The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Noticing fine lines? Is your skin a little dull and lacklustre? Maybe your skin is super parched and is in need of a huge drink of water. Hyaluronic acid has the amazing ability to attract water and can actually hold 1000x times its weight! Making it a key ingredient for ALL skin types in EVERY skincare regime. Acid in skincare does sound a little scary, doesnât it⌠but fear not! This little molecule has the opposite effect of an acid. Hyaluronic acid will absolutely drench your cells with water leaving your skin super dewy and plump. This will not only help dehydration but also plumping out fine lines, regulating oil flow for an oily skin type and can even help to rejuvenate dark circles under the eyes! What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid is naturally found within our bodies. Roughly half of the hyaluronic acid in the body is present in your skin, where it binds to water to help retain moisture. The rest is found in connective tissue and eyes. It helps to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist. As Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in our bodies, it is so much easier for your skin to recognise and absorb, making it so effective and chances of allergic reactions are very minimal â great for all skins down to the most sensitive. Any impaired skin barrier that is suffering from dry, flaky, reactive or over stripped skin will really benefit from adding this active ingredient into your regime making it an excellent skincare product for conditions like eczema and dermatitis, through to combination skin. What does Hyaluronic Acid do for the skin? For hydration: The key to youthful skin! Hyaluronic acid can draw water into the cells and hold onto it for rapid hydration benefits. It will keep skin plump, minimise fine lines and leave it looking radiant. Our bodies naturally lose water daily â and as we age our skin becomes drier as its ability to lock in water decreases. When this happens, our skin appears dull and our healthy cells slow down and become sluggish. To have our skin working at optimal capacity it has to be hydrated! Itâs not only age that can make our skin become dehydrated, but itâs also those common culprits â drinking alcohol, laying in the sun, too much caffeine, not enough water- even air conditioners and heaters can really play havoc to your skin. Improves skin elasticity and texture When your skin barrier becomes dry it can cause your skin to look dull, become flaky, feel tight and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can become more prominent. When our skin is parched it also weakens our protective barrier, leaving it compromised. Sensitised skin is more exposed to infection, disease and free radical damage. Not only does hyaluronic acid hydrate but it also has antioxidant properties to protect your skin from this kind of environmental damage. Why Hyaluronic Acid deserves a spot in your skincare routine In actual fact, most of us from oily to dry are generally dehydrated in one form or another! Before you say, âI have an oily skin type, I donât need any more hydrationâ note that oil and hydration are two completely different things! Hydration is water content in our skin cells which happens deep down in the layers of the skin and being oily means we have a skin that produces more oil, which can be seen on our skin barrier â that oily shine! It has nothing to do with water content, often an overly oily skin is sign dehydration, as the skin will overproduce oil to compensate for lack of water in the skin. On the flip side, a true dry skin type (lacking oil content) is skin that has always felt dry and produces less oil. Using a âhydrationâ product such as Hyaluronic acid is only going to work if it is followed by an oil/moisturiser- if there is no oil to protect the skin barrier and help lock in that hydration it will evaporate, leaving the skin as it was â dry and flaky. So, as you can see when we begin to understand our skin it becomes apparent how important every little step and ingredient can be! This ingredient is so easily added into your regime â where it will take immediate effect with long term results if used daily! Hyaluronic acid could be the answer to most of our skincare concerns!
Red & Reactive Skin Survival Guide
Red, sore, angry, dry, flakyâŚ! âPlease help calm my skinâ you say?  For anyone who has a reactive skin, whether it be genetic, environmental or from over use of harsh ingredients, you will know how hard and frustrating it can be to find products to soothe and repair your skin. Iâm going to introduce you to some versatile yet super active ingredients that are effective for a wide range of conditions from acne through to eczema skins.  Super active ingredients to the rescue! Niacinamide Vitamin B3. Acne prone skin â Vitamin B 3 skincare helps to slow down and regulate oil flow. Great news if your skin is oily and prone to breakouts, especially if you suffer from acne. Regulating oil mean less oil flow which mean less breakouts and more easily manageable skin. More manageable skin means you can skip those harsh ingredients that can end up stripping the skin of its all-important oil and ends up leading to aggravated and breakout prone skin. Niacinamide, as found in esmi Skin Mineralsâ Green Smoothie Skin Treat, will help to repair and restore a problematic skin, and is also beneficial for treating post breakout redness. Sensitive skin â Vitamin B for skin will help to calm and ease inflammation by improving barrier function. If you suffer from rosacea, eczema or any other skin concerns that cause a weakened skin surface, Vit B 3 will help protect against environmental factors that can cause those unwanted flare ups. esmiâs Anti Inflammatory Mint Gel Booster Mask is suitable for even the most sensitive skins. Hyaluronic Acid. Donât let the word acid scare you! Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring ingredient in our skin (which makes it so much easier for your skin to recognise and absorb â making it so effective). Hyaluronic acid is like a big drink of water for your skin! Any impaired skin barrier that is suffering from dry, flaky, reactive or over stripped skin will benefit from adding this active ingredient into your regime. This makes it an excellent skincare product for conditions like eczema and dermatitis, through to a combination skin. This ingredient can actually hold 1,000 times its weight in water(!!) so this means the cells will attract water and hold onto it, leaving suffering skin dewy and plump. For your Hyaluronic Acid hit check out esmiâs Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. Linoleic Acid. Commonly found in oils such as rose hip, evening primrose and wheatgerm, this ingredient is amazing for treating an impaired barrier. Linoleic acid will allow the skin barrier to become stronger which in turn will lock in hydration and moisture. Studies have shown that this ingredient is also a very beneficial skin care product for acne â it can actually stop a forming pimple from becoming a full-blown breakout, it will reduce the pimple size and clear it before you even knew it was there! These oils are super lightweight and are suitable as moisturisers for dry to oily skin types and can be found in esmiâs 24k Gold Nourishing Oil. Allantoin. This non-irritating ingredient soothes and protects, it really is an all-star ingredient for keeping sensitised skin in tip top condition. It has the amazing ability to heal the skin and stimulate the growth of new tissue. It is amazing for eczema treatment, even dermatitis sufferers and fantastic to help with healing acne scarring. Allantoin can be found in esmiâs Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask.  Tips for over sensitised skin: Avoid harsh ingredients. Itâs always important to remember to use gentle products on skin that is suffering from a reaction or has been stripped of oil and avoid anything that will exasperate it further. The best place to start is with a gentle cleanser. âSuitable for all skin typesâ is usually a good indicator that the product will be on the gentle side but do your research. Does it contain any SLSâs? These are renowned for being harsh on the skin and drying it out. If your cleanser is leaving your skin squeaky clean there is a good chance its stripping the oil from your skin. Try our Uncomplicated Cleanser which is super gentle on the skin. Use a mild exfoliant. Mild exfoliation is key. Using products with an enzyme is beneficial for exfoliating sensitised skin⌠all skins really! Rather than scrubbing with something that could potentially damage the skin barrier, an enzyme exfoliant uses AHAs which can be derived from sugar cane, fruits or vegetables. AHAâs gently dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, allowing dead skin to slough off easily. This leaves skin super soft and smooth, pores clean and allows for better penetration of serums and moisturisers. For a great mild exfoliant try esmiâs Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum. Go for a simple gentle regime. Be kind to your skin! We can sometimes freak out when our skin breaks out or becomes dry and this stress can actually lead it to becoming worse. Remember; our skin is the largest organ in our body and our face is the most exposed, so it can get a bit of a rough time, so over loading it with tonnes of products to help âfixâ your skin is only going to have the opposite effect. Treat it with care! Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
How to Reduce Skin Redness
Red skin, reactive skin and rosacea are frustrating and often embarrassing skin conditions that can be difficult to deal with. For some of these conditions the redness will never fully go away or disappear, so itâs important to equip yourself with knowledge of your skin condition and a simple skin regime to best manage it. Redness is most commonly found on the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. It can be associated with flushed skin (blushing easily and for extended amount of time) and broken capillaries (spider web looking veins usually across the nose and cheeks). The more flare ups you have the redder these areas will become, which is why management is so important. You may also experience papules and pustules known as acne rosacea. Itâs very important not to treat rosacea with âacne clearing' products as it can worsen your condition. Flaky, dry and scaly skin can also be a common symptom. Try to avoid the following: Cleansers that leave your skin with that âsqueaky-cleanâ feeling Rough and scratchy exfoliants Highly perfumed products Foundations that donât allow the skin to breath Alcohol in skincare. i.e. witch hazel, toners Itâs 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. Common triggers While itâs hard to avoid stress, it can be a major contributor to our skin acting up, especially if you already have underlying skin care issue like rosacea and redness. Common triggers can also include food (try to avoid anything with spice) and all those naughty activities like drinking (especially wine!), smoking and sun exposure. Make sure you avoid the midday sun and always wear your hat and 50+ SPF! Triggers include: Stress Extreme Temperatures Spicy food Fragrances and alcohol in skincare Alcoholic drinks â especially wine Smoking Try to look for the following: Anti-oxidant rich ingredients Calming products Gentle formulations Anti-Inflammatory products Key ingredients to look for: Look for anti-oxidant rich ingredients that will help to strengthen the skin and calming formulations. Rosacea is a form of inflammation in the skin, so choosing product packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients will be key in helping to control redness. Niacinamide â Repairs and restores skin and helps to fight inflammation. Squalane â Prevents moisture loss and boost cell regeneration. Allantoin â Soothes and protects the skin. Has the ability to help heal the skin and stimulate the growth of new tissue. Hyaluronic Acid â Super hydrating, will attract water to skin cell and allow the skin to hold onto it. Caffeine â Constricting effect, which can help improve the look of redness, soothing and antioxidant properties. Arnica â Can calm the redness and inflammation associated with rosacea. Increases white blood cell activity to help combat irritation. Have a look at the makeup youâre wearing and choose a mineral formulation which is not only good for your skin but will also allow it to breath. This will come with zinc, which not only has a sun protection factor, but is anti- fungal and will help with the healing process. Products to try: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask The Uncomplicated Cleanser Liquid Mineral Foundation Mineral Foundation Powder As you can see, there is help out there to deal with red skin and rosacea! By understanding your skin concerns and implementing a good, regular regime you can help to manage and calm your skin to prevent any further damage. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
An Oil Can Do Allllll of That?!
