How to Repair & Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
In information that will surprise exactly no one, here at esmi, we’re really passionate about helping you take care of your skin. It is the largest organ in the human body and is the first line of defence when it comes to taking care of the rest of your body. But what protects the protector? Well, that’s the appropriately named skin barrier’s job. But what happens when the skin barrier is damaged? And how do you restore the skin barrier? Excellent questions… What is the skin barrier? First, let’s go back to basics. Your skin is made up of layers, each with their own unique abilities and purposes. The top layer is called the epidermis, while the outermost layer of that is called the stratum corneum, and the lips that keep those skin cells together is the skin barrier. Are you still with us? In a nutshell, the skin barrier has two main jobs; it keeps out harmful environmental toxins to keep your whole body safe, while making sure essential hydration stays locked in. Why is the skin barrier so important? When the skin barrier is happy and healthy, you’ll notice your skin feels soft, hydrated and smooth. On the other hand, when the barrier is damaged, your skin will not hesitate to tell you. A compromised skin barrier cannot retain moisture as well, and it lets in more pollutants and bacteria - all of the stuff we want to keep out of our skin. Early signs of ageing are often thanks to a damaged barrier as we lose crucial ceramides and fatty acids. Signs of a damaged skin barrier A compromised skin barrier can be brought about by a whole range of things, like UV exposure, smoking, a lack of sleep, stress, exposure to pollution, over-exfoliation (good thing ours are rather gentle…) or good old fashioned genetics. Like we’ve mentioned before, your skin has a really bad poker face - if your skin barrier is damaged, it will become quite obvious. Rosacea, eczema, dry and flaky skin, irritation, hyperpigmentation, acne and in extreme cases, infections, are signs of an unhappy skin barrier. How to repair your skin barrier The number one rule when restoring the skin barrier is to be gentle. Say it with us: be gentle! Using overly stripping and harsh products is only going to make the situation worse. On that note, starting with a gentle cleanser, like The Uncomplicated Cleanser will remove dirt and toxins without compromising the skin barrier. It is also key to cleanse with lukewarm water, nothing too hot or too cold (we like to call it the Goldilocks rule). Exfoliate (gently!) with our Gentle-Foliant range to remove build up from the day without stripping the skin and making the whole situation worse. On days when you need a ‘treat yourself’ moment, the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask is rich in nourishing ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, jojoba oil and natural wax (definitely not as scary as it sounds) which are all key for restoring a damaged skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid helps to repair the skin barrier, and boosts hydration levels for a double whammy of skin goodness. That’s where our Hyaluronic Acid serum comes in. It is a humectant, meaning it can attract water to your skin to give it a big drink of water. Our body does naturally produce hyaluronic acid, but it is found mainly in the deeper layers of the skin, so applying it topically gives the outer layers some love. Using oils like jojoba and rosehip will restore your skin barrier and keep dry, flaky skin away. It just so happens that our 24K Gold Nourishing Oil has a healthy dose of both. Oh, and that luxe gold doesn’t hurt either! Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep the nasties away. Think of them like a boost to your skin’s natural defences and a great way to repair the skin barrier. The Skin Mylck contains Probiotic Lysates which can aid in strengthening the skin barrier against outside irritants. It acts as a light moisturiser and is the perfect way to top off your Skin Treats. And to top it all off, never, ever start the day without SPF. Sun exposure is no friend to your skin barrier so keep those rays off with the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen. Keeping your skin barrier strong will make a huuuge difference to the health of your skin. If you have any other questions about how to keep yours happy or repair a damaged skin barrier, chat to our friendly skin experts today!
10 Tips to Living a Healthy Lifestyle
Because YOU are worth looking after. What does a healthy lifestyle look like to you? Maybe it’s being fit enough to run around with your kids. Or building a strong immune system so you can fight off sickness and disease. Maybe it’s the little things like incorporating daily rituals like meditation, regular exercise and time with loved ones to keep you mentally clear and strong. Or perhaps it’s the ability to access nutrient-dense foods that fuel you from the inside out! Whatever it may be - we all have the ability to make changes in our life to work towards that healthy lifestyle we crave. Well, we have collated our top 10 tips to help you start living your best life! 1. Wake up early There’s something pretty magical about the tranquil early hours of the morning, before the hustle and bustle of the world begins. The house is quiet, the sun is coming up over the horizon, you can hear the subtle bubbling of the kettle boiling or coffee machine extracting your liquid gold and it’s just you. Your are present, in the moment. At the cusp of a brand new day. Nice, right?! Maybe you use this time to exercise, to meditate or read and centre your thoughts or maybe it’s to get some jobs done around the house to set up a clean and tidy space for the day ahead. Whatever this may look like for you, waking up early seems to be an essential part of the process when it comes to all those crazy creative and successful minds we have out there - so maybe it’s worth a shot? Even just getting up 10 mins earlier than you usually do every day for a week, then increase it a little as the week’s progress and see how it makes you feel. And if it doesn’t work for you, toss it! 2. Eat nutrient-dense foods every day Every. Day. That’s right people, The Wiggles weren’t wrong. Fruit salad is yummy yummy for the body! And VITAL in leading a healthy lifestyle. We will leave the kind of ‘diet’ to you. But what we are sure we can all agree on, is that ensuring we eat enough fresh fruits and veggies will be one of the best ways to provide our bodies with the vast range of nutrients, vitamins and minerals that it requires to live out our healthy lifestyle. So whether you hide them in your smoothies/cooking so you can’t taste them, or you munch on a floret of broccoli for morning tea, EAT UP! 3. Drink plenty of water The other resource we have, that is ESSENTIAL for a healthy body and mind! We don’t know about you, but the days where we forget to reach for our water bottles, things get haaaazzyyyyy. Our brains not only NEED water to function at their optimal level but our body is made up of so much water that without it, we cannot possibly live out our healthy lifestyle successfully. Always forget to drink water throughout the day? Grab one of those bottles with the times on the side - perfect at keeping your intake accountable! 4. Exercise every day So we’re not saying you need to go sign up for a gym membership (that you may never actually use) or that you need to run a 10k marathon. Although both of these activities are great options! What we are saying, is just make a start![Text Wrapping Break]Create a habit, just a little bit of exercise a day. It really can go a long way in keeping the doctor away ;) #exerciseisthenewapples So whether you’re a walk in the morning type person or an at-home workout with your 2L bottles of milk for dumbbells type person, you do YOU! Just get that body MOVING! 5. Surround yourself with community A healthy lifestyle HAS to include healthy relationships. Why? Because life really is all about relationships. With yourself, your partner, your family members, your friends, your neighbours, your pets or even your local barista! We will all face times in life where we will either need or crave relationships, so the more healthy relationships you can cultivate in your daily life, the better. 6. Engage in a hobby There is something so fulfilling about having a hobby of your own. Something you love to do, that gives you enjoyment and forces you to just be present in the moment, merely there for your own benefit of participating. If you’re a single person, this can create a community around you you didn’t necessarily have before. If you’re a mum, it can create an ‘out’ from mum life to fill up your own cup in order to better serve your kids and family. Whatever it looks like, find something that makes you feel joy. #mariekondowouldbesoproud 7. Give to others Ever heard of the saying ‘It’s the thought that counts’? Well, we believe it to be very true. Take Christmas time for example. There is something so magical about it right? Although there are a few reasons for this, we think one of them is that it’s essentially, all about GIVING. There’s such a wonderful feeling when you get to watch someone open a gift that you’ve spent your time finding and hard-earned money buying. Giving to others, gives back to you. It’s a simple truth! And if you really want to experience the ‘health’ benefits that giving to others can give you, simply volunteer your time at a shelter or somewhere they provide food to the underprivileged and homeless. That will certainly give you a perspective and help you practice gratitude for what you have. 8. Invest in self-care A trip to Bora Bora! #treatyoself. Okay, so maybe not on the cards for all of us. But the premise is - spend money, time, resources on caring for others yes. But also? Spend those things on YOU too! One of the best and easiest ways you can invest in self-care is with good skincare and pamper night supplies! So schedule yourself a self-care date night! Run a bath, grab out one of your favourite face masks like our Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask 150ml to hit your skin with a good dose of hydration. And finish off with a serum like the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil to lock in some moisture for the long night of beauty sleep ahead. Pop on your favourite movie and reecchhaaarrggeee! 9. Prioritise your mental health A big one. And in the current world we’re all facing, a very important one for us to prioritise. Whether that means you learn the art of meditation, steer away from things that bring you down, remove toxic relationships from your life or sit down with a professional to work through some things. Just do it. Today! And while we’re on it, is there someone you could create safe space for in your world to be able to share where they are at too? 10. Learn the art of accepting help For some, this can feel similar to climbing Mount Everest. For others, it’s like you’re the person lost at sea and you see the rescue chopper circling above you! But whether it’s easy for you or hard, it’s important to learn to accept it. Because we all need help, at times, all of us. There is no shame in accepting it, and you’re certainly not alone. Sometimes accepting help is the beginning of your journey to creating a healthy lifestyle for yourself. So be open, give people the chance to help you and watch what it does for your life.
