, multi-action cleanser and a hydrating + exfoliation moisturiser with SPF. Is that cheating? What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? Slide fast into esmi's Instagram DMs! They're able to offer skin specialist/ product advice based on your unique skin type & concerns. Check out Millyâs favourite esmi Skin Treat: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is the ultimate skin hydrator! This quick-absorbing hydrating serum fights dehydration to help plump skin, minimise lines, and boost radiance. Perfect for all skin types and ages, this hyaluronic serum hydrates from the inside out, restores, repairs and reveals healthy skin with a hydrated glow. We have a caring and dedicated esmi Skin Service team available 7 days a week to reach out to. Book your complimentary skin consultation today!
Q + A with Renèe Barendregt
âI remember waking up one morning and couldnât believe how smooth and glowy my skin looked.â We just love down-to-earth mumma and influencer Renèe Barendregt! Funny, personal, and 1000 percent relatable, her Instagram is an honest peek at motherhood and family life with her 2 little boys, Harry and Sonny. One busy mumma, Adelaide-based Renèe is also the creator of unisex childrenâs clothing label Honey and co-host of The Mumâs Edit podcast. Renèe initially started her Insta account to document her pregnancy with Harry who was born with gastroschisis - a birth defect where the bowel and/or other organs grow on the outside of the body in the womb. Today, Harry is a happy 4 year old who, along with little brother Sonny, delivers plenty of âchaos on the dailyâ for Renèeâs almost 50k strong tribe of followers. We think youâll enjoy our chat and skincare spotlight with this gorgeous mum! Renèe shares her biggest skin challenges (so many mums will relate!) which at one point got so bad she was self-conscious about leaving the house. She also shares the one person sheâd love to meet and what she wished she knew a decade ago! What was your biggest skin challenge prior to using esmi? Random, big red hormonal breakouts, dryness and redness. What changed after starting with esmi? Less breakouts. Less redness around my nose and cheeks. My makeup now goes on so nicely because my skin is properly looked after and hydrated. I also feel so confident without makeup on now, when my skin would go through âbadâ stages I never would have dreamt of leaving the house without it. What made you want to try esmi for the first time? I felt as if I was at a loss, I remember sending a video to my sister of my skin and saying I didnât want to leave the house. She told me she had been using esmi for a few weeks and that she had already seen such a positive change in her skin. I emailed esmi for a skin consult that day! What specific results can you share? My complexion has completely changed. I remember waking up one morning and couldnât believe how smooth and glowy my skin looked. I sent a video to my sister that day too, haha. What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? If you are feeling overwhelmed by skincare like I was, esmi is your answer. I canât believe how amazing the team was with my initial skin consult. After trying so many other brands, I felt that the team at esmi genuinely cared for my skin concerns and wanted me to get the best outcome for my skin after trying esmi. What esmi product can you not live without? I would have to say the Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie! The difference that made to my complexion is actually unreal! What did you wish you knew 10 years ago? In my late teens and early 20s, I was so worried about âgrowing upâ and having kids and that my âlife would be overâ. But, if I knew how amazing my life with my boys would be 10 years ago I would have known that even though challenging, it would be the best time of my life! If you could meet anyone, man or woman, living or dead, who would you want to meet? Perhaps my dad's dad. He passed away when my dad was young. Whenever I see pictures of him I wonder who he wouldâve been. Iâm presuming a lot like my dad who I adore! Check out Renèeâs favourite esmi Skin Treats! Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie This anti redness serum cools and heals damaged, red skin with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hydrating properties. esmi Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad-spectrum SPF 30 enriched with antioxidant protection, this silky smooth, daily sunscreen protects against UV damage and fights the first signs of ageing. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator! This quick-absorbing hydrating serum fights dehydration to help plump skin, minimise lines, and boost radiance. We have a caring and dedicated esmi Skin Service team available 7 days a week to reach out to. Book your complimentary skin consultation today!
Q + A with Madalin Giorgetta
With her program Work It with MG, fitness influencer and self-love queen, Madalin Giorgetta introduced the world to a unique non-diet health and fitness app. Madalin is all about workouts that give you those feel-good endorphins, eating food that delights you and cultivating body acceptance and self-love. Sheâs shunned the toxic diet culture and obsessive fitness routines. We just love her refreshing, real approach to fitness! With more than 800k followers, Madalinâs Instagram is a hub of self-love, healthy fitness, honesty and fun times. She also loves taking care of her skin - which is pretty evident from her glow! Weâre delighted to share our chat with Madalin about her results with esmi Skin Minerals. What made you want to try esmi for the first time? Iâve seen esmi all over the front page of my Instagram, and become curious about this Aussie skincare brand that everyone was gushing about. I jumped on the website and read the reviews and was convinced I need to try them! What specific results can you share? Iâve specifically noticed my skin has become brighter and any uneven skin tone has faded. My skin used to feel dry for a few hours after I applied my skincare routine, and Iâve noticed it hasnât been feeling dry or tight throughout the day. Must be the effects of the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask! What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? I would say jump online and read the reviews, definitely sold me. Itâs helpful as you can read what people recommend based on their skin concerns and purchase what would be most suitable for you. What esmi product can you not live without? The Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask, itâs so luxe and feels divine, every time I put it on I feel like Iâm treating myself. Not only is it ultra-hydrating but it also makes my skin look brighter. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? I would learn to be organised! I try every year and say to myself âthis will be the yearâ, I buy a diary, write in it for two weeks and then Iâm back to scribbling to-do lists in the notes section of my phone. Not my strong suit. Meet the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask De-stress dry skin and slow cellular ageing with colloidal gold, free-radical fighting green tea extract, and a nourishing oil complex to renew, repair and protect. Ideal for dry skin types in need of nourishment to reduce fine lines, inflammation, uneven skin tone and heal damaged skin.
