How To Prevent Oily Skin And A Shiny Face
Is oily, greasy skin getting you down? We’re here to help! Read on for our tips on how to prevent oily skin and control shine. Cleanser You can help prevent oily skin by using a gentle cleanser with active ingredients for oil and breakout control. Some traditional acne and oily skin face cleansers contain ingredients that are extremely strong. They remove every trace of oil and moisture from your skin. If you’re trying to prevent oily skin using a cleanser that removes all oil might sound good, but you’ll actually make the problem worse. When the skin is stripped of all oil your sebaceous glands (responsible for creating sebum) are triggered to create even more to make up for what’s been lost. It’s like a continuous oily feedback loop! Use A Lightweight Oil-based Moisturiser Yes, you read that right! Oil can be extremely beneficial for oily skin and to prevent an oily face - but only if you use the right kind. Choose lightweight oils with a low comedogenic rating and those with calming, antibacterial properties. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are the most beneficial for oily skin. A common mistake when attempting to prevent oily skin is to skip the moisturising step in your routine. After you’ve cleansed your skin you need to follow up with a moisturiser to prevent water evaporating from the surface - once your skin becomes dry, oil production increases. Using a moisturiser helps it hold onto water and stay hydrated. In turn, hydration helps balance skin and control an oily face. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face or Peppermint Green Oil (Excellent for oily, acne-prone skin in teens) Be Cautious About Using A Toner Traditional toners contain high levels of alcohol which is extremely drying for the skin. Just like a harsh cleanser will trigger an oily ‘feedback loop’ a strong toner causes the same issue because alcohol strips the skin. If you can’t do without the toning step in your routine, opt for alcohol and astringent free formulations. Introduce a Retinoid (Vitamin A) Product Into Your Routine Vitamin A actually targets oil glands directly to aid in the control of oily skin by slowing down the production of sebum. There are 3 different types of retinoids. The strongest is retinoic acid which is available by prescription-only. Due to its strength, it can be highly irritating for the skin. Retinol is a weaker version and available over the counter. Although it isn’t as strong as retinoic acid, don’t be surprised if you still experience irritation. Finally, retinol derivatives like Retinyl Palmitate and Retinyl Proprionate are even gentler and also sold over the counter. Known for their initial irritating side effects on the skin, it’s important to introduce any retinoid product into your routine with care. Good skin comes to those that wait. Retinoids don’t deliver overnight results but with regular use, you should see a significant improvement in your skin in about 3 months. Switch Up Your Diet Food high on the glycaemic index (GI) cause insulin levels to rise which can trigger sebum production. A 2010 study shows that eating sugar spikes insulin, which leads to an inflammatory response in the body and also produces androgens. Androgens are the hormones mostly responsible for sebum production. If you’re on a mission to prevent oily skin, you could try limiting high GI foods in your diet and observe how your skin reacts. Keep A Stash Of Blotting Paper Handy How to control an oily face when you’re on the go? A tried and true instant fix for oily skin is blotting paper. Using blotting paper is something you can do quickly and discreetly when you’re out and about to address shiny issues. Take a piece of blotting paper and press it gently but firmly on the areas of oily shine. Your T-zone - the area of your nose, chin, and forehead - is usually the oiliest. Keep the paper against your skin for a few seconds to allow it to absorb excess oil. It’s important to use a blotting motion to soak up the oil, rather than rubbing or moving the paper around your skin. When choosing a blotting paper, opt for a brand free of synthetic fragrances and powders so it won’t irritate the skin. Use Glycolic Acid In Your Oily Skin Routine The smallest of the alpha hydroxy acid family, glycolic acid is a favourite for helping control oily skin. It works to reduce excessive oil and unclog pores to assist in preventing acne breakouts and balancing oil production. Glycolic acid is usually formulated in cleansers, serums, and masks designed to target oily and congested skin. Be careful to not overwhelm your skin by using different products that all contain glycolic acid. Stick with it in one or two steps of your routine. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Treat Your Skin To A Mattifying Clay Mask The mattifying benefits of clay can help prevent oily skin blues! Cosmetic clays, in general, do a great job at absorbing excess oil and assisting in detoxifying the skin. The two types of clay to look out for in a face mask for shiny skin are kaolin clay and bentonite clay. Kaolin clay is rich in silica and has a soft, fine texture. It’s the gentlest of the cosmetic clays and absorbs oil without stripping the skin. An excellent choice for sensitive complexions. Bentonite clay is a product of aged volcanic ash. Like kaolin, this clay absorbs excess sebum from the skin’s topmost layer. It helps to mattify the skin, control breakouts and acts as an exfoliant leaving skin softer and brighter looking. Always follow a clay treatment with a moisturiser to prevent skin from drying out. We recommend: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask Chill Out Is stress making it hard to control your oily face? When we’re stressed the level of cortisol (commonly known as the stress hormone) in our body rises. This boost in cortisol can trigger increased oil production leading to oily skin, acne and other skin concerns. We’ve covered a few easy ways you can calm your mind and your skin here. Have questions about how to avoid oily skin? Book your free skin consultation with our esmi team of skin experts!
Best Foods to Eat to Improve Your Skin
What are the best foods for skin? You’re in the right place to find out! Read on to learn more about what to eat for healthy skin. How your diet affects your skin What you eat can have a dramatic influence on the health of your skin. Certain foods can help protect against premature ageing by inhibiting free radical activity, promoting a hydrated skin barrier, and encouraging cell regeneration. Other foods - especially refined sugar - do the opposite and accelerate skin damage and ageing. So, what to eat for healthy skin in general? Foods that are brimming with vitamins (antioxidant activity), minerals, and essential fatty acids. Vitamins The best foods for skin are packed with antioxidants. Heavy-hitting vitamins with potent antioxidant activity (vitamin A, C, and E) can help decrease the risk of sun and other environmental damage, including pollution, by neutralising free radical damage. They may also help improve skin texture and, depending on the vitamin, offer a host of other benefits. Essential fatty acids - omega 3 and omega 6 These two essential fatty acids are the building blocks of healthy skin cells and healthy cells translate to a happy complexion. Omega 3 and omega 6 also play a key role in maintaining the strength of the skin barrier which is essential for hydrated, smoother looking skin. Minerals Minerals like zinc, silica, and selenium play an important role in helping to keep the skin’s pH levels balanced, promoting the production of collagen, and helping protect the skin from oxidative damage. Best foods for skin If you want to eat the best food for skin, you’ve got plenty of tasty options to fill your plate! Salmon One of THE best foods you can stick a fork in for your skin is salmon. A fatty fish, salmon is packed with omega 3 fatty acids that help strengthen the skin barrier, encourage moisture retention, and serve as building blocks for healthy skin cells. The antioxidants in salmon also help calm inflammation in the body. Avocado Love a bowl of fresh, homemade guacamole? So does your skin. It’s one of the creamiest fruits good for skin. Brimming with vitamin A, D, and E plus good fats and phytonutrients, avocados deliver a range of nutritional benefits to help fight free radical damage and support supple skin. The linoleic acid in avocados helps moisturise your skin from the inside while lauric acid has antimicrobial properties. Almonds Increase your nutrition for healthy skin by snacking on almonds. One of the best foods for skin in the nut category, almonds contain high levels of Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that may slow the signs of ageing by minimising free radical activity. Broccoli This humble cruciferous veggie is harbouring skin saving superpowers. Broccoli can aid in supporting healthy collagen and supple skin thanks to its vitamin C content. Then there’s vitamin E, which helps guard skin cells against oxidative stress that can accelerate premature signs of ageing. Pumpkin seeds Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on your yoghurt or into your trail mix for a healthy hit of zinc. Known as a “trace mineral” zinc is incredibly beneficial for skin thanks to its ability to halt the formation of damaging free radicals and protect cells. Its anti-inflammatory properties can aid in the healing of inflammatory acne. Greek yoghurt Replete in vitamins B2, B5 and B12, Greek yoghurt can assist with maintaining the moisture balance of skin and helps in cellular regeneration. Any old yoghurt won’t do, make sure it’s Greek style to reap the full benefits for your skin. Olive oil One of the best foods for skin, olive oil offers skin regenerative benefits thanks to its levels of squalane. Polyphenols can also strengthen and improve skin texture while vitamin E can improve skin elasticity and moisturisation. Olive oil can also help your skin better absorb the nutrients of other foods. Bonus! Fermented foods This healthy bacteria in fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso can support in minimising acne and early signs of ageing and promote a brighter, more even skin tone. Blueberries These skin beautifying berries are rich in antioxidants that can help protect skin against the damaging effects of free radical activity. Flaxseed A small but mighty food in the fight against premature lines and wrinkles, flaxseed contains Omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants to aid in the promotion of skin smoothness and hydration. Kale This leafy green is a skin health enhancer. Packed with vitamins C, K, and beta-carotene, kale can assist in maintaining collagen, skin healing, and increasing a healthy glow. Carrots Whether you grate them for coleslaw or blitz them in a juice, carrots are incredibly beneficial for skin. They contain vitamin C and beta-carotene which helps minimise skin inflammation and can speed up the healing process after skin trauma. Dark chocolate Do the best foods for skin get tastier than dark chocolate? We think not! Eating dark chocolate in moderation can provide your skin with vitamins and minerals - including copper, iron, and magnesium - that can assist in the production of collagen and help repair skin. Choose dark chocolate with at least 80% cacao content for maximum healthy skin food benefits. Sweet potato It's no secret vegetables are good for skin and sweet potato is one of the best root vegetables to support a healthy complexion. They possess high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and magnesium. Collectively they target free radical activity and can encourage healthy collagen production. Chia seeds Omega-3 fatty acids are the foundation of healthy skin cells and a strong skin barrier. Chia seeds are packed with Omega 3 - they’re one of the richest plant-based sources of this essential fatty acid. Sprinkle them on your salad, breakfast oats, or into a smoothie. Spinach Dark leafy greens in general are some of the best foods for good skin and spinach is no exception. Packed with zinc and antioxidant zeaxanthin, spinach can help reduce inflammation, aid in breakout prevention, and promote a more even skin tone. Foods To Avoid Or Only Eat Occasionally Refined sugar Sugar increases inflammation in the body which fuels the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin leading to an increased number of fine lines and wrinkles. Existing skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema can also be exacerbated by refined sugar. Fast food and food high in trans fats Research has linked acne flare ups with a diet rich in calories, fat, and refined carbohydrates. Many processed foods high in fat - like burgers, fries, and pizza - are high-GI that raise blood sugar levels quickly and cause insulin levels to jump. Like refined sugar, this triggers inflammation in the body which has the potential to worsen existing skin conditions. Foods That Commonly Trigger Skin Issues While not all skin concerns are caused by - or can be entirely solved by - your diet, some types of foods are more likely to trigger inflammatory skin conditions. These foods aren’t ‘bad’ as such, but many people react badly to them when it comes to their skin. Studies have found a link between milk products and acne but to discover the impact dairy has on you, temporarily cut it from your diet and monitor your skin for changes. If you have rosacea, it’s best to steer clear of foods that may trigger flare ups including tomatoes, citrus, cinnamon, and chocolate. Warming spices, hot sauces, and alcohol are also common culprits of rosacea redness flares. If you are dealing with skin issues a change in diet may help but it’s not the entire picture. Take a holistic approach to include the right skincare, alternative therapies, or medication as needed. Before making any radical changes to your diet, we recommend consulting with a health professional. We hope these suggestions will be helpful to steer you towards making the right choice in food for better skin.