Reduce Your Anxiety & Stress
Live the Life You Deserve In the current state of our world, it’s no wonder a lot of us live in a constant state of anxiety or stress. And a lot of the situations we may be facing, are well and truly deserving of that state. Although most of these don’t hold a ‘quick fix’ option, we do know that every one of us can implement ways to personally help ourselves cope. To find that solid ground beneath our feet, a firm footing. I’m sure we’d all love to find a stance that brings a view of a tree planted beside a stream of water. It’s unwavering, solid. Withstanding and holding ground. Maybe you have a stressful job. Perhaps anxiety rules you even over the little things. Or maybe you just overthink everything so much and want the narrative in your mind to just QUIET DOWN BACK THERE! We hear you. But how can we achieve this in our lives? Well, for starters, there is no one size fits all. Because each of us cope in different ways. We communicate feelings uniquely to who we are or the way we’ve been conditioned. And environmentally, we react differently, grieve differently, survive differently. Even though we are all the same ‘beings’, we still have such unique qualities about us that affect our base levels of anxiety and stress. Now we’re not here to give you a therapy session (although I’m sure we could all use one!) but we are here to offer you some simple, practical thoughts to ponder, that we like implementing to help reduce our own levels of anxiety and stress. So here’s a few for you. Stability in Routine You likely fall into one of these categories, or are floating somewhere in the middle. 1. You’re a creature of habit and a LOVER of routine. To the stage where perhaps without it, the wheels fall off and by the time you sit at your desk to work, you feel like you’ve worked a 9 hour day! 2. Or maybe you’re not the type of person to have a set ‘morning routine’. Perhaps you like to go with the flow of the day and the thought of creating a routine sends you to the emergency room. Whichever category you find yourself in, there is a way to find a sense of stability to help you manage your anxiety and stress levels going into a new day ahead. And it’s by having ONE thing that is non-negotiable to you. Might be a morning walk, a 10 min guided meditation, a hot cup of coffee in the morning breeze. Whatever it is for you, whether the rest of your morning is planned or chaos, find that little something that sets your feet firmly on the ground. For us? It’s the routine and ritual of simple daily skincare steps (surprise surprise!) Every morning, regardless of what is going on. You can say to yourself, I can get up, cleanse my face, chuck on my favourite serum and get ready to face the day ahead (no pun intended!) And for any of the mumma’s out there, don’t go past our brightening serum to help hide the night that was! Plus, stress really isn’t good for our skin! When we feel stress, our body's sympathetic nervous system releases stress hormones like Cortisol and Adrenaline which can lead to over-oil production, acne breakouts and clogged pores! Not to mention the increased risk of premature ageing. So skincare routine in the AM (or PM) actually works for both our minds and our bodies! #winwin Take Breaks! Whatever that looks like for you. Physically like taking a holiday, or maybe just mentally like having a focused chat with a loved one or professional. If you’re an introvert who fuels up on alone time, take some time away from the hustle and bustle of life. Be okay saying no to that party or event, your health and ability to handle stress is more important. Or maybe you haven’t taken a holiday from your work in years because you feel guilty letting other people carry the load? Take a break! You deserve it. Why don’t you give other people the opportunity to step up and fill that need for you. If we have learnt anything over the last few years, it’s that life is far too short. Speak Up Or maybe it’s as simple as a conversation. In-person or on the phone, with a friend or family member that you know will help you feel lighter from talking to. You’d be surprised how much anxiety and stress you hold until you air it out and let it out in a safe environment. Talking to a professional can also help, a non-bias, safe space. Find what feels like a real break to you, and TAKE IT ! Please note - if you need someone to talk to if you’re really battling these areas that are affecting your life. Please reach out. You’re not alone. We will leave a link here for you if you want to talk to a professional in this area. Get Some Strategies If you’re someone who has experienced anxiety before, you would know that when you’re in the midst of that anxiety blur, it is NOT the time to try and figure out your escape route. These strategies need to be LOCKED DOWN by the time you get to this point. Because at this point, you will have so many things swimming around in your head, the last thing you will be able to do is think clearly to figure it out. You want to just be able to EXECUTE. (deploy the troops!) Like auto-pilot. Whatever stress management strategies or techniques you’ve practised will be your saving grace if you have them ready to go. Some of our favourites? Meditation, yoga, exercise, deep breathing, mantras, your hobby, prayer, an accountability person to talk to, re-focus activities, journaling etc. Like we’ve mentioned previously, we are all unique! So what will work for you in these moments, may not work for the person next to you? So it’s important we work to find what that is for us.
Ways to Instantly Feel Happier
Clap along if you feel, like a room without a roof. Okay, so maybe there isn’t a magic pill that leads to instant happiness (gosh, there’s a booming business if there was, right?!) Do you ever find yourself stuck in the mundane hamster wheel of the ‘Monday to Friday’ life? Where you forget to stop mid-week and do the things that make you happy? Us too. Do you know how to create opportunities for yourself to feel happy? Or have you not yet found the things that do - well here is your prompt to give it a try! There are PLENTY of little things, each of us can do or access that can help create those happy hormones in an instant. So what are some of our favourite happiness tips? Let us tell you. Nature Whether it’s going for a bush walk, a sandy stroll along the beach or getting up early and setting yourself up in front of that gorgeous sunrise - get yourself outside! You’ll breathe that fresh air in and begin to FEEL the happiness creeping in. Or even just taking a picnic blanket to sit on the grass area at the beach or park on a late Sunday afternoon. Better yet, with a glass of bubbly in one hand and a good book in the other. Not a reader? Take a bunch of your favourite people with you to join the happy vibe and just take in your surroundings and be present - BLISS. Not so much of an outdoorsy person? We got you! Think comfy chair, recliner, your bed or reading nook in your home. Grab your favourite book and a hot beverage and get cosy! Feel those negative vibes start to slip away as you immerse yourself in another world for the afternoon and welcome those happy, calm and peaceful feelings. Maybe you just need a quick break in the day to get a boost of happiness - set a timer, so you don’t have to think about it, for however long makes you feel rested, pop on your favourite show and relax! Choose to be present and guilt-free with this allocated, self-care time. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed you can feel when you return to whatever you were doing. And while you’re at it, chuck on some tunes! It’s been scientifically proven that listening to music increases the levels of Dopamine, one of the happy hormones we feel when we are excited or stimulated by what we’re experiencing. So you’re driving in the car feeling a little flat? Pop on a song that you KNOW you can’t help but bop along to. Instant! Having to do the mundane tasks like cleaning the house or doing the laundry that makes you fall asleep standing up? MUSIC! Did you know that one of the other happy hormones known as Oxytocin, is released when we feel happy relationally? So... what do we need to increase those levels? People Call a friend to catch up! Spending time with a friend or family member who makes you feel happy is one of the best ways we can instantly feel happier. Not only does it boost our happiness - but a lot of the time it will do the same for the other person. You’ll both leave with a bounce in your step to having made that time to connect and lift one another up. Looking after YOU can also really help you to feel happier. Whether it’s little things you do throughout the day to be conscious of the importance of self-care - or maybe it’s setting aside the time to really engage with your internal dialogue. We like to set aside some time and pop on a favourite face mask like our Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask which is great for rejuvenating your skin, or being totally pampered with the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask to push that happiness, straight through the pores! And of course, the one we all know and love… Endorphins “Exercise increases endorphins, and endorphins make us happy, happy people just don’t shoot their husbands… they just don’t?!” - Elle Woods, Legally Blonde Okay, so maybe we’re not discussing a famous exercise instructor on trial for murdering their husband, BUT we are talking about things that make us happy. And it is chemical! Exercise and getting your heart rate up increases endorphins, which increases your feelings of happiness.[Text Wrapping Break] So get moving! Outside, playing a sport, going to the gym, walking with a friend! Get that body moving. The very best tip we have? Find what makes YOU happy, and DO THAT !! Maybe you’re an extrovert so hosting a dinner party with the best of the company you have around you, will bring you joy and happiness. Or perhaps you’re a total introvert so having some alone time will give you those same happy feelings. Whatever it looks like for you - be true to who you are, and give yourself the freedom to find what those things are! What instantly makes you feel happier? We’d love to hear from you, and if skin care is your happy place feel free to reach out to our Skin Service Team for a free skin consultation!
