Do Facial Rollers Actually Work?
You canât scroll through Instagram or TikTok these days without seeing someone with a gorgeous glow and cheekbones for days. Just when you thought it came down to good genes, they pull out a facial roller and swear it is the key to a sculpted face. Honestly, we could not have hit that âadd to cartâ button faster. But the million dollar question is, do facial rollers work? Letâs find out. What are the benefits of face rollers? Besides looking oh-so-cute on your dresser, face roller benefits include lymphatic drainage massaging, which helps to remove excess fluids and toxins in the body and face. Lymphatic massages give these fluids a helping hand to move along, rather than being trapped in your face. You know when you wake up and youâre feeling particularly puffy? Yup, thatâs your cue to get out your facial roller. They also improve circulation and are frankly the ultimate relaxation tool. Anyone who uses a facial roller will tell you how they could spend hours rolling their face - it feels that good. If youâre a gold star skincare student, you can keep your facial roller in the fridge so that when you go to indulge in your morning self care, the coolness of the stone will help to awaken the skin and soothe inflammation. Now, besides the skincare benefits, many facial rollers are made of jade or rose quartz. These gemstones have their own healing powers, said to draw out negativity and provide balance. If youâre anything like us, you need as much help as you can get de-stressing and staying grounded. What are the benefits of a Gua Sha? Gua sha, a traditional Chinese therapy, offers several health and beauty benefits. It improves circulation by stimulating blood flow, helping to relieve muscle tension, pain, and stiffness, making it effective for conditions like neck pain and tension headaches. Gua sha also promotes lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and puffiness, which is particularly useful in facial treatments for a sculpted look. For skin health, gua sha enhances microcirculation, encouraging collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and brighten the complexion. It also provides a soothing, massage-like effect that lowers stress and promotes relaxation, supporting emotional well-being and better sleep. Facial roller vs Gua Sha One of the cousins of the facial roller is the humble gua sha, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Gua what now? Donât worry, weâll explain the difference. In traditional Asian practices, the term âgua shaâ literally translates to âscrape the pain awayâ which sounds pretty good if you ask us. While a facial roller helps to drain puffiness and stimulate blood flow, a gua sha tends to work on a deeper level. Thanks to its unique shape, it gives the perfect, natural facelift, sculpting and tightening the face to prevent signs of ageing. Like facial rollers, a gua sha massages the skin to avoid fluid retention, reduce puffiness and help those cheekbones pop! If you have any muscle soreness, a gua sha can help to knead out those knots. Using one is like a spa massage for your face. Need a little gua sha inspiration? Our Gua Sha Stone is made from aventurine, a quartz linked to feelings of comfort, harmony and love. Not only will it provide a natural lift of your eyebrows and jowl area, it will also soften out any fine lines. Gua Sha Before and After By now, you've probably seen the buzz around this face-sculpting massage tool. Beauty gurus and influencers alike canât get enough of the gua sha, often calling it ânatural botox.â While many are drawn to its aesthetic benefitsâlike reducing fine lines and wrinklesâgua sha fans have discovered so much more. Beyond beauty, itâs a powerful tool for releasing stress and tension, something you didnât know you needed daily. Many users report visible slimming and sculpting effects, with smoother lines and a lifted, buoyant complexion. Plus, the holistic benefits, like feeling energised each morning, make the gua sha a valuable addition to any routine. How to use a Facial Roller or Gua Sha The good news is whether youâre using a face roller or a gua sha, they both use pretty similar techniques when trying to make the most out of them. As we mentioned, your best bet is to store yours in the fridge and use it as part of your morning routine. After cleansing, use an oil of your choice to allow for seamless movement across your face. Our top picks are the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil to tackle dryness, or the Peppermint Green Oil to soothe inflammation. Working your way upwards, start at the base of the neck and use an upwards motion with the gua sha or roller 3-5 times in each area. Once youâre finished with the neck, move to the under eyes. Start from the middle and move outwards across the cheeks and towards the ear to help with the lymphatic drainage. Finish things off with the same routine on your forehead. The general rule is to always move upwards. Weâve put together a handy gua sha tutorial right here. When using your roller, avoid areas of active acne, otherwise you risk inflaming them further or spreading bacteria. No thanks! For the best results (and the ultimate moment of relaxation), use your facial roller or gua sha for five minutes each day and youâll cut glass with your chiselled face in no time! Make your mornings feel like a trip to the spa with a facial roller or gua sha. Aside from feeling suuuuper relaxed, youâll notice your puffiness literally slide away and watch the compliments ârollâ in - pun intended! Have any other questions about using a facial roller or gua sha? Chat to our skin consultants today!