Pregnancy Safe Skincare Ingredients
Expecting a new little arrival? Congratulations! Let us help you navigate safe skincare for pregnant women. This handy guide explains ingredients to avoid and pregnancy approved alternatives. Common pregnancy skin conditions There are some lucky mums-to-be out there that experience the best skin of their lives during pregnancy. Unfortunately, it’s not always the case! You may experience pregnancy-related changes in your skin that are more challenging to deal with. Hormonal acne - Breaking out around the chin and jaw? Acne in these areas can be linked to hormonal changes. Melasma - Sometimes called the ‘mask of pregnancy’ melasma is hyperpigmentation (skin discolouration) that can appear on your forehead, nose, and cheeks. Dryness - Dryness can make fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced. If you have any pre-existing conditions, like eczema or rosacea, these can get worse during pregnancy. You’ll need to manage these skin concerns while you’re expecting (and during breastfeeding) with skincare products that are safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy skincare — Ingredients to use & avoid Safe skincare for pregnant women means avoiding certain ingredients - a few tweaks to your existing routine might be necessary. Carefully read all the labels on the skincare products you’re currently using. You’ll want to press pause on applying the following ingredients during pregnancy: Avoid: Retinols, or any Vitamin A derivatives (Anti-ageing) Retinol, retin-A, retinoic acid, and tretinoin shouldn’t be used if you’re expecting. These anti-ageing ingredients are all derived from Vitamin A, which is an effective vitamin for your skin but is problematic during pregnancy. Excessive amounts of Vitamin A has been found to interfere with fetal development. No matter the amount you include in your routine, the safest approach is to avoid retinol, or any vitamin A derivatives entirely. What are the best anti-ageing pregnancy skincare alternatives? Thankfully, temporarily giving up Vitamin A doesn’t have to mean abandoning your anti-ageing routine. Alternative ingredients that are pregnancy safe and offer effective anti-ageing properties are easy to include in your pregnancy skincare routine. You may already be using some! Vitamin C Vitamin C is your antioxidant go-to for a pregnancy skincare routine. An effective all-rounder, it helps repair environmental damage, stimulate collagen synthesis, and brighten skin. Peptides Peptides are a type of protein that helps preserve and boost collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. Omega Fatty Acids Omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 play a role in maintaining youthful, healthy-looking skin. They deliver positive changes in skin hydration, scaling, and roughness. Pregnancy safe products we recommend for an anti-ageing routine: The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Ageing Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Golden Anti-Ageing Serum (evening) Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. AVOID: Salicylic acid (Acne) Salicylic acid is a heavy hitter for treating acne. Its deep exfoliating action clears blocked pores to minimise bacteria and reduce congestion. When it comes to skincare for pregnant women though, it’s not on the ‘safe’ list in high doses so it’s best to skip this ingredient entirely. What are the pregnancy safe skincare ingredients to treat acne? Take your pick of pregnancy safe ingredients to manage breakouts while you’re expecting. Lactic acid — A sensitive skin hero, lactic acid is the gentler, yet effective, exfoliator of the acids group. Glycolic acid — Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that naturally occurs in plants including sugar cane and citrus fruits. Fruit enzymes — Enzymes found in some fruits and berries break down keratin proteins attached to dead cells to help target congestion. Bentonite clay and activated charcoal — Detoxify and refine congested skin and help control oil. Polynesian sand — An effective physical exfoliator for oily skin types, Polynesian sand helps to gently unblock pores for clearer skin. Breakout prone skin will also benefit from pregnancy safe skincare products that deliver deep hydration, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and plant-based oils that help regulate sebum production. Pregnancy safe skincare products we recommend for a breakout routine The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo Peppermint Green Oil Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Fresh Sea And Salty Sand facial exfoliant Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. AVOID: Hydroquinone (Hyperpigmentation) A depigmenting agent, hydroquinone is used to lighten darkened areas of skin by suppressing the formation of melanin in the skin. Research has shown hydroquinone to be problematic during pregnancy, so it’s one to avoid. What are the pregnancy safe skincare ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation? These powerful natural skin lighteners are safe to include in your pregnancy skin care products Vitamin C — Vitamin C helps lighten patches of pigmentation without leaving your skin barrier compromised – no dryness, peeling or flaking as a result. It also gives the complexion a bright, radiant appearance. Kakadu Plum — Kakadu Plum is believed to be the world’s most potent source of natural Vitamin C making it an excellent ingredient to help diminish the appearance of dark spots. Bearberry — Bearberry Leaf extract is a natural skin lightener that works by helping to reduce melanin production. Liquorice — A powerful brightening antioxidant, liquorice is high in anti-inflammatories – making it great for post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness/scarring after breakouts. Pregnancy safe skincare products we recommend for a hyperpigmentation routine The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Pomegranate Brightening Serum Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. Best pregnancy safe skincare brand in Australia Best Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Brand in Australia, before the last line If you have any questions about safe skincare for pregnant women, we’re here to help! Book your free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. Learn more about skincare How To Get Rid of Wrinkles How To Reduce Face Puffiness Before and After Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The Best Face Mask for Acne
Royal Hospital for Women Pink Headband Fundraiser
This September, the esmi team are getting behind a really special cause. We’re helping to raise money towards the purchase of a Babyleo Humidicrib for premature babies needing neonatal care at the Royal Hospital for Women. This special piece of equipment will help precious, tiny bubs have the best chance of making it through critical surgery with a lower risk of complication. Here’s how you can show your support! From 15th September 2020 for every order of $150 or more esmi Skin Minerals will donate $15 to the Royal Hospital for Women Foundation. You’ll also receive a FREE limited edition pink esmi Microfibre Headband to commemorate your contribution. *PLEASE NOTE THIS PROMOTION HAS NOW ENDED. Cannot be used in conjunction with any offer. Together, let’s do our best to assist the RHFW with purchasing a new Babyleo Humidicrib (valued at $75,000) for premature babies. How Babyleo Humidicrib can help fragile babies and their families The Royal Hospital for Women provides life changing healthcare to women and newborns. The Babyleo Humdicrib, a technologically advanced incubator, will make surgery possible within the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Not moving a fragile premature or critically ill baby from their incubator to operating theatres reduces the risk of them becoming unstable or developing complications. This special humidicrib also allows mums, dads, and family to be comfortably closer to their little one and feel part of their care. Mum can be brought into the unit in a bed (e.g post caesarean) to be able to be right alongside her newborn baby. The Royal Hospital for Women does phenomenal work looking after a thousand babies a year while leading the way in cutting edge research recognised worldwide. Our hearts are really in this special cause. Let’s help give sick and premature babies their very best chance for successful, life-changing surgeries. If you’d like to make a personal donation towards the Babyleo Humdicrib, you can do so here.
3 Ways to Fight the Effects of Pollution on Skin
The effects of pollution on skin are more far-reaching and damaging than you might think. Signs of ageing, dullness, and hyperpigmentation can be linked back to the insidious toxicity of air pollution. Discover 3 simple skincare steps you can take to protect your skin every day. What are the effects of pollution on skin? The effects of pollution on skin can be described in 3 words: free radical damage. Toxic nanoparticles from smog and traffic related air pollution are able to penetrate the skin. Once inside, they trigger free radical damage - the enemy of healthy skin. Stay with us for a super quick chemistry lesson on free radicals... Free radicals are molecules that are missing an electron. In an attempt to make itself ‘whole’ again, a free radical ‘steals’ an electron from a healthy skin cell. This process causes inflammation, damages the collagen of the healthy cell, and can also lead to hyperpigmentation. The newly damaged skin cell then goes on its own mission to steal an electron from yet another healthy cell. This triggers a destructive chain reaction of free radical damage to skin cells. You can’t see free radicals but you can see the results they cause; lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, darkened patches, and dullness. Pollutants also deplete the skin of hydration and essential vitamins too, leaving it dehydrated and in need of nourishment. Skincare solution to target pollution in 3 steps There's not a lot you can do to avoid pollution entirely. Luckily though, with the right anti pollution products and skincare routine, there’s quite a bit you can do to combat its effects. 1. Double cleanse in the evening An evening cleanse is crucial for removing pollution particles that have settled on your skin. We recommend doing it twice to really stop the effects of pollution on skin in their tracks! Especially if you live in a buzzing urban area filled with traffic and smog. The first cleanse gently removes traces of makeup and SPF. The second cleanse lifts further build-up, including pollutants, from the skin. Getting into the habit of double cleansing can ward off the free radical damage that accelerates the signs of ageing, dullness, and hyperpigmentation. The extra few minutes added to your bedtime routine is definitely worth it in the long run. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser which you can use for both the first and second cleanse. If you want to target existing hyperpigmentation or dullness, you could opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Brightening for the second cleanse. 2. Use antioxidants to neutralise free radicals Prevention is the best step to combating the effects of pollution and antioxidants are the answer to turning off the damage caused by free radicals. Essentially, an antioxidant ‘gives’ the free radical the electron it’s looking for - so it doesn’t need to steal it from a healthy cell! This puts a stop to the chain reaction of free radical damage. It gets better too. Not only can antioxidants neutralise free radicals, but they can also help skin repair itself from any damage already caused and target specific skin concerns. This includes smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, brightening a dull complexion, and improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It’s clear why antioxidants should play a key role in your anti pollution skincare regime and these are the big hitters we recommend; Vitamin C: An antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and collagen stimulator, Vitamin C wards off free-radical damage and can help stimulate collagen production for firmer looking skin. It’s also a potent skin brightener, improving the appearance of dull skin and hyperpigmentation. There are a lot of vitamin C derivatives but the pure form of Vitamin C is known as L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA). Vitamin E: While helping protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, Vitamin E is also highly moisturising for skin. Plumps fine lines and wrinkles. Green tea: Green tea is brimming with catechins and polyphenols which are natural antioxidants and free radical scavengers. It also has the added benefit of helping regulate sebum production to help balance oily and acne prone skin. Ferulic acid: A potent antioxidant that neutralises free radicals damage, ferulic acid helps shield against the development of fine lines, spots, and wrinkles. Many antioxidants work synergistically, meaning they become even more beneficial when teamed with other antioxidants. For the best results, look for anti pollution skincare products with multiple antioxidants. A few antioxidant combinations that work well together include: Vitamin C and Vitamin E Vitamin C, Vitamin E and ferulic acid (even better than Vit C + E!) Choosing a broad spectrum SPF enriched with antioxidant protection is an easy way to guard your skin against sun and pollution related damage. We recommend: Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo and Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 3. Strengthen the skin barrier for protection The outer layer of your skin (your skin barrier or lipid barrier) is like a hard working security guard preventing environmental irritants, including pollution, from entering in. The lipid barrier consists of layers of dead skin cells and lipids - the skin's natural fats. When the barrier is weak or damaged, it’s more susceptible to the entry of toxic pollution particles and their damaging effects. Pollution protection skin care should include ingredients to help strengthen and condition the lipid barrier Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Boosts ceramide production (ceramide is an epidermal lipid) thereby improving the skin’s barrier function. Hyaluronic acid: Works by attracting water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrating cells from the inside out. In turn, this promotes a strong skin barrier with cells in a healthy, hydrated state.We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Essential Fatty acids - Omega 3 and Omega 6: These essential acids replenish the lipid structure of the skin, helping to reinforce the surface keep it moisturised and buffer it from the effects of pollution on skin. Essential fatty acids to consider including your line up of anti pollution products are: Linoleic acid (Omega 6): Rosehip oil is an excellent source of linoleic acid. Chia oil (Omega 3) Kiwi Fruit Seed Oil (Omega 3) Squalane: Excellent at replenishing the skin's moisture barrier, squalane is naturally present in the skin’s lipid barrier. Choosing facial oils and anti pollution moisturisers with this ingredient will help restore a damaged skin barrier to a healthy, supple state. Probiotics: The good bacteria of probiotics help create a harmonious environment for a damaged skin barrier to heal and thrive. A strong barrier means your skin can better defend itself against the effects of pollution.We recommend: Skin Mylck. Have questions about choosing the right esmi Skin Minerals products for your skin concerns? Book your free consultation with our skincare specialists.