There are many myths and misconceptions about what can and canât be used on an oily skinâoil based products being one of them. Time to shed some light on these tall tales and expose the amazing benefits of oilâyou will want to bathe your skin in the brilliance of this liquid gold! So youâve probably heard and believed some of these to be true: ⢠Oil based products will make your skin oilier and greasy⢠They will make you breakout⢠Using oil-free products are the better choice for an oily skin Prepare to learn whilst we debunk these myths. What causes oiliness? Our skin type is hereditary and is determined by the amount of oil being produced. If your parents had an oily skin its most likely you will too. An oily skin is a result of the sebaceous (oil) glands in our skin being overactive, secreting excess oil which can lead to clogging of the pores and the perfect breeding environment for bacteria. Excess oil can also be the result of heightened hormone levels, which is why teenagers can often battle with acne. This is also the reason that women tend to have oilier skin during some parts of their menstrual cycle, while theyâre pregnant and when theyâre experiencing menopause. Although this skin type can be a precursor to acne a brilliant benefit can be that if looked after correctly, oily skin types can age much slower than normal/dry skin! So, why use oil-based products on an oily skin? #1. Oil attracts oil and can dissolve sebum, grease and make-up without stripping the skin of its natural oils. esmiâs expert advice:If you are using a gel/foam cleanser or soap that makes your skin feel tight, dry or aggravated, itâs most likely you are stripping your skin and compromising the skins natural protective barrierâknown as the acid mantle. Most often an oily skin will produce more oil as a defence mechanism to balance out the loss of moisture on the skin, leading to more unwanted oil and breakouts! Use a cosmeceutical cleanser, prescribed by a professional skin therapist. Oil is GOOD, it protects and lubricates your skin, a cleanser should be gentle and complement your skin. #2. Facial oils can assist to hydrate, protect and repair the skinâs barrier function. esmiâs expert advice:Think of your skin as your protective shield, fighting to keep germs out and lock moisture in. Many oily skins are dehydrated and lack moisture due to the use of harsh cleansers, over exfoliation and lack of moisturising. Our skin needs to be kept hydrated both internally by drinking plenty of water and consuming good omegas in the diet, and externally by using the right tailored skincare. Did you know your skin needs water and moisture to help activate special enzymes in the epidermis that allow your dead skin cells to shed off? If the skin lacks moisture this can lead to more clogging, congestion and breakouts. #3. Using the correct skin oil can actually help to balance excess oil. esmiâs expert advice:Our skinâs sebum (oil) is made up of a combination of triglycerides, diglycerides, fatty acids, wax esters, squalane and cholesterolâall designed to lubricate, hydrate and protect our skin. You will notice a childâs skin has the perfect production of oil, however, when puberty and adulthood take place the correct ratio needed to keep the skin balanced can be all out of whack and may lead to a skin disorder like acne. Balance excess oil by partnering your favourite Esmi Skin Treat with the amazing benefits of esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil: In summary, these unique ingredients have a rapid skin absorption rate that will leave your skin feeling hydrated but not âoilyâ or âgreasyâ. esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil has more highly concentrated actives which can help to achieve quicker skin results. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
Itâs Never Too Late to StartâŚ
Love the skin youâre in. Iâm not the biggest fan of the term âanti-ageingâ or the phrases like âwind back the clockâ since ageing is inevitable, there is no time machine! I prefer to embrace the mantras âLove the skin youâre inâ and âBe the best version of yourselfâ so that you radiate regardless of your age, accepting we all have imperfections. These imperfections show we are human. That we have lived, laughed and loved. Letâs embrace this part of us for the better and celebrate not what we are, but WHO we are. Radiate If you struggle with your skin, then healthy glowing skin can often be the first thing you will notice about someone. Iâm here to tell you that it doesnât matter if there are a few fine lines or spots, you are still beautiful! There are definitely a few little active ingredients you can introduce into your skincare regime that can help your skin look lovely and dewy. Vitamin C is great for this! It is packed with not only anti-oxidants to strengthen and protect skin from environmental and free radical damage, but it will brighten and lighten skin. Yes, it can even help lighten those dark patches from spending our youth lying in the sun! Hydration is key when it comes to radiant skin. Dehydrated skin can appear dull or lacklustre and can actually make any fine line appear more prominent. Give your skin a giant drink of water with hyaluronic acid as found in our Ageless Hyalyronic Serum and Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask. This water attracting ingredient is easy add into your regime. Just pop it under your moisturiser and it is sure to leave your skin plumped and glowing. Love Love the skin youâre in. You might not have always had the best skincare regime⌠but itâs never too late to start! Some simple skin saving tips include: drinking plenty of water, always wearing an SPF and hat to protect the skin from harmful sun rays (one of the worst things for our skin!) and indulging in a good skincare routine. Your skin will love you for it and you will feel amazing every time you step out. Our Golden Anti-Ageing Serum is luxury in a bottle and contains many powerful active ingredients, including peptides, which will help to soften lines while strengthening your skin. Follow with our 24k Gold Nourishing Oil as your moisturiser for beautifully soft skin. Laugh It really is the best medicine. Laughter decreases stress hormones and triggers the release of endorphins, the bodyâs natural feel-good chemicals. Make a date with the girls for a good laugh and pamper time! Go all out with face masks and pamper yourself! Enjoy some real self-love time. Pair your quality catch up time with esmiâs range of Booster Face Masks, great for all skin types. We have an Ultra Nourishing Green Tea Mask, Hyaluronic Hydrating Mask, Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Mask to Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Mask â patch work them like crazy if you wish! You will leave your girls date grinning from ear to ear. Need a night off? Do it alone! Never underestimate the power of some quality me time. Run yourself a bath, use essential oils, light candles, play soothing music, pop on your mask and just totally bliss outâŚ. Nothing we do to our skin is going to work if weâre not also looking after the inside. Treat your mind, body and soul with care. Eat a balanced, nutritional diet, drink lots of water, get 7-9 hrs of Zzzâs and remember to exercise â move and sweat, and release those endorphins. Not only will your skin glow â you will feel amazing! Be happy, smile often and you will be the best version of yourself. Is there any better feeling? Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
Here's How Charcoal Can Help Your Skin
Charcoal ⌠discovered by ancient Egyptians over 4000 years ago it was first used to manufacture bronze and embalm corpses for mummification. Not only did they discover the amazing preserving properties but also used it for medicinal purposes, writing and absorbing unpleasant odours. Fast forward through the ages the discovery of charcoal and its numerous benefits leaves little wonder that it is one of the most healing and popular ingredients in skincare and the health industry today. Just some of the benefits and uses of charcoal include: Amazing antibacterial and antiseptic properties Purification of water, air and the soil we grow food in Treating many different illnesses such as epilepsy, anaemia, and vertigo Used daily in medical facilities for drug and food poisoning, kidney and liver dialysis machines, to wound dressings, to anemia for cancer, and much more. Veterinarians also use charcoal for our furry loves that ingest anything harmful Charcoal = your genie in a bottle.So as you can see, with the history of this unique ingredient combined with the extraordinary benefits, we are bursting with excitement to introduce you to the esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum. But first ⌠letâs talk about your skin.Wouldnât it be nice if we could hop out of bed, shimmy out of our old skin like a snake and face the world unblemished and fresh-faced? Well, our skin is a little more fascinating, so fascinating, that if we had to journal exactly what it was doing right now, we would be writing until we die! Our skin is continually shedding in patches (without us even knowing) and new skin cells are constantly replacing those that have been lost. The cells responsible for this shedding action are called keratinocytes, and they make up 85% of the epidermis (the outermost layer of our skin). These cells have two major roles, the ability to actively divide and differentiate. Your age, genetics, hormones and lifestyle factors determine the rate at which these little guys divide, shed and renew. In your 20s your cell turnover is approx. 25+ days, 30s 35+ days, 40s 45+ days and so on. This shedding process can be impacted by the craziness and business of our lives. How can you tell?⢠Is your skin rough or flaky?⢠Uneven in appearance?⢠Tight?⢠Crepey?⢠Bumpy?⢠Dry or scaly?⢠Presenting fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation? If you answered yes to any of the above, we can assist. Whilst we canât stop the clock on ageing and we canât change the skin type you were born with, we can introduce healthy habits and skin feeding ingredients to accelerate and activate these keratinocytes to work more efficiently, resulting in clearer, more radiant skin. Healthy skin starts from within.Choosing to eat organically and eating whole-foods is the first best step. Vital for keeping your skin plump from the inside out, include essential fatty acids as part of your diet (good fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, fish etc.) Drinking 3-4 litres of water a day will also help to flush toxins, hydrate the skin and keep your body functioning at its best. Combining a healthy diet, exercise and skincare routine is a âtriple threatâ to preserving a youthful appearance. Charcoal + your skin = real results!This cocktail of powerful ingredients delivers the very best food to excite your skin cells and get them communicating. esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum was designed to gradually exfoliate, smooth skin and draw out skin impurities. Fuelled by glycolic, lactic and citric acid, these ingredients help to break down the âbondsâ or âglueâ that hold your surface dead skin cells together allowing them to shed off. This action unleashes fresh new skin, refines rough skin, stimulates cell turnover and allows for better product absorption. Grape seed oil, simmondsia chinensis seed oil (jojoba seed oil) and vaccinium myrtillus (European blueberry) have powerful antioxidant properties to fight free radicals and prevent the ageing. Improve your results by applying your favourite esmi Skin Treat once removing the Charcoal Serum. The inclusion of 24K gold flakes assists in increasing skin elasticity, blood circulation AND the prevention of collagen breakdown. Our star ingredient charcoal helps to purify underlying clogging and congestion by drawing out toxins from your skinâs pores, while detoxifying and drying impurities. The anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties help to diminish bacteria and inflammation on the skinâs surface. How to use your esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum. 1. Using the dropper, apply a pearl-sized amount to your esmi Charcoal Brush.2. Massage into freshly cleansed skin, avoiding under the eye area, and allow to tingle. (The tingling may last from 5-10 minutes and may range from very mild to intense).3. Leave for 5-10 minutes before wetting the charcoal brush and massage around the face to remove any softened dead skin cells before washing off.4. If you want more of a tingle activate these ingredients further by adding a little water to your brush, continue to massage skin and remove after 5-10 minutes.5. Pair with other esmi Skin Treats.6. Can be used in a cycle of up to 5 consecutive nights with a 2-day break in between.7. Use with caution if using in conjunction with other product containing AHA or BHA acid Ingredients. Please note: The charcoal is a detoxifying ingredient and may draw out skin impurities. Continue use after impurities have emerged. Protect your skin daily with a sunscreen.