Give Yourself a Lip Facial
Treat your dry lips to a spa day! We share a step-by-step guide for a lip facial to soothe and hydrate a dry lip and mouth area. We also explain what causes dryness in the first place and how to treat it. What Causes Dry Skin Around Lips & Mouth? Issues with dryness around the lips and mouth can show up in various ways depending on the severity of the problem. Rough or itchy skin Flaky skin Redness and irritation Skin feels tight Small, fine wrinkles Cracked and bleeding lips What causes dry skin around lips and mouth area? The most common reasons include: Perioral dermatitis Periorificial dermatitis appears as clusters of small, itchy, red bumps (papules) around the eye, nose, and mouth area. It usually affects women aged 15 to 45 years. We go into more detail about this inflammatory skin condition in our article Skin Care for Perioral Dermatitis. Sun and seasonal changes Your lips are very vulnerable to sun exposure but how often do you apply SPF protection to your mouth? There tends to be less awareness about the importance of protecting lips from UV rays. They’re covered in much thinner, more delicate skin than other areas of your face and even more sensitive to the sun. Sunburnt lips are painful, red, and swollen and the aftermath, as they heal, is dry, flaky skin. You want to keep them protected as much as possible from sun exposure during the healing process. Use an SPF lip product and reapply frequently throughout the day. Wearing a wide brim hat that covers your lips boosts protection too. Windy days can also leave your lips dry and chapped. If the day is windy and sunny, it can be diabolical for your lips - don’t skip the protection of a nourishing SPF lip balm. Even if dry skin around the mouth isn’t usually a problem for you, a change in the weather can trigger a bout of seasonal related dryness. Skin dehydration Dehydration might also be to blame for your dry lips. When your skin is dehydrated it’s lacking water. All skin types can experience dehydration even oily skin. Quite a few things can cause dehydration including: Too much alcohol and caffeine Skincare products that strip the skin Changes in temperature and humidity Medication Smoking Not drinking enough water or hydrating fluids How to Treat Dry Lips & Mouth Dealing with dry skin around the mouth is frustrating but there are ways you can ease and prevent symptoms. Use gentle skincare products In general steer clear of products that strip the skin of its protective oils and are more likely to cause irritation. Benzoyl peroxide Salicylic acid Denatured alcohol Synthetic fragrances Witch hazel Sodium lauryl sulfate Although exfoliating will help smooth dry, flaky patches (more on that in a moment) avoid harsh face scrubs or strong chemical exfoliants. They’ll just make the situation worse. Drink plenty of water Repeat after us: 8 glasses of water a day. At the cellular level, drinking water helps flush toxins from your system and hydrates your body, including skin, overall. If knocking back glass after glass of plain old water doesn’t sound very enticing, mix it up. Add fruit pieces or sip herbal teas and infusions. Some of the best types of tea for radiant skin include green tea, rooibos (red tea), and dandelion tea. Incorporate nourishing face oils and hydrating serums The right blends of plant oils can make a big difference for a dry, flaky mouth and lip area as they supplement a lack of sebum. Great face oils for dryness around the mouth include: Jojoba Avocado Rosehip Acai oil Sweet almond oil Wear sunscreen Sunscreen is everything. It’s the most important protective step in your routine, especially if you're experiencing dry skin around the lips and mouth area. We suggest giving esmi Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen a try! A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ it’s ideal for all skin types, lightweight and rapidly absorbed. It’s also enriched with skin-saving anti-ageing antioxidants to help promote a youthful looking complexion. Use a humidifier in winter A humidifier is a great addition to your winter skin care routine. Indoor heating and air conditioning suck the moisture out of the air in your home or office. This dryness in the environment around you has a knock-on effect on your skin. A humidifier can help prevent parched skin in general - including dry skin around lips - by adding moisture to the air. How to Give Yourself a Lip Facial Follow our step by step guide to a lip facial for a smoother, more hydrated pout. Goodbye peeling, flaky lips! Step 1: Gentle Lip Scrub When you exfoliate lips, it helps in a few ways. First, it removes dead, flaky skin so the area around your mouth feels instantly softer, smoother. It also encourages skin cell turnover and allows other products - particularly serums - to penetrate deeper into the skin. When dealing with dryness around the mouth, always choose a mild exfoliant that won’t irritate or strip the skin. Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant A delicate, restorative exfoliation experience for skin needing TLC. Gentle bamboo extract helps to leave skin soft, luminous and purified while luxurious rose oil aids in calming and moisturises. Step 2: Water-Based Serum Hydration is essential for a glowing, smooth and even skin texture. A water-based serum is the best way to deliver a big hit of hydration to thirsty, dry skin. Serums can penetrate down into the deeper layers of the skin, getting moisture boosting ingredients to thirsty skin cells. Hyaluronic acid really is the superstar ingredient to look for in a hydrating serum. It’s a humectant ingredient which means it actually pulls moisture from the air delivering it deep into the skin cells. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing hydrating serum fights dehydration to help plump skin, minimise lines, and boost radiance. Step 3. Face Mask Dry lips will be treated to deep intensive nourishment with an overnight face mask. The active ingredients have time to sink in and work their soothing, hydrating magic overnight. Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Ideal for dry skin types in need of nourishment to reduce fine lines, inflammation, uneven skin tone and heal damaged skin. The Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask can be applied to your entire face, including lips, and left on overnight. Step 4. Oil Based Serum Build a resilient skin barrier with the lipids of oil-based serum that penetrate and protect a parched lip and mouth area. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Non-greasy, our gold face oil is perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser. Addresses dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles on the face, neck, and decolletage. Shop our full range of dry skin treatments to target moisture retention and dehydration to restore dry, dull skin. You Might Also Like to Read What Causes Dry Skin? The Different Skin Types Signs Your Skincare Routine Is Damaging Your Skin
Making Yourself a Priority
Learnt from a mum's-eye-view As a 30 year old working mumma of my 2 beautiful kids (5yrs and 6months) life is now officially BUSY. And since becoming a parent, the definition of the word busy? IS TOTALLY DIFFERENT! Like now I’m actually busy. But a life lesson that I truly didn’t learn until I became a mother, was just how incredibly important it is to make yourself a priority. Every. Day. What you learn REEEAALLL quick on the job as a mother, is you are always going to be needed by someone, to do something. And that you cannot pour from an empty cup. You need to be looking after yourself and your needs, before you can look after others and theirs. I like to think of it like this, let’s paint a picture. You’re a working mum of three kids under 8 and you’ve booked a playdate for them with a girlfriend of yours who also has kids of her own. You’ve woken up, got the kids breakfast, got them dressed, brushed their teeth, packed them food for the day and made their beds. You’ve then made your own bed, made a coffee on the run, answered some work emails from your phone and managed to fit in a quick solo wee somewhere in there too. Shoes are on, kids are loaded into the car and off you go. You get to your destination, and wonder why the hell your friends are looking at you with a look on their face that’s telling you you’re wearing an outfit that was better left back in the 60’s. What?! You ask as you begin to glance around at your kids and yourself, eventually seeing what they’re all staring at. Your kids are ready, dressed, hair did. But you forgot you. You’ve got bed hair, still got your pj’s t-shirt and gym shorts on that you wore to do the vacuuming that morning. Basically, your kids look ready for the runway and you look like you just rolled out of bed and are currently sleepwalking your way through the day. #whatevenissleep!? What I learnt Eventually after 2 kids and multiple meltdowns, I learnt that if we don’t make ourselves a priority (sometimes first priority) our family, friends, colleagues, people around us, won’t get the best of us - they’ll get the rest of us. And a lot of the time a mother, wife, girlfriend, caregiver ultimately sets the tone of the home. I know if I get up in the morning and I’m in a bad mood because I haven’t made any time for myself or put myself as a priority all week, the rest of my household will emulate that and the whole house vibe will be brought down significantly. Okay, but HOW do I make myself a priority?! So this part will look different for everyone. But it’s so important that we find ways of looking after ourselves, that we learn the art of making ourselves a priority and sometimes, even putting ourselves FIRST. For me, this could look like a few things. I LOVE to read and I LOVE drinking coffee - and I love both even more when I can do them alone without a kid asking me for a cracker every 5 seconds. So heading out to my favourite little local coffee shop with a book is a big win for me. Or sitting in a quiet corner of the house in a big comfy chair with a fresh hot cuppa and my book = bliss. I also really love to dance. It’s a big part of who I am, and when I do it - I feel completely free and it helps me express emotions that I sometimes didn’t even know I was feeling or experiencing. So making time for this can really fill up my soul and help me feel prioritised. What is something that you could do to prioritise yourself? Another one we love here is giving yourself a mini before bedtime pamper. Doesn’t need to be fancy or long - even just setting aside 10 mins can do wonders! So set the time aside one evening and before you settle into bed for the night, follow these steps (or make some of your own) and give yourself the lovin’ you deserve. 1. Cleanse Clean your face of any of the day's worries and concerns. We like to use The Uncomplicated Cleanser which is great for all skin types and for gently removing makeup and impurities. 2. Calm the skin Apply an anti-redness serum like our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie which will help to calm any areas of the skin that are showing signs of the day you’ve had! 3. Hydrate I remember reading an article where the journalist was interviewing Jessica Alba #glowyskingoals. Jess was asked how her skin was always so soft and supple, to which she answered “Everytime I get out of water, I apply moisturiser”. Well… you can bet that EVERY TIME I get out of the shower now, I am channelling those Alba skin vibes and moisturising with great enthusiasm. A great way to hydrate your face is using the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum which locks in moisture for the night ahead. 4. Seal it Lock. It. In. (Eddie). Use a nourishing face oil to finish off your little pamper session to ensure all of that good stuff is locked in. My favourite OF ALL TIME is the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil. Yes, it’s as fancy as it sounds! And you’ll wake up with a face as smooth as a baby’s bum! Trust me. I’ve compared them. So keep this as a little reminder to make yourself a priority, put yourself first sometimes and watch the people around you flourish! Not sure where to start for a bedtime pamper routine? Reach out to our Skin Service Team for your FREE skin consultation!