Our Guide to Glowing Skin
Want to know how to get glowing skin? It’s all about taking a holistic approach to skin care. What you eat, drink, the skincare products you use and lifestyle factors all contribute to a glowing skin routine. Everyday routine for glowing Skin Your daily routine for glowing skin starts with what you put in your mouth! Loading your plate with skin friendly foods and drinking hydrating liquids is vital for glowing skin. Regular exercise plays a big role in skin health too. It improves blood circulation and gets more oxygen to the skin which helps give it a healthy glow. Then, of course, there’s skincare! Below we’ve detailed a daily 4 step skincare routine to get glowing skin. Plus, how you can treat yourself to a weekly indulgence and turn up the glow. Step 1: Cleanse Cleansing is the basis for every glowing skin routine. It refreshes your skin removing excess oil, makeup, dead skin cells, SPF, pollution particles, and other debris. Without cleansing your skin, this debris builds up on the surface of your skin and can lead to blocked pores resulting in congestion and acne. You may also find skin develops a rougher texture and becomes dull if you’re not cleansing properly. The effect of pollution is also problematic for skin. Toxic nanoparticles of smog and other air pollution can settle onto your face during the day. Without washing them away in the evening, these particles can trigger free radical activity that accelerates the signs of ageing. A clean canvas also allows other skincare products and their ingredients to better penetrate your skin. You maximise their benefits! How often should you cleanse? Cleansing should be part of both your morning and evening routine. We recommend a double cleanse in the evening to remove all traces of build up for deeply cleansed pores. Consider using a textured microfibre face cleansing mitt with your cleanser. Microfibre helps eliminate 80% more dirt, makeup and product residue than a regular face washer! What ingredients to look for in a cleanser No matter your skin type or concerns, a gentle cleanser is the way to go. Gentle formulations cleanse your skin and leave it balanced and supple not strip of the oils and moisture it needs. A few gentle yet effective ingredients for cleansing formulations include; Aloe vera: Containing mostly (95%) water, aloe vera is hydrating and calming for skin. It also has excellent cleansing and very gentle exfoliant properties. Green tea extract: Brimming with antioxidant activity, Green tea is also an anti-inflammatory with the ability to soothe and calm redness. Stearic acid: Helps cleanse debris from the skin while its emollient properties protect skin's surface against water loss. Capric triglyceride: Helps to reduce skin dryness by minimising moisture loss by creating a barrier on the skin's surface. We recommend The Uncomplicated Cleanser (All skin types) Infused with aloe vera to calm and heal and the protective, antioxidant properties of camellia leaf (green tea) extract the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, The Uncomplicated Cleanser works gently but deeply to lift away dirt and foundation without stripping away the oils and good bacteria essential for healthy, balanced skin. Step 2: Hydrate Wondering how to get glowing skin? Hydration, hydration, hydration. H2O helps your skin by improving elasticity, regulating oil production, flushing toxins, and increasing skin radiance. Dehydration occurs when the skin barrier, the protective uppermost layer of the skin known as the stratum corneum, lacks moisture. Signs your skin is dehydrated can include tightness, dryness, sensitivity, dullness, and congestion. Several factors can contribute to depleting the water content in your skin. Changes in the weather, using the wrong skincare, lifestyle choice (excessive alcohol consumption/smoking for example), diet, and other environmental factors. To combat dehydration for all skin types, the skin cell’s water content needs to be replenished. Serums vs Moisturisers There is a difference between ‘hydrating’ and ‘moisturising’ ingredients - both share the same goal (to improve the skin’s water content) but go about it differently. Hydrating ingredients (known as humectants) attract water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrate cells from the inside out. Moisturising ingredients (emollients and occlusives) work to lock the hydration into the skin. This means a two step approach is needed in your glowing skin routine to achieve the best results. 1) Serum: Get water to thirsty skin cells to rehydrate and replenish. Serums are water-based formulations and have a smaller molecular structure than moisturisers. This allows them to provide an intense hit of hydration - carrying hydrating ingredients deep within the skin. 2) Moisturiser: Seal the water in to prevent it from escaping off the skin. Moisturisers don’t penetrate the skin as deeply, instead, they sit on top of the skin to trap moisture in. What ingredients to look for in a hydrating serum Hyaluronic acid: One of the best ingredients to look for in a hydrating serum is hyaluronic acid. It draws water to the cells and can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Allantoin: An extract from the comfrey plant, allantoin’s properties can increase the water contents of cells. It has the added benefit of acting as an emollient to keep skin moisturised. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Effective at restoring the skin barrier to guard against moisture loss and dehydration. How often should you use a hydrating serum? You can use a hydrating serum in both your morning and evening routine. Apply it as the next step after cleansing and before your moisturiser. Gently pat the serum into the skin with your fingers. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum (all skin types) The esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your cells containing triple action Hyaluron which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours. The hydrating serum contains niacinamide (Vitamin B3) for skin repair, restoration and to regulate oil flow which in turn aids in breakout prevention. It also contains allantoin to promote cell longevity. Hydration and your diet How to get glowing skin naturally? Keeping your skin hydrated isn’t only about using the right skincare products. Including water-rich foods in your diet and drinking hydrating fluids is crucial to get glowing skin. Foods with high water content include cucumber, tomatoes, watermelon, spinach, oranges, and mushrooms. Sip on plain water, coconut water, and water flavoured with real fruit pieces to keep hydration levels up. Read: Best foods to eat to improve your skin Step 3: Moisturise As we mentioned above, the moisturising step helps lock moisture into the skin. It also delivers antioxidant support and strengthens the skin barrier. When we talk about how to get glowing skin and the role moisturiser plays, don’t think creams are your only option! Oil based moisturisers are an excellent choice for many skin types and concerns. How an energising serum works Or, you could opt for an energising serum - a hybrid combination of a serum and an oil. The serum component of the formulation delivers active ingredients deep into the skin while the oil offers moisturising benefits. Best of both worlds! How often should you use an energising serum? You can use an energising serum in both your morning and evening routine. Apply it as the next step after your hydrating serum and before SPF. Gently pat the serum into the skin with your fingers. We recommend: Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo (all skin types) Help brighten, tone and moisturise tired skin with the intensity of a water-based serum and moisturising benefits of an oil. The serum component contains Kakadu Plum extract - nature’s highest level of vitamin C - to help brighten skin and aid in collagen production for a firmer, smoother tone while niacinamide aids in repair and breakout prevention. The oil component contains Acai oil which offers moisture increasing benefits and helps address ageing concerns. Step 4: Sun protection Our guide on how to get glowing skin wouldn’t be complete without including daily SPF protection. When it comes to signs of premature ageing, the sun is your skin’s number 1 enemy and SPF is your skin-saving staple. Both UV and UVB rays damage the skin but go about it in different ways. UVB are shorter rays that affect the surface of the skin; causing the visible redness and pain that comes with sunburn. They can also result in skin cancer, including melanoma. UVA rays, on the other hand, are longer and reach deep into the layers of skin. Causing damage to collagen and elastin, UVA rays are responsible for accelerating the signs of ageing - wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. They can also trigger hyperpigmentation. What to look for in a sunscreen The key is to choose a broad spectrum sunscreen which protects from both UVA and UVB rays. If a sunscreen isn’t broad spectrum, it only protects your skin from UVB rays. The SPF (sun protection factor) rating is also important. An SPF rating of 15+ or higher is recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use and 30+ if you’re spending the day outdoors. Choosing a sunscreen that works with makeup Your best bet when looking for sunscreen to wear under makeup? Go for a formulation that is lightweight and non-comedogenic - meaning it won’t clog pores. Some SPF creams can be heavy, greasy, and packed with mineral oil. This increases the risk of congestion and can cause makeup to ‘slide’ off your skin. Don’t rule out oil in your sunscreen entirely though, some oils are very beneficial. For example, we use carrot root oil in our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 to help tone and tighten skin. We also suggest making mineral makeup your friend. It allows the skin to breathe and contains natural SPF too. You get the bonus of added sun protection as you layer your cosmetics and skincare. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 (all skin types) Comfortable, non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen is easy-to-apply and enriched with antioxidant protection of carrot root oil, hyaluronic acid, and green tea to help support hydrated, smoother skin. Weekly skin treatments to refresh & revitalise How to get glowing skin and indulge in a little self care at the same time? By refreshing and revitalising your skin with weekly treatments. Exfoliation and face mask treatments A face mask is ideal to help target specific skin concerns including congestion, dullness, dryness, hyperpigmentation, and ageing concerns. Whether you choose a face mask treatment to leave on overnight or a quick 10 minute treatment, your skin can benefit. All skin types can benefit from different types of exfoliation too. We recommend introducing weekly mask and exfoliation treatments into your routine one at a time. Targeted treatments usually contain a stronger dose of active ingredients which your skin may need time to adjust to. Basically, you don’t want to overwhelm the skin, especially using products with exfoliation properties. We recommend: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask The mild exfoliation action of kaolin clay is kind to sensitive and breakout-prone skin, it helps to soothe and aid in balancing oil production while deeply cleansing to remove impurities. Bentonite clay helps lift away dead skin cells and assists with pore purification for a touchably soft, glowing complexion. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum An exfoliating charcoal serum with gentle chemical exfoliation properties to help detox and purify congested skin to promote a clearer, smoother complexion. Ideal for most skin types tackling blackheads, acne, and underlying skin congestion to help draw out impurities and unclog pores for smoother looking skin. Turn your treatments into self care Why not turn your weekly skincare treatments into a self-care practice? Instead of rushing through the motions, slow down and pay attention to each step. Enjoy the texture and fragrance of the products and the way they feel on your skin. Listening to relaxing music or burning an aromatic candle while you go through your skincare routine will also boost the indulgence factor!
Probiotics in Skincare: What You Need To Know
Probiotics for the skin? We're breaking down all the information you need to know about probiotics and how they benefit your skin. Probiotics as we know it: The potential beneficial effects of taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium orally has been extensively studied for intestinal health. Benefits include prevention of pathogenic (bad bacteria), strengthening the gut barrier, repair and modulation of your immunity. Since their potential for maintaining gut health has been so effective, various strains of probiotic(bacteria) have been tested on other areas of the body such as the mouth, reproductive system and of course, skin… About your skin and how it operates: Our skin forms the barrier between the outside world and your internal body. Without it, life would be impossible. Our epidermis prevents water loss and protects our insides from external pathogens (bad bacteria) and potential infections. An extreme case of the barrier being compromised would be severe burns or wounding. Less extreme breaches of the skin barrier can easily occur in everyday life. Scratches, acne where the skin is compromised/open and a high level of pathogens (bad bacteria) are present, wounds, slow healing ability (diabetes and other immune disorders), eczema and dermatitis where the oil glands have not fully matured. This skin is often compromised and broken leaving the cells exposed. If it’s been proven that in gut (health) probiotics can help with effective healing, barrier repair and immunity modulation, could we find a probiotic to live and benefit the skin conditions specifically? After extensive testing on keratinocyte monolayer scratches (one cell thick scratches) it was found that only a couple of lysate materials were effective in the healing and repair of the scratch. This good-bacteria can help kill pathogens (bad bacteria) or places good bacteria in an environment that is compromised (such as eczema and dermatitis) and open to bad bacteria to infect the skin. What is a lysate? A lysate is a concentrated dose of probiotic function A more stable way to include probiotic function in formulations Lysates probiotic bacteria possess a wide range of properties: it can be immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and stabilizing Can stimulate proliferation (rapid skin cell healing) accelerating wound healing To put it simply: Your skin is like an ecosystem. Different parts of your body have good and bad bacteria living there. The same way the rainforest, great barrier reef etc need specific conditions to thrive your skin is the same. It needs good bacteria to thrive and too much bad bacteria can lead to skin issues. esmi is your first skincare brand to use a 100% Australian made probiotic. The esmi Probiotic Skin Mylck features your specially selected and researched Australian Made probiotic Lysate ideal for skin application, helping create an ideal environment for your skin to thrive if compromised by outside elements and bad-bacteria. It can be great for extremely sensitive, compromised skin. We suggest you also use our Probiotic Skin Mylck with our Uncomplicated Cleanser original for best results. Have questions about choosing the best probiotic skincare for you? Have a chat with our team of skincare experts. Book your free skin consultation today! Ref: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4633615/ *esmi Skin Minerals are the first skincare company using a 100% Australian made Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate produced in Australia’s first and only cGMP/TGA certified facility for probiotic API manufacturing.