The Ultimate Hangover Skincare Routine
Weâve all been there. You tell yourself youâll go out with the girls just for one drink - you have an early morning wake up, after all! Then one drink turns into two, then three, and then itâs all downhill from there⌠We totally understand that when you get home, the only thing on your mind is sleep, and the last thing you want to be doing is a full skincare routine. And donât even get us started on the effects a hangover can have on your skin! When it comes to hangover skincare, you need something simple and nourishing so you can get back to bed, curled up with all of the water in the world and your latest Netflix binge. So listen up, because weâre going to fill you in on a few handy tips so your skin doesnât pay as much as your head. Why you shouldn't sleep with makeup on Hangover skin care starts the night before. In what will come as a surprise to literally no one, we have a hard âno makeup on while you sleepâ policy here at esmi. We know youâre tired, and we know your feet hurt, but please march yourself over to that sink and grab that cleanser. Weâre not saying that this is the time to do a 10-step routine, but just taking your makeup off and applying a moisturising lotion is going to make a world of difference in the morning. Why is it so important? Glad you asked! Acne Sleeping with your makeup on puts you at risk of developing a breakout thanks to clogged pores. As we sleep, our cells undergo a regeneration process, during which time oil makes its way to the surface of the skin. When residual makeup sits on the skin after a night out, it traps the oil within the skin and there are no prizes for guessing what that means: acne. Dry Skin When we leave makeup on overnight, it has a tendency to dry out our skin, especially if your idea of night-of skincare is putting a bit of moisturiser on over your makeup. The moisturiser cannot penetrate through the makeup, making it pretty much useless. As for lipstick, leaving it on can cause chapped lips, which is never a cute look. Premature Ageing Makeup can trap dirt, oils, toxins and pollution in your skin. This increases free radicals which are nasty rouge electrons that breakdown the collagen in your skin, leading to less elasticity in the skin and fine lines and wrinkles. Makeup trapped against the skin can cause a little something called oxidative damage, which can damage the skin barrier and lead to premature ageing. We know skincare after a late night is the last thing on your mind, but please remember our voice in your head as we say: always, always take your makeup off before bed. The hangover skincare routine Whether youâve taken your makeup off before bed or not (letâs be honest, weâve all been there even though weâd never publicly admit it), the next morning youâre going to want to dive headfirst into a skincare routine that removes any toxins and deeply hydrates the skin. Whether you were an A+ student and washed off your makeup the night before or not, youâre going to want to start with The Uncomplicated Cleanser to deeply but gently remove any evidence from the night before, and oils that have accumulated overnight. Next up, grab one of our Gentle-Foliants to exfoliate away any dead skin and brighten up your complexion. Hey, youâre already looking more awake! From here on in, your skincare routine should be all about adding moisture back into your face. Alcohol can severely dehydrate your skin so today, hydration is our number one priority (both with water and our skincare). The Hyaluronic Hydrating Lightweight Cream Face Mask is a big drink of water for your skin thanks to the hyaluronic acid, which can hold 1,000x its weight in water. Perfect for all skin types to target issues of dehydration, oily and problematic skin, it truly is the best face mask for tired skin (read: hungover skin). It also pairs perfectly with a big bowl of pasta and reality TV. After youâve washed that off, youâre going to want to repair the skin barrier with the Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration. It is a light moisturising lotion that will soothe the skin, while the good bacteria will strengthen the skin and increase hydration. The last step is to grab your pillowcases and throw them in the wash. They may be harbouring residual makeup and who knows what other oils and nasties. Best to get them familiar with a bit of soap and warm water for good measure. Donât worry, weâre not here to tell you to ditch the margaritas for good, but we are telling you to take care of your skin as well! Before you leave the house this weekend, leave your products out for easy access so you remember to take your makeup off before you hit the hay, along with products that are going to save your skin in the morning. Those extra 5 minutes really are worth it. If you have any other questions about hangover skincare, chat to our skincare experts.
