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 aren’t 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 “top” 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 it’s 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 charcoal’s 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 it’s 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 do’s and don'ts 1. DON’T 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. DON’T 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 “remove” the blackhead. The truth is, these products only remove the surface of the blackhead (and your skin!), so you’ll 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. DON’T 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. DON’T 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 won’t 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
How & When to Double Cleanse Your Face
We’re 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? They’re ideal for a double cleanse as they’re formulated with ingredients to help the skin retain moisture, like plant-based oils, and maintain the skin’s 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 we’ve 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 you’ve 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, it’s 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
Your Guide to Sebaceous Filaments
🤍 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. 🤍 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. 🤍 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 “ladder” that your natural oils use to move from deep within the dermis to the skin’s 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. 🤍 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. 🤍 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. 🤍 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 skin’s 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.
Face Serum & Why You Should Have One
What is a face serum? Your skin’s 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? They’re 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 - they’re 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 aren’t 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. We’ll cover more on exactly how to use serum in your routine in a moment! Serums target different skin concerns They’re 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: 🧡 Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator for all skin types, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for more hydrated, plumper, repaired skin. “Love this product. Makes my skin feel so soft and hydrated. I'm addicted! I've noticed a dramatic difference in my skins texture.” — Tia 🧡 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. “Have 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!!” — Abygail 🧡 Redness and inflammation: Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Suitable for all skin types to treat red, puffy or acne inflamed skin it’s ideal to use after laser, IPL or diathermy treatment. “Love 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!” - Tara How to use a face serum If you’ve asked yourself “What is face serum?” you’ve probably wondered when and how to use a face serum too. Let’s find out! 🧡 Apply face serum after the cleansing step in your routine and while skin is still a little damp to encourage absorption.🧡 Drop a pearl sized amount of serum from the dropper onto your fingertips. Serums are potent so a little goes a long way.🧡 Massage into cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area.🧡 Allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin.🧡 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. It’s 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 you’re 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. They’re designed to intensify the strength of your skincare regimen and compliment your other products in addressing your skincare concerns. Depending on the ingredients they’re 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, you’ll see speedier results and a significant improvement in the overall health of your skin with a serum.
Selecting Your BB Cream Shade
What is a BB Cream? esmi Mineral BB Cream - the perfect mix of moisturiser, foundation and sunscreen. Designed to moisturise, protect and correct the skin, our BB Cream is the perfect alternative to foundation on days when you don’t feel like a full face of makeup but would still like a lightweight product to even your skin tone and give a fresh glow. Since it’s a sheer coverage, choosing the right colour BB Cream can be a little daunting, so we’ve put together a simple guide to help you choose the right shade for you. All esmi foundation shades are created based on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale, which is a numerical classification to measure the response of each skin type to UV light. Selecting the right BB Cream shade for your skin tone Understanding your skin type and the characteristics your skin can really help to make shade finding easy! Skin Type I - Skin burns very easily and doesn't tan. Likely to have light blonde or red hair with light coloured eyes. Skin Type II - Skin will usually burn in the sun and has difficulty tanning. Skin Type III - Skin will sometimes burn and will tan gradually. Skin Type IV - Skin will tan easily and rarely burn. Skin Type V - Skin will tan without burning. esmi's Guide to Your BB Cream Shade As they are sheer coverage, our BB Cream shades cover a wider variety of skin types. Check out our below guide to help find your perfect match: Light - Suits Fizpatrick Skin Types 1-3 with a very neutral skin tone and little to no golden tones. Medium - Suits Fitzpatrick Skin Types 3-4 with a lightly tan/golden complexion. Tan - Suits Fitzpatrick Skin Types 4-5+ with deeply tanned skin tones Still not sure of what shade to choose? Send a makeup-free selfie to our skin specialist team who will be able to guide you through to your best match. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey.