Your Highschool Teenage Skincare Routine
Feeling a bit lost about putting your first teen skincare routine together? We’re here to help! Learn how to build a simple yet effective regime with our best teenage skincare products. Know Your Skin Type Putting together a routine of teenage skincare products right for your skin all begins with identifying your skin type! This gives you a great starting point to build a routine that suits your skin and treats specific concerns. Using the wrong products and ingredients will hinder, rather than help your skin. The most common skin types are sensitive, dry, normal, oily, and combination. You may already know your skin type but if you need a little help figuring it out read our guide here. Skincare for Teenagers — Acne, Excessive Oil and Congestion One of the big skin complaints about teen skin is excessive oil production which results in congestion and teen acne. Why is an oily skin problem so common for teens? One word: hormones! During puberty, your hormone levels surge. This causes your sebaceous glands (oil glands) to enlarge which leads to increased production of oil (sebum) in the skin. Excess oil mixing with dead cells and other debris on the skin surface can quickly lead to blocked pores causing blackheads, whiteheads, and even cysts. Hormones aren’t the only culprit for breakouts in your teen years. Genetics can also play a role; if your parents had acne it’s more likely you’ll experience it too. Stress, diet, and lifestyle choices can also contribute to acne flare ups. Morning Skincare Routine for Teens Cleanse The most important step in your teen skincare routine is cleansing! Removing the build up that finds its way onto your skin every day (dead cells, makeup, oil, dirt) is key to keeping your complexion clear and fresh. Stick with a gentle cleanser. Many cleansers targeted towards teenage acne can be very harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils. Stripping the skin only makes oily issues worse as your sebaceous glands are triggered to produce yet more oil to compensate for what’s been lost. A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser is the best face wash for teenage skin. Choose a gentle formulation that includes active ingredients to target specific issues, depending on your skin type and concern. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser The original Uncomplicated Cleanser is gentle and ideal to remove surface products. If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, we recommend a double cleanse in the morning and evening. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness (acne prone | double cleanse) You can opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness for the second cleanse. Containing antibacterial properties, this cleanser is ideal for soothing inflammation and minimising acne flare-ups. Serum Containing potent ingredients to target specific skincare concerns, a serum is something you can opt to include in your teen skincare routine. Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are good all-rounders to start with to improve skin hydration - these humectant ingredients draw moisture to the skin. No matter your age or skin type, extra hydration can benefit everyone. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Hyaluronic Serum contains Vit B3 (niacinamide) which will help to balance skin and regulate oil flow which can act as a preventative for breakouts. It also accelerates healing and repair post-breakout. Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo (Acne prone skin) The 'gentle' dose of actives in this formulation is perfect for teens and helps to balance and strengthen skin, promote repair, and soothe skin. Moisturise Moisturiser plays a crucial role in your teen skincare routine - even if you have oily skin. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that if you have oily skin you don’t need moisturiser. This step is especially important if you are taking acne medication or using over-the-counter spot treatments which can be particularly drying for the skin. Moisturiser forms a protective barrier on the surface to help minimise water evaporating from the skin and help prevent environmental irritants from entering in. Facial oils are suitable for most skin types - even oily ones - to replace a cream based moisturiser or apply over the top of one. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types, especially oily skin with balance concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm and hydrate while regulating oil flow. Peppermint Green Oil (Acne prone skin) Highly moisturising with antiseptic and astringent properties to treat acne-prone skin, as well as anti-inflammatory properties targeting redness and inflammation. Apply SPF Let your teenage years be the time you commit to wearing sunscreen every day - this is a skincare habit you’ll never regret. The earlier you start this step, the better your skin will be in the future. Trust us! We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 PM Routine For Teen Skincare Cleanse We always recommend you double cleanse in the evening. The first cleanse is to remove any products (like SPF or makeup) and the second is to get deep into the pores to remove debris and any built-up oil. You can use the same cleanser for both or a combination of cleansers to achieve more targeted results. Similar to your morning routine, if you're dealing with teenage acne, we recommend double cleansing in the evening. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser is ideal for the first cleanse. You can follow with a second cleanse using The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal. Ideal for all skin types prone to congestion, breakouts, and large pores, the active ingredient charcoal purifies and balances oils for a refined, clearer complexion. If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, you could opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness again. Spot treatment Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may want to include a targeted spot treatment as part of your teen skincare routine. The evening is a good time to do this. Apply the treatment and wait for it to dry before adding serum. Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, opt for the Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo again or, if you’re dealing with breakouts, try the Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie. Moisturise Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil or Peppermint Green Oil (Acne prone skin) Weekly Treatments For Teenage Skin Care Routine Mask Face masks can be beneficial but finding the formulations that work best for your skin type and concerns is important - so is going not overboard with treatments. It’s best to introduce masks once your skin is responding well to the core products in your teen skincare regime - cleanser, moisturiser, and serum. We recommend: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask The mild exfoliation action of kaolin clay is kind to sensitive and breakout-prone skin, soothes and regulates oil production while deeply cleansing to remove impurities. Teenagers should introduce this step slowly, once the skin is used to the actives in the cleansers and serums. Exfoliate Teenage skin can benefit from exfoliating in the right way with the right ingredients to remove dead cells, keep pores clear, and encourage a smoother complexion overall. There are a few methods you can use to approach exfoliation; chemical (acids and enzymes), physical (scrubs, granules, textured mitt), or a combination of both. Chemical exfoliation works by dissolving any breakout forming build-up on the surface (oil, dirt, dead cells) to keep pores clear. Physical exfoliation removes build up by manually moving the scrub, granules, or mitt/washcloth across your skin's surface. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum (Acne prone / congestion) Using this 2-3 times per week will help to clear dead skin cells from the surface and detoxify the skin by drawing out impurities. This serum contains powerful drawing agents, it will draw out any underlying congestion - so don’t be alarmed if your skin purges. Continue use after impurities have emerged to aid healing. Or you could opt for Fresh Sea And Salty Sand. This exotic Polynesian sand physical exfoliator combined with the additional exfoliating power of papaya enzymes gently but effectively exfoliates away dead skin cells. The 5 Best Teenage Skin Care Products The Uncomplicated Cleanser is ideal for daily use to gently cleansing teenage skin without stripping the skin of natural oils. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum to deeply hydrate skin and regulate oil flow to prevent breakouts. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil to moisturise skin using a gentle dose of actives that are perfect for teenage skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum to exfoliate in the evenings 2-3 times each week. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask for deep cleansing. Should be slowly intergrated and used once a week. Find the Best Teenage Skincare Routine for You with esmi Skin Minerals Find the best skin care products for teenage acne and skin care with the esmi range of cruelty-free, vegan and mineral-based products. Explore our range of effective acne products and cleansers.
Post Workout Skincare
Working up a sweat is amazing for your skin but only if you get your post workout skincare right! If you want to avoid breakouts, congestion, and irritation after hitting the gym, read on. How working out benefits your skin Exercise doesn’t just benefit your muscles and mind, it energises your skin too. Increases circulation When you exercise blood circulation is increased around your body which means your skin receives a boost in oxygen and nutrients. Plus, who doesn’t love a post gym glow! Encourages lymphatic drainage Sweating it out also stimulates lymphatic drainage which helps detoxify your body and skin. During a workout, your body releases toxins through your pores in the form of sweat. Post workout skincare tips to avoid breakouts, congestion, and irritation While good things are happening to your skin when you exercise if you don’t take care with your post workout skincare routine - you’ll undo all the benefits! Exercise makeup free Your best post workout skin actually starts before you hit the treadmill. The golden rule for pre workout skincare is to avoid wearing makeup while working out, especially foundations, bronzers, blushes, and any heavy oil-based cosmetics. When you sweat while working out, the sweat mixes with the oils on your skin - including oil from cosmetics. This combination of sweat and oil makes for the perfect pore-clogging combination. Cleanse your skin ASAP after exercise When it comes to after workout skincare, the most crucial thing is to cleanse your skin as soon as possible to wash away oil, sweat, and bacteria. Choose a gentle cleanser to avoid irritating your face. Exercise heats your body up and your pores open which can leave skin extra vulnerable to irritation shortly after a workout. Cleanse and rinse with cool or lukewarm water so you don’t make a red post workout face even redder! Avoid exfoliation immediately after working out Using an exfoliator isn’t something we recommend in your post workout skincare routine. Skin is extra sensitive immediately after exercise and a strong exfoliating session may irritate the skin barrier. Only use makeup wipes in an ‘emergency’ Think the best post workout skincare tip is keeping a stash of makeup wipes in your gym kit? Think again. Relying only on makeup wipes to cleanse after exercising isn’t the best option for your skin. Makeup wipes are loaded with preservatives for the purpose of stopping mould and these ingredients can cause skin to become inflamed and dry. Plus, even the best post workout wipes won’t do the job a proper cleanse - only use them if you absolutely don’t have time to wash your face properly. Have a sensitive skin type? We recommend skipping them altogether. A better alternative to makeup wipes is dampening a cotton pad in micellar water for a quick, post workout wipe until you get the chance to cleanse properly. Sunscreen Exercising outdoors? Sunscreen is a must! If you applied sunscreen as part of your morning routine (and yes, you should be!) but you’re working out in the afternoon, top up with a fresh application. Best basic post workout skincare routine Your post workout skincare routine will depend on when you exercise. If you workout first thing in the morning, you’d likely follow your usual morning routine post exercise. But what if you work out in the afternoon or midday? Your skin can’t wait until your evening routine for attention or you’ll risk breakouts and congestion. We’ve put together a guide for a basic routine to follow immediately after exercise to keep skin fresh and clear plus recommended post workout skincare products. Step 1 - Cleanse As we mentioned above, cleansing as soon as possible after your workout is key to keep skin healthy and pores clear. The longer the mix of sweat, oil, and debris sits on your face the more likely it is to clog pores. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser or The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, The Uncomplicated Cleanser helps to balance skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness is deal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Step 2 - Moisturise Follow up with a light moisturiser or facial oil containing antioxidants and vitamins to nourish skin. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types with dehydration concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm, and hydrate while regulating oil flow. Step 3 (Day time) - Reapply SPF Heading back out into the sun or an office with windows? Don’t forget to apply SPF after your moisturising step. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Comfortable, non-greasy SPF coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Step 3 (Evening / optional) - Apply a calming, soothing mask One way to turn your post workout skincare routine into a little self-care time is to apply a face mask. Exercise plus a calming mask is a wonderful way to treat yourself and your skin. The key is to avoid any exfoliating mask treatments, stick with those that are hydrating and calming. We recommend: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Instantly cools the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. If you have more questions about your skin care after a workout, reach out to our team of Skin Consultants. We’re here to help!
Probiotic Skincare: Benefits & How it Works
Probiotics (good bacteria) aren’t only beneficial for a healthy gut - they can help heal compromised and ultra-sensitive skin too. We explain the exciting benefits probiotic skincare can deliver and their place in your skincare routine. What are probiotics? Probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for your body. Their benefits, when taken orally, have been studied extensively for gut health with impressive results. Probiotics have been found to strengthen the gut barrier, improve immune function, and prevent bad bacteria from overtaking the gut. With such effective potential for maintaining a healthy gut, various strains of probiotics have also been tested on other areas of the body such as the mouth, reproductive system, and skin. This is where probiotic skincare gets really interesting! The eco-system of your skin barrier and probiotics The skin is the body’s largest organ. It plays a critical role as the primary barrier between the external environment and your internal body. The outer layer of the skin is called the epidermis, which in itself has several layers. The upper most layer - the one that is visible and exposed to the outside environment - is the stratum corneum also known as the skin barrier. The skin barrier is essentially a mix of dead cells, skin lipids, and natural moisturising factors like amino and fatty acids. It helps keep the skin hydrated, prevent microbes and bad bacteria (pathogens) entering in and acts as a shield against the abrasion of the layers underneath. Keeping the skin barrier functioning optimally is the key to healthy skin. A strong barrier helps keep skin hydrated, fight off irritants, and prevent bad bacteria thriving. Your skin is like an ecosystem with both good and bad bacteria living there. The same way the rainforest or great barrier reef need specific conditions to flourish so does your skin. It needs good bacteria to function properly and thrive. Too much bad bacteria can weaken and compromise the skin barrier, triggering or exacerbating all kinds of skin concerns. The skin barrier can become compromised in many different ways. An extreme example would be a severe burn or wound. Other less extreme examples include scratches, acne where the skin is compromised/open and a high level of pathogens (bad bacteria) are present, wounds, slow healing ability (diabetes and other immune disorders), eczema and dermatitis. Any of the above can cause the skin to become compromised and broken with tiny wounds leaving the cells exposed to increasing levels of bad bacteria. In short, the skin’s environment - its eco-system - is no longer a healthy, well-functioning place. What has all this got to do with probiotics? It’s been proven that probiotics help improve the health of the gut by healing weakened gut walls, restoring the balance of good and bad bacteria, and boosting immunity. So, could a probiotic do the same for the skin barrier? Is there a type of probiotic to benefit the skin conditions specifically? The answer is yes. Probiotics can be part of your skincare routine! After extensive testing on keratinocyte monolayer scratches (one cell thick scratches) it was found that only a couple of beneficial bacteria were effective in the healing and repair of the scratch. Enter esmi Skin Minerals Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate! This good-bacteria can help kill pathogens (bad bacteria) or place good bacteria in a skin environment that is compromised (such as eczema and dermatitis) and susceptible to the infection of bad bacteria. What is a lysate? A lysate is a concentrated dose of probiotic function. It’s a more stable way to include probiotic benefits in skincare formulations. How can lysate benefit skin? Lysates probiotic bacteria possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and stabilising properties to support optimal skin health. It can stimulate rapid skin cell healing to accelerate the healing of wounds. Introducing, esmi Skin Minerals probiotic skincare The esmi Probiotic Skin Mylck features your specially selected and scientifically proven Australian Made probiotic Lysate ideal for skin application, helping create an ideal environment for your skin to thrive if compromised by outside elements and bad-bacteria. The esmi Skin Mylck is a lightly moisturising lotion and can be great for extremely sensitive, compromised skin. We suggest you also use our Probiotic Skin Mylck with our Uncomplicated Cleanser original for best results. esmi is your first skincare brand to use a 100% Australian made probiotic. Have any questions about probiotic skincare and how the esmi Skin Mylck range can work in your skincare routine? Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4633615/ *esmi Skin Minerals are the first skincare company using a 100% Australian made Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate produced in Australia’s first and only cGMP/TGA certified facility for probiotic API manufacturing.