The Best Facial Sunscreen for Summer
Summer is coming and itâs going to be a scorcher. Itâs also that time of year when we can enjoy days on the beach and live a little more â especially outside! But, what does this mean for our skin? Anytime the sun shines (including in the cooler months) UV light can damage our skin, even if you are only outside for 15 minutes (eek!). Hats and sunglasses are proven to protect your face from the sun's harsh rays but itâs never a guarantee. The most effective way to protect your face from the sun is facial sunscreen. Luckily, esmi has a specific facial Skin Shield Sunscreen that is perfect for shielding your skin from the sun, no matter what skin type or concern you have. Still not convinced you need facial sunscreen this Summer? Keep reading â trust us when we say you wonât want to miss this step in your skincare routine! Why is facial sunscreen so important? Ask the esmi team (or any dermatologist for that matter) and they will say âsunscreen is the most important product to put on your face.â And, thereâs a good reason for this. Sunscreen, when applied daily, can help to prevent sun damage to the skin (duh!). But, using facial sunscreen can slow down the process of premature ageing and can prevent the development of an uneven skin tone over time. Our esmi facial sunscreen also includes the element of hyaluronic acid â making sure youâre getting a boost of hydration when applying SPF throughout the day (because yes, you do need to apply it more than once per day). This isnât available in all facial sunscreens and is one of the active ingredients that make our Skin Shield Sunscreen effective for all skin types. Imagine waking up each morning to smooth, crease-free skin? When you use SPF on the reg this could be your reality. Does 30 SPF sunscreen protect me from the sun? It is widely known that SPF protects against sunshine rays. But by how much? Facial sunscreen with 30 SPF blocks 97% of the Australian sun from hitting your skin, only 1% less than that of 50 SPF. So, if youâve been thinking you need facial sunscreen that is 50+ SPF think again. When applied regularly, facial sunscreen with 30 SPF will protect your face whether you have fair or dark skin. Our facial sunscreen is specifically formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection to complement the other active ingredients for the ideal sun protection formula. Can I wear facial sunscreen under makeup? Wearing makeup over sunscreen has always been a challenge. Sometimes facial sunscreens are greasy and donât mix well, even with the best foundation and BB cream formulas. However, wearing sunscreen under makeup is most definitely recommended as makeup, including full-coverage products, will not protect your skin from the summer sun. The best sunscreen under makeup has a non-greasy formula with hydrating properties and isnât harsh on the skin. Our formula for facial sunscreen is exactly this (youâre welcome sensitive skin queens!). The esmi team wanted (and needed) a formula that was ideal under makeup and non-comedogenic â meaning free from pore-clogging ingredients â to make sure every person could look their best and get sun protection at the same time. Summer is coming! Choose the best facial sunscreen now. esmiâs Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 is the best facial sunscreen for your day-to-day summer adventures. Not only is it ideal for daily sun protection, but this product is also: Anti-ageing with the added benefits of carrot root oil Non-greasy and has no chalky residue Ideal for all types of skin (even sensitive and acne-prone skin!) Combined with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration Ideal under makeup Non-comedogenic (no more clogged pores!) Weâve truly made the best facial sunscreen for everyone and know that our wonderful esmi community loves it just as much as we do! For more information on the specific ingredients, reviews and how to use our Skin Shield Sunscreen click here.
Why is Self-Care Important?