Our Guide to Smooth Skin
Clear, smooth skin is the holy grail of skincare. Cleanse, moisturise, treat and protect are the basics of an effective skincare routine and using the right skincare products and ingredients, a clear smooth face is totally possible. Weâve put together our top tips to help you achieve your smooth skin goals. Choose the right cleanser Choosing the right cleanser is the first step towards achieving clear, smooth skin and a healthy glow. When deciding on a cleanser itâs important to know your skin type and the specific skin concerns you want to tackle. The wrong cleanser could exacerbate skin issues like oiliness, sensitivity, and dryness. Not quite sure of your skin type? Hereâs a general guide - Dry skin: Dry, dull and flaky looking. Often prone to irritation and may become red and blotchy. Oily skin: Large pores are common for oily skin type and become easily clogged. Often prone to breakouts, skin is shiny or feels greasy. Sensitive skin: Breakouts, rashes, and irritation are common. Sensitive skin is also prone to dryness and affected by temperature changes. Combination skin: This skin type use has both oily and dry areas, an oily t-zone with drier patches on the cheek area. The right cleanser will lift dirt from deep within the pores, prevent breakouts, deliver the right amount of moisture and not leaving the skin stripped of its natural oils. Starting with a clean base also maximises the effectiveness of the products to follow. We recommend our Uncomplicated Cleanser range to treat various skin concerns for fresh, clear smooth skin. Use hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid is the best friend of skin types at all ages. Whether your 20 or 70 with oily, dry, combination or sensitive skin, hyaluronic acid is a smooth skincare must! Holding up to 1000 times its weight in water, the hyaluronic acid molecule is a water magnet that delivers deep hydration to the skin. Itâs a humectant which means it works by attracting water to skin cells to hydrate them from the inside out. Itâs like a big drink for your skin. Its skin-plumping effect helps smooth out skin, dullness and fine lines are diminished and oil flow is balanced. We recommend our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or Ageless Hyaluronic Serum for ultimate hydration! Exfoliate regularly Uneven, bumpy skin texture can be the result of an inconsistent - or non-existent! - exfoliating routine. As dead skin accumulates on the surface of your skin, your complexion is left looking dull, dry, uneven and prone to breakouts. Adding an exfoliation session one of the easiest ways to smooth out skin quickly. Polishing away those old cells reveals a brighter, smoother looking complexion immediately. Exfoliation also helps tackle the look of large pores that make the texture of the skin appear uneven and rough looking. Exfoliating lifts out the impurities trapped inside the pore - itâs this build-up that makes pores look larger than they actually are. Donât make the mistake of thinking any old scrub will help you get clear smooth skin, itâs so important to choose the right exfoliator for your skin type. Take a look at our in-depth guide on all things exfoliation including the different types of exfoliants. We recommend esmi Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum to gently buff, detox and purify congested skin for a clearer, smoother complexion. Use Vitamin C Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants you can include in your smooth skincare routine. Itâs a brilliant all-rounder for every skin type; if youâre not already using products with this skin saviour, now is the time to start. What makes vitamin C so effective for clear, smooth skin? Vitamin C helps even out skin tone by lightening hyperpigmentation and age spots while speeding up the healing process of post-breakout scars and other blemishes. Great for all ages, this big-hitting antioxidant also helps protect skin against environmental free radical damage - think UV rays and air pollution - which break down collagen and lead to wrinkles, fine lines and sagging. Not exactly the clear smooth face weâve been dreaming of! Vitamin C doesnât just protect your skin from damage, it also activates cells called fibroblasts that help boost collagen production helping skin appear smoother and firmer. We recommend esmi Pomegranate Brightening Serum which harnesses the potent brightening, anti-pigmentation power of vitamin C. Never skip sun protection Youâve heard it a thousand times but weâre saying it again - you must include sunscreen in your skincare routine every single day. Itâs the golden rule for younger looking, clear smooth skin. Exposure to the sunâs UV rays speed up the signs of premature ageing - fine lines, wrinkles, and discolouration - more than any other lifestyle or environmental factor. While UVA and UVB rays both damage skin, itâs UVA that penetrates deep into the dermis, the thickest layer of skin and breaks down collagen. The result? Fine lines, wrinkles and leathery-looking skin that feels dry and rough - the complete opposite of a clear smooth face. Even on cloudy, cool days skin is still vulnerable to UV rays so committing to daily SPF all year round is a must for a smooth, even-looking complexion. We recommend esmi Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen SPF 30, which protects against UV damage and fights the first signs of ageing. Add oils to your routine If itâs smooth, hydrated, healthy skin youâre after (who isnât?) face oil is one of the skin-smoothing products that deserve a place in your daily routine. Face oils are effective for all skin types - even oily ones! Face oil strengthens the skin barrier, boosting protection and helping it retain moisture. Lack of moisture and hydration are the main culprits behind rough, dry looking skin Even if youâre dealing with an oily complexion, donât be afraid to use face oil in your quest to get smooth skin. Face oils help regulate sebum production to reduce breakouts and bumpy, uneven skin tone. Oils can heal blemishes and prevent post-breakout scarring. We recommend esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil for increasing skin elasticity, improving blood circulation. Incorporate a regular masking session Adding the right mask into your regular skincare routine will deliver long term results, evening out skin texture over time for a beautifully clear, smooth face. The right masking treatment can help hydrate skin, regulate sebum, and refine the appearance of large pores. Masks are also an excellent way to purge congested skin of impurities. It doesnât matter if your skin is breaking out, drying out or just generally stressed out - thereâs a face mask out there to smooth out skin and reveal a softer, brighter complexion. A weekly masking session is also the perfect opportunity to grab a little self-care time! We recommend esmi's range of Booster Masks to treat a range of skin concerns from ageing to breakouts, dull and dry skin.   Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey.
Supercharge your Skincare with Vit C
Want to brighten your skin? Look no further! Gone are the days when Vitamin C was a just remedy for the common cold. Meet Vit C serum â this hero ingredient that is a MUST for every skincare regime. This skincare superstar helps to lighten, brighten and protect your skin.Ready to find out how to get your glow back?! There is loads of research to show how Vit C (also known as L-ascorbic acid) works for preserving younger skin, firming mature skin, and is effective for lightening and brightening. This superstar ingredient can be found in our Pomegranate Brightening Serum! So, what are the benefits Vitamin C? Lightens pigmentation. Hyper-pigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives our skin, hair and eyes their colour. A number of factors can trigger an increase in melanin production, but the main causes are sun exposure, hormonal influences, age and skin injuries or inflammation. An unfortunate part of ageing are the darker patches that we begin to see on our faces (hyper pigmentation). This pigmentation may be a result of too much time sun when we were younger (remember always wear your hat and SPF!), or could be hormonal pigmentation caused by the pill or pregnancy (melasma), even the red spots left over after breakouts is a type of pigmentation (post inflammatory hyper pigmentation). Vitamin C has the incredible ability to help lighten existing pigmentation and hyper pigmentation (acne scars). Vit C can speak to the cells and prevent these patches from becoming darker. Unlike harsh chemical skin bleaching ingredients there are no adverse effects, this natural alternative can directly lighten the darker patches. Vit C is not like a retinol treatment either â It wonât cause your skin to dry out or peel, or leave it photo sensitive (sensitivity caused by UV light ), your skin barrier will not be compromised in anyway. Gentle yet super effective! Anti-ageing. We all know we need to take care of our skin, it is the largest organ in our body, but aside from protecting the barrier with a sunscreen there is more we can do! Anti-oxidants are a great way to protect our skin from free radical damages. A free radical is damage from environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution. Cigarette smoke can also cause more free radicals in your body leading it to hold onto the collagen and weaken elastin. Adding a powerful antioxidant like Vit C to your skincare routine will strengthen the skin cells and protect collagen against free radical damage. This helps with repairing fine lines and wrinkles, improving overall skin texture. Vit C is so important in any skincare regime from young to mature. Protection. Vitamin C is not only jam packed with anti-oxidants, it can actually help protect our skin from the sun! It isnât a sunscreen and wonât defend against UVA-UVB rays, but the amount of anti-oxidants it provides to your skin can actually protect the cells against the UV light that damages the skin, caused by free radicals. This is why itâs always recommended to use your Vitamin C during the day under your sunscreen for extra protection! So to wrap it all up, feed your skin with Vitamin C! This simple skincare ingredient is really one of the best ways to keep ageing at bay, have your skin glowing and protect from the environmental damage.