Causes of Uneven Skin Tone
Uneven skin tone is the enemy of your smooth skin goals. If you’re struggling with an inconsistent skin tone it’s usually due to either hyperpigmentation or redness concerns. We explore what causes both of these issues and recommended skincare routines to encourage a smoother, more even complexion. Hyperpigmentation Problems with uneven skin tone often come back to the same core concern: hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives our skin, hair, and eyes their colour and is created by melanocytes, the pigment-making cells in the skin. When our body produces too much melanin, melanocytes offload the excess pigment into outer layers of the skin. This can cause areas of skin to darken more than the normal colour of your skin leaving your face looking uneven and patchy. Several factors can trigger an increase in melanin production and result in hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure Your tan might look smooth and glowing after a day on the beach, but over time, sun damage causes skin to form darker uneven patches. The leading cause of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, UV rays send melanocytes into overdrive. The result? A dull skin tone, "age spots", and other patches of discolouration. Pollution Toxic nanoparticles from air pollution - especially traffic related pollution - are able to penetrate the skin. Once they find their way into the skin, they can cause hyperpigmentation and accelerate other signs of ageing. Hormonal Hormonal changes can cause uneven skin tone too. Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that's more commonly seen in women and is directly linked to fluctuating hormone levels. Melasma is often referred to as the mask of pregnancy because it can be triggered by an increase in hormones in pregnant women. Melasma is more challenging to treat than other forms of hyperpigmentation and it’s also more difficult to prevent as it’s triggered by internal changes. While it is difficult to make it ‘disappear’, melasma can be managed with a good skincare regime and even in-salon treatments. Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation happens when the skin surface has been damaged and darker reddish patches are left behind. The most common cause of this type of hyperpigmentation is breakouts and acne. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation will usually fade over time and can be helped along with appropriate skincare and treatments. Blotchy, red skin Skin redness can also contribute to the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Blotchy, red patches of skin can be caused by skin issues like rosacea, sensitivity, and broken capillaries. Skin redness can be frustrating to deal with and the more flare ups you have the redder these areas will become, which is why management is so important. Some everyday things that may trigger the blotchy, red patches that lead to uneven skin tone include: Stress Extreme Temperatures Spicy food Fragrances and alcohol in skincare Alcoholic drinks – especially wine Smoking Recommend products to improve uneven skin tone for hyperpigmentation Brighten skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation with these uneven skin tone products. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening A gentle cream cleanser enriched with Kakadu Plum extract which is bursting with Vitamin C for a lit-from-within glow and a gentle but deep clean. Ideal for all skin types prone to dullness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Skin Treats Pomegranate Brightening Serum A potent brightening, anti-pigmentation serum with skin lightening ingredients and powerful antioxidants. Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Luxurious 24-karat gold leaf face oil nourishes for a visibly firmer, more youthful complexion - boosts skin elasticity, stimulates collagen production and improves blood circulation. Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Ideal for all skin types to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion prone to age spots and hyperpigmentation while stimulating collagen to firm and tone. Leaves skin soft, even and moisturised. Gentle Foliant Hydrating Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. Booster Masks Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask A silky soft brightening mask to wake up a tired complexion and promote a smoother, more luminous skin tone. Ideal for lightening, the appearance of hyperpigmentation his mask evens out skin tone for a smoother, brighter complexion. Suitable for most skin types. Eye treatments Brightening Eye Serum Instantly revive and illuminate tired eyes with a unique blend of plankton extract, active ingredients, and peptides to target dark circles, brightness and fine lines in the delicate eye area. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Sun damage is a key cause of hyperpigmentation. Every skincare routine should include SPF protection and this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection. Recommend prodicts to improve skin tone for red, blotchy skin It’s important to choose gentle skincare products as part of a good, regular skincare regime to help reduce redness. This can really make a world of difference, especially during a flare up. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness A gentle cream cleanser enriched with redness-minimising and antibacterial Tasmanian Mountain Pepper extract to cool inflammation while gently removing impurities. Ideal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Skin treats Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Addressing the discomfort of inflamed skin, this serum cools and heals damaged, red skin. Contains potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties - the ideal anti-redness skin treatment. Peppermint Green Oil A lightweight, purifying face oil with plant-based antimicrobial ingredients to cool inflammation and freshen skin while targeting blemishes. Perfect for skin types prone to breakouts and oil balance concerns. Use instead of moisturiser to calm inflammation and redness, target acne, and regulate oil flow. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types with dehydration concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm, and hydrate while regulating oil flow. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Non-greasy, it’s perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum This exfoliating charcoal serum will gently buff, detox, and purify for a clearer, smoother complexion. Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist A hydrating and refreshing face mist to help replenish, rehydrate, and cool inflamed, red skin. Gentle-Foliant Is Rose and Bamboo the right gentle foliant recommendation to make here? Hydrating Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. If you have dry skin and are dealing with an uneven skin tone due to redness, we recommend the Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant. Booster Masks Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Instantly cools the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be used to cool and repair trauma after laser and IPL treatments. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask Wake up dull skin with this mask’s powerful detoxifying charcoal / clay combination to buff, refine and purify for soft, bright skin. Suits all skin types, even sensitive skin. Eye treatments Hydrating Eye Serum A moisture boosting miracle worker, this lightweight serum delivers continuous moisture and nourishes a tired, dehydrated eye area. Reduces puffiness while plumping and firming fine lines. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Ideal for all skin types this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection and fights the first signs of ageing. Sun exposure can quickly cause flare-ups so including SPF protection in your daily routine is a must. Need some help addressing uneven skin tone and putting a routine together? Book your free consultation with our skincare specialists.
Our Guide to a Basic Skincare Routine
Why do we need skincare? Your skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated to achieve healthy, happy skin. We’ll step you through each element of a basic skincare routine for your healthiest complexion ever. Creating a skincare routine that actually works What skin type do you have? Creating a skincare routine that works for you starts by knowing your skin type. This gives you a good understanding of why your skin looks, feels and behaves as it does. Most importantly, you’ll know how to choose the right skincare routine for your skin type. Skin is generally classified into one of 5 different skin types - normal, oily, dry, sensitive, and combination. If you aren’t sure we recommend reading our guide to The Different Skin Types to help you determine what type you are. Building a skincare regime to address specific skin concerns Next, you need to understand the specific skin concerns you’d like to address - hyperpigmentation, signs of ageing, acne, dehydration, dryness, dullness, etc. Some of these may link closely to your skin type; for example, oily skin is usually more prone to breakouts. Other concerns like hyperpigmentation, dehydration, and signs of ageing occur in all skin types. Knowing the specific concerns you want to treat means you can assemble a skincare routine with active ingredients to target them. Daily skin routine: What order to apply skincare The skincare products and order to apply them for a basic routine include: Daily treatments Cleanser Serum (hydration) Moisturiser Sun protection (Morning only) Weekly treatments Exfoliation (after cleansing) Deep masking treatment (after cleansing) Let’s take a closer look at each element of a basic skincare routine. Step 1: Using a cleanser Your cleanser sets the tone for the rest of your skincare routine. While every cleanser has the same basic goal - to clear the skin of debris, excess oil, bacteria, dead cells - all cleansers are definitely not created equal. Many strip the skin entirely of its natural oils and moisture. They certainly ‘clean’ the skin but by removing all oil and moisture they also damage the delicate skin barrier. This can lead to a range of skin concerns from excess oil production to heightened sensitivity and excessive dryness. Signs your cleanser is too harsh? Your skin feels tight and extremely dry after washing your face and you might also experience irritation. For the best cleansing experience, regardless of your skin type, choose a gentle, non-drying cleanser to maintain the delicate balance of oil and moisture on your skin. Gentle yet effective ingredients for cleansing formulations include; Aloe vera: Containing mostly (95%) water, aloe vera is hydrating and calming for skin. It also has excellent cleansing and very gentle exfoliant properties. Green tea extract: Brimming with antioxidant activity, Green tea is also an anti-inflammatory with the ability to soothe and calm redness. Stearic acid: Helps cleanse debris from the skin while its emollient properties protect skin's surface against water loss. Capric triglyceride: Helps to reduce skin dryness by minimising moisture loss by creating a barrier on the skin's surface. Active ingredients to target specific concerns Your cleanser can also include active ingredients to help target specific skin concerns. If dullness and hyperpigmentation are a problem, for example, you may choose a cleanser formulated with brightening ingredients, like Vitamin C. We recommend The Uncomplicated Cleanser (All skin types) Infused with aloe vera to calm and heal and the protective, antioxidant properties of camellia leaf (green tea) extract the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. We recommend using The Uncomplicated Cleanser in both your morning and evening skincare routine. Double cleanse in the evening to remove all traces of build up. Targeting a specific concern? You may like to try one of the following cleansers: The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness - Redness concerns The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening - Hyperpigmentation and dullness The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Ageing - Ageing concerns The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal - Congestion and oiliness Step 2: Exfoliating your skin Put simply, exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells and build up from your outer layer of skin - the epidermis. Why exfoliate? It helps prevent clogged pores that can lead to congestion and acne. By removing dead cells and debris, exfoliation also reveals the brighter, fresher skin underneath helping skin appear smoother. There are two different ways you can exfoliate your skin; Chemical exfoliation (not as scary as it sounds!) which includes alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and fruit enzymes. These ingredients work to unglue and lift dead cells and debris from the skin without the need to manually ‘scrub’ your skin. Physical exfoliation includes products like facial scrubs. You need to physically massage it into the skin to remove buildup and clear pores. We recommend reading our Guide To Exfoliation for an in-depth look at different ingredients and methods. This will help you better understand what type is right for you. Using a specific exfoliation product isn’t something you should do every day. Like those harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation leads to a damaged skin barrier. However, your cleanser may contain ingredients that offer mild exfoliation properties for a very gentle daily exfoliation activity. The exfoliation type and frequency best for you depends on your skin type and concerns. We recommend to start slowly and gently and monitor how your skin reacts before making adjustments. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Chemical exfoliant properties Suitable for most skin types with congestion and acne concerns An exfoliating charcoal serum with gentle chemical exfoliation properties to tackle blackheads, acne, and underlying skin congestion to help draw out impurities and unclog pores for smoother looking skin. We recommend: Rose and Bamboo Gentle Foliant Chemical and physical exfoliant properties Suitable for weakened or sensitised skin barrier, acne prone, and dry skin. A delicate, restorative exfoliation experience for skin needing TLC. Gentle bamboo extract and fruit enzymes help leave skin soft, luminous, and purified while luxurious rose oil aids in calming and moisturises. Step 3: Hydrate & moisturise Hydration is crucial for healthy skin. Your complexion is brighter, clearer, and more supple looking when your skin is well hydrated. Both moisturising and hydrating ingredients play important roles in keeping hydration levels up. Hydrating ingredients (known as humectants) attract water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrate cells from the inside out. Moisturising ingredients (emollients and occlusives) work to lock hydration into the skin. Your skincare routine should include a hydrating product (ideally a serum) to add water and a moisturising product to seal it in. Moisturising products Help minimise water evaporating off the skin, support a healthy skin barrier and achieve the above with occlusive and emollient ingredients.Depending on the formulation, some moisturisers may offer humectant ingredients. Hydrating serum products Water-based and penetrate the skin more deeply than moisturisers. Hydrate the skin from the inside, support a healthy skin barrier and achieve the above with humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Face oil products Help minimise water evaporating off the skin, support a healthy skin barrier and achieve the above with occlusive and emollient ingredients We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum All skin types The esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your cells containing triple action Hyaluron which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours. The hydrating serum contains niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to aid in skin repair, restoration, and help regulate oil flow. We recommend: Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo All skin types Help brighten, tone and moisturise tired skin with the intensity of a water-based serum and moisturising benefits of an oil. Sun protection No skincare routine should skip a daily dose of SPF. Wearing sunscreen daily is absolutely your best defence against slowing the visible signs of ageing and hyperpigmentation. Include a broad spectrum SPF30 sunscreen in your skincare routine - 365 days a year. No matter the weather, no matter the season. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 All skin types Comfortable, non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen is easy-to-apply and enriched with antioxidant protection of carrot root oil, hyaluronic acid, and green tea to help support hydrated, smoother skin. Other skin routine considerations What you eat is a different kind of skin care but just as important as your skincare products. We’ve put together a list of healthy skin foods but the basics are eating antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables, healthy fats from oily fish and nuts, and drinking plenty of hydrating fluids. At-home facials & treatments A face mask is an ideal at-home facial treatment to target any specific skin concerns or when your skin just needs a little pick-me-up. We all have those days! We recommend: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Ideal for dry skin types De-stress dry skin and help slow cellular ageing with colloidal gold, free-radical fighting green tea extract, and a nourishing oil complex to aid in skin renewal, repair and protection. We recommend: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask Suitable for most skin types Suited for lightening hyperpigmentation, age spots and sun damage, this face mask helps even out skin tone for a smoother, brighter complexion. We hope covering the elements of a great skincare routine will help you build one ideally suited to your skin. If you would like any guidance in building a more specific skincare routine, book your free skin consultation with our team of skin experts. We’re here to help!