When it comes to creating a self-care routine, we can often be stuck on the pampering side of self-care â think long baths and extravagant pedicures. But, as the esmi Skin Specialists know, self-care can happen in the everyday and shouldnât be a treat for when you feel most burnt out. But, why is self-care important? We know it can be easy to let self-care become your lowest priority and sometimes life can get the best of us. We can forget how important self-care is to nurture our physical and emotional health. Keeping this front of mind is essential for overall wellbeing, and With R U OK? Day approaching, the esmi team wants to share some of our favourite self-care suggestions so you can take some time out for you! Put your body first Self-care can be seen as indulgent and selfish, but esmi acknowledges that putting yourself first is essential for physical health. Putting your body first can differ for everybody! Some people love to cuddle up and relax, others might find that moving their body makes them feel best. You may also find you love a bit of both â yoga and matcha anyone? Whatever it is, figuring out what makes your body happy can be a game changer for your self-care routine. Skincare as self-care Once you have relaxed or pumped out a killer sweat sesh, taking care of your skin should be the next step! We may sound biased (and we are) but the stress and busyness of life can impact your skin by causing breakouts, dryness, under-eye circles or serious skin issues to flare up like eczema. Using skincare as self-care on a regular basis will help reduce and repair these skin reactions. So, why not incorporate skincare into a daily self-care ritual? Taking some time before work or after your nightly shower to slow down and apply your skincare intentionally is a great way to relax and one that the esmi team stands by. If youâre unsure what a self-care skin routine should look like try to incorporate products that are gentle on the skin, tailored to your skin type, and make you feel a little luxurious. Remember skincare should be an enjoyable experience and one that allows you to feel nurtured from the outside! Treat yourself or someone else! Self-care for your body and skin is important, but what about the small joys in life? Treating yourself to a colourful lipstick, some beautiful flowers, or a delicious coffee is a great way to add a bit of joy throughout the day. Surprising someone else with something special can also be a great way to make their day and boost your mood with some all-important serotonin. Now, we wouldnât recommend this self-care tactic all time as it can get a little pricey, but when something is getting you down it isnât a crime to simply treat yourself and others! Curate your space Clearing your space of clutter can be a game changer for your mental clarity. Weâve all been guilty of leaving a mess in the house due to a hectic week (especially the esmi team!) but taking time to clean and curate your space can positively affect your emotional wellbeing. You can even take it a step further and add self-care items to your clean space. Maybe a comfy robe, a relaxing essential oil or even a moisturising lip balm. Adding these items to your space can make you feel at ease and ready to love your calming self-care routine. Plan something to look forward to Looking forward to dinner with friends or an exciting holiday can make all the difference when managing any worries. Having something to look forward to can put current struggles into perspective and allow joy into your life when you need it most. Planning these events could even be a form of self-care! Creating a future for yourself that you know will spark happiness can do wonders for your day-to-day mental health and is something we encourage our esmi community to do regularly. Ask for help and accept it when offered All too often we perform our own self-care and neglect the help around us. But the truth is when we need the most self-care it can be wise to ask for help and actually accept it. It is also a great idea (when youâre feeling good) to ask others if they need help also and assist where you can! R U OK? Day is happening on September 8th and esmi stands by the organisation's purpose to encourage others to stay connected and converse with each other when times get tough. Support R U OK? Day here and learn how you can make a difference to someone who is struggling.
Caffeine Eye Serum for Tired Eyes
We see what all the caffeine buzz is about in skincare. If youâre struggling with a tired, sagging eye area read on to find out more about caffeineâs firming, brightening and calming benefits. Caffeine for eye bags & dark circles Is coffee your non-negotiable morning pick-me-up? We feel you! Youâll be happy to know caffeine eye cream can give your skin a boost in the A.M too. Caffeine is a vasoconstrictive ingredient. This means it temporarily restricts the blood vessels which can improve the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. The skin around your eyes is extremely thin which makes the veins underneath easy to see. By constricting the blood vessels, they become less visible and shadows are improved. This tightening effect caffeine has on the skin also minimises under-eye bags for a fresher, tauter looking eye area. Caffeine to soothe skin Coffee for skin care can help soothe and calm inflamed, irritated skin. The chlorogenic acids (CGA) found in caffeine are a class of phenolic acids that can help reduce inflammation in a red, itchy eye area. Caffeine eye cream can also diffuse the free radical activity that leads to signs of ageing around the eye area. How does caffeine fight free radicals? With its potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect skin cells against the damage done by UV radiation (free radicals attacks) to slow down the signs of premature ageing in the eye area. Serums for tired eyes Caffeine isnât the only ingredient that helps firm a sagging, dull eye area. Our serums for tired eyes are formulated with a wealth of brightening, hydration and anti-ageing ingredients - including caffeine. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, SNAP-8â˘(peptides), caffeine, and Vitamin E. esmi Anti-Ageing Eye Serum fights signs of ageing around the delicate eye area - crows feet, puffiness, dryness, and fine lines. Hydrating Eye Serum Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and caffeine. With a team of caffeine and super hydrator hyaluronic acid, esmi Hydrating Eye Serum restores under-eye skin to youthful looking radiance - a fresher, firmer, depuffed eye area. Brightening Eye Serum Key ingredients: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), caffeine, Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. esmi Brightening Eye Serum acts on common signs of tiredness and ageing in the delicate skin area: dark circles, eye bags, and wrinkles to promote a brighter, tighter and more youthful eye area. Caffeine skin care FAQs What does caffeine do for your skin? Caffeine tightens, depuffs, and soothes skin thanks to its antioxidant and vasoconstrictive properties. Is caffeine in skincare safe? Caffeine in skincare is generally considered safe for all skin types. However, if you are allergic to caffeine, avoid it in your skincare products. Is caffeine good for under eyes? Yes, caffeine is good for under the eyes as it targets puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles for a firmer, more youthful eye area. What does caffeine in an eye cream or serum do? Caffeine helps make your eye area look fresher, brighter, and firmer. View our full range of Eye Treatments to brighten, hydrate, and firm tired eyes in need of extra TLC. You Might Also Like to Read What Does Gold Leaf Do in Skincare? Tired Skin? Hereâs How to Wake It Up Revive Dull Skin
esmi Skin Minerals Real Results: Brooke Schmidt
âThe best thing I ever did for my skin.â Meet Brooke. With painful, burn-like reactions that would swell up, leaving the skin raw, red and very irritated, Brooke had been on quite the skin journey before finding esmi.Â
Glass Skin and How to Get It!
If youâre as skincare as obsessed as we are (and if youâre here, we can make a good guess that you are!), youâll know that South Korean beauty is finally getting its moment in the Western world. The South Korean beauty market (or K-beauty for those in the know) is known for its advanced tech-driven products that have turned into a global market. Think powerhouse ingredients that clear your skin and give you that plump, dewy look. Seriously, where has this been all our lives?? Thanks to platforms like Instagram and TikTok, it has never been easier to dive into the wonderful world of South Korean skincare. One of its most iconic looks is glass skin. Donât freak out, itâs not as crazy as it sounds! Let us explain... What is glass skin? Glass skin is basically just a fancy term for ultra clear and luminous skin; almost reflective - like glass! Picture the most flawless skin you can think of. Thatâs what weâre aiming for here! The trend is about cleansing and layering lightweight, hydrating skin care products to create a glowing, dewy appearance. Jude Chao, a skincare blogger and K-beauty expert, is a master on the topic. âGlass skin is a term for exceptionally smooth, even-toned and lustrous skin thatâs so flawless it has the appearance of glass.â She suggests that the secret is intensely moisturised skin to give a gorgeous âlit-from-within glowâ. Skincare brand founder and K-beauty pro Sarah Lee said, âGlass skin or âyuri pibuâ in Korean, refers to translucent skin that is clear, radiant, poreless, and smooth.â We donât know about you, but that is all sounding exactly like what we want. Sign us up! Now of course, not all of us are blessed with skin naturally like that but donât despair, there are a few steps (and some saviour products) to get you to airbrushed skin (without the Facetune). The 'glass skin' routine You might have heard that achieving that luminous K-beauty look means setting aside hours for a 37 step routine. Come on, who has time for that? Luckily, you can reach glowing skin heaven by making a few small adjustments to your current routine. In a nutshell, the process involves layering hydrating and nourishing products. Youâll see how easy it can be⌠Cleanse & exfoliate: Clean your face with your favourite cleanser. Your best bet is one that isnât overly stripping (that should be a basic rule always, but especially for hydrated, glowy skin). Check out all of our cleansers here to find the right one for your skin type. Follow this up with one of our Gentle-Foliants to remove any dead skin cells. The physical and chemical exfoliating