Antioxidants for the Skin
Antioxidants play an essential role in every effective skincare routine. Antioxidants for the skin help slow the signs of ageing by fighting free radical damage while also addressing a range of skin concerns - from hyperpigmentation and fine lines to dry skin and acne. Letâs take a look at what antioxidants do for skin, their relationship with free-radicals and how to include the right ones in your skincare routine. Antioxidants & free-radical damage To understand the work antioxidants do for skin, itâs important to first know how free radicals damage the skin and speed up signs of ageing. To explain free radicals and antioxidants, weâll need to cover a quick chemistry lesson on the âfree radical theory of ageing.â All your skin cells are made up of molecules and each molecule contains pairs of electrons. When there are even pairs of electrons in each molecule, the skin cell is healthy and stable. The way free radicals cause damage to the skin is by âstealingâ an electron from one of the pairs of electrons in a healthy cell. This causes damage to the skinâs DNA and over time, the process of free radicals grabbing electrons from healthy cells leads to weakened cells and tissues. In turn, this triggers the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and inflammation throughout your body. How do free radicals occur? Theyâre the product of UV rays, pollution, lifestyle choices (like smoking) and some are also created naturally by the body. Now that we know a little more about how free radical damage occurs, letâs look at how antioxidants for the skin help. Essentially, antioxidants neutralise free radical damage by âgivingâ an electron to the free radical so it doesnât need to steal it from a healthy cell. This means they play a very important preventative role in healthy skincare routines - especially to slow down the premature signs of ageing. Exfoliation with antioxidants Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and other impurities from the skin's surface, while antioxidants help to protect the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. Read here why your skin needs exfoliation in its life! By combining exfoliation with antioxidants, you can achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion while also protecting your skin from damage. When choosing an exfoliating product with antioxidants, it's important to consider your skin type and any specific concerns you may have to ensure that the product is safe and effective for you. What are the best antioxidants for skin? In addition to their free-radical fighting powers, antioxidants offer a whole spectrum of benefits to treat individual skin concerns. Letâs take a look at some of the best antioxidants for the skin and ingredients containing these powerhouses to include in your routine. Vitamin A Anti-aging | balances oil | promotes collagen | skin renewal | smoothing Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin also known as retinal, retinol, retinoic acid, and beta-carotene. On the anti-ageing front, itâs one of the best antioxidants for the skin and revered for its youth-restoring properties. Speeding up cell turnover, Vitamin A causes the dermis to thicken creating plumper, firmer skin and a brighter complexion. This is one of the antioxidants for the skin that can actually create DNA change in the cells making it incredibly effective for treating a range of skin conditions. After working on the surface of the skin, Vitamin A can penetrate into the cell to correct the damage and keep the cell healthy. This allows Vitamin A to tackle problems from hyperpigmentation, acne, and large pores, to lines and wrinkles. esmi Anti-Ageing Eye Serum is a lightweight serum that lifts and tightens, reduces wrinkle depth and moisturises the eye area. Contains retinyl palmitate. Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Hydrating | anti-ageing | reduces acne | strengthens the skin barrier | brightens Vitamin B3 (also known as niacinamide) is a great antioxidant all-rounder. All skin types can benefit from its anti-aging, brightening, and hydrating properties. This antioxidant fights acne, helping reduce redness, inflammation and balance the skinâs pH level. It also slows signs of premature ageing, improves the look of hyperpigmentation and brightens skin. Vitamin B3âs ability to strengthen the skin barrier (also known as the acid mantle) makes it an antioxidant that sensitive and dehydrated complexions will love. A strong barrier means the skin is protected from irritants and excessive transepidermal water loss (water evaporating from the surface) is prevented. esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum contains Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) and is the ultimate skin hydrator. A quick-absorbing serum to fight dehydration for more hydrated, plumper, repaired skin. esmi Liquid Foundation is a healthy, maximum coverage liquid mineral foundation formulated with vitamin B3 to heal and hydrate. Vitamin C Skin brightening | cell regeneration | hydrating One of the most potent antioxidants for the skin is Vitamin C. It aids your skin's natural regeneration process, is renowned for its skin brightening properties and helps repair damaged skin cells. It does a wonderful job of addressing dull skin, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C comes in many forms and can be derived from a variety of ingredients. Some of the more common sources of Vitamin C found in skincare products include: Ascorbic acid Ascorbic acid is water-soluble and itâs primarily used in skincare for its ability to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It does this by suppressing the formation of melanin which inhibits the appearance of pigmentation. Kakadu Plum One of the best antioxidant sources from nature, the Kakadu Plum is an Australian native fruit with the worldâs highest natural levels of Vitamin C - even higher than the blueberry. The extract of the Kakadu Plum is superb for skin brightening. Citric acid As the name suggests, citric acid is derived from citrus fruits. This alpha-hydroxy acid encourages cell turnover to exfoliate skin resulting in a brighter, smoother appearance. esmi Pomegranate Brightening Serum is an anti-pigmentation serum with powerful melanin inhibitors and skin lightening ingredients including Kakadu Plum, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), and pomegranate extract. Vitamin E Moisturising | strengthens skin barrier | soothing and anti-inflammatory In addition to its ability to fight free radical damage, Vitamin E is known for its hydrating and healing properties. It helps strengthen the skin barrier and can improve and calm a range of inflammatory skin conditions - such as eczema and psoriasis - as it is a natural anti-inflammatory. Vitamin E and vitamin C make an excellent pair in skincare formulations. Vitamin C regenerates vitamin E and in combination with each other, they provide photoprotection from sunlight. This is why itâs common to find antioxidant serums which contain both. esmi Peppermint Green Oil is a rich source of free-radical fighting vitamin E and can be used as an alternative to a moisturiser. esmi Golden Anti-Ageing Serum is a rejuvenating anti-ageing serum with powerful peptides and the antioxidant power of vitamin C + E to visibly plump fine lines, brighten and condition. Omega Fatty Acids Anti-ageing | firming | hydrating There are three types of omega fatty acids: omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9. The antioxidants in these omega fatty acids are some of the most effective antioxidants for your face to slow the signs of ageing. They provide firming, toning, and strengthening benefits and help keep skin hydrated. If you want to address premature ageing like fine lines and wrinkles and hydration issues, omega fatty acids are essential antioxidants for your skincare routine. When choosing antioxidant products for skin, omega-centric ingredients include: Linoleic acid Linoleic acid is rich in omega 3 fatty acid and is an essential building block for ceramides. Ceramides help skin retain moisture and strengthen its protective barrier keeping skin firm and plump looking. Rosehip oil Rosehip oil is an excellent skin repairer, brimming with tissue and cell regeneration fatty acids Omega 3 and Omega 6. It promotes collagen and elastin levels in the skin to increase firmness and slow the signs of premature aging. Oleic acid Oleic acid is the most common omega-9 fatty acids and is contained in olive, avocado, and macadamia oil. Its antioxidant properties are ideal for dry, ageing skin as it penetrates deeply into the skin's surface to replenish lost moisture. esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil is recommended to improve skin elasticity and collagen levels for a firmer, more toned complexion. Antioxidants tend to work in synergy with each other - especially vitamin C and E as noted earlier. Look for skincare formulations that contain two or more powerful antioxidants for the skin to really supercharge your skincare routine! Get to know more Myths About Certain Ingredients What Vitamins are Good for Your Skin? Our Favourite Natural Skin Care Products  Â
How Sleep Affects Your Skin
Never underestimate the benefits of sleep for healthy, vibrant skin! Sleep affects your skin and not getting enough quality rest will accelerate the aging process leaving your skin dull, dehydrated and with more pronounced fine lines at wrinkles Letâs take a look at why sleep and skin health are intrinsically linked and a few tips on how to improve your beauty sleep. Cellular repair increases while you sleep What does âcellular repairâ mean and what does it have to do with sleep and skin health? Our skin works hard during the day to guard against external stressors, bacterias and toxins entering the body. At night, it switches from defence mode into a time of intense regeneration where it begins to repair itself on a cellular level; essentially creating new, fresh skin cells. The production of new cells begins in the deepest layer of your skin - the stratum basale - and make their way to the outermost layer of skin - the dermis. Old cells on the dermis are shed and replaced by the new fresh cells. While cellular turnover does happen during the day, skin cells regenerate faster at night and the process is said to be at its peak during the hours of 11pm and 4am. Cell regeneration happens whether you are asleep or not but a lack of sleep affects your skin during this process because it inhibits the cellular repair taking place at an optimal level. The melatonin produced while you sleep and skin aging is also linked. Melatonin, the sleep hormone, increases as you become tired and elevated levels of this hormone in the body works to counteract damage to the skin during the day from external stressors like UV and pollution. Deep sleep encourages collagen and growth hormone production The quality, not just the quantity, of rest you get every night has a big impact on how sleep affects your skin. A restless, 8 hour sleep wonât deliver the same benefits as 8 undisturbed hours where you enter the deep sleep stage and your body and brain waves slow down. Itâs during deep sleep that your body produces growth hormone. Growth hormone is a crucial peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration. It stimulates collagen synthesis so when lack of quality sleep inhibits a fresh surge of growth hormone collagen production is also diminished. This leads to skin losing its firmness and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Under-eye circles and puffiness Under eye-circles are one of the most quickly visible signs of how lack of sleep affects your skin. When you donât get enough of deep, restorative sleep, it causes your blood vessels to dilate The skin under your eyes is thinner than any other part of your body. This means those dilated blood vessels and the darkened colour are more visible through the thin skin of your under-eye area. Not getting enough sleep can also cause fluid retention in your face - a culprit for tired, puffy eyes. Sleep deprivation elevates the stress hormone cortisol Sleep deprivation causes the levels of cortisol, our bodyâs stress hormone, to rise. Almost all our cells have receptors that can absorb cortisol and raised levels of this hormone have a direct impact on your skin. Excess cortisol prompts the skin to produce excess sebum and can trigger inflammation which may lead to a host of skin issues, from itching and redness to chronic conditions such as dermatitis (eczema), and psoriasis. If youâre already dealing with a chronic skin condition, a lack of sleep will only make the condition worse. Sleep deprivation also was associated with paler skin and more droopy corners of the mouth. Sleep affects your skinâs hydration levels Hydration is key for healthy skin function and your bodyâs hydration levels are impacted by the amount of sleep you get. A recent study on the link between sleep and hydration revealed people who regularly slept for 6 hours or less each night were 16â59 percent more likely to be dehydrated than those who slept for 8 hours a night. When your skin is dehydrated it becomes more susceptible to skin problems such as dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, discolouration, and even premature wrinkling. Your body will also struggle to eliminate toxins when it's dehydrated, which also has an impact on skin health. Your night time skincare ritual for better beauty sleep There are a few ways you can help prepare your skin for bed to maximise the benefits of a good nightâs sleep. Double cleanse Never skip cleansing your skin before bed and a double cleanse is recommended to remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and debris. For a deep double cleanse, use your regular cleanser first then follow up with a cleansing mitt to sweep away all residue. Starting with a clean base means your night time skin products will be more readily absorbed into the skin. We recommend: esmi Uncomplicated Cleanser and esmi Microfibre Face Cleansing Mitt Use a serum Serums contain a high concentration of active ingredients that penetrates deep into the skin. Choose one with a focus on delivering hydration and multiple antioxidants to apply before bed as antioxidants support cellular repair and healing by night. We recommend: esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Include an eye treatment Night time is ideal to provide the delicate skin around your eye with additional anti-aging, tighten support to wake up with a fresher eye area. We recommend: esmi Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Quick tips for a better sleep Keep your room as dark as possible Give your eyes a rest from digital device screens at least 30 minutes before bed. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows Try to stick to the same sleep / waking schedule, even on weekends, to help regulate your bodyâs internal clock. Itâs clear that prioritising quality sleep is one of the best natural ways you can maintain a healthy, youthful-looking complexion! Â
Exfoliation is Important! Here's Why.