Myths About Certain Ingredients
Confused about the best skincare ingredients for your routine? There are plenty of myths out there about skincare and beauty ingredients! We clear them up and point you towards the best ones for targeting different skin concerns. Skincare Ingredient Myths Natural skincare ingredients are always safe Just because an ingredient is natural or a product is classified as organic skincare doesn’t mean it won’t ever cause an adverse side effect. It’s possible to have an allergic reaction or increased sensitivity to a natural ingredient. Essential oils, in particular, can be extremely strong and are known to cause adverse reactions for some skin types. Whether you’re using a natural ingredient or not, always patch test a new product on a small area of your neck before applying it to your face or body. Preservatives are bad for your skin and health Skincare products which contain water or water-based ingredients must have a preservative (natural or synthetic) for the formulation to remain stable and be safe for use. While it’s true many ‘traditional’ preservatives have been found to pose adverse health effects, not all preservative ingredients are harmful. Benzyl alcohol, Phenoxyethanol (PE), and Caprylyl glycol are a few examples of safer alternatives to traditional preservatives. Read our article Preservatives In Skincare to understand more about harmful vs healthy preservative ingredients. The more Vitamin C you apply, the better! Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the best skincare ingredients out there to simultaneously target a range of skin concerns. However, it’s advisable to take a ‘less is more’ approach to including it in your skincare routine. If the product you’re using has a high concentration of L-Ascorbic Acid you’ll likely experience irritating side effects. The percentage of LAA in a product can range anywhere from 3% - 20%. We recommend easing into using Vitamin C at a percentage of 3% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a highly stable, derivative of Vitamin C) which is also a pregnancy safe percentage. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is another common form of Vitamin C you’ll find in topical formulations. Face oils make oily skin worse Not true. Using the right face oils for your skin type can help improve the appearance of an oily, shiny face and regulate sebum production. Using a facial oil creates an occlusive layer to seal in moisture for all skin types, even oily ones. Without moisture, the sebaceous glands are prompted to produce more oil in an attempt to correct the dryness. In addition to helping skin stay hydrated and plump, certain face oils can also offer anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits to target redness and sensitivity. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are some of the most beneficial for oily skin. Mineral sunscreen ingredients aren’t as effective as chemical sunscreen ingredients Chemical sunscreen ingredients work by absorbing UVA and UVB rays to prevent them from damaging the skin. Natural mineral sunscreen ingredients - titanium dioxide and zinc oxide - reflect the rays, rather than absorb them, to prevent damage. Both of these natural active ingredients provide excellent broad-spectrum protection and offer the same protective benefits as chemical ingredients. Natural makeup ingredients aren’t long-wearing Natural ingredient makeup has come a long way since the days you only found it on the bottom shelves of ‘alternative health’ stores! Now, many makeup brands formulated with natural cosmetic ingredients are just as long lasting as ‘traditional’ formulations. Mineral makeup, in particular, not only offers your skin long last wear but a range of additional benefits to actually improve your complexion while you wear it. The texture of mineral makeup allows skin to breathe and be nourished with minerals including silica, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for skin conditioning and natural broad spectrum sun protection. Explore our range of vegan mineral foundation, powder, and BB cream. Best Skincare Ingredients For Common Concerns Our handy list below outlines some of the most effective ingredients to target common skin concerns. Let’s clear up any confusion about what ingredients you need in your routine! Best skincare ingredients for acne-prone and oily skin These ingredients are helpful in the treatment of different types of acne, from blackheads and pimples to cysts and nodules. Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that assists in helping regulate oil flow and delivers exfoliating activity for clearer pores. Bentonite and kaolin clay: Bentonite and Kaolin clay help soak up extra oil. Bentonite is known for its ability to draw out toxins and impurities from the skin while kaolin clay has more mild absorption properties. Kaolin is well suited to more sensitive skin. Retinoids (Vitamin A): Retinoids are naturally occurring forms of Vitamin A and can help prevent pores from clogging to target breakouts. Read our Guide To Getting Rid Of Acne Best skincare ingredients for hyperpigmentation and dull skin Hyperpigmentation can be a tricky skin concern to treat. A few of ingredients you’ll want to use in your routine to help target dark patches include: Vitamin C: Helps to lighten hyperpigmentation and brown spots by inhibiting melanin production. Encourages a more even, radiant complexion. Kakadu Plum: Kakadu Plum is believed to be the world’s most potent source of natural Vitamin C making it an excellent ingredient to help diminish the appearance of dark spots. Bearberry Leaf extract: Works by reducing melanin production making it an excellent plant-based skin lightening agent. Liquorice: Used for brightening, liquorice is also high in anti-inflammatories – making it great for post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness/scarring after breakouts. Learn more about dealing with hyperpigmentation and reviving dull skin. Best skincare ingredients for ageing skin Dealing with fine lines, sagging skin, and a dull complexion? The best ingredients to target ageing concerns include: Hyaluronic acid: Deeply hydrates, keeping skin plump and minimises fine lines. Vitamin A: Revered for its anti-ageing benefits, Vitamin A can cause the dermis to thicken for firmer skin and brighten skin. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids: Can remove dead skin cells and are effective in minimising fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C: Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens and smooths for an even skin tone. Omega Fatty Acids: Assist in delivering positive changes in skin hydration, scaling, and roughness. Peptides: Can improve collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. Learn more about how to care for ageing skin Best skincare ingredients for dry skin Ingredients with occlusive, emollient, and humectant properties play vital roles in treating the causes of dry skin. Occlusives: Occlusive ingredients help trap moisture by forming a seal over the skin. Examples of occlusive ingredients include jojoba oil, lanolin, olive oil, and argan oil. Emollients: These ingredients smooth and soften dry, rough skin. A few examples include shea butter, cocoa butter, essential fatty acids like those found in rosehip oil, and squalene. Humectants - Can pull moisture to the skin’s surface from the air and the deeper layers of skin. Hyaluronic acid boasts superior humectant properties. Learn more about what causes dry skin and how to treat it.
Skin Care By Age: Best Skincare Products For Every Age
We’re breaking down skin care by age! Let’s take a look at the different skin challenges of every life stage and the best products to address them. Skincare In Your Teens Acne and oil. Two words many teenagers know well! A range of products can clear breakouts - but be careful. Many work effectively simply because they’re so strong. Sometimes, too strong. They may clear acne initially but leave the skin stripped, sensitised, and irritated. This can lead to other skin issues - and even more breakouts. Depending on the type of acne you have, a gentler choice for skin are cleansers with lower doses of active acne-fighting ingredients. These won’t strip the skin but still effectively kill acne forming bacteria. The best skincare for teens is a simple regime that will balance and regulate oil flow, whilst providing anti-bacterial clearing ingredients, as well as anti-inflammatories to reduce redness and inflammation. Common skin concerns in your teens Congestion Excessive oil Acne - from mild, moderate to severe Skin care by age: Your teens The best skincare products for teens from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, you could opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness Exfoliation Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo Moisturise Peppermint Green Oil SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 20s Your 20s is the decade to commit to a consistent skincare regimen and form habits your future self will thank you for. The most important habit? Applying SPF30 every day. This habit alone will make a dramatic difference in the way your skin ages over the years. Starting and continuing an effective cleansing routine is key too. If you used a strong cleanser to target acne in your teens, it won’t be a good fit for skin in your 20s. Switch to a gentler cleanser which won’t strip the skin of the oil it needs to stay healthy. Over cleansing compromises the skin barrier which leaves it susceptible to other skin concerns, including more breakouts! Common skin concerns in your 20s Acne you experienced as a teen may persist Congestion Collagen production begins to decrease in your late 20s Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from teen acne Skin care by age: Your 20s The best skincare products for your 20s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Want to target a specific concern like acne or dullness? View our full range of cleansers. Exfoliation Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle Foliant Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Moisturise Acai Balancing Face Oil Treatments Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 30s Ageing concerns become more of... well, a concern in your 30s! Collagen and elastin production begins to slow down and the first signs of fine lines and wrinkles to creep in. In the later stages of your 30s, you may begin to notice more hyperpigmentation - especially if you were a sun bunny (without SPF!) in your 20s. Your skin will benefit from adding active ingredients to your routine to target fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. This is the time to get serious about taking an anti-ageing approach to your routine - if you haven’t already. What you do for your skin in your 30s can pay off decades later. Common skin concerns in your 30s Fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear Hyperpigmentation Dullness Dehydration Skin care by age: Your 30s The best skincare products for your 30s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Want to target a specific concern like acne or dullness? View our full range of cleansers. Exfoliation Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 40s Focus on hydration and the right type of exfoliation for healthy looking skin in your 40s. Like the production collagen and elastin, your skin’s natural exfoliation cycle is slowing down too. That means it’s taking longer for new, fresh skin cells to be produced and the old, dry cells remain on the surface for longer. The result? Skin appears rough in texture, dull and pores and fine lines are increasingly accentuated. Using the right exfoliation method (with the right frequency) to remove the dead cells can leave skin looking brighter and fresher instantly. It can also help minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Dehydration is another skin concern you’ll find yourself dealing with as skin matures. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in our bodies and plays a key role in skin hydration. With age, the amount of hyaluronic acid produced declines and it’s harder for the skin to hold onto moisture - leaving it drier and rougher. You can also boost sluggish collagen production with peptides and Vitamin A. Common skin concerns in your 40s Loss of firmness Rough, dull skin Fine lines and wrinkles become more pronounced Dehydration Broken capillaries and hyperpigmentation result in uneven skin tone Skin care by age: Your 40s The best skincare products for your 40s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Exfoliation Rose and Bamboo Gentle Foliant Serum options Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 50s and beyond The production of collagen and elastin really drops off in your 50s as the hormonal changes of menopause kick in. These changes also affect the pH level of your skin barrier which makes it increasingly harder for skin to retain moisture. You may find skin is more easily damaged and less resilient. Lines and wrinkles become more prominent - especially around the eye, mouth, and neck area. Keeping your skin hydrated and moisturised will help strengthen your skin barrier and smooth the look of lines and wrinkles. Exfoliation is still important to keep skin looking fresh but the method you use and frequency may need to be adjusted - skin is more sensitive than it once was. Indulge your skin with deeply nourishing treatments and active ingredients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid that target mature skin concerns. Common skin concerns in your 50s Crepey and sagging skin including neck and jawline Skin is less resilient and more easily damaged Extreme dryness and dehydration Age spots Dullness Deeper lines and wrinkles Skincare by age: Your 50s and beyond The best skin care products for your 50s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Exfoliation Rose and Bamboo Gentle Foliant Serum options Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Anti-ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Have questions about choosing skincare by age? Book a free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. We’re always here to support you on your skin journey!