How You Can Stay Motivated
Picture this... January 1st, the start of a brand new year. You’re on day 1 of your cleanse. You’ve just Marie Kondo’d your house in its entirety. You’ve meditated to the point of self levitation. And yesterday you signed your life away to a 12-month gym membership (i.e. 8 months of your hard-earned money down the drain) We’re sure all of us can relate to some extent. It’s true, the ‘start’ of anything naturally brings a breeze of motivation. A new job, a new relationship, a new training routine and the list goes on. But, how can we STAY motivated even when the freshness of these things start to wear off? Well today, we’re sharing our top tips with you! Know Your Why Knowing WHY you are striving towards that goal, that lifestyle, that job, that weight, is essential to motivation being not just something you feel, but a choice that you consistently make. Because when you don’t FEEL motivated, that ‘why’ kicks into gear. It becomes the fuel that helps you daily to stay motivated, to keep choosing a motivated stance. Let’s say, for example, you’re wanting to get into shape. Your why? Maybe it’s because you want to be around to see your kids grow up. That’s a pretty good reason right? A great WHY. So on the days, you wake up FEELING unmotivated, you re-focus on your ‘why’. In this example, you vision your future self at an age where you are running around being active with your kids. Then you flip it to see yourself sitting inside watching them from a distance because you didn’t choose to look after yourself when you had the chance. We know which vision we would choose. And… MOTIVATED! Community Life is better together. There is something pretty magical about being in a like-minded community of people who are striving for the same things in life that you are. Whether you’re training for a marathon or trying to finish that uni degree, being around people who you can witness staying motivated, can help to inspire your own. Accountability One we all need but don’t necessarily want! Being accountable to someone other than ourselves can help us find motivation, especially if we once had it and have now lost it. When we are only accountable to ourselves, we can easily create excuses, narratives within our own self-talk conversations that get us out of having to make the choice to just do it. But when you know you are meeting up with that person, the one who has the sole job of asking you the direct questions about where you’re at - you’re going to HAVE to get motivated! It forces you to be accountable regardless of how you feel. Motivation that lasts, is at its best right here people. Nature Okay, call us crazy but we believe that getting out in nature does WONDERS for the mind. And in case you’re new to this whole motivation game, your mind is the SINGLE biggest contributor to whether or not you will find it, keep it or lose it. So looking after it is vital. Whether it involves a walk in the morning to start the day fresh, or a cuppa in a comfy chair on the porch in the afternoon to sit and reset, just trust us and get outside! (Don’t forget to slap on some SPF while you’re at it, don’t want your skin to pay for your self-motivation rituals!) Get Ready, EVERY Day Maybe you’re a motivation unicorn and able to stay motivated even if you spend the day working at home in your pj’s with a bed hair situation on your hands. But if you’re like us, getting ready first thing in the morning - whether you’re staying home for the day or heading out to work, can do amazing things for your psyche. So get it done! Shower, wash your face, chuck on some serum, a light layer of BB Cream or even a full face of glam and get that motivation HAPPENING. As Nanna always said, brush your hair, chuck on some lippy and you’re ready for anything! What are some of your tips for staying motivated?
How Should You Be Storing Your Skin Care?
Put your best face forward You pay all this money for good skincare, you want to look after it right? Well, today we are chatting all things makeup and skincare STORAGE! #whatavibe Whether you have all the gear and no idea, or you’re just starting out on your skincare journey and want to ensure your investment is well protected - we’ve got your back! So, how do we best store our skincare products to maximise their shelf life? Let’s find out! Out of the heat Whether it’s one of our skin treats, a mask or a cleanser - you always want to ensure you store your skincare under the 30-degree mark. The best option is to keep your products at room temperature in a drawer or cupboard so they are protected from the elements. Care for those with active ingredients Keep these ones out of the sun! Direct sunlight can actually speed up the breakdown of active ingredients in your skincare, so it becomes really important when using products like our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or our Pomegranate Brightening Serum as these contain active ingredients that can become compromised when stored in direct sunlight. Skincare/Beauty fridge Although this is not necessary for the storage of our skincare - it is a bonus option! Using a skincare fridge is a great way to ensure a consistent temperature regulation of your products, maintaining the beneficial ingredients in the product as well as extending its shelf life. What products can be stored in the fridge? Any of our water-based skin treats can be stored in the fridge, like our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie. Our gel-based masks are also great to be kept cool - our favourites being the Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask (perfect for after the beach or pool day to cool off the skin) or the Anti-Ageing Gel Booster Mask. The best thing about keeping these refrigerated is the cooling effect they will have on your skin on application - think post long day at work pamper night vibes #yyaassss One product that we like to recommend you keep in your skincare fridge, or your good old kitchen fridge, is our Skin Snack Face Mist. Keeping this one refrigerated is a great way to reap the refreshing benefits this particular product has to offer. You can then chuck it in your beach bag as you head out for the day, and use it as a little refreshing hit of hydration on the go! Remember Out of direct sunlight, away and protected at room temperature. And if you want to treat yourself to one of those cute benchtop skincare or beauty fridges, you go glen coco and watch your products live out their best life! Not sure what products would be best suited for your skin? Make sure to reach out to our Skin Service Team for your FREE skin consultation!
What are Humectants in Skincare?
Humectants. They’re one of the secrets behind a plump, hydrated complexion and a must-have ingredient for all skin types. In this article we define humectant ingredients and explain how they work to achieve your most radiant #skingoals. What is a humectant in skincare? Humectants are ingredients that pull moisture from the air and the deeper layers of skin (dermis) to hydrate the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). They act like a magnet for water, drawing and binding moisture to the cells to hydrate them from the inside out. The result is hydrated, plumper, clearer skin. Humectant ingredients can be formulated synthetically or derived from plants and other natural sources. The 3 Ingredients to Keep Skin Moisturised Keeping skin moisturised takes a multi-step approach which involves humectants (for hydration), plus emollients, and occlusive ingredients (for moisturisation). This trifecta works together to keep skin both hydrated and moisturised - that right, there’s a difference between hydration and moisturisation. Hydrators (humectants) work by pulling water to the skin, while moisturisers (emollients or occlusives) create a protective barrier that locks in hydration, softens skin and minimises water loss from the skin’s surface. Let’s take a closer look at how each work: Occlusives Main purpose: Seal moisture into the skin. Suitable for: Most skin types but especially very dry skin including eczema-prone skin. Some occusives are too heavy for acne-prone or oily skin. Occlusives help trap moisture by forming a seal over the skin. Some occlusives - depending on the ingredient - can work to repair a damaged skin barrier, too. The result is moisture retention, skin barrier restoration, and reduced irritation. Examples of occlusive ingredients include jojoba oil, lanolin, olive oil, and argan oil. Emollients Main purpose: Soften and soothe the skin. Suitable for: All skin types, especially very dry and sensitive skin. However, depending on the type of emollient it may cause congestion and breakouts if you have an oily skin type. Emollient ingredients smooth and soften dry, rough skin and decrease inflammation. This helps skin feel more comfortable and reduces feelings of itchiness and tightness. All emollients offer some occlusive benefits but their main purpose is to soften the skin. A few examples include shea butter, cocoa butter, grapeseed oil, ceramides and essential fatty acids like those found in rosehip oil, and squalene. Humectants Main purpose: Boost water levels in the skin cells. Suitable for: All skin types. Every complexion can become dehydrated, even oily skin types. Humectants pull moisture to the skin’s surface from the air and the deeper layers of skin. This helps address concerns like flakiness, dullness, and fine lines. If your skin is feeling dry and tight, it doesn’t necessarily mean “dryness” is the issue - chances are your skin is dehydrated. Which Humectants Are Best? Hopefully, we’ve answered your “what is a humectant?” question but now you’re probably wondering which humectant is best? When you’re scanning skincare labels, look for these ingredients with humectant properties: Hyaluronic acid This popular humectant is arguably the “gold standard” of hydration boosting ingredients - it can hold an incredible 1000x its weight in water. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in your body that helps skin retain moisture for plumpness and elasticity. HA used in skincare may be synthetic or naturally derived. Some products use natural hyaluronic acid derived from rooster combs so if you have a preference for vegan skin care, be sure to understand where the HA is sourced from. Pros: A superior and rapid moisture booster. Ability to penetrate deep into the skin. Suitable for all skin types and concerns. Cons: Some HA is animal-derived which doesn’t align with a vegan skincare routine. Luckily there are safe, synthetic options to choose from. Glycerin A common moisture booster in skincare, glycerin is one hardworking humectant. Thanks to its low molecular weight, it’s easily absorbed deep into the skin, delivering moisture exactly where it’s needed. Pros In addition to its humectant benefits, glycerin also helps remove dead skin cells as it breaks down skin proteins. Low molecular structure means it can penetrate deep into the skin. Cons If the percentage of glycerin in the formulation is too high, it may feel sticky on the skin. Amino acids (urea) Urea is found naturally on the surface of your skin and plays an active role in the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF). A water-binding molecule, it’s essential for maintaining the hydration and healthy function of the outer layer of skin. Pros Improves skin barrier function. Acts as a gentle exfoliator. Increases the permeability of other ingredients. Cons Doesn’t have the water-binding power of HA. Aloe vera This wonderful, natural ingredient is full of skin-boosting surprises. It has effective humectant properties that reach deeply and rapidly into the skin. Pros Natural and gentle. Suitable for all skin types. Cons Like urea, aloe vera isn’t as potent as HA when it comes to drawing moisture to the skin. Are Humectants Bad For You? Humectants aren’t bad for your skin, quite the opposite! They are an essential part of keeping your complexion hydrated and supple. While all 3 ingredients (humectants, occlusives, and emollients) play an important role in skin moisturisation, humectants lead the charge as they pull moisture to the skin in the first place. No matter your skin type or concern, your complexion needs hydration - even oily skin types can be prone to dehydration. In fact, skin oiliness can be a sign of dehydration with the skin producing excess oil as a way to try and keep itself moisturised. The bottom line? Introduce humectants into your daily routine for a plumper, radiant looking complexion. Discover our best selling Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum - it’s like a big drink of water for every skin type! You Might Also Like to Read The Difference Between Dry and Dehydrated Skin Probiotics in Skincare: What You Need to Know What Does Gold Leaf Do in Skincare?