Brighter, younger, healthier looking skin? Weâd all say yes to that. Exfoliation is to key to a smoother, glowing complexion but itâs a step often neglected in our regular routine. Letâs take a look at what you need to know about exfoliation and why itâs an essential part of a healthy skincare routine, no matter your skin type. What is skin exfoliation? Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the outer most layer of your skin; the epidermis. Exfoliation freshens, smooths and brightens skin by combating the effects of ageing and environmental stress which leaves skin looking wrinkled, dull, and uneven. The life cycle of a skin cell Letâs get started from the beginning. Our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells through a process called desquamation. The epidermis has five layers and new skin cells are produced in the deepest layer called the basal layer. The new, springy cells are âbornâ in the basal layer and travel through the layers of the epidermis. Once the cell reaches the outer layer, the stratum corneum, it settles there and becomes dry and flaky. This is what we call a âdeadâ skin cell. Cells are continually pushed up through the layers as new cells are produced. The process of desquamation happens all over your body, not just your face. Itâs also known as skin cell turnover. As we age, skin cell turnover slows down. When weâre young, our bodies are hard at work producing new skin cells rapidly. By the time we hit our 30âs the rate has slowed to around 28 â 45 days and then 45-60 days in our 40âs and 50âs. As the cell lifecycle slows down and skin ages, dead cells accumulate on the surface, causing the skin to look rough, dry and flaky. Our body produces less collagen as we age too, so skin increasingly becomes thinner and weaker and fine lines begin to appear. The dead skin cells piling up on the outer layer can emphasise the look of these wrinkles and lines. Environmental stressors In addition to the decline in skin cell turnover, weâre battling environmental stressors and free radical damage every day that can lead to dry, dull skin. UV rays can be blamed for many signs of premature skin ageing like wrinkles, dark spots and uneven skin tone. Smog and pollution are other factors that affect the look of skin and if you live in city areas you might be familiar with the skin-dulling effects of pollution. Benefits of exfoliation Exfoliation is one of the easiest ways to see major skincare benefits quickly. In the scheme of all things skincare, it can create big results from minimal effort. Here are some great reasons to commit to a regular exfoliation session! Brighter skin Who doesnât want a brighter, lighter complexion! Exfoliating products help you achieve an oh so glow skin tone by removing those dull, old skin cells which are darker than the skin below. Exfoliation also helps thicken the underlying live layers of the epidermis which makes the skin healthier and more radiant looking. Maximise product absorption Using a face exfoliator is has the added bonus of boosting the brightening, wrinkle-fighting and moisturising benefits of other skincare. Without regular exfoliation, the face products in your skincare arsenal wonât absorb properly because they have to fight their way through a layer of dead skin. Removing this barrier encourages maximum absorption, allowing each product to penetrate as deeply into the skin as possible. Control breakouts Battling breakouts? Choose the best skin exfoliator for oily, acne prone skin. One cause of breakouts is the bacteria that thrive in the pores when they become clogged with dirt, oil and dead skin cells. The result? Pimples and persistent breakouts. Exfoliation keeps the top layer of your skin fresh, sloughing away the impurities. While gentle exfoliation can help get breakouts under control, if your skin is overly sensitive, stick to a weekly session and choose an exfoliator for sensitive skin. Minimise the look of pores While thereâs nothing you can do to actually change the size of your pores, regular exfoliation can definitely make them appear smaller. All kinds of oil, dirt and makeup get trapped deep in pores and itâs this build up that makes them look larger than they actually are. Clear out the gunk and theyâll appear cleaner and smaller. Instant results Who doesnât love a quick skin payoff? Unlike some skin treatments that take a little time to deliver results, we love that the right face exfoliator gives you an instant skin high! Itâs a quick way to reveal brighter, fresher skin. Letâs talk about how to exfoliate your face the right way and the wrong way. Even if youâve got the best skin exfoliator for your complexion, if youâre not using it properly, your skin will end up irritated, not illuminated! The doâs and donâts of exfoliation DON'T go overboard with exfoliation It depends on your skin type as to how often you should exfoliate. Oily skin by nature can usually handle more frequent exfoliation sessions than dry or sensitive skin. Start off exfoliating once or twice a week and pay attention to how your skin feels. If itâs becoming blotchy and irritated, youâre overdoing it. DO be religious about your sunscreen application after exfoliation Applying sunscreen every day (we repeat; every.single.day!) regardless of the weather really is the golden rule of skincare. Your skin is particularly vulnerable to environmental and UV damage after youâve exfoliated so itâs especially important not to skip sunscreen. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Do cleanse before you exfoliate Cleansing to remove makeup and surface impurities first will maximise the effectiveness of your exfoliator. For an easy to use and super gentle cleanser, suitable for all skin types check out The Uncomplicated Cleanser Donât apply too much pressure Your exfoliating your skin, not cleaning a stovetop. Go easy with the rubbing motion or youâll end up with raw, irritated skin. Exfoliate gently using circular motions. DO choose the best exfoliator for your skin type Exfoliators are not always a âone size fits allâ kind of deal, be cautious in your selection and use the right exfoliating products in the right places. This also means donât use a body exfoliator on your face, theyâre usually too harsh for the more delicate skin on your face. DON'T forget to follow up with hydration Your skin will need a boost of hydration after you exfoliate so donât forget to apply a moisturiser afterwards. Chemical exfoliation vs Physical exfoliation If youâre wondering what the best face exfoliator option is, first itâs important to understand exfoliation can be achieved with two different methods; chemical exfoliation or physical exfoliation. Donât worry, chemical exfoliation isnât as scary as it sounds! Physical exfoliation The first thing that comes to mind when you think of exfoliation is probably a scrub or cleanser with small, exfoliating particles or granules. These products are a type of physical exfoliant, so too are tools like facial brushes, konjac sponges and face cloths. Microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are also forms of physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, is achieved by products that include AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). AHAs are water soluble and work on the surface while BHAs are oil soluble which means they can get down into the pore, unclogging and removing the build-up of impurities from deep within. Common examples of AHAs + BHAs Glycolic Acid (AHA) Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that naturally occurs in plants including sugar cane and citrus fruits. Glycolic acid holds the title for having the smallest molecular structure of the AHAs group. This means your skin absorbs it quickly and it works faster than other AHAs. It can also help treat uneven skin tone, reduce the appearance of pores, combat dullness, fine lines and acne scars. Lactic Acid (AHA) A sensitive skin hero, lactic acid is the gentler, yet effective, exfoliator of the acids group. Itâs a great all rounder but especially suited to sensitive and mature skin. Lactic acid is detoxifying and more moisturising than glycolic acid while still sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal a radiant, smoother complexion. Salicylic Acid (BHA) Salicylic acid more oil soluble than AHAs. This means while it exfoliates the surface of the skin, it also gets down deeper and unclogs pores, removing the build-up of sebum and impurities. Salicylic acid is one of the best skin exfoliator options for acne prone skin as it regulates sebum secretion and is an anti-inflammatory working to calm angry skin. Our Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum is a skin game changer and contains a blend of lactic and Glycolic acid. This powerful duo works together to slough away dead skin on the surface, reducing the appearance of blackheads and drawing out impurities. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
2 Products Your Skin Will Totally Thank You For
Hydration & sun protection. Two skincare factors you should never compromise on in the quest for supple, youthful-looking skin. Our range has you covered for both hydration and SPF protection. Meet the two products your skin will thank you for adding to your routine. 1. esmi Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist Skin is our first layer of protection against the elements weâre exposed to on a daily basis, including pollution, UV light, extreme weather conditions and toxic particles in the atmosphere. These environmental stressors expose skin to free radical damage which can lead to dehydration, dullness, hyperpigmentation and accelerate signs of ageing. Itâs not just the outdoor elements we need to protect skin from, air-conditioning is also a common culprit for a dehydrated, lackluster complexion. Whether youâre on a flight or in the office, air-conditioning can compromise your delicate skin barrier resulting in excessive transepidermal water loss - the process of water evaporating from the skin. Some studies have revealed the blue light (a high-energy, short-wavelength light) emitted from your laptop and phone screen can also have a negative impact when the skin is exposed on a prolonged basis. The right products will support the effectiveness of the skinâs natural protective barrier, the stratum corneum, which is designed to seal moisture in and keep irritants out. Hydration plays a key role in how well the stratum corneum functions against the elements, so boosting your skinâs ability to retain moisture is crucial. esmi Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist works by forming a protective and hydrating barrier over the skin to protect against environmental stressors. Formulated with natureâs ultimate moisture magnet, hyaluronic acid, it attracts moisture to hydrate thirsty skin cells from the inside out. A blend of plant oils selected for their nutrient-rich properties include almond oil, coconut oil, acai oil, kiwi seed oil and more. Collectively they support skin health with fatty acids and vitamins (including vitamin A, E, and C) to repair and smooth the skin barrier helping seal moisture into the skin. Whether youâre in the office or at the beach, a few spritzes of esmi Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist will deliver instant hydration, boost skin protection and leave you with a fresh, dewy complexion. 2. esmi Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen (SPF 30) Sun protection should be a skincare priority all year round to avoid accelerating the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, sagging skin and worse, skin cancer. How UV affects the skin is dependent on the proportion of UVB and UVA rays itâs exposed to - they both damage the skin but in different ways. UVA can penetrate deep into the layers of the skin where it destroys collagen, your skinâs structural protein that gives it elasticity. When collagen becomes damaged, the skin loses its firmness which leads to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The appearance of sun and age spots are also caused by UVA. UVB, on the other hand, canât penetrate as deeply into the layers of skin but causes the immediate effects you see after spending too long in the sun without adequate protection; sunburnt, dry skin that is tight and painful to touch. UVB is also responsible for the more serious results of sun damage - skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Itâs important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays. The sunâs damage is cumulative, every time our unprotected skin is exposed to the sun it adds up. This is why daily SPF protection should be the number one priority for your skin, 365 days a year no matter the weather, even if youâre not spending much time outside. esmiâs Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen (SPF 30) is your skinâs antioxidant-infused, daily defence against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. The non-greasy, silky smooth formulation also includes the anti-ageing benefits of carrot root oil and rosehip extract. High in vitamin E, vitamin A and carotenes, carrot root oil tones and tightens skin while rosehip extract to improve the look of fine lines, prevents and helps reverse sun damage. Green tea helps neutralise skin-damaging free radicals, vitamin C and caffeic acid in cucumber deliver an antioxidant boost while calming inflamed and irritated skin. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and non-irritant, esmiâs Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen (SPF 30) suits all skin types and can be worn under makeup.  Have skincare questions or concerns? The esmi Skin Minerals team would love to help you find the right products and routine for your healthiest skin ever. Get in touch with an esmi Skin Mineral consultant to book your complimentary skin consultation.