properties leave you with the perfect base, ready to absorb all of those yummy, nourishing ingredients. Layer your serums The next step is your serum (or serums if youâre feeling extra luxe). If youâre new to skincare our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is the best place to start. Perfect for all skin types, this is the ultimate skin hydrator and our secret weapon for glass skin. If you need something a little more targeted but is still going to give you that oh, so flawless skin, we have a few options. For super sensitive skin, the Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration repairs your skin barrier while keeping things nice and dewy - the dream! Keep pigmentation at bay with our Pomegranate Brightening Serum. It enhances the skin's luminosity and clarity with that hydration we all know and love. Another great all-rounder with some powerful anti-aging properties is the Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo. Fine lines are not on brand for glass skin so use this luxe serum to keep them at bay. One of our favourite things about K-beauty is their love of layering serums, so no need to choose just one! Go hard or go home, we say. Dab on your eye treatment Brighten up the area around your eyes with our Eye Serum. Use a rice-sized amount to target dark circles with a unique blend of plankton extract, active ingredients, and peptides. Looking bright and super awake is what weâre going for here. Then dab on the Eye Delight Reflection Eye Balm with the cooling tip to firm, hydrate, and reduce puffiness. Youâll be looking fresh as a daisy in no time! Lock in that hydration The beauty of moisturisers (no pun intended) is that they create a barrier that keeps all of that wonderful hydration locked in. Since the key to Korean glass skin is being plump and dewy, you want to keep all of the good stuff where it should be. A light gel moisturiser is best in this case. Finish with sun protection Fine lines and pigmentation, the main signs of sun damage, are the last things you want for flawless skin. Making sure you never leave the house without SPF is so. Damn. Important. Try something lightweight like our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen, with skin boosting ingredients like carrot root oil and green tea extract. How long does it take to achieve glass skin? Weâre sorry to break it to you, but achieving that glass skin glow isnât an overnight process. It is a long-term commitment but trust us, it is so worth it! Becoming religious about your glass skin routine will keep you well and truly on track. As with all things skin though, other factors play a part and work together to get you the skin of your dreams. Your diet is a huuuge contributor to the state of your skin. Hey, we love chocolate and burgers as much as the next person (add some fries and weâd be more than happy), but eating foods high in salt and sugar can wreak havoc on your skin. A diet high in processed foods wonât help your cause (and will even lead to premature aging - hard pass) but there are heaps of foods that sure will! Foods high in fatty acids and leafy greens are your ticket to clear, glowy skin. Getting a solid sleep and exercise routine down pat will also work wonders on brightening your skin. Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so it only stands to reason that getting your full 8 hours reduces fine lines which along with feeling ready to face the day, is a major bonus. Moving your body is the last piece of the puzzle. Exercise boosts blood flow to the face to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This promotes collagen production and keeps the cells fit and healthy - just like you!  Shop our Skin Treats range here for active ingredients to target skin concerns and achieve glass skin.
6 Hyaluronic Acid Benefits For Hair
For those of you playing the esmi drinking game at home, you can take a shot because weâre about to talk about one of our favourite ingredients: hyaluronic acid. No wait, donât click away, we promise this is different! Weâre going to be chatting about hyaluronic acid for hair. While it might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to hair care, we know that skincare doesnât end at the hairline. A lot of the ingredients we love for our skin also have some amazing benefits for the scalp and the hair. Today, weâre breaking down 6 hyaluronic acid benefits for hair. Hair hydration Hyaluronic acid provides deeply nourishing hydration without the risk of greasy build-up, thanks to how quickly it sinks into the scalp and hair follicles. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts moisture from its surroundings like a magnet, giving your hair a big drink of water, keeping it smooth and super hydrated. Weâll get into why thatâs so important in a bit⌠Scalp hydration Like we said, we take a scalp-first approach to haircare (you can read more about that here). After all, by supporting the scalp microbiome, we can keep the hair happy and healthy. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the scalp to keep it nice and hydrated. Just like how you canât have wine without cheese, you canât have healthy hair follicles without a healthy scalp. Hydrating the scalp is going to keep flakiness away and reduce hair loss by creating an environment conducive to hair growth. Reduces Frizziness One of the best hyaluronic acid benefits for hair is its ability to keep frizz under control. For those of us who dread a rainy day thanks to our hair getting a bit wild, hyaluronic acid is going to be your saviour. Frizzy hair can often be a sign of dry or damaged hair, and if youâre suffering from one or the other, or both, the outer cuticle opens up in an attempt to let in that much needed moisture. When too much moisture is retained, these cuticles start to swell and voila, your hair might be looking like you just touched one of those balls of electricity from middle school science class. To avoid the frizz, your best bet is to keep dryness at bay with hyaluronic acid. Improves porosity of hair If youâre wondering, âwhat is hair porosity?â, donât worry, just consider us Google! Porosity is the measure of your hairâs ability to absorb and store moisture. Majority of the time, porosity is determined by good olâ genetics and external factors like the use of heat appliances. Having dry, damaged or bleached hair means it is going to be higher on the porosity spectrum, so youâre more susceptible to losing moisture. Think of it like filling up a bucket of water with holes in the bottom - youâre going to lose all that moisture! Hyaluronic acid plugs those holes and helps your follicles retain hydration. Helps to Treat Dermatitis If youâve got a bad case of seborrheic dermatitis (in other words, dermatitis on the scalp), youâre going to want to get friendly with hyaluronic acid. Signs of seborrheic dermatitis include a red and itchy scalp, as well as dandruff. Most of the time, this type of dermatitis occurs in high oil-producing areas of the body, like the scalp, and is triggered by factors like stress, hormones, cold weather or harsh chemicals. Hyaluronic acid is going to help calm inflammation and irritation, keeping dermatitis at bay and boosting hydration. Suitable for everyone While some moisturising products can cause oneâs hair to feel heavy and greasy, hyaluronic acid is suitable for all hair types and textures, just like it is great for all skin types. We love an inclusive ingredient! Hair products including hyaluronic acid When youâre scouring the internet for hair products that contain hyaluronic acid, you might be a little confused by the lack of options. Thatâs only because in reality, most hair products will list sodium hyaluronate instead, which is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. Being smaller in structure, it can penetrate deeper into the scalp and hair follicles. If youâre looking for your new favourite hyaluronic acid shampoo and conditioner, youâre in luck. We happen to know the perfect ones! The esmi Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner are rich in hyaluronic acid to boost hydration for healthier, smoother and more nourished hair. With the help of our unique biome blend of probiotic lysates, our Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner is going to also hydrate your scalp and restore your precious skin barrier. If you havenât tried hyaluronic acid for hair, your world is about to be changed (dramatic, but true). Want to know more? Chat to our esmi skin (and now scalp!) experts today.
All About Fragrance in Skincare
We can all agree that thereâs something so luxurious about applying your skincare and being greeted with a gorgeous scent. Itâs that âIâve just been to the spaâ feeling that makes you feel so zen. For some people, the scent is what makes or breaks a product. Here at esmi, we like to take a natural approach with our products which has a fantastic bonus - gorgeous scents! Having said that, not all fragrances are created equal. In most cases, it comes down to individual preference, but there are definitely some fragrances that you donât want to come within ten yards of your precious face. Synthetic vs Natural Fragrance Your natural skincare fragrances are derived from the natural ingredients in the product, also known as the essential oils. They predominantly come from a plantâs flowers, leaves or roots, with some common examples including lemongrass and tea tree oils. These ingredients can be super beneficial for your skin while also smelling great - win, win! Synthetic fragrances are made in a lab using a mixture of chemicals. You can usually tell pretty quickly as although it might smell luxe, it wonât smell particularly natural. These mixes of chemicals can prove to be irritating on the skin. Annie Chiu, MD board-certified dermatologist says synthetic fragrances are a leading cause of contact dermatitis and allergic cosmetic reactions. Eeek! If your skin doesnât mind synthetic fragrances, still use them lightly and not in every product integrated into your routine. Prolonged use can cause irritations to develop over time. Here at esmi, we avoid synthetic fragrances of all kinds for this very reason! Skincare is never a âone size fits allâ situation, so figuring out what you like (more importantly, what your skin likes) is key. Benefits of Fragrance in Skincare If fragrance in skincare is your thing (and it is absolutely our thing!), youâre always going to want to err on the side of natural. Apart from smelling gorgeous, the essential oils where the natural fragrances come from have heaps of other pluses. Much like the benefits of aromatherapy (which also uses essential