Eye Serum vs. Eye Cream
Eye serum vs eye cream. What’s 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 skin’s 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 skin’s 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 don’t 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 “If I’m using a serum is eye cream necessary?” 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 you’re 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 to Get Rid of Under Eye Wrinkles
One of the most common skin concerns is fine lines and wrinkles that appear under the eyes, usually as part of the first signs of ageing. These are a perfectly normal part of ageing, but we understand that many people would prefer them to go away! So we have put together all the information you need to treat under eye ageing. Why fine lines and eye wrinkles occur To begin with, let’s address how under eye wrinkles and fine lines form. Generally, the causes fall into one of two key categories: lifestyle influences or genetic predisposition. Fine lines and wrinkles can occur from: Smoking Sun exposure Not enough sleep Facial movements and expressions The appearance of under eye ageing can range from very fine lines that are not very visible, to deep set wrinkles. The good news is that there are ways to treat even very deep set wrinkles to reduce their appearance and improve your overall skin quality. Ingredients for treating under eye ageing The first step to treating under eye wrinkles is to start using topicals as soon as you see the first signs of ageing. There are plenty of products on the market that claim to be anti-ageing, but always make sure you check to see what active ingredients they are using. We recommend adding products to your routine that contain the following ingredients: 1. Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is a skin care powerhouse. The molecule behaves like a sponge by pulling water from the air around you and into the dermis. It is fast acting and has zero irritation. It will improve the appearance of fine lines by plumping the skin and increasing elasticity. We recommend our beloved Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum which combines hyaluronic acid with niacinamide, which has also been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines. 2. Vitamin A / Retinol Retinol is one of the most popular anti-ageing ingredients, with good reason. It is one of the only ingredients that increases collagen production and prevents collagen breakdown - making it both a treatment and a preventative. A key consideration when using retinol is that this ingredient requires consistent use over a considerable period to see results. It should also be introduced slowly to your routine and built up over time, because it is a potent ingredient that can cause dryness and flakiness when overused. This also means it pairs very well with hyaluronic acid products, as the hydration will combat any dryness or irritation. We recommend using an Anti Ageing Eye Serum which contains retinyl palmitate, which is one of the least irritating retinols. 3. Peptides Peptides are a type of protein that can help to boost collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. To reduce the appearance of fine lines under your eyes, Peptides are best applied in a serum so that they can fully penetrate the dermis. We recommend our Golden Anti-Ageing Serum for use overnight over your entire face, including the under eye area. The serum contains powerful peptides and antioxidants to visibly plump fine lines, brighten and condition. Other ways to treat under eye wrinkles Microneedling, fraxel and botox are all more intrusive ways of treating wrinkles and fine lines. These procedures need to be administered by a trained professional. We recommend trying topical solutions first as in many cases fine lines and wrinkles can be significantly reduced this way. Tips for preventing under eye wrinkles You can delay eye wrinkles and reduce their severity after onset with the following tips: Avoid sun exposure. Always make sure you are wearing sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure. We know that sun exposure speeds ageing and increases the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Using sun protection like our Skin Shield Natural SPF 30 Sunscreen is your best defence against this. Preventative skin care It is important to begin using anti-ageing skin care at the first signs of ageing, however we also recommend starting earlier and taking preventative measures. Introducing an eye serum to your routine early on will help to slow and prevent the onset of under eye wrinkles, and can be more effective than retroactive skin care. Get plenty of sleep Getting enough sleep will help you to slow the onset of under eye wrinkles. Sleep affects the health of your skin significantly. While you sleep, your cellular repair increases, collagen growth is stimulated and cortisol is reduced. Find out more about how sleep affects skin. Remove eye makeup at night Use a gentle cleanser to remove eye makeup at night. Impurities and toxins from your eye makeup can penetrate the skin, causing fine lines and wrinkles. We recommend cleansing every evening, and double cleansing when wearing makeup, with an anti ageing cleanser like our Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Ageing. We are here to support you on your skin journey. If you have any questions about how to reduce the appearance of under eye wrinkles and fine lines, get in touch with our skin team today. We will help you to create your own personalised skin care plan to target your unique concerns.