How to Tackle Oiliness & Best Oily Skin Products
Shiny hair? Great! A shiny face? Not so much. Discover how to tackle oiliness and choose the right oily skin products to keep your complexion on the happy side of shiny! What causes oily skin? Oily skin types have overactive sebaceous glands which means the skin produces excessive amounts of oil. Characteristics of this skin type include: A shiny or greasy appearance Enlarged pores Prone to congestion and breakouts Skin can appear thick If you have very oily skin, there’s naturally more oil present on the surface so it's easier for pores to become blocked. Left unchecked, blocked pores quickly lead to congestion and breakouts. The best oily skin products aim to keep pores clear of excess oil (to prevent breakouts) and balance sebum production without compromising the skin barrier. Typically, having a true oily skin type comes down to genetics but other skin types may find their skin produces more oil at certain times, too. Hormonal changes, stress, or using the wrong skincare products can all increase oil production. If this is the case, switching to oily skin products temporarily might be necessary to get a spell of oiliness under control. Don’t over-cleanse your skin When you’re dealing with oily skin, it can be tempting to use a strong face wash to dry your skin out and get oil under control. The problem here? Aggressively stripping your skin of its natural oil can actually trigger more oil production. The best cleanser for oily skin will gently dissolve the oils and deeply clean at the same time, without stripping the skin. Cleansing in the morning, evening, and after exercise is a must for oily skin types. We always recommend you double cleanse your skin each morning and night. The first cleanse is to remove any products - like SPF or makeup. The second is to get deep into the pores to remove debris and any built-up oil. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. To achieve more targeted results for oily skincare, you can cleanse with The Uncomplicated Cleanser and follow with The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal for the second cleanse. This cleanser is ideal for all skin types prone to congestion, breakouts, and large pores, the active ingredient charcoal purifies and balances oils for a refined, clearer complexion. Moisturise with face oil All skin types require daily moisturiser, even oily ones. You may be surprised to learn that the best moisturiser for oily skin can actually be more oil! The right face oils can be very beneficial to regulate oil production and improve hydration. They act as an emollient moisturiser, helping seal moisture into the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. That said, not all oils will benefit oily skin. Heavy oils, like coconut and mineral oil, are highly comedogenic (pore-blocking) and can be problematic for oil-prone complexions. Choose lightweight oils with a low comedogenic rating and those with calming, antibacterial properties. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are the most beneficial for oily skin. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face or Peppermint Green Oil (An excellent moisturiser for oily, acne prone skin in teens) Keep skin hydrated Oil is not a sign that skin is adequately hydrated. Hydration = water, not oil so just because your skin has a lot of oil doesn't mean it has enough water. When the skin is dehydrated (lacking water) it overcompensates by producing more oil. Excessive oiliness, therefore, can actually be a sign of dehydration. Hydration helps keep sebaceous glands in check which encourages the skin to become balanced. The line up of oily skin products in your routine should include some of these powerhouse hydration ingredients: Hyaluronic acid: A natural humectant with superior hydration qualities. Acts like a magnet to attract moisture deep within the skin’s cells. Niacinamide: Effective at restoring the skin barrier to guard against moisture loss and dehydration. Squalene: Non-irritating and ideal for acne-prone skin, squalene is an antioxidant with beneficial moisturising properties. Ceramides: Increase water retention properties by strengthening the skin barrier. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Exfoliate regularly (but don’t overdo it!) An exfoliator should have a place in your kit of oily skincare products. Exfoliation is essential for maintaining the health of oily skin and keeping pores clear of oil, dead cells, and acne-causing bacteria. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are effective for exfoliating oily skin, particularly salicylic acid. Acids are classified as chemical exfoliants and work by dissolving the "glue" that binds your dead cells, helping them loosen and slough off the skin. Fruit enzymes can also be effective for oily skin care. Enzymes are also considered chemical exfoliants, but they are milder than alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids. The right enzymes can gently exfoliate the skin to reduce the build-up of dead cells to keep skin clear and help minimise excess oil. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum for chemical exfoliation with salicylic acid. Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant for both chemical exfoliation with papaya enzymes and physical exfoliation with Polynesian sand. How often should you exfoliate? It depends on your skin and the type of exfoliation method you use. It’s best to start out slowly and adjust accordingly. Over exfoliation can cause the skin to produce even more oil and leave you with a damaged skin barrier. You can have a chat with our Skin Consultants too. They’ll guide you through choosing the right exfoliant skin care products for oily skin and frequency of use. Switch to mineral makeup If you have oily skin wearing makeup loaded with oil will leave you with a glossy sheen by lunchtime. Why not try a powder-based mineral foundation instead? Ideal for oily, acne prone complexions, powder-based mineral foundation is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t block pores. Powder also absorbs oil providing breathable coverage that leaves you with a fresh complexion. We recommend exploring the esmi range of mineral foundation, BB cream, and powder. You’ll find the perfect fit for every skin tone. If you have questions about the best oily skin products for your skin, book a free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. Our team of experts are here to help!
Preservatives In Skincare: What You Need To Know
Are all preservatives in skincare a bad thing? The short answer is no - many products need preservatives to be safe to use on your skin. Not all preservatives are created equal though and you’ll want to avoid the unhealthy ones. Read on to understand what you need to know about preservatives in skincare products. What Is A Preservative In Skincare? A preservative is a natural or synthetic ingredient that is added to skincare to protect the formulation’s integrity and the health of your skin. Preservatives prevent skincare ‘going bad’ either due to bacterial growth or chemical changes that compromise the effectiveness and stability of the formulation. Do All Skincare Products Need Preservatives? Preservatives have gained somewhat of a dubious reputation. One of the big myths on this topic is that ALL preservatives in skincare products are bad. “Preservative-free” is often promoted as more healthy or “clean” than skincare with preservatives - but the truth is, the opposite can be true. If a skincare product contains water or water-based ingredients, it needs a preservative (natural or synthetic) to remain stable and safe to use on the skin. The only types of skincare safe to be formulated without are anhydrous products. Anhydrous means “without water” - products that are made of plant oils, butter, and waxes that contain no water. A product that contains water and is “preservative free” will quickly become a home to mould, bacteria, and microbial growth. Not a healthy choice for your skin. Even some anhydrous products can become contaminated if they are designed to come in contact with water during use. Wet fingers can introduce water to the formulation, opening the door to microbial growth if there is no preservative. Different Kinds Of Preservatives So why have preservatives earned themselves a bad reputation? There are both synthetic preservatives and natural preservatives - many synthetic preservatives are highly irritating to skin and considered toxic. Some have been linked to serious long term health issues too. Some of the common preservatives to avoid include: Parabens (Butylparaben, Methylparaben and Propylparaben) The most widely used preservatives in cosmetics, skincare and personal care products, parabens have been linked to health issues including reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and skin irritation. Diazolidinyl urea and Imidazolidinyl urea These are types of antimicrobial preservatives that release forming formaldehyde which acts as a preservative in cosmetic products. Studies have shown both can trigger health problems including skin sensitisation, eye and skin irritation, and respiratory issues when inhaled. Benzalkonium chloride A known eye and skin irritant, benzalkonium chloride has also been linked to organ damage and issues with the lymphatic system. It’s these kinds of toxic options that have given preservatives in skincare a bad reputation. Triclosan Triclosan (TCS) is an antibacterial and antifungal agent used as a preservative in antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics. Triclosan was banned for use in over the counter products in the US by the Food and Drug Administration due to the health risk posed by using products that contain Triclosan over time. With growing awareness about the potential health risks of these types of synthetic preservatives, consumers are increasingly looking for safer alternatives. Thankfully, there’s plenty of them. Healthier choices for your skin and body include both natural preservatives for skin care products and “Nature-identical” preservatives. These are identical to those found in nature, but are synthesised in a laboratory. A few common examples include: Natural phenethyl alcohol Phenethyl alcohol is an all-natural preservative derived from corn. It has antimicrobial functions against bacteria, fungi, yeast, and mould. Benzyl alcohol Benzyl alcohol is an almond-scented, aromatic alcohol. Deemed as safe for use in foods by the US Food and Drug Administration, benzyl alcohol is an approved preservative under the COSMOS Organic Certification criteria Phenoxyethanol (PE) Phenoxyethanol is a preservative found naturally occurring in green tea and chicory. As a “nature identical” chemical it’s synthetically re-created in a lab for cosmetic / commercial purposes. Caprylyl glycol An alcohol derived from a fatty acid caprylyl glycol offers both humectant benefits (drawing moisture to the skin) and preservative-like properties. A safer option than traditional preservatives, such as parabens or those that release formaldehyde, caprylyl glycol is derived from the natural fatty acid found in palm and coconut oils. It also helps increase the antimicrobial activity of other preservatives. Potassium sorbate Potassium sorbate is a salt of sorbic acid which is naturally found in some fruits. A “nature identical” preservative this ingredient is synthetically recreated for use in cosmetics, skincare products, and food. There are also what’s known as broad spectrum preservative ‘systems’ that have been deemed safe for use in certified organic skincare. Broad spectrum means the preservative is effective against bacteria, mould, and yeast. For example, a preservative ingredient on its own may not protect against all 3 contaminants, but combined in a formulation with other preservatives, the result offers broad spectrum activity. One example is a system called Preservative Eco which is composed of benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin and sorbic acid. You’ll find most skincare products are formulated with more than one type of preservative to achieve broad spectrum activity. Are vitamin E, rosemary extract or grapefruit seed extract preservatives? Another myth about skincare preservatives and organic preservatives for cosmetics is that antioxidants such as vitamin E, grapefruit seed extract and rosemary extract act as natural preservatives. Antioxidants can help stabilise oil and butter based formulations (preventing them from oxidising) but they don’t provide protection against bacteria, yeast, or mould growing in a product. We want to point out it’s still possible to have a reaction to any preservative (even natural ones) if you’re allergic to the substance - like honey, for example. For this reason, we recommend always patch testing a product before using it. Have more questions about preservatives in skincare? Our team of skincare experts is here to help!