Anti-Ageing Skincare Tips for Your 30s
Hello 30s! This is the time to get serious about your anti ageing routine. Take action in tackling wrinkles, lines and hyperpigmentation now and it will make a huge difference in how well your skin ages over the years to come. When Should I Start Using Anti-Ageing Products? Your late 20s or early 30s is a great time to get started with a focused anti ageing skin care routine. However, skin damage - particularly from the sun - happens years before you see its results show up on your face. With this in mind, it’s really never too early to start incorporating anti-ageing products into your routine and you can never be too young to use sunscreen! What skin changes can you expect to see in your 30s? During your 30s, skin cell turnover begins to significantly slow down while collagen and elastin break down faster. The amount of hyaluronic acid your body produces to keep skin plump and moisturised also begins to decline and skin recovers less quickly from inflammation. The overall result of these changes is more pronounced wrinkles (particularly forehead wrinkles and crow's feet), increased dryness, and hyperpigmentation due to years of accumulated sun damage. Let’s take a look at some must-do anti aging tips to help counteract these changes and keep your skin looking its healthy, glowy best! Tip 1: Ditch Harsh Products Are your skincare products ageing you? Some may be doing you more harm than good in the anti ageing war against wrinkles in your 30s! The two key products to avoid are harsh cleansers and rough exfoliants. Both have the potential to strip the skin barrier of the moisture and oils it needs to function healthily as a protective barrier against irritants and water loss. When your skin barrier function breaks down, moisture escapes more quickly causing excessive dryness. This leads to fine lines and wrinkles looking deeper and rougher. A compromised barrier also means skin is vulnerable to irritation which leads to inflammation and symptoms like redness, itchy skin and a tight feeling. Ingredients to avoid in cleansers: Sulfates, fragrance, parabens, and some forms of alcohols including ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and alcohol denat. Abrasive types of exfoliants to avoid: Products with a very grainy texture that can cause micro-tears in the skin and rough exfoliating mitts. While beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can be beneficial for some skin types (usually oily or combination) they’re too strong for others (sensitive) and can cause more harm than good. The best anti aging products are gentle and help maintain the skin’s natural barrier to minimise water loss and promote resilience. Tip 2: Add a Targeted Serum Adding an antioxidant-rich serum to target specific concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots is one of the best anti aging skin care tips we can give you. Antioxidants are some of your skin’s greatest allies when it comes to reversing existing signs of ageing and helping protect skin against future damage. Why are antioxidants so important for your anti ageing routine? They’re free radical fighters! Free radicals are the enemy of youthful, plump looking skin. They break down collagen and elastin in healthy skin cells causing sagging and fine lines. Free radicals also spark inflammation which leads to irritation and impedes the skin’s renewal process. Antioxidants effectively disarm the destructive activity of free radical damage, encourage healing and some antioxidants, like Vitamin C, promote collagen synthesis too. We recommend Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Tip 3: Start Using Eye Treatments In your 30s, take extra care of the delicate skin around your eyes. This is where the first signs of ageing creep in - laugh lines, crows feet, sun damage - as the skin is thinner around the eyes than other areas of your face. Adding an eye treatment to your anti ageing skin care routine is key. Look for one that contains retinol and peptides - both of these anti-ageing superstars are great for boosting collagen and firming skin. Eye serums are usually very lightweight meaning they can be more easily absorbed into the eye area. One of the benefits of using a separate, lightweight eye serum in your anti ageing skin care routine is to avoid the formation of small white bumps called milia. These are quite common around the eyes after using rich, occlusive moisturisers that sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it. This hinders natural exfoliation and dead skin builds up leading to the bumps. We recommend esmi Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Tip 4: Protect Yourself From the Sun Sunscreen is the best preventative anti ageing strategy and absolutely non-negotiable if you want your skin to age as well. If you haven’t got into the SPF habit, your 30s is the time to start. Whenever you’re exposed to sunlight UV rays penetrate the skin and cause damage. This doesn’t mean you have to be outside in direct sunlight; UV rays penetrate through windows and cloud cover. Over time, this damage compounds and can add years to your complexion. Signs of sun damage include wrinkles, age spots, loose skin, spider veins and a ruddy skin tone. The best skin care regimen for sun protection? Applying SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Wearing a hat when outside. Boosting protection with an antioxidant serum. Avoiding the sun when UV levels are highest or during the hottest time of the day. The free SunSmart app is a handy way to see daily UV levels around Australia. Not only will your skin retain its youthful glow for longer, you’ll reduce the chance of developing skin cancer. We recommend Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Tip 5: How You Sleep Matters Sleep wrinkles are real! When you sleep on your side or stomach you put pressure on your skin and pull it in different directions. What may start as superficial creases over time can become deeper wrinkles as your skin ages and collagen declines. Using a silk pillowcase instead of cotton can cause less friction for the skin. Plus, they feel extra luxurious, right? Just keep in mind that silk isn’t vegan! Sleeping on your back if you’re naturally a side or stomach sleeper is easier said than done but here are a few things you can try to make it more comfortable. Tip 6: Diet and Exercise A healthy diet and regular exercise are the building blocks of healthy skin and play a big role in preventative ageing. We’ve rounded up the best foods to eat for healthy, glowing skin here. Overall, choose foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Radiance boosters like salmon, avocado, citrus fruits, leafy greens, green tea and nuts are ideal natural anti-ageing skin care choices. When it comes to exercise, choose something you enjoy that gets your blood pumping! Boosting your circulation delivers plenty of oxygen and nutrients to the skin helping keep cells healthy and carrying away waste. Have a chat with our expert team of Skin Consultants for further advice on the best anti-ageing skin care for you.
Treating Dry Skin Under Eyes
Dry, flaky skin around the eyes? We explain why your eye area gets drier than the desert and how to target under eye dryness with a hydration heavy skincare routine. What causes dry under eyes? The skin under your eyes is thinner than anywhere else in your body. This makes it harder for the skin in this delicate area to retain moisture which leads to dryness. The under eye area also has fewer oil glands than other parts of your face. Less oil means the eye area is naturally drier no matter what your skin type. The first signs of ageing usually appear under and around the eye and the skin here is also more sensitive and easily prone to irritation. Dry skin under eyes can be caused by: Strong, drying skincare products. Some cleansers - especially soap - strip the skin of all oil and moisture. Seasonal changes. Cold, windy weather can lead to dry flaky skin under eyes. Harsh makeup remover. Like strong cleansers, many makeup removers strip the skin of oil and moisture the skin needs to stay hydrated. Roughly touching and pulling the skin. Cleansing your face with hot water which is very drying for the skin. Allergies or exposure to irritating chemicals. Some chronic skin conditions can also cause under eye dryness. Eczema Eczema, also known as dermatitis, can cause the skin around the eye to become red, dry, and scaly. Eczema is often most prominent in places where the skin folds, such as around your eyes. Treating eczema in this area may require prescribed topical corticosteroids in addition to a hydrating skin care routine. Psoriasis Psoriasis can cause a build up of scaly, dry patches around the eye area. Skin can become cracked, painful and bleed. Psoriasis around the eyes will usually require treatment under the guidance of a health practitioner teamed with a hydrating home skincare routine. Tips for Treating Dry Skin Under Eyes Relieving under eye dryness means handling the area with extra TLC, choosing hydrating skincare, and eating anti-inflammatory, high hydration foods. 1. Try not to touch or rub the skin The delicate skin in this area shouldn’t be pulled at and rubbed, especially if you are experiencing dryness. When you do touch the skin under your eyes, be gentle always! Use your pinky finger to lightly tap skincare products into the skin. When using eye makeup remover gently dab and use soft circular movements, rather than dragging. 2. Avoid harsh products Using strong products around your eyes will irritate the skin and exacerbate dryness. What is considered a ‘strong’ or ‘harsh’ product? Any product formulated with ingredients that strip the skin entirely of moisture and oil. Cleansers, makeup removers, and exfoliating products are usually responsible. A few ingredients to avoid include: Parabens. These ingredients are chemical preservatives that are known to irritate and dry the skin. S.D (specially denatured) alcohol which strips the skin of its natural oils and results in dehydration. Benzoyl Peroxide. While it may be helpful for acne, this ingredient can cause peeling, itching, irritation, and redness. Synthetic fragrances. Also, when you exfoliate your skin, don’t use the product right up close to your eyes. The under eye area is too delicate to deal with harsh exfoliants, especially grainy scrubs which can cause micro tears in the skin. As a good skincare rule, no matter your skin type, always use gentle cleansers formulated with ingredients that protect the all-important oil / moisture balance of the skin. A great option for makeup remover is micellar cleansing water. This classic French beauty staple is incredibly gentle on skin containing none of the harsh ingredients you’ll find in many standard makeup removal products. 3. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet You can help combat dry under eyes with a few menu changes too. Anti-inflammatory foods help keep skin moisturised, supple, and calm. A few of the best options include: Citrus fruits Extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil Avocado Nuts - especially walnuts Cucumber Fatty fish including salmon, mackerel, and sardines Changing your diet won’t have a dramatic effect overnight but give it time. Coupled with a hydrating skincare routine, you should begin to see an improvement in under eye dryness. 