How to Get Rid of Dark Circles
Dark circles under the eyes are very common for both women and men. Dark circles age your entire face, make you look tired, and can be difficult to get rid of. However, there are ways to fade and reduce the appearance of dark circles. What causes dark circles under the eyes? Dark circles can occur for a variety of reasons, most commonly either lifestyle related or genetic. The reason for your dark circles will determine the best way to treat them and reduce their appearance. The key causes of dark circles are: Lack of sleep This is one of the most common causes of dark circles and it is the easiest to fix! Solution: Get more zzz'sThe good news about dark circles as a result of sleep is that they are almost always temporary, and can be fixed with a good night’s sleep. To treat the immediate appearance of sleep-related dark circles, try applying cool eye compresses to your eyes after waking up. A Brightening Eye Serum will also help to instantly revive and illuminate tired eyes. Poor diet You might be surprised to learn that diet can cause dark circles to appear under your eyes. Studies show that a diet high in sodium (salt) can contribute to fluid retention in the face, causing puffiness and dark circles. Solution: Reduce your salt intakeTo treat the appearance of diet related dark circles, try tweaking your diet to include less salt. This will help to reduce water retention in your face and even out the appearance of your under eyes. Natural ageing As you get older, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner and loses elasticity. The looser skin can create a shadow under your eyes, giving the appearance of under eye circles. Solution: Anti-ageing skin careA high quality eye treatment will help to fight the signs of ageing around the eyes, refreshing and reinforcing the skin over time. Our Anti-Ageing Eye Treatment is packed with multi-action age-fighters including the revolutionary SNAP-8™. This lightweight serum lifts and tightens, reduces wrinkle depth, and moisturises the eye area. It can also be used with a Booster Mask and Golden Anti-Ageing Serum for a full anti-ageing routine. Pigmentation Pigmentation under the eyes can occur genetically or over time. Solution: An eye serumTo target this kind of pigmentation, we recommend introducing a brightening eye serum into your routine. The esmi Brightening Eye Serum contains a unique blend of plankton extract, active ingredients, and peptides to target dark circles, brightness, and fine lines in the delicate eye area. Allergies If your eyes feel itchy and irritated, then your dark circles could be related to allergies. Solution: Visit your GPThe best treatment for allergies will be determined by your doctor, and symptoms should ease once treated. Do you have more questions on how to get rid of your dark circles? We encourage you to get in touch with our skin specialist team to help you get on top of your skin concerns today. Our team will help you create your own free, personalised skin care plan. Get in touch with us today.
What Order to Apply Skin Care Products
Your skincare order matters... but how to layer products can be a little confusing. Serums before oils or oils before serums? Mask then exfoliate or is it the other way around? Learn to layer like an expert with this skincare routine order breakdown and our product recommendations. Skincare routine order A more simplified routine for your daily routine with your 'core' skin care products. Step 1: Cleanse It might seem obvious that cleansing is first in your skincare order. However, it’s an easy mistake to skip the cleanse and head straight to exfoliation on days you are exfoliating. Or, apply a mask without cleansing first. Cleansing, no matter if your masking or exfoliating, is always the first step in your morning and evening face routine order. A double cleanse with a gentle cleanser is a must in your evening routine. This removes makeup and the sweat, natural oils, debris, and pollution particles that all accumulate on your skin. You can double cleanse in the morning too to remove bacteria and oil that builds up on your face while you sleep. How to cleanse your skin Splash your skin with lukewarm water and massage a pearl-sized amount of cream cleanser into damp skin with clean fingers. Rinse with lukewarm water. You may like to use the esmi Microfibre Face Cleansing Mitt to remove all traces of product residue. Pat dry with a clean, soft face cloth. Repeat to double cleanse. If you’re wearing non-tubular mascara, we suggest using an eye makeup remover before the first cleanse. Your Step 1 cleanser options You’ll discover the ideal cleanser for a range of skin concerns. The Uncomplicated Cleanser — Suited to: All skin types 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 tone. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal — Suited to: Oily and combination skin types prone to acne, congestion, and large pores. Probiotic Skin Mylck Cleanser — Suited to: All skin types, especially hyper sensitive and acne-prone skin. Step 2: Tone Using a gentle exfoliating toner can assist with removing any last traces of dirt, grime and impurities, without damaging or stripping the skin barrier while prepping the skin for your next step. It also allows for better product absorption, as well as smoothing and softening skin!Our Gentle Refine Cleansing Toner contains a gentle combination of exfoliation properties including AHA, BHAs and fruit enzymes and is suitable for daily use. How to use esmi Gentle Refine Cleansing Toner After cleansing your skin at night, apply 3-4 pumps of toner to a cotton pad. Wipe all over your skin. You may feel a temporary warming sensation on your skin after application. This is normal as the product contains AHA and BHA ingredients that help to exfoliate and clarify the skin. Hot tip: We like to allow the amazing ingredients in the Toner to absorb into the skin for 1-2 minutes before applying the rest of our