Why Your Skin Needs Oil (Yes, Even Oily Skin Types!)
There is a lot to love about facial oil. It can plump and smooth lines, increase hydration, strengthen the skin barrier and regulate oil production. Letâs take a closer look at why incorporating the right facial oil into your routine will support healthy, glowing skin. Strengthens your skinâs protective barrier A well functioning skin barrier is the secret to healthy skin. Itâs essentially your front-line protection against environmental stressors including; UV, pollution, infection, and toxic chemicals. This barrier is made up of multiple layers of cells called corneocytes and these layers are held together by lipids (your skinâs natural fats), cholesterol, and ceramides. They form a barrier which not only protects skin from external stressors but also keeps moisture from leaving the skin too. When this barrier is compromised skin becomes susceptible to conditions like irritation, redness and dry, flaky patches. Applying a facial oil helps seal up any of the cracks between the cells in the barrier, making it stronger and more effective at locking in moisture. Jojoba oil is especially good at strengthing a compromised skin barrier as itâs the closest botanical match to our skinâs natural sebum. Recommended: esmi Skin Mineralâs 24k Gold Nourishing Oil contains a trio of coconut, jojoba and avocado oils are excellent moisturisers, rich in skin-saving fatty acids and a combination of powerful vitamins and antioxidants. Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Some oils have earned an excellent anti-ageing reputation for their ability to firm skin and minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Rosehip oil and acai oil, in particular, have the ability to plump skin, increasing hydration and derma strength. Rosehip oil works by stimulating fibroblasts, which are responsible for the creation of collagen and skinâs overall firmness. Abundant in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals acai oil is also rich in fatty acids that help the skin appear firmer and work to protect it from environmental aggressors, which slows the signs of ageing. Boosts hydration levels Skin needs two types of moisture to function properly; oil moisture and water moisture. Getting the balance of these two right helps create a healthy, hydrated complexion. When skin is lacking is either water or oil, it becomes dull, flaky, sensitive and symptoms of ageing accelerate. As we age, oil production slows down and skincare habits like over-exfoliating, using harsh cleansers or a multitude of different products can also strip the skin of its essential oil. A facial oil suited for your skin type can help you deal with dehydration on the oil side of things and keep skin calm. It also helps repair the skin barrier, as mentioned earlier, which helps protect against excessive transepidermal water loss (moisture evaporation through the skin) which occurs when the skin barrier is compromised. Recommended: esmi Half Hydrating and Half Nourishing Acai Duo. Ideal for thirsty skin in need of extra nourishment to combat dehydration, fine lines and damage this skin treat hydrates, softens and regenerates. Repairs damaged skin and speed up scar healing External stressors like UV rays and pollution to lifestyle habits, such as smoking, poor diet all weaken the skin. Other factors such as medical trauma, acne and exposure to chemicals - including some skincare ingredients - also contribute to damaged skin cells. This leads to symptoms like inflammation, dryness, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. The right oils, fully of fatty acids and antioxidants, support the regeneration of skin cells, minimise scars, slow the ageing process, and help the skin to regain a brighter colour and smoother tone. Rosehip seed oil deserves a special mention here for its ability to repair damaged skin, thanks to its high levels of essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which play a key role in tissue and cell regeneration. Evening Primrose oil also contains a less common type of fatty acid called Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), which repairs skin, restores elasticity and improves hydration. Recommended: esmi Skin Mineralâs 24k Gold Nourishing Oil contains a trio of coconut, jojoba and avocado oils are excellent moisturisers, rich in skin-saving fatty acids and a combination of powerful vitamins and antioxidants. Helps regulate and balance oily skin - minimising breakouts Yes, itâs true! Using the right facial oil can actually regulate sebum production and restore the balance of oily skin. Excess production of oil occurs when the oil-water content of the skin is out of balance. If you use products that over-strip the skin in an effort to remove excess oil it can result in the overproduction of sebum which can make breakouts worse. Applying the right kind of oil after using a gentle cleanser can help the skin to rebalance, it wonât need to compensate for lost oil by producing more. Not all oils are created equal though - some can aggravate sebum production. The best options for oily, breakout-prone skin are lightweight oils with a low comedogenic rating and those with calming, anti-bacterial properties. Jojoba, acai, rosehip and almond oil are all effective options. Recommended: esmi Skin Minerals Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil - A lightweight face oil brimming with superfood ingredients to increase elasticity and hydration, reduce redness and regulate oil.  If you have been hesitant to include a face oil in your routine, hopefully, these benefits have demonstrated how important replenishing and maintaining your skinâs oil is for a healthy, vibrant complexion. If you have any questions about the best kind of oil to use for your skin type, reach out to the team of esmi skincare experts for your complimentary skin consultation. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
A Guide to Getting Rid of Acne
Our guide to getting rid of acne will step you through key tips for treating acne and pimple prone skin effectively. Acne can affect you at any life stage - whether youâre forty or fifteen. Maybe you never had pimples as a teenager, but suddenly in your 30s, theyâre showing up regularly. Do you know what type of acne you have? Severe forms of acne will require medication as well as the right skincare routine. If your acne is less severe, you can likely clear your skin without medication. You can read more about the different types of acne here. Or you probably want to understand the cause of your acne by face mapping. Getting rid of acne fast is probably your skin goal, but depending on the type of acne you have, it does take time and a commitment to the right routine. Hereâs our guide for getting rid of acne and how to treat pimples. Choose a gentle cleanser The first step in getting rid of acne is choosing the right cleanser. Many of the cleansers designed to treat acne can be so harsh they actually make the problem worse. Salicylic acid is a popular acne treatment because it does a great job cleaning pores and getting rid of excess sebum. The issue with salicylic acid? It strips your skin of natural oils and dries it out which actually making you more susceptible to acne. The best way to get rid of acne is to look for gentler product options with low doses of active exfoliating ingredients. For example fruit, glycolic and lactic acids deeply cleanse the pores but also maintain the oil-moisture balance of your skin, which is so important. Acne is caused by a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) which live on the skin and contribute to the infection of pimples. Choosing a cleanser with gentle antiseptic properties is key to tackling the bacteria and getting rid of acne fast. When it comes to getting rid of body acne, the same thing applies - look for gentler washes that contain antiseptic properties to target pimples without stripping. We recommend: esmi Uncomplicated Cleanser With Anti-Redness Tips for washing acne-prone skin Now youâve got the right cleanser, make the most of it by washing your face the right way. Using lukewarm water, wet your face and work your cleanser into your skin using small circular motions. You can use your fingers or a microfibre cleansing cloth. Take at least a minute to cleanse to ensure you maximise all the benefits from the cleanserâs ingredients. Then, rinse well with lukewarm water to remove all traces of the product, dead skin cells and dirt. Then, cleanse again. Double cleansing is important when getting rid of acne. During the day, airborne bacteria and pollution are attracted to your skin. A double cleanse is essential at night, to remove all makeup, dirt and, bacteria that make breakouts worse. Exfoliate weekly Exfoliation can assist in managing acne by helping clear the pores of the build up of impurities and bacteria that cause acne to form. It can also help lighten and smooth the appearance of discolouration as a result of post-inflammatory scarring. Extra care should be taken when exfoliating chronic or cystic acne - it can become extremely aggravating if not done gently and with the correct type of exfoliation method. When you incorporate an exfoliator or try a new exfoliator in your routine, start slowly and take note of how your skin responds. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum to draw out congestion and impurities. Keep skin hydrated Dehydrated skin contributes to the vast majority of skin problems - including acne. However, the importance of hydration is often overlooked in skincare routines focused on getting rid of acne. Dehydrated and dry skin are not the same thing. While dry skin is a skin type, dehydration is a skin condition that can happen to all skin types and actually triggers acne. Whatâs the difference? Dehydrated skin lacks water while dry skin lacks oil (sebum) When your skin is dehydrated, there isnât enough moisture (water) in the outer layer of the skin - the stratum corneum. Your skinâs natural oil, sebum, has nothing to with its hydration, which is why oily skin types prone to acne can still be dehydrated. When skin is dehydrated, it can lead to sensitivity, inflammation, and acne. Skin cells canât move through the cycle of dead skin cell removal efficiently which leads to hair follicles with dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria, leading to breakouts. To combat dehydration, the skin cellâs water content needs to be replenished. Hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in our skin, is a humectant and works by attracting water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrating cells from the inside out. Products containing hyaluronic acid should have a place in your skincare routine for getting rid of acne. We recommend: esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Use an anti-inflammatory serum Incorporating a serum designed to target acne inflammation can assist in cooling and healing damaged, red skin. Acne is considered an inflammatory skin condition. All types of acne begin when pores in your skin become blocked with dead cells, oil, and other debris. This creates a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and cause the area to become infected which leads to inflamed, swollen skin. Look for serums that contain ingredients to reduce inflammation and also work on restoring the skin barrier to a healthy state. Here are a few: Aloe vera: Known for its ability to treat wounds and inflammation, aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties to calm angry skin. Tasmannia lanceolata extract: A powerful antioxidant and speeds up healing with arnica, a powerful anti-inflammatory. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Assists in strengthens the moisture barrier and helps minimise the appearance of redness. We recommend: esmi Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie If you choose to use both the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum and the Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie, we recommend Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie for the morning and Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum in the evening. Use oils to protect the skin barrier A common skincare misconception about getting rid of acne and how to treat pimples is breakout-prone skin types should avoid using oil at all costs. This isnât true. Some oils (not all!) can be beneficial in reducing breakouts. Cleansing is important but so is protecting the skin by maintaining the right oil-moisture balance. When this balance is compromised (ie - the skin is stripped of its natural oils) the skin becomes inflamed and is more susceptible to bacteria which will trigger acne. Oil is a wonderful way to maintain balance and protect the skinâs delicate barrier. The best oils for combination to oily-skin types are those high in a fatty acids omega 3 and omega 6. Effective oils to help in your quest of getting rid of acne include - Rosehip seed oil - Brimming with the fatty acids of Linoleic Acid (Omega 6) and Alpha Linolenic Acid (Omega 3), rosehip seed oil assists with tissue regeneration and improving the skinâs barrier. It also contains vitamin E, an anti-inflammatory antioxidant and a combination of Vitamins A&E, which can help treat acne. Jojoba oil - Jojoba has a molecular makeup similar to the skinâs natural sebum and is an anti-inflammatory which can improve the symptoms of acne. The benefits of face oil are boosted when applied before bed. Overnight, your skin goes into regeneration mode and is primed to deeply absorb all the vitamins and nutrients of your skincare products. We recommend: Peppermint Green Oil for oily, breakout prone skin types. If you have normal, sensitive or dry skin and are experiencing breakouts try we recommend esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Multi-mask While some individual products do suit all skin types, a full skincare routine isnât a one-size-fits-all process. This is especially true if you have combination skin that is acne-prone. For example, your t-zone could be oily, with large pores and breakout frequently while your cheek area is drier with smaller, more refined pores. This is where multi-masking can be an effective skincare technique for getting rid of acne. Multi-masking is essentially treating skin using different types of masks on different areas of your face, depending on the skin challenge for each area. To treat a pimple-prone oily t-zone, choose a detoxifying mask that targets deep pore cleansing and apply it to the t-zone. At the same time, apply a hydration boosting mask to the cheek area where the skin is drier. Charcoal based masks are master skin detoxifiers. Activated charcoal naturally draws bacteria, chemicals, and dirt from deep within the pores to the surface of the skin. Getting rid of acne means clean, clear pores and activated charcoal delivers. The customised approach to multi-masking means you give your skin the different treatments it needs without overwhelming it with products. Using too many products can leave your skin irritated and trigger even more breakouts. We recommend: esmi Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask and esmi Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask The acne products you need in 1 handy bundle! Try our Acne Skin Solution Bundle. This simple regime will provide anti-bacterial clearing ingredients, as well as anti-inflammatories to reduce redness and inflammation, whilst keeping skin hydrated. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