4. Beginning a hydrating skin routine At the heart of a great routine for dry eyes are ingredients that boost hydration and keep the area moisturised. Yes, hydrating and moisturising are different things! Hydrating ingredients (humectants) add moisture to the skin surface by drawing water from the air to the cells. Moisturising ingredients (emollients) work to lock the water in by creating a barrier over the skin surface. Signs of dry, flaky skin means there’s cracks between the skin cells which moisture escapes through. Emollients create a seal between these cracks, soften skin, prevent itching, and reduce scaling. Key humectant ingredients Hyaluronic acid Glycerin Aloe vera Sodium Hyaluronate Key moisturising ingredients Ceramides Squalene Chondrus Crispus Extract (red seaweed) Jojoba oil Stearic acid Hydrating skin routine for under eye dryness Our step-by-step routine for addressing dryness under the eyes. Overall, this routine will improve hydration in the skin which everyone can benefit from. Step 1: Gentle cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Suits: All skin types and concerns Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Aloe vera, glycerin, and stearic acid. Step 2: Hydrating serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Suits: All skin types and concerns Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and allantoin. Step 3: Hydrating eye serum The most important step in your routine for dry skin under eyes. Applying an eye serum after your hydrating serum doubles down on moisture and extra attention for a dry, dull eye area. Our Hydrating Eye Serum is a moisture boosting miracle worker. A lightweight serum that delivers continuous moisture and nourishes a tired, dehydrated eye area diminishing puffiness while plumping and firming fine lines. Suits: All skin types to hydrate and firm a tired eye area. Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and plankton extract. Step 4: Eye balm Layering an eye balm over the eye serum will help keep the active hydrating ingredients of the serum locked into the skin. A balm formulation also offers additional moisturising benefits. esmi Eye Delight Reflection Eye Balm is suited to all skin types to help leave the eye area more moisturised, supple, smooth, and lifted. Use in the morning and / or evening. Step 5: Moisturising lotion or hydrating Duo or face oil If your skin is very dry in general, we recommend using a lotion followed by face oil. Moisturising lotion: Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration Suits: All skin types and concerns - especially hypersensitive skin Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Sodium hyaluronate, plant derived emollients, and seaweed extract. Face oil: 24k Gold Nourishing Oil Suits: Dry skin types Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Squalane, avocado oil, and jojoba oil. Duo: Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo A combination of the Suits: Skin types with dryness concerns Key ingredients for hydrating and moisturising: Glycerin, sodium chloride, Vitamin E, and squalene. Shop our full range of esmi Eye Treatments for hydrating, brightening, and anti-ageing solutions. You might also like to read: Eye Treatments for Puffy Eyes Are You Overwashing Your Face? Probiotic Skincare for Sensitive Skin
The Difference Between Bakuchiol & Retinol
Skincare enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the latest and greatest ingredients that promise to give them youthful, radiant skin. Bakuchiol and Retinol are two ingredients that are touted for their anti-ageing properties, but how do they differ, and which one is right for you? We’re here to help! What is Bakuchiol? Bakuchiol is an oil extracted from the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant. Similar to retinoids, bakuchiol works by stimulating collagen producing receptors in the skin, without the dryness and irritation that can often be associated with Retinol use. It's a natural plant based alternative to Retinol and is suitable for those with sensitivities to Retinol and can be used while pregnant and breastfeeding. What is Retinol? Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is used in skincare products for its anti-ageing properties. It works by stimulating the production of collagen and increasing cell turnover, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote a more youthful appearance. Differences between Bakuchiol and Retinol Side effects One of the main differences between Bakuchiol and Retinol is the potential for side effects. Retinol is a potent ingredient that can cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially when first starting to use it. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, has been shown to be much gentler on the skin and does not have the same potential for irritation. Mechanism of action While both Bakuchiol and Retinol have been shown to have similar benefits, they work differently. Retinol works by binding to specific receptors in the skin, which increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen production. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, works by increasing the production of collagen and elastin and by reducing the breakdown of collagen in the skin. Which one is right for you? The answer to this question ultimately depends on your skin type and personal preferences. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, Bakuchiol may be a better option for you. Bakuchiol is also pregnancy & breastfeeding safe. Shop esmi’s Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol. If you are looking for a potent anti-ageing ingredient and are willing to tolerate potential initial side effects, Retinol may be a better choice. Being kind to your skin is always at the forefront of esmi’s product development. To minimise side effects often associated with traditional retinol, try esmi’s ‘Encapsulated’ Retinol. Encapsulated Retinol has a slower release, allowing the active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the skin without causing irritation. Shop esmi’s Encapsulated Retinol. It's also worth noting that some people may choose to use both ingredients, alternating between them to reap the benefits of both. If you have any questions on which product is best suited for your skin, chat to our qualified Skin Specialists for a FREE, LIVE skin consultation.
Why Face Mask Brushes are Changing The Game
Face mask brushes are popping up in the hands of influencers everywhere. But why use a face mask brush - are they really worth the hype? Absolutely. These game changers will take your masking sessions to the next level. Here’s why! Why Use a Face Mask Brush? Less waste and less mess Using a brush gives you more control over how much product you apply which means less wastage. We tend to pile a mask on thickly when we use our fingers but many masking products, like esmi Booster Masks, only need a thin application to be effective. It’s so much easier to distribute a thin, even layer with a face mask brush. Dipping your fingers into pots and jars to scoop the product out can be messy too if the mask is particularly thick or a clay or charcoal formula. No more picking clay and charcoal out from under your fingernails afterwards! You’ll reduce the risk of spreading bacteria Using your fingers can expose the product to microorganisms and increases the chance of contamination. Applying your mask with a brush instead helps reduce this risk and prolongs the shelf life of the product. Selecting a brush with high quality synthetic bristles rather than natural animal hair is also less likely to attract bacteria. Plus, brushes with synthetic bristles are vegan - that’s a big plus for us! You’ll need to regularly clean your face mask brush, of course, to make sure it’s fresh and bacteria free. We’ll step you through how to keep it in tip top shape in a moment. Give your skin salon-worthy treatment You’ll get all the spa-like feels by using a brush to smooth on a decadent mask. Be your own skin expert and turn up the indulgence factor of a DIY at-home facial. You deserve it! What is the best face mask brush? There are plenty of options out there so what kind of brush do you use to put on a face mask? The best face mask brush will have curved soft bristles so it really hugs the contours of your face allowing for a mess-free, perfectly even distribution of product. Choose a brush with super soft bristles that won’t irritate skin - especially sensitive skin. When it comes to size, a smaller brush is a good option because it allows you to cover all those harder-to-reach areas. esmi Face Mask Applicator Brush This little beauty is everything you need in a brush; soft, curved and easy to clean. With the highest quality synthetic vegan bristles, it suits all skin types for an irritation free application. Designed to team with our range of esmi Booster Masks to make application a breeze. How to clean esmi Face Mask Applicator Brush Clean brushes are crucial for healthy skin! Your esmi Mask Applicator Brush can be cleaned with most brush cleaners, soaps, and shampoos. After each use, simply use warm water to lather a small amount of soap, shampoo, or brush cleaner onto the masking brush - something with antibacterial properties is best. Move the cleanser around gently with your fingers to remove any mask residue then rinse with clean water. It’s important not to fully submerge your brush and minimise water flowing into the base to avoid breakage. Lay flat to dry on a clean paper towel. Your brush will be fresh and ready for your next masking session.
Meet esmi's Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol Serum
Meet esmi's Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol Serum: Your Holy Grail for Anti-Ageing, Even with Sensitive Skin! As we age, our skin requires extra care and attention to maintain its youthful glow. Retinol has long been known for its powerful anti-ageing properties, but for those with sensitive skin, it can often cause redness, irritation, and dryness. But fear not! We have the perfect solution for you - esmi’s Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol. esmi’s Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol will leave your skin feeling softer, smoother and brighter. What is Bakuchiol and why is it so amazing? Bakuchiol is a gentle, natural ingredient that provides anti-ageing benefits without the potential side effects of retinol, improving skin texture, tone, and elasticity. One of the best things about esmi’s Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol is that it is suitable for sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin that reacts to most skincare products, this serum is a game-changer for you. It's also safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it a versatile option for all stages of life. Feed your skin with... Squalane: Anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and swelling, as well as moisturise the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Bakuchiol: Bakuchiol stimulates skin cell turnover, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin tone and texture. Blue Tansy: Calms irritated skin, reduces heat, and relieves delicate or troubled skin. Blue Chamomile: Powerful antioxidant to help skin regeneration and slow down ageing. Texture As an oil-based serum, this product is more nourishing than your water-based serums but just as powerful. Simple to incorporate into any existing skincare routine, it should be positioned in between your water-based serums & your moisturising step. Real results Several amazing women put their hands up to be the first to trial our new Bakuchiol serum. Here’s what they had to say after using the product consecutively for 12 weeks. Candice - sensitive, congested skin: "I don’t think my skin has felt this good in a while." Five stars "My skin feels absolutely amazing. So soft and not as many breakouts as I used to get. I don’t think my skin has felt this good in a while”. Montana: "All of my pigmentation is gone. The finer lines around my forehead / eyes aren’t as pronounced." Hannah: “Would highly recommend this product! My skin is as soft as a baby’s bum. So hydrated and feels amazing”. Annette - sensitive, mild pigmentation & dull skin: “Really nice Bakuchiol product!” Five Stars “Really nice Bakuchiol product. Skin feels hydrated and my complexion is brighter.” Jade: sensitive, mild pigmentation, fine lines & congestion: “I had one tiny pimple pop up during my period which is amazing! I’ve always had full breakouts previously but since introducing the Bakuchiol they’ve almost completely subsided. I love it”.