skincare. Step 3: Exfoliate (1-3 times p/w) Next up - exfoliation! Using a gentle exfoliant helps remove dead skin cells from the surface and debris clogging pores to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. You can exfoliate your skin with a physical method, chemical method or combination of both. The esmi range offers the Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum for chemical exfoliation and the Gentle-Foliants which combine both physical and chemical exfoliants. How to exfoliate your skin with esmi Gentle-Foliants Apply a pea-sized amount of exfoliant to damp, cleansed skin. In small, circular motions, very gently apply the exfoliant to skin. Massage around your face to remove build-up and allow enzymes to deeply cleanse pores. Don’t apply too much pressure. Leave on for 2–5 minutes and rinse with cool water or with your dampened esmi Face Mitt. The Gentle-Foliants are designed to use 1–3 times per week depending on your skin type or as advised by your esmi skin consultant. How to exfoliate your skin with the Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Using the dropper, drip a pearl size amount onto your charcoal brush or fingers and massage into freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the under eye area. Leave for 5-10 minutes before wetting the charcoal brush or fingers and massage around the face to remove any softened dead skin cells before washing off. We suggest using the Charcoal serum 2 times a week, however, it can be used up to 5 consecutive nights. Use less frequently if you have sensitive skin. Your step 3 exfoliant options Smooth, brighten, and clear with our selection of Gentle-Foliants containing physical and enzyme exfoliant properties or the Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum. Rose and Bamboo (Gentle-Foliant) — Suited to: All skin types, especially sensitive and dry skin. Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand (Gentle-Foliant) — Suited to: Normal and combination skin. Fresh Sea and Salty Sand (Gentle-Foliant) — Suited to: Oily, breakout-prone skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum — Suited to: Most skin types tackling blackheads, acne, and underlying skin congestion. Step 4: Masks (1-3 times p/w- Wash off) Face masks deliver a big hit of active ingredients to help address specific skin concerns. Incorporate a masking session into your routine after exfoliating 1- 3 times a week depending on your skin type. How to use esmi Booster Masks Apply generously to cleansed face with fingers or mask brush while avoiding the eye area. Leave the mask on for at least 10 minutes. When ready to wash off, gently massage the face with damp hands to promote circulation. Rinse well or remove with esmi's Microfiber Facial Cleansing Mitt. Your step 4 mask options You’ll find an indulgent esmi Booster Mask for every skin challenge right here! Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask— Suited to: All skin types. Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask — Suited to: Dry, mature and sensitive skin types. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask — Suited to: All skin types, including sensitive skin. Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask— Suited to: Most skin types. Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask — Suited to: Most skin types. If you don’t have time to exfoliate and mask, simply choose one or the other to follow the cleansing step. Step 5: Eye Serum and Eye Balm The skin around your eye area is super thin, delicate and one of the first places fine lines begin to show. This area can use the extra TLC of a separate eye treatment, especially to address the signs of ageing. esmi offers Eye Serums and our Eye Delight Reflection Balm. Both types of formulations (serum and balm) work to treat the eye area but go about it differently. Eye Serums target specific under-eye concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, loss of firmness with active ingredients while the Eye Balm moisturises and nourishes. If using both, first apply the eye serum then follow with the eye balm. How to use Eye Serums (AM and/or PM) Apply a grain of rice-sized amount (per eye) Massage to below the eye area and above on to the brow bone in an outwards motion. Your step 5 eye treatment options Brightening Eye Serum Hydrating Eye Serum Anti-Ageing Eye Serum How to use the Eye Balm (AM and/or PM) Remove the lid, place your Eye Delight applicator on the area around the eye. Gently squeeze the tube until the product starts to appear from the tip, a grain of rice size is enough for both eyes. Gently massage in a circular motion using the steel tip or fingers until all product is absorbed. Step 6: Water-Based Skin Treats esmi range of Skin Treats include two types of formulas - serums (which are water-based) and face oils. In your skincare routine order, the serum comes first. How to apply water based Skin Treats (AM and /or PM) Dispense a pearl size amount of serum from the dropper onto fingertips. Massage into the skin. Your step 5 serum options Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum — Suited to: All skin types Pomegranate Brightening Serum — Suited to: Most skin types Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie — Suited to: All skin types Golden Anti-Ageing Serum (Apply in the evening) — Suited to: All skin types and ages Step 7: Masks (1-3 times p/w - Overnight) esmi Booster Masks can be left on overnight for an intensive treatment and cleansed off in your morning routine. Follow the same process of application as discussed in Step 3, however you can apply your serum before the mask (follow Step 5) when leaving on overnight. If you’re new to using the Booster Masks it’s best to begin by leaving the mask on for shorter periods and work up to an overnight treatment.Step 8 Retinol Step 8: Skin Mylck Probiotic Moisturising Lotion Probiotic Skin Mylck is moisturising lotion formulated with 100% Australian made probiotics to help heal and strengthen hyper sensitive skin, an optional step if already using a moisturiser. How to apply Probiotic Skin Mylck Using the dropper drip a thumb size amount of Mylck onto your fingertips or palm. Gentle massage into your skin. Your step 8 Skin Mylck lotion options The beneficial bacteria in the esmi Probiotic Lysates have been researched and found to help heal and support skin’s natural defences. Probiotic Skin Mylck — Suited to: All skin types, especially hyper sensitive skin. Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration — Suited to: All skin types to help restore a damaged skin barrier, and increase hydration. Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Anti-Redness — Suited to: All skin types prone to redness, flushing, and hypersensitivity. Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Brightening — Suited to: All skin types, especially sensitive skin to gentle brighten with antioxidants. Ideal if your skin is usually too sensitive to handle stronger brightening skincare products. All Probiotic Skin Mylcks are lightweight formulations. If you have extremely dry skin, we recommend following with an Oil Based Skin Treat to boost moisturisation. Step 9: Moisturisers Moisturisers are a key step in your routine to keep skin hydrated and nourished all day, while treating concerns with active ingredients to boost skin health and support a healthy barrier function. Esmi offers a range of moisturisers for every concern; ranging from lightweight Hydra- Fluids ideal for oily skin, to nourishing creams for dryer skin types. How to apply esmi Moisturisers Apply after cleansing and skin treat application. Using bamboo spatula or clean fingers, scoop a pea-size of moisturiser. Apply to face, neck and décolletage. Always follow with SPF application in a.m. routine.Hot Tip- you can use more than one moisturiser in your routine! Choose a moisturiser that best suits your concerns, if you have more than one concern you can switch them up day to night. Usually we recommend opting for a lightweight moisturiser in your AM routine, and a more nourishing in the evening if you did want to use more than one. Detox Hydra Fluid - Suited to: All skin types, especially oily congested skin. Anti Redness Hydra Fluid- Suited to: All skin types, especially oily acne prone skin. Hydrating Hydra Fluid - Suited to: All skin types, especially oily dehydrated skin Sensitive Moisturiser - Suited to: All skin types, especially hyper sensitive skin. Firming Moisturiser - Suited to: All skin types, especially combination skin with premature ageing. Brightening Moisturiser - Suited to: All skin types, especially dry dull skin. Nourishing Moisturiser - Suited to: All skin types, especially dry skin that lacks oil. Step 10: Oil-Based Skin Treats Use for dry skin that needs extra nourishment after applying Moisturiser, or in place of moisturiser if you prefer. Face oils are the last layer before SPF in your routine. An easy rule of thumb to remember the order of skincare is lighter (water-based) products are first and the heaviest products (oil-based) come last. Face oil maximises the effectiveness of the ingredients your previous Skin Treats by sealing them into the skin. How to apply Face Oil Skin Treats (AM and PM) Use the dropper to apply 2-3 drops of oil directly to your palm. Gently massage into the skin. Can be used around the eye area. Your step 10 face oil options Face Oils 24k Gold Nourishing Oil — Suited to: Combination and dry skin types. Peppermint Green Oil — Suited to: Skin prone to blemishes, acne and oil balance concerns. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil — Suited to: All skin types, especially oily skin. Face Duos esmi Duos combine the intensity of a water-based serum and moisturising benefits of an oil. Duos make it easy to address specific skin concerns with a face oil and serum in one simple step. Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo — Suited to: Dry and normal types dealing with dehydration and ageing concerns. Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo — Suited to: all skin types to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion. Other Skin Products Sunscreen One of the most important skincare steps is sunscreen application in your morning routine. SPF is the final step. Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF — Comfortable, non-greasy SPF 30 enriched with antioxidant protection for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. How to apply Skin Shield Shake well before use. Apply lotion liberally and massage into skin. Allow to absorb at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Face Mist Keep skin hydrated throughout the day with esmi Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist. How to apply Skin Snack Face Mist Shake the bottle to combine the oils and extracts. Spray a few pumps of the mist. Use over the top of makeup to set or throughout the day for a quick refresh of your skin. FAQs Do I have to do all of these steps to have a great skin care routine? We recommend a cleanser, serum, face oil and/or moisturising lotion and SPF for a great basic routine. From there you can add products to suit your skin’s needs. What goes first serum or oil? Apply serum first and then your face oil. Can you use serum and face oil together? Yes. They are designed to complement each other. You should always follow a serum with a face oil or moisturising lotion as serums aren’t a replacement for a moisturising product. Our Face Duos range is a combination of both an oil and a serum so you get the best of both worlds. Does face oil go before or after moisturiser? Face oil goes after a moisturiser and before sunscreen. What goes first cleanser or exfoliant? Cleanser. Always wash your face first before exfoliating. What goes on first sunscreen or serum? Serum should be applied before sunscreen. Sunscreen is the final (and most important!) step in your morning skincare order.