Your Guide to Getting Rid of Blackheads
Getting rid of blackheads is a skincare challenge most of us tackle at some stage. Blackheads are fairly common, even if you donât experience acne or regular breakouts. Our guide to getting rid of blackheads can help you make a few important changes to your skincare routine to treat existing blackheads and prevent them from forming. What is a blackhead? The scientific name for a blackhead is an âopen comedoneâ. Itâs essentially a pore clogged with dead skin, sebum and dirt that has opened a little and been exposed to air. The air turns dirt, oil and dead skin trapped in the pore black; which is how a blackhead gets its name. Blackheads are most common for oily and combination skin types - you might find dilated pores and blackheads are something you experience more with age. The reason for this is as UV damage accumulates over the years, the skin structure around pore weakens causing it to open wider. This means itâs more likely for impurities to become trapped and blackheads to form. Wearing heavy makeup has the potential to worsen the appearance of blackheads too, thanks to the pigments and the build-up in pores where it mixes with sebum and cells. Use blackhead face masks containing bentonite clay Bentonite clay is a hero ingredient in products to get rid of blackheads. Bentonite soaks up extra oil from the skin, a little like a paper towel for sebum, and is known for its ability to draw out toxins, heavy metals, impurities, and chemicals from the skin too. This is why bentonite is beneficial for skin types prone to blackheads as it keeps the skin clean and as oil-free as possible. When choosing a mask with bentonite, pay attention to the other ingredients in the product. Bentonite can be quite drying, so youâll want the formulation to be balanced with ingredients that retain moisture and repair the skin too. We recommend: esmi Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask Choose a blackhead cleanser that exfoliates gently As with acne treatments, cleansers with salicylic acid are popular products to get rid of blackheads as salicylic acid breaks down buildup and promotes clearer pores. The problem is, salicylic acid can excessively irritate and dry the skin - potentially compromising your skin barrier. Instead, choose gentler cleanser options with low doses of active exfoliating ingredients. For example fruit, glycolic and lactic acids slough away the old cells on the skin's surface by dissolving the bonds that hold them together (unplugging the pore) while maintaining the oil-moisture balance of your skin. Used daily, a cleanser with gentle exfoliating acids will prevent the blackheads before they form and help clear existing pores. We recommend: esmi Uncomplicated Cleanser With Anti-Redness Incorporate ingredients with activated charcoal Like bentonite clay, charcoal is a wonderful skin detoxifier and is one of the best treatments for getting rid of blackheads. Think of activated charcoal as a magnet to draw dirt out of pores; itâs great at adsorption. Adsorption (not absorption) occurs when molecules of one substance bind to the surface of anotherâin this case, activated charcoal. When impurities come into contact with activated charcoal they stick to it and are then washed away when you rinse. It can also bind the beneficial things like vitamins and minerals, too. Make sure your activated charcoal skincare also contains replenishing ingredients to purify and nourish. The types of products to get rid of blackheads containing activated charcoal ranges from soaps to serums and masks. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Choose mineral makeup If you wear makeup, choosing non-comedogenic mineral cosmetics is one of the best ways to avoid blackheads. Non-comedogenic is a term used to describe a product or ingredients that wonât block pores whereas comedogenic ingredients are scientifically proven to block pores and increase the chance acne cosmetica. Hereâs where mineral makeup comes in. Itâs made up of tiny particles of naturally occurring minerals including iron oxide, zinc oxide, talc and titanium oxide. Itâs free from ingredients that trigger blackheads like parabens, binders and fillers. Mineral makeup is ideal for combination or oily skin as it helps absorb excess oil and cover breakouts without actually making them worse. Avoid pore strips How do you get rid of blackheads? Not with pore strips! Pore strips might give you the satisfying feeling of seeing the grime from your clogged pores on the strip but theyâre actually not one of the best ways to get rid of blackheads. The truth is, while many believe they are how to reduce blackheads, they can actually cause your pores to stretch even further, resulting in more blackheads. One of the key ingredients in popular synthetic pore strips is Polyquaternium-37, this is what sticks to the skin to remove the build-up. The problem is, this can be a harsh and abrasive way for unclogging pores and getting rid of blackheads. Pore strips have the potential to tear or injure your skin - particularly if you have thin or problematic skin, like acne, rosacea and psoriasis. Also, the strips only remove the surface part of the blackhead. While the pore strip looks like itâs doing a lot of hard work, it wonât actually deep clean the pore or prevent blackheads from recurring. Final tip to reduce blackheads - use sunscreen If you have oily skin prone to blackheads and large pores it can be tempting to skip the daily application of sunscreen - but donât! Sunscreen is vital for healthy skin to protect against premature ageing and more importantly, reducing your risk of developing skin cancer. Look for non comedogenic sunscreen to avoid clogging your pores further. Get rid of blackheads for good with esmi Skin Minerals Ready to beat blackheads for good? Take on our tips listed above and wave goodbye to blackheads. Kick-start your skincare for blackheads with our range of effective acne products and cleansers. Learn more about skincare Pimple Mapping for Treating Acne The Best Face Mask for Acne How to Remove Blackheads Sometimes the best way to get rid of blackheads is to book a visit to a professional dermatologist for an extraction. Try making changes to your skincare routine first and hopefully you wonât need to go through a professional extraction. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: esmi.com.au/book-skinEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
Saving your Skin in Summer
Our skin can go through a bit of a rough time over the summer months! We leave the comfort of our aircon, cars, office or house into the scorching summer heat, to jump in the pool or the oceanâperhaps soak up some sun after lathering ourselves with sunscreens. Possibly over indulge a little (or a lot!) with summer festivities. All this fun can leave our skin a little worse for wear, so weâve put together some tips to keep your skin glowing in tip top condition this summer. Let's save your skin đ Extra heat means dehydrated skin is expected to follow. Just because youâre oily doesnât mean your skin is hydrated. Air conditioning, swimming in chlorine or salt water, even a few cheeky margaritas with the girls can contribute. Sometimes it doesnât matter how much water we drink we still have to give our skin extra hydration. For the ultimate hydrating skin feed apply Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum under our NEW Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask and sleep in it! Let your restful slumber do all the work and wake up to the freshest, most hydrated, glowing skin, ever! With application upon application of sunscreen in the warmer months, it is super important to make sure weâre thoroughly removing it all, as sunscreen ingredients can typically block pores and we donât want any nasty breakouts, try The Uncomplicated Cleanser. With a double cleanse, this super gentle formulation will remove all sunscreen and makeup without drying out our skin, leaving your skin soft and ready to apply your favourite serums. With Christmas festivities in full swing, and always wanting to look our bestâoften we apply more makeup than usual. Ensure youâre applying a non-comedogenic makeup to avoid breaking out. The esmi range of Liquid or Powder Mineral Foundation formulations are actually treatments for your skin! These beauties only contain purposefully good ingredients for your skin, they wonât clog your pores and will allow your skin to breath. Apply a dusting of powder over the top of liquid foundation for a full coverage look, and even try using our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum as a primer. Remember the double cleanse when itâs time to come off. Night skin care routine For a quiet night in and some deserved self-love, we suggest a pampering treat with this luxe regime. Perfect to brighten your skin when itâs feeling a little lacklustre or even to give it extra glow before a special event. Step 1. Cleanse with The Uncomplicated Cleanser.Step 2. Follow with Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum, leave on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse.Step 3. Apply Pomegranate Brightening Serum.Step 4. Apply Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask.Step 5. Put on your favourite tunes, pour yourself a beverage, put your feet up and RELAX! Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
How to Use Hyaluronic Acid
Fight dehydration, dullness, oiliness and fine lines with hyaluronic acid skin care. All skin types can benefit from hyaluronic acid, a superior hydrating ingredient that attracts moisture to the skinâs surface for a plumper, hydrated and radiant complexion. Hyaluronic acid for your face Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring sugar molecule found in your body that helps skin retain much-needed moisture for plumpness and elasticity. Your bodyâs natural levels of hyaluronic acid decline as you age so using hyaluronic acid skin care can help increase moisture to combat dullness, loss of elasticity, fine lines, and wrinkles. The exciting thing about hyaluronic acid is its amazing ability to attract water. A humectant ingredient, it draws moisture from the air and deeper layers of your skin to the surface layer. It can actually hold 1000x times its weight in water! This makes it incredibly effective at boosting the skinâs moisture levels to address concerns like flakiness, dullness, and fine lines. Dry vs dehydrated skin - what is the difference? Hyaluronic acid skin care helps target the skin concern of dehydration. Dry skin and dehydrated skin share some similar symptoms but they are actually two different things. Dry skin lacks oil, whereas dehydrated skin lacks water. An itchy, flaky complexion are symptoms of dry skin while dehydrated skin is usually inflamed, dull, flaky, fine lines are more pronounced and skin feels tight even after moisturising. Put simply, dry skin is a skin type while dehydration is a skin condition. All skin types can become dehydrated; oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin. How can hyaluronic acid skin care help? To combat dehydration for all skin types, the skin cellâs water content needs to be replenished. Including hyaluronic acid skin care in your routine will deliver much needed hydration for smoother, plumped looking skin. Hyaluronic acid also helps repair an impaired skin barrier that is suffering from dry, flaky, reactive or over stripped skin. When your skin barrier is compromised, your skin is more susceptible to accelerated ageing and damage caused by inflammation, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Strengthening and repairing a damaged barrier helps skin protect itself against these stressors. This super hydrator also regulates oil flow for oily skin types to target breakouts and can even help to rejuvenate dark circles under the eyes. Because itâs found naturally in your body, itâs much easier for your skin to recognise and absorb rapidly and gentle enough not to irritate, making it ideal for sensitive skin. As all skin types are susceptible to dehydration - oily, dry, sensitive and combination - every routine will benefit from the hydrating powers of hyaluronic acid. Why your skin will love esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum 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 for a plumper, brighter complexion. Perfect for all skin types and ages, this serum hydrates from the inside out, restores, repairs and reveals healthy skin with a radiant and hydrated glow. The hydrating serum also contains niacinamide (Vitamin B3) for skin repair, restoration and to regulate oil flow which in turn aids in breakout prevention for oily skin types. It also contains allantoin to promote cell longevity. Its lightweight texture means that it is a great way to hydrate oily skin without clogging pores, whilst it is gentle enough for sensitive skin types. How to use hyaluronic acid serum Dispense a pearl size amount of serum from the dropper onto fingertips and massage into the skin after cleansing or exfoliation. Can be used morning and night and around the eye area. The hydrating serum isnât a moisturiser, it works by attracting water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrating cells from the inside out. After hydrating the skin, itâs important to then apply a face oil or moisturiser over the top to lock in hydration. For combination dry or dry skin types we recommend applying 24k Gold Nourishing Oil or Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil to lock, seal and create a protective barrier on the skin.  If you have any questions about hyaluronic acid skin care in your routine, our esmi Skin Experts are here to help! Get a free skin consultation today.  You may also like to read: The Difference Between Oily Skin and Hydrated Skin The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Skin Hydration - Why It's Important
What Type of Acne do I Have?