Treatment for Enlarged Pores
If when you look in the mirror you zero in on the size of your pores, honey, you are not alone. It can sometimes feel like they are the size of craters. We’ve seriously all been there - flash back to that Mean Girls scene, anyone? We’re going to let you in on a little secret so come closer. Are you ready? You can’t actually change the size of your pores. For those of you who are a little mind blown, that’s not to say that all is lost. There are a few ways you can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. and we’re going to take you through them. What Causes Large Pores? In a nutshell, pores are tiny openings in the skin linked to the ducts containing sweat and oil and are the vessels through which these toxins leave the body. They also release sebum which is the natural moisturiser our bodies create to keep our skin supple. See, they’re not all bad! Like most things in the body, the size of your pores is down to good old genetics, although there are a few other factors that lead to enlarged pores. Oily Skin If your skin is on the oily end of the spectrum (it’s a constant struggle, hey), you’re more likely to have larger pores thanks to more oil and sebum leaving them. This leads to congestion which is one of the biggest culprits for enlarged pores. Makeup can also contribute to this oily build-up and clogging of pores. You know what we’re going to say, right? Wash your makeup off before going to bed unless you want pores that look larger than Kanye West’s ego. You’ll likely notice larger pores on your nose due to large sebaceous glands underneath the skin in this area. Ageing While there are some amazing things about ageing (like no one saying you can’t have cheese for dinner), enlarged pores ain’t one of them. Our pores are elastic, so when we lose skin elasticity thanks to a drop in collagen, they can appear larger. Plus, there is a little something called desquamation, which is just a fancy word for the skin’s natural peeling process. This also slows down as we age, leading to a build-up of dead skin which sets up camp on your skin for longer, clogging your pores and giving them no option other than to make room for its guests (who knew pores were so hospitable?). Sun Exposure Just another reason to limit sun exposure for the sake of your gorgeous skin! Overexposure can thicken your skin, reduce your collagen and water production, and shrink tissue underneath the skin, all of which lead to, you guessed it, bigger pores. Damage caused by the sun reduces your water, collagen and elastin levels, all vital contributors to keeping your pores looking small. Now let us just take the time to reiterate, you can’t actually change the size of your pores so if you’re looking for a miracle, sorry to break it to you, but we do have the next best thing; some techniques that will make them appear smaller! Treatment for Large Pores on Face Like we mentioned, clogged pores make them appear larger which is a big ‘no thanks’. The longer pores stay clogged, the higher the chance they will stay stretched out and make the problem worse, so you’re going to want to get friendly with a decongesting skincare routine. Start with a gentle cleanser. As it happens, we know the perfect one! Try The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal. It’s gentle yet draws out impurities from deep below the skin, making it ideal for congestion. Exfoliation is about to change your enlarged-pore life. Our Gentle-Foliants have physical exfoliating properties to remove dead skin and chemical exfoliant properties to dissolve debris. Incorporating one of our Encapsulated Retinol products into your routine will dramatically help to minimise the appearance of large pores, as they boost collagen production and regulate oil. Our retinol products are encapsulated, which means they can penetrate deep into the skin before all of those killer benefits are released. Just start really gently and slowly work your way up to a more concentrated product. For the finishing touch, adding a couple drops of the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum will keep your skin plump and gorgeous. “Keeping skin hydrated can play a role in reducing the appearance of enlarged pores,” says Dr Winnie Uchendu. And as always, keep sun exposure at a minimum thanks to the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen. The best treatment for enlarged pores can be super individual, so if you have any other questions on how to minimise the appearance of your pores, chat to one of our skin experts today!
A Guide to Microbiome Skincare
If we say ‘microbiome’, your first thought is probably, “hey, aren’t you a skincare brand, not my science teacher?” You’d be right, of course, but understanding your skin and what makes it tick is super important to understanding skincare! They go together like Paris and Nicole, so get your lab coats and safety goggles out, we’re taking a trip to the lab. What is a microbiome? In a sentence? It is a supporting organ that plays a crucial role in making sure our bodies operate smoothly. It is linked to certain diseases, how you respond to skincare ingredients and even how well you sleep. The microbiome is made up of literally trillions of microorganisms - yup, trillions! In fact, microbes outnumber human cells 10:1. It contains everything from viruses and fungi, to parasites. Before you freak out, it is way less scary than it sounds. When a person is healthy, these microbes coexist, most commonly in the tummy, but also in other areas like our skin. The microbes in our body usually stabilise at the age of three, but when we factor in diet, stress, and basically anything we consume or put on our skin, our microbiome adapts. The bacteria within our microbiome are what help us to digest food, regulate our immune system and fight off diseases. They provide nutrients to our cells to prevent harmful viruses or bacteria setting up camp. One important note here; the microbes found in the skin are distinct from those found in other parts of the body. Microbiome in skincare While the tummy microbiome has been getting all of the attention thanks to kombucha, its distant cousin, the skin microbiome, is what we’re interested in. While we often talk about the importance of clean skin in the sense of removing makeup, dirt and oil, our skin has 1 billion microbes per square centimetre. Most of these bacteria and organisms on the skin are the good guys, so no need to be alarmed. They help us retain moisture, produce collagen for youthful skin, and help the skin heal after an acne flare-up. “A compromised, unhappy microbiome is increasingly associated with so many of the major skin problems we see today: the alarming rise in skin sensitivity, chronic dryness, breakouts, rosacea, acne, and premature skin ageing,” says Rob Calcraft. Keeping your skin’s microbiome happy and healthy is going to give you the best skin of your life! So, what products should you be using to protect your microbiome? The golden rule is to look for gentle products that don’t interfere with your natural skin microbiome. Products that leave your face feeling ‘squeaky clean’ are not the vibe here because they mess with your pH levels - we’re trying to achieve a nice 4.7 on the pH scale. Now for what we geek out over here at esmi HQ: probiotics (and prebiotics and postbiotics). If probiotics are the good live bacteria that keep bad bacteria in check, prebiotics are the food for probiotics, and postbiotics are the by-products of that combo. Don't worry, there won’t be a test after this. A good skincare routine will incorporate all 3 of these -biotics, in order for our skin to keep up with the effects of pollution, toxins and stress. We have an entire line dedicated to probiotic skincare products, including the Probiotic Skin Mylck Cleanser and our range of Skin Mylcks. They contain Lysate, which helps to create an environment in which your skin can thrive when the big bad world tries to compromise it. Think of our Skin Mylcks as a lightweight lotion that will strengthen the skin by increasing hydration and soothing sensitivity or inflammation. Plus, there’s one with brightening ingredients, one for added hydration, one for calming redness and of course our classic Skin Mylck. Want to find out more about the benefits of microbiome in skincare? Chat to one of our friendly skin specialists!
Allantoin Benefits in Skin Care
There are some skincare ingredients that seem to hog the spotlight (we swear we’re talking about vitamin C in our sleep at this point), but there are some lesser-known superstars that deserve a place on your bathroom counter. Let us introduce you to your new favourite moisturising ingredient: allantoin. What is Allantoin? Allantoin is a mainstay in K-beauty, but if it’s been flying under your radar, you’re absolutely not alone - it definitely doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. It is derived predominantly from plants like chamomile, wheat and comfrey, a herb native to Europe. You’ll find it in plenty of K-beauty products thanks to its soothing, healing and moisturising properties. If you have sensitive skin, you’re going to want to get familiar with allantoin in skin care. Benefits of Allantoin for Skin Allantoin is one of those ingredients that has talents everywhere, kind of like Rihanna. Moisturising and Hydrating If you remember one reason to love allantoin, let it be this; it is suuuper moisturising. It acts as an emollient to lock in moisture and stop it from escaping. This means no more dry and irritated skin. Allantoin also has the unique ability to increase the amount of water in cells and limit transepidermal water loss to keep the skin hydrated, plump, and youthful. Check, check and check! Healing and Anti-Inflammation Allantoin is brilliant for protecting the skin, so if you’ve found yourself with acne scarring, wounds, sun-exposure or super dry and flaky skin, make allantoin your go-to. It shields the skin from external factors and speeds up the healing process. Basically, if inflammation has got you down, allantoin is the perfect ingredient to seek out. Antioxidant and Anti-Ageing Just to round up its long list of talents, allantoin is an antioxidant, which means it fights free-radicals which are the bad guys that damage the collagen in our skin and disrupt its production. This leads to sagging skin which is the absolute opposite of what we want. Allantoin says ‘no thank you’ to free radicals before they can do any damage. Plus, thanks to its hydration-boosting properties, allantoin supports the collagen production process which needs big drinks of water to work properly. Anti-Acne Because of its skin-loving, hydrating abilities, allantoin has the side-effect of keeping acne away. When our skin is super dry, our pores go into overdrive and overproduces sebum to make up for the lack of moisture. And you guess it; more sebum means more breakouts. It may seem counterintuitive for all of our oily-skinned friends but keeping your skin hydrated will help to keep acne away. Allantoin in Skin Care Okay, so now that you’re onboard with allantoin and heading straight to the hydration station, how do you include it in your skincare routine? Excellent question! If you’re anything like us, when you think about moisture and hydration, your mind goes straight to the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. Not only is it packed with hyaluronic acid, but also allantoin! It is the perfect antidote for dehydrated skin, promotes cell longevity, and helps to plump any fine lines for that gorgeous, youthful glow we’re all after. Use a few drops before your thicker moisturising lotion and sunscreen and you’ll feel those hydrating benefits all day long. Our Encapsulated Retinol range is not only resurfacing and anti-ageing, but the allantoin makes it super gentle and calming. Some retinoids can be quite harsh on the skin, but the allantoin makes it suitable even for sensitive skin. As always with our retinol, start with Level 1, and slowly work your way up to a more concentrated dose. For a little TLC, our Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask truly is a treat yourself moment for dehydrated skin. Allantoin conditions and protects, niacinamide repairs and aids in breakout prevention, and hyaluronic acid attracts water to the skin for the ultimate ingredient combination. When your skin is screaming out for some water, slather this one on, settle in for some Netflix and let it work its magic. Find out more about why allantoin should be a star player in your skincare routine by chatting to our skincare experts - you can thank us later!