The Difference Between Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Although they’re 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 skin’s 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 doesn’t 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 skin’s 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 isn’t producing. Some of the best plant oils for dry skin include; Jojoba: With a molecular structure close to your skin’s 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-6’s and omega-3’s fatty acids, rosehip is revered for its moisturising and regenerative properties for dry, itchy, damaged skin. It’s also rapidly absorbed and creates a protective barrier on the skin to guard against moisture loss. It’s 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 skin’s 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 isn’t 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 isn’t 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
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! It’s 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 you’re 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! It’s 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! Here’s 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, it’s 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 you’ll 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. Don’t 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, it’s 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. They’re 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 “How to use” 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 don’t 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 you’ve 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 Skin
Q + A with Loni Jane
“Hydration and dewy plumpness, that is always the goal for me.” 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. It’s 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 don’t 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. It’s 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 it’s 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 can’t 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 doesn’t 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 it’s 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. It’s 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. They’re 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. It’s 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, it’s 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 you’re 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!
Learning to Love the Skin You're In
Learning to love the skin you’re in… Are we overcomplicating it? Let’s explore. Have you ever met that person that just seems to have a bounce in their step? You know the one we’re talking about… They’ve 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 you’re left thinking…. 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 you’re in. Before we get to the good stuff, let’s 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! I’m not sure if you’ve figured this out yet, but the skin we’re in isn’t 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. There’s a reason why the rich and famous share in interviews that a budding career and loads of money, really doesn’t give you happiness. Becoming famous, didn’t increase the love they had for themselves and really, it has usually done quite the opposite for them. It’s time to stop being so hard on yourself - don’t worry, we got you. So, how do we learn to love the skin we’re in? Glad you asked! Let’s dive in. Step 1: Stop! First and foremost, let’s 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, we’ve ALL been there! Live your life through your eyes, not of those around you. It’s like needing glasses... Yep, go with me. Without them, is like seeing yourself through others eyes - it’s blurry, distorted, not in focus. With them, you’re seeing yourself through your own eyes - it’s clear, contextualised and you can focus! You’re seeing the ACTUAL picture. So, put those glasses on and see yourself for who you really are! STOP and take time to reflect. If we’re going to learn to love the skin we’re 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 It’s time to find the positives in who we are. The world we’re in and the environment around us. What are the things you love about who you are? (No, this is not arrogant unless you’re updating your Facebook status to reflect your finding’s). 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. It’s 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 you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, here are some of our favourites! Get up 20 mins earlier than you would for some ‘me time’ 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 it’s from 5pm at night until 5am the next morning, maybe it’s 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 you’re in. You’re practising self-love. And giving value to who you are. So maybe it’s 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 you’re in. Get living beautiful people. Not sure where to start? Reach out to our team of skin experts for a complimentary skin consultation. We’d so love to hear from you.
Q + A with Kylie Camps
“I love having make-up free days now. My skin feels soft and hydrated.” Kylie Camps is one incredible mum, owner of The Kind Parenting Company, sleep consultant, podcast host, and parenting influencer. Kylie’s podcast and Instagram are spaces dedicated entirely to making a difference in women’s 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. She’s achieved healthier, softer skin with esmi and we’re 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 don’t know about you? Probably the fact that despite liking a tidy house and getting ready most days, my car is messy, really messy!! You’ll 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 “I want to do that”. The opposite end of that is I really admire mathematically-minded thinkers, I can’t 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 “It actually works”. I’ve had people stop me in Coles before to tell me how much they love the range. Our skin is so important, we can’t 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 Sheree Nelson
I get compliments on how my skin has that 'glow’ 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 ‘getting out there’ 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. Ree’s intention for 2021 is to focus on self-love and do more of the things that make her feel good! We’re 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 that’s oily and breaking out one day and dry and irritated the next! 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 don’t 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.
Q + A with Laura Jade Stone
Laura Jade Stone’s 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 don’t 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 Milly Bannister
“Focus on what you can control and let go of the rest.” 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. She’s 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 she’ll 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 don’t 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 Milly’s 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!