Acne. Itâs no oneâs idea of a good skin time. From pesky pimples and blackheads to painful cysts, there are different types of acne. Knowing the type of acne you have will help you treat it the right way and avoid permanent damage to your skin. What causes acne? Each pore on your skin is home to a hair follicle. At the base of the hair follicle is a sebaceous gland which secretes oil (sebum) out of the pore. Pores often become blocked with a mix of dirt, dead skin cells and sebum. When this happens the bacteria responsible for acne can flourish inside the follicle. Normally it sits on the skinâs surface, without causing much trouble. The bacteria thrive by consuming the follicleâs contents which produce chemicals and enzymes that result in inflammation. Acne spreads when the blocked follicle breaks down, and the bacteria inside spread to nearby skin which results in groups of pimples and lesions. Hormones play the biggest role in causing acne but other factors like cosmetics, your skincare routine and lifestyle can also trigger a round of breakouts.  What are the different types of acne? Let's take a deep-dive into the different types of acne. Acne Vulgaris (Common Acne) This is the type of acne youâre likely to get as a teenager â blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Breakouts can happen in areas that secrete more oil than other parts of the body so shoulders, chest and back acne are common too. Blackheads Blackheads (also known as comedones) are one of the milder forms of acne that can usually be treated with an effective skincare routine. Blackheads are abnormally blocked pores, they occur when a lot of dead cells accumulate together at the centre of the pore and stretches it open. Itâs a common misconception that the black you see in a blackhead is dirt. Itâs actually the pore turning black because itâs been stretched open, exposed to the air and begins to oxidize. Whiteheads Those tiny white bumps are called whiteheads. Like blackheads, they are pores that have become blocked but the pore doesnât stretch open. Instead, it closes over the plug of dead skin cells, creating a white or yellow bump. Whiteheads are known as âclosed comedonesâ. SKIN TIP â The right cleanser is SO important! Itâs tempting to reach for those soapy, foamy cleansers to try and get your oil production under control but they only make things worse. Sulphates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in harsh cleansers strip your skin completely of its essential oils, which triggers it to produce even more. Break the cycle by choosing sulphate-free gentle cleansers. Acne Cosmetica This is a mild but persistent form of acne; itâs your skin telling you that it doesnât like some of the makeup or other beauty products youâre using. Acne cosmetica shows up as small bumps across the surface of the skin. The result is a rough to touch and uneven looking complexion. You may see a few small whiteheads and blackheads appear but generally, there is very little, if any, inflammation. The good news about this acne? Itâs usually pretty easy to treat; simply ditch the product causing the irritation. Itâs a little trickier if you use a lot of different products â youâll need to figure out which one is the culprit by process of elimination. SKIN TIP â As a general tip, steer clear of heavy, oil-based makeup. It does a great job at clogging up your pores. Stick to mineral based makeup which is naturally oil-free, a good choice for acne-prone complexions. Get into the healthy skin habit of double cleansing at night time too. This ensures every trace of makeup and grime from the day is washed away. Go makeup free a few days each week. This will give your skin a chance to breathe and heal from the cosmetica type of acne. Hormonal acne Hormonal acne plagues many women long after puberty. Itâs caused by excess oil produced when hormones fluctuate (think periods, pregnancy and menopause) and drama happens under the skin causing clogged pores. Itâs common for hormonal acne to show up as angry red pimples around the jaw and neck area. Many women help regulate their hormone levels to improve the appearance of this type of acne by taking oral contraception. For tougher cases, where severe acne treatment is required, hormonal treatment co-cyprindiol might be used. SKIN TIP â Whether itâs a mild or more severe case of hormonal acne youâre tackling, regular exfoliation will definitely help. It smoothes and softens skin and by clearing away dead cells and sebum pores will stay clear which helps control breakouts. Steer clear of harsh, grainy exfoliators which will only irritate the skin more. Opt for products with low doses of active exfoliating ingredients like fruit, glycolic and lactic acids. These can gently and gradually exfoliate skin on a daily basis. Choosing a body wash with these same acid ingredients will also make an effective back acne treatment. Cystic Acne Cystic acne isnât fun. Itâs an aggressive form of acne presenting as painful, inflamed, red bumps. It usually affects large areas of your face and can continue for years. Itâs also the acne with the most potential to result in permanent scarring, like ice pick and deep pit scarring. It occurs the same way as other acne but infection and inflammation are on the extreme end of the scale. The bacteria spread between multiple blocked pores causing large areas to break out in tender, inflammatory nodules underneath the skin. Cystic acne is one type of acne that calls for severe treatment, in many cases topical treatments alone wonât cut it. That said, make sure your skincare is on point to compliment any medications. SKIN TIP â Focus on products that help soothe inflamed skin and have antibacterial properties. Our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie contains anti-inflammatory and powerful antioxidant Tasmania Lanceolata Extract as well as Cymbopogon Martini which is antimicrobial and antibacterial. The golden rule No matter what type of acne you have, there is a golden rule for all. Youâve already heard it from your mum but weâre telling you again â never pick your breakouts. Squeezing and picking wonât make types of acne go away, it will only make it worse. Youâll expose your skin to more dirt and bacteria and spread it to other areas of your face for a fresh round of breakouts. Picking will also cause swelling and scarring. No matter how tempting it is to pick that big old corker; hands off! Your skin will thank you. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
How to Choose the Right Foundation
Choosing the right foundation can be quite daunting, and if you are not sure what youâre looking for â oh dear, talk about mission impossible! I have on many occasions excitedly purchased a new foundation, tried it out and, unfortunately, discovered that âEEK, I do NOT like the finish it gives.â or âWow, where did my freckles go?!â To avoid buyers regret, check out my two tips when purchasing foundations. 1. What coverage do you want? You want to decide on what level of coverage you are after. Generally, youâll be looking at three different options: Sheer (or Light) Medium and Maximum. Sheer Coverage gives a minimal coverage and is light enough that it generally doesnât cover freckles. If you want the appearance of no foundation at all, similar to a moisturiser with a tint, then Sheer Coverage is probably more what you are after. As we move up to the other end of âcoverage scaleâ we meet Maximum Coverage or full coverage. Maximum coverage is ideal for the person looking for a flawless finish that will conceal problem areas and even skin tone. In the middle of the scale, we find Medium Coverage. Itâs going to help even out skin tone and cover most imperfections and as the name suggests, the coverage is more than sheer but not as strong as the maximum coverage. Itâs a little of column of A and a little of column B. 2. What finish are you after? Looking for the opposite of shiny or glossy? Meet Matte. This is the sure thing for a flat, natural finish without any glisten. If we start introducing buzz words like Radiance and Luminosity, weâre talking about Dewy (Which we arenât sure is a real word â I think itâs been made up) A Dewy finish is going to leave your skin glowing and glistening. Finally, the Velvet Finish (or satin) Is the most common as it sits nicely between flat Matte & Dewy. Generally, an ageing skin may enjoy a Velvet finish as the foundation wonât accentuate any fine lines or wrinkles. For B â E â A â U â TIFUL coverage and a velvet finish, you just canât go past the ever popular and coveted mineral and Vegan Liquid Mineral Foundation. Donât believe us? Check out the abundance of 5-star reviews from happy customers. If youâre thinking âYeah, that sounds great, but, I prefer a powder that offers good coverage and a soft glisten,â well my friend, you canât go past the esmi loose mineral powder foundation that will offer you build-able coverage and a beautiful glow⌠Psst⌠the product is applied really well with the esmi kabuki brush too. Oh, so light, sheer and nourishing is the BB cream, especially perfect for the day you just donât feel like wearing âmakeup.â Treat your skin with Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid and Allantoin to Calm, Hydrate and Nourish your skin. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