The Ultimate Guide to Retinol
Come a little closer because we’re going to let you in on a little secret. Ready? If you want to totally transform your skin, you need to get retinol into your skincare routine, stat! It is one of those products that really is as good as you’ve heard. If you’re a bit new to the world of retinol or need a bit of a refresher, we’re going to give you a full rundown of what retinol is, how it works and all of the incredible benefits you’re about to see. Seriously, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. What is Retinol? Retinol lies under the umbrella of retinoids and is your most common variety without needing a prescription. It is derived from vitamin A and can come in a few different forms; we’re talking lotions, gels and serums. Finding a retinol product that loves your skin is all part of the journey but we promise, once you do, you’ll be hooked. On your retinol hunt, you may notice a percentage. That’s the strength level and is really important to take note of. We’ll explain why a little later… What Does Retinol Do for Your Skin? The better question would be, “what doesn’t retinol do for your skin?” It really has a long list of talents, which is why many dermatologists say to their patients that if they do nothing else, they should use retinol (well, that and sunscreen). If ageing skin or acne has you down, retinol is going to be your latest obsession. The beauty of retinol is its ability to travel deep into the skin, past the epidermis, and help neutralise free radicals (the nasty unstable particles that break down collagen and cause cellular damage). In fact, our vegan retinol products are Encapsulated Retinol, meaning all of the gorgeous active ingredients aren’t released until they are deep in the skin layer. That’s good news because it maximises the benefits and minimises dryness, irritation and flaking that you’ll sometimes see with traditional retinol. Reduce Signs of Ageing That sounds all well and good so far, but you may be thinking, how does retinol work? We’re glad you asked! We’ve mentioned that retinol fights free radicals, stopping the premature breakdown of collagen to keep your skin plump, but it also boosts collagen production for a double dose of anti-ageing! Often when you start using a retinol product, you’ll notice some initial redness or peeling. But don’t freak out just yet, it is just a case of re-training your skin to speed up the cell turnover rate. Once you hit 30, cell regeneration starts to slow down, but retinol is what kicks it into gear again. If you stick with it, your skin will start producing collagen at a faster rate and send fine lines and wrinkles packing. Retinol is also going to improve your skin’s texture by smoothing it out with more structure and elasticity. Sounds damn good to us! Reduce Acne Besides ageing, retinol can work wonders for those who deal with acne. By increasing cell turnover, retinol helps to keep your pores clear and regulate oil production, which is always good news in our books. Less oil and congestion means less acne! Plus, retinol can fade acne scars which is another win. Skin Brightening and Less Hyperpigmentation As if that wasn’t enough, retinol can brighten sun damage and hyperpigmentation thanks to the amazing antioxidant and cell turnover benefits. It limits the tyrosinase enzyme, which stimulates melanin production in the skin, and lightens any dark spots. How to Use Retinol Let’s take a step back, start with a gentle cleanser like The Uncomplicated Cleanser to remove any impurities. Then you’re good to dig into your retinol. Use a pearl sized amount every second night (make sure you use it at night as retinol can make you photosensitive). Then, top it off with your favourite moisturiser and let the retinol work its magic. It is important to think of retinol like a treatment, not a moisturiser. Use only a small amount - this is not the time to go wild with a product! You know how we said those retinol percentages were going to be important? Well, here’s why… If you go too hard, too fast, you’ll see that dreaded redness and irritation. We always tell people to start with a low dose of retinol to start training your skin. We’ve developed four levels of retinol strengths; 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% so you can find the perfect retinol for you. Once you’ve finished the Level 1 Retinol and any sensitivity or redness has stopped, you’re clear to go to the next level, and so on! If you’ve got sensitive skin, you will probably want to stay around the Level 1 or Level 2 mark (and patch test before you start), whereas if you have oily or thicker skin, you’ll probably be able to tolerate and see even better results from a higher retinol percentage. In a nutshell, retinol isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation; just go slowly and see what works best for you! Oh and If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, please, please avoid retinol for the safety of your baby. Don’t worry, once you’re ready, our retinol will be here to transform your skin. You’ll start to see brighter, more plump and glowing skin in 4-6 weeks - thank us then! If you’re not sure whether retinol is for you, or are just not sure where to start, our skincare experts are happy to help, chat to them for free here.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Skin
Is an anti-inflammatory diet the answer to helping soothe red, itchy, inflamed skin? Great skin care isn’t only about applying the right products, it’s also about eating the right foods. Learn more about how inflammation impacts your skin and use our anti-inflammatory foods list and menu ideas to help eat your way to calmer, clearer skin. What is inflammation and what causes it? Put simply, inflammation is your body’s immune response to fight off disease and heal from trauma. It’s the natural response of your immune system going into repair or defense mode, sending out chemical signals to heal a wound or fight off an invader such as a virus or bacteria. When inflammation acts in a healthy way once the ‘job’ is done the chemical signals shut down and inflammation subsides. This kind of inflammation is known as acute inflammation. Things go awry and inflammation switches from healthy to unhealthy when it becomes chronic. Meaning, your body is constantly in an inflammatory state. The chemicals are always ‘on’ and flooding the body with an inflammatory response. This can lead to a continual assault on healthy cells in the joints, nerves, and connective tissues. Internal symptoms of chronic inflammation can show up in your complexion. Eczema, psoriasis, acne and rosacea are skin conditions exacerbated by inflammation. These conditions call for ongoing management, including an anti-inflammatory diet, to help keep them under control. Or, you might be dealing with temporary symptoms due to an inflammatory trigger like an allergic reaction or sunburn. Symptoms of skin inflammation include: Flushing Hotness Redness Bumps Swelling Rash Red patches Itching Flaking What causes skin inflammation? Skin inflammation can be provoked by any number of things from an allergic reaction, to UV rays, smoking, pollution, and a surge in hormones such as stress-related cortisol. Diet also plays a huge role and adjusting what you eat to focus on anti-inflammatory foods for skin can help get your complexion into a calmer, happier state. The Anti-Inflammatory Diet Just as you’d guess from the name, an anti-inflammatory diet is all about reducing inflammation by a) avoiding inflammatory foods and b) increasing anti-inflammatory foods. Let’s start with the foods that can promote inflammation and are best to avoid or significantly cut back on in your diet. Inflammatory foods to avoid or cut down Foods high in sugar and fructose corn syrup including: Soft drinks Flavoured instant oatmeal Canned fruits Juice Most cereals except for unsweetened, 100% whole grain cereals Pre-made salad dressings (especially French dressing) Flavoured yoghurt Chocolate Biscuits Cakes Ice cream Fructose is usually added to food because it’s a cheap and easy way for food manufacturers to enhance the taste. Refined carbohydrates including: Refined white bread Pizza White pasta White rice Muffins Not only have refined carbohydrates been linked to skin inflammation but also diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. Other inflammatory foods including: Processed vegetable oils Alcohol Margarine Processed and packaged foods high in trans fats Processed meats and red meat like burgers and steaks A good rule of thumb is to always read the label and scan for any pro-inflammatory ingredients such as trans fats, fructose corn syrup, MSG and sugar. Increase anti-inflammatory foods Swap those inflammatory foods for healthier, anti-inflammatory options that work to heal and protect the skin (and body!) rather than inflame it. We’ll get to a list of some of the best anti-inflammatory foods in a moment but overall they’re packed with fibre, vitamins, minerals and good fats. They’re foods that are as close to their natural states as possible - not processed. Not only will you reap the benefits of a calmer, glowing complexion, but you’ll also boost your health, including your immune system, all around. Anti-Inflammatory Foods List Now you know what foods cause inflammation, you might be wondering what foods are anti-inflammatory? Key players include foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, healthy fats. Broccoli, cauliflower, kale and cabbage Capsicum Fruits: berries, grapes, cherries, and oranges Avocados Olive oil Olives Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel) Nuts Green tea Dark chocolate (hooray!) with 70% or higher cacao and no added sugar Red wine (in moderation and avoid if you have rosacea) Turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon Flaxseeds and chia seeds Anti-Inflammatory Menu Following the tenets of anti-inflammatory eating means loading your plate up with plenty of green vegetables, berries, citrus fruits, nuts, whole grains, healthy oils and fish. We’ve rounded up some super delicious recipes that use anti-inflammatory foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Get ready to be inspired! Breakfast Turmeric Deviled Scrambled Eggs with Avocado on Toast Vegan Breakfast Pumpkin Muffins Cherry Spinach Smoothie Lunch Greek Chicken Meal Prep Bowls Healthy Zucchini Superfood Slice Rainbow Power Salad Dinner Lamb Shank, Kale, Turmeric, and Chickpea Curry Mediterranean Stuffed Capsicums Leah Istines Mix-a-Mato Tomato Salsa on Salmon Don’t forget, an anti-inflammatory diet works best when teamed with a healthy lifestyle. Incorporate regular exercise, watch your alcohol intake and stay hydrated. If you’re interested in exploring more eating plans with an anti-inflammatory focus, get your Google on and search Mediterranean, Weil, and Perricone diets. Before making any drastic changes to your diet we recommend seeking advice from an accredited practising dietitian. Anti-Inflammatory Skin Care Double down on the glowing results of your anti-inflammatory diet by supporting your skin with an anti-inflammatory skincare routine. Focus on ingredients that work to strengthen the skin barrier, hydrate, soothe and minimise redness. Tasmannia lanceolata extract (Mountain Pepper): Cools irritation and strengthens skin. Hyaluronic acid: This humectant ingredient delivers hydration deep into the skin cells. Broccoli Sprout Extract: Helps reduce skin redness and heal damaged skin. Wild Mint: Can target sensitivity and has wonderful antiseptic and antibacterial properties. esmi Anti-Inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask This soothing gel mask comes to the rescue of sensitive, inflamed skin to cool and calm redness with powerful anti-inflammatory and moisture promoting ingredients. The Anti-Inflammation Mint Gel Booster mask is ideal for acne-prone and irritated skin or post laser treatment. Shop the Anti-Inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask here You Might Also Like to Read How to Detox Your Skin Best Foods to Eat to Improve Your Skin Red and Reactive Skin Survival Guide Research Low-grade inflammation, diet composition and health: current research evidence and its translation https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4579563/ What is the anti-inflammatory diet? https://jandonline.org/article/S0002-8223(10)01555-5/fulltext An anti-inflammatory diet can help you live a longer life https://www.healthline.com/health-news/anti-inflammatory-diet-linked-to-reduced-risk-of-early-death