Tired Skin? Here's How To Wake It Up
Look in the mirror and tired skin looks back? You’re not alone. A tired looking face is something we’ve all experienced at some stage! Discover why your skin is fatigued and how to wake it up. Common Reasons For Tired Skin “My face looks dull and tired.” This is a very common skin complaint and signs of a tired face can include: Dullness Under-eye circles Fine lines and wrinkles are more pronounced Puffiness Tired skin can be traced back to a number of factors and happily, there’s something you can do to address each of them. Dehydration We can’t say it enough - hydration really is your skin’s best friend. Dehydration can cause skin to lose its radiance. Your overall complexion becomes dull and lacklustre when hydration levels are depleted. Shadowy circles under your eyes may become more obvious too, as will fine lines and wrinkles. Dry skin and dehydrated skin are not the same thing. Dry skin lacks oil and is a ‘skin type’ while dehydrated skin lacks water - it’s considered a skin condition. All skin types can experience dehydration, even oily ones. The good news is dehydration is a temporary skin condition which means it’s very treatable. Use hydrating ingredients in your skincare routine Look for ingredients known as humectants. They work by drawing water to the stratum corneum (the skin’s surface) either from the atmosphere or deeper layers of skin, to hydrate the surface. Hyaluronic acid has superior humectant properties, it acts like a magnet to attract moisture deep within the skin’s cells and can hold x1000 its own weight in water. Glycerin is also a common humectant. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum (All skin types) Drink plenty of hydrating fluids and eat water-rich foods. Top your skin’s hydration levels up from the inside by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables with high water content such as cucumber, celery, watermelon, spinach, oranges, and mushrooms. Sip on plain water, coconut water, and celery juice and limit your intake of dehydrating drinks like coffee and alcohol. Sun Damage The sun’s UVA and UVB rays are enemies of bright, healthy looking skin. Sun exposure speeds up signs of ageing including wrinkles, sun spots, pigmentation, sagging and rough, uneven skin texture. All these elements can leave your complexion looking tired and older than your years. Don’t skip sun protection This means wearing broad spectrum 30+ sunscreen daily, whether you spend a lot of time outdoors or not. Also, be mindful to cover your skin up during long days outdoors with a wide brim hat and remember to reapply sunscreen. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Treat your skin to a dose of brightening antioxidants Lift tired skin out of a lacklustre state with the help of brightening antioxidants that target hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C is excellent for skin brightening and its antioxidant properties also target free radical activity. Antioxidant Q10 spheres can also assist in fading dark spots and help to energise tired skin. We recommend: Pomegranate Brightening Serum (Suited to most skin types) You Need A Good Night’s Sleep Your skin might be looking tired because you are tired! The health of your skin and quality of sleep are intrinsically linked. When you’re not getting enough sleep, signs quickly show up in your skin. Your skin switches to regenerative mode while you sleep. If it doesn’t get enough time to complete its restorative process, skin won’t look as fresh and bright. Lack of sleep contributes to tired skin with dehydration. A study on the link between sleep and hydration revealed people who regularly slept for 6 hours or less each night were 16–59 percent more likely to be dehydrated than those who slept for 8 hours a night. Your tired face treatment, in this case, is getting more quality sleep. Introduce sleep-easy bedtime rituals to encourage more restful sleep and treat your skin overnight. Try essential oils Relax your mind and body before bed with the therapeutic qualities of essential oils. A few famed for their relaxation qualities include lavender, chamomile, and sweet marjoram - enjoy the benefits with a diffuser or using skincare formulated with the oil. Include an eye treatment Night time is ideal to provide the delicate skin around your eye with additional brightening support to wake up with a fresher eye area. We recommend: Brightening Eye Serum (Suited to most skin types) You Don’t Exfoliate Regularly Tired looking skin can also be the result of dead cells building up on the surface. Nothing steals your glow like layers and layers of old, dry cells. While natural exfoliation is part of the skin’s regenerative process it slows down with age so we need to give it a helping hand. Exfoliation removes the dead cells and reveals the fresher, brighter skin beneath. An instant wake up call for tired skin. We recommend: Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant (All skin types) Pollution and Smoking While UV rays have long been on the ‘bad for your skin’ list, you may not be aware of the damage pollution can do to your skin. Especially air pollution. Toxic nanoparticles of pollution can enter the skin cells - triggering free radical activity and inflammation which accelerate signs of premature ageing and dull, tired skin. Your pollution solution? Double cleansing at night to remove all pollution debris and using an antioxidant-rich serum to neutralise free radical activity. Smoking cigarettes? Not if you want healthy, glowing skin! Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide and nicotine and the combination impacts blood flow to the skin leaving it sallow, tired, and dry looking. Best Face Mask For Tired Skin Pamper tired skin with a face mask brimming with active ingredients to target dullness and help brighten a fatigued complexion. The Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask is suited to most skin types and can be left on for a 10 minute masking session or overnight to allow your skin to soak up the active ingredients. We recommend starting with a 10 minute application and work up to an overnight session as the active ingredients are quite concentrated.
Revive Dull Skin
Get your glow back! 5 common causes of dull skin and tips for reclaiming your radiance. Dull skin is used to describe skin that lacks a healthy glow. It can appear lacklustre, tired, and may feel bumpy or uneven to touch. A few underlying issues can cause your skin to look less than its vibrant best. Dead Skin Cells Are Building Up If you don’t exfoliate regularly, dead skin cells and other debris build up on the skin’s surface. This build up is usually the main cause of dull skin. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to address - the quickest way to brighten up dull skin is to exfoliate! Exfoliation removes the dead, dull skin cells and other toxic pollution particles on the skin’s surface. The result? Fresher cells are revealed and skin appears brighter, clearer, and more even. Read our guide to the Different Types Of Exfoliants to discover the best choice for your skin. Bottom line? Exfoliation needs to be part of your weekly routine. Our Gentle-foliants range offers exfoliation solutions for congested, sensitive, dry, and dehydrated skin. You’re Dehydrated To get that healthy glow and banish dullness, skin must be properly hydrated. Dehydrated skin lacks water and is a condition that can happen to any skin type. The symptoms can include dullness, itchiness, more pronounced fine lines, under eye circles, and increased sensitivity. Address dehydration by choosing dull skin treatments which include humectant ingredients. Acting like a personal hydration magnet for cells, a humectant ingredient draws water from the atmosphere and deeper layers of skin, to the surface. This keeps your stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) hydrated and healthy. The best products for dull skin in need of hydration include these humectant ingredients: Hyaluronic acid: A natural humectant with superior hydration qualities. Acts like a magnet to attract moisture deep within the skin’s cells. Hyaluronic acid is revered for its ability to hold x1000 its own weight in water. Niacinamide: Effective at restoring the skin barrier to guard against moisture loss and dehydration. Double down on boosting hydration levels by topping them up from the inside too. Fill your plate - and smoothies - up with water-rich foods like watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, and celery. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Perfect for all skin types and ages, this serum helps increase hydration from the inside out. In addition to hyaluronic acid, the serum also contains Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) which will help to balance skin and regulate oil flow. Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo The lightweight hydrating properties address multiple skin concerns at once - healing, protecting and hydrating. You’re Surrounded By Air Pollution We’re all aware of the damage the sun can do when you get out and about without SPF. But did you realise being exposed to air pollution can cause skin trouble too? Nanoparticles in some forms of air pollution are small enough that they can actually become trapped in the pore and trigger free-radical damage. Left unchecked, this damage can lead to the deterioration of skin health including dullness, uneven skin tone, and other premature signs of ageing. If you live in a busy city area where pollution levels are high, the answer isn’t as drastic as relocating! A double cleanse in the evening is the ideal way to remove every trace of debris, including nasty nanoparticles, from your skin. A weekly exfoliation session will help keep your pores clear of pollutants too. Vitamin Rich Foods Aren’t A Big Part Of Your Diet Your bathroom cabinet is stocked with dull skin remedies but you’re not seeing much improvement? You may need to switch up your diet. Skin looks dull when we don’t eat enough foods rich in vitamins - and too much of the unhealthy stuff! Certain food and drinks (you know the culprits - alcohol, caffeine and sugar) may contribute to skin looking dull and dehydrated. Diet tips for dull skin? Keep your skin radiant with healthy choices including carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric, salmon, papaya, avocado, spinach, kale, and blueberries - to name a few! Try swapping your coffee for a green tea. Sipping on this antioxidant-loaded tea is incredibly beneficial for the health of your skin. Hyperpigmentation Can Cause Dull Skin If your skin is lacking a healthy colour, dullness may have shown up all over the skin - or maybe it’s isolated to certain dark spots, known as hyperpigmentation. The best way to address dullness due to pigmentation is to include active brightening ingredients in your skincare routine. Vitamin C is one of the best actives to help brighten skin and minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation. There are a lot of vitamin C derivatives but the pure form of Vitamin C is known as L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA). The percentage of LAA in a product can range anywhere from 10% - 20%. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is another common form of Vitamin C you’ll find in topical formulations. We recommend - Pomegranate Brightening Serum. This hardworking serum contains Kakadu Plum extract - nature’s most potent source of Vitamin C which is superb for skin brightening. You Have A Dry Skin Type ‘Dry' is used to describe a skin type that produces less sebum than normal skin. It’s common for this skin type to feel tight, rough, and look dull. Or, you may be experiencing temporary dryness due to a change in weather, hot showers, and indoor heating which can all have a drying effect on skin - no matter your skin type. Earlier we mentioned that dehydrated skin lacks water. Dry skin, on the other hand, lacks oil. Without enough oil, it’s a struggle for the skin to retain moisture which can lead to excessive flaking and overall dullness. Caring for dry skin is all about helping it retain natural oils and moisture. Discover our recommended esmi Skin Minerals routine for dry skin here. Have questions about choosing the best skincare for dull skin? Have a chat with our team of skincare experts. Book your free skin consultation today!
7 Myths About SPF And Sunscreen Busted
"The highest SPF rating is the best. I work in an office, I don’t need sunscreen! Sunscreen gives you acne." We’re on a myth-busting mission to clear up some of these common misconceptions, and more, about sunscreen! The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays Before we get to busting SPF myths, here’s a quick rundown of how the sun’s UVB and UVA rays affect your skin. UVB UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburn to the surface of the skin, resulting in visible redness. UVB rays also play the greatest role in causing skin cancers. UVA UVA rays have longer wavelengths, giving them the ability to penetrate deeper than UVB. They reach far enough into the skin to damage collagen. Skin loses elasticity and firmness which speeds up the visible signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagging. UVA also causes sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and the shortest wavelengths of UVA contribute to the visible appearance of sunburn. Of the two rays, UVA is responsible for most of the premature signs of ageing. Now you’ve got a handle on how UVA and UVB rays work, let’s bust some of the big myths about SPF. Myth - A High SPF Rating Means Your Skin Is Protected You may be surprised to discover the SPF protection rating on your sunscreen only measures the protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. That’s right. Sunscreen can have a high SPF rating and do a great job of protecting your skin against sunburn (UVB), but still leave you exposed to the damage of UVA! Don’t make your sunscreen selection based only on the SPF rating - choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, too. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Myth: You Only Need 1 Application Of The Highest SPF SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number that follows SPF is a guide to how long the sun’s UVB rays will take to burn your skin while wearing the sunscreen compared to if you weren’t wearing any at all. For example, if you were using sunscreen with SPF30, it would take you an estimated 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing it. The problem is, high SPF ratings can create a false sense of security. You may think 1 application of SPF 50 is enough for the day and not worry about reapplying or putting on a hat. Relying on just a single application of SPF, no matter how high, can still leave your skin exposed to long term damage. Every sunscreen, whether it’s SPF 30 or SPF 100 should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Myth: If You Work In An Office, You Don’t Need Sunscreen Spend a lot of time indoors? Doesn’t mean you should skip your daily sunscreen application. All exposure to sunlight - whether it’s walking around outside on your lunch break or sitting close to the office windows - has the potential to accelerate signs of ageing. Typical car, home, and office windows block most UVB rays but some UVA rays can still penetrate glass. You might not see the signs of sunburn but that doesn’t mean your skin isn’t affected. You’ll do your skin a big favour by wearing sunscreen every day, even if you spend a lot of time indoors. Myth: Sunscreen Will Make You Breakout If you’re shying away from sunscreen in fear it will clog your pores and cause breakouts, consider this myth busted! While some SPF creams can be heavy, greasy, and packed with oil (a nightmare for oily skin) many sunscreens are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores. Not all oils are bad in sunscreen either - some are very beneficial. We use carrot root oil in our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 to help tone and tighten skin! Steer clear of mineral oils though, as they can easily cause congestion. Look for formulations that are lightweight and non-comedogenic. Myth: Mineral Sunscreen Isn’t As Effective As Chemical Sunscreen Sunscreen falls into 2 categories “mineral” (also called “natural” or “physical” sunscreen) and “chemical”. Both protect your skin but do so in different ways. Chemical sunscreen penetrates the top layers of the skin. It absorbs and filters UV rays before they have the chance to cause damage. Mineral sunscreen, on the other hand, forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Rather than absorbing and filtering UV, it helps scatter and reflect rays away from the skin. A common misconception is that chemical sunscreen is always more effective than mineral sunscreen. This isn’t the case. Mineral sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both as natural active ingredients provide excellent broad spectrum protection. Myth: A higher SPF Rating Dramatically Increases Protection SPF ratings can vary dramatically between sunscreens - but does it make a big difference to the amount of protection? The breakdown is as follows: SPF 4 blocks 75% of UVB rays SPF 8 blocks 87.5% of UVB rays SPF 15 blocks 93.3% of UVB rays SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays Source arpanasa (Australian Radiation Protection And Nuclear Safety Agency) SunSmart recommends choosing a sunscreen labelled SPF30 or higher that is also broad-spectrum. Myth: You Only Need Sunscreen When It’s Sunny Outside This is one of the biggest, and most harmful, myths about sunscreen! It’s not safe to skip your daily dose of SPF because it’s cloudy and cool outside. Just because you can’t feel the warmth or burn on your skin, it doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t active. It’s been estimated up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds. Even on an overcast day, your skin can be susceptible to damage if you’re not wearing sunscreen. The free SunSmart app is a handy way to see UV levels and the potential risk of UV on a daily basis around Australia. Protect Your Skin All Day, Every Day How does your current sun protection measure up? We recommend trying our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 enriched with antioxidants, this silky smooth, daily sunscreen protects against UV damage helping fight the first signs of ageing. Comfortable, non-greasy SPF coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen is easy-to-apply and formulated with additional anti-ageing benefits of carrot root oil, hyaluronic acid, and green tea for hydrated, smoother skin.