oils, coincidentally), natural fragrance skincare can promote emotional and physical healing. These products can alleviate stress and work wonders on boosting your mood, like a shot of serotonin! Besides the benefits for your mental well-being, some products containing essential oils can also minimise inflammation and slow down ageing. Um, yes please! Essential oils are also rich in antioxidants which can hydrate and protect your skin! Plus, there is some research to suggest that essential oils like lemongrass and tea tree have acne-fighting powers. Is there anything they canât do?! Between creating a relaxing experience and skin boosting properties, natural fragrances can make the whole skincare routine a more enjoyable experience, and we say a big âheck yesâ to that! How to Approach Fragrance in Skincare In terms of how to approach fragrance in skincare, the answer is tentatively. Natural fragrances can make for a super luxe skincare routine, but it is not always easy to tell the difference between natural and synthetic. Always patch test products by using a small amount on your hands and waiting 24 hours to see if a reaction develops. If it all looks clear, then youâve got the green light to become obsessed with this product! On the flip side, if your patch test reveals some not-so-fun irritation, keep a note of the product and any ingredients (especially fragrances) so you know what your skin is saying âno thanksâ to. The golden rule is to always look for products that use high quality ingredients (*cough* esmi *cough*). We are all about using natural and nourishing ingredients that are effective because would you believe, we want you to love our products (and the way they smell). Investing in high quality, mainly natural ingredients is going to produce better results which will not only save you money in the long run (did someone say shopping trip?), but will make you that much more excited to settle in for your skincare routine, which can only be a good thing, right? If you want to know more about fragrances in skincare, our skin consultants have extensive knowledge all there is to know in this area. Get in touch today!
How to Stop Skin PickingÂ
Does anyone else have that friend who is obsessed with popping pimples? If you donât, youâre probably the friend. If youâre guilty of skin picking, donât worry, this is a safe space. While we here at esmi are believers in the no-face-touching policy, we know it can be hard to resist the urge to pick that pimple that is driving you crazy. While it might seem like no big deal, skin picking can cause long-lasting damage and scarring. So, letâs help you jump off the picking bandwagon with some doâs and donâts. Why do we pick our skin? Itâs fairly normal for people to pick at the bumps on their face from time to time, and it often comes down to being a bad habit or stress related. However, if picking becomes chronic, it may be a medical skin-picking disorder called excoriation. Now in those extreme cases, it might be time to visit a naturopath or GP, but if youâre a regular old skin picker, read on. For most, skin picking starts with pimples and acne, but can also surface thanks to a rash that can lead to scabbing. Picking at your skin can become so routine, you donât even think about it - kind of like opening Instagram every time you turn on your phone. You might not even notice youâre doing it! Aside from a habit, skin picking can be a symptom of anxiety. Have you gone through a really stressful time in your life recently? You might notice skin picking becomes a subconscious relief mechanism. How to stop skin picking - the doâs Do keep your hands busy Whether the root cause of your skin picking is habit or stress, keeping your hands occupied can go a long way to letting the urge to pick pass. Okay hear us out, stress balls. We know it sounds silly, but they help to relieve stress and take your mind off skin picking. Keep one near your bed or in your bathroom. If the humble stress ball sounds like a stretch to you, take up a habit like crocheting - crochet bucket hats are having a moment! Another option is to replace the bad habit with a good one. Every time you feel the need to pick your face, moisturise instead. In dire cases, if you think you might be picking in your sleep, grab yourself a cheap pair of gloves to wear while you sleep, just at least until your skin has a chance to heal. Do keep your nails short & clean Okay, we love using Kylie Jennerâs Instagram as our nail inspo, but if youâre prone to skin picking, youâre going to want to keep them on the shorter side to avoid too much damage to your gorgeous skin. Plus, and perhaps more importantly, keep your nails clean - please! The underside of your nails can harbour bacteria which, if you are picking, can end up under your skin and in some cases lead to infection (as if you needed another reason not to chew them). Do have a skin picking-friendly skincare routine Remember what we said about bacteria under the skin causing infections? Yeah, thatâs why youâre going to want to use products that keep your skin clean and help it to heal. As is the case with any open wounds, keeping your skin clean is vital. Cleansing twice a day with The Uncomplicated Cleanser will send nasty bacteria packing which is exactly what we want! If pimples are whatâs causing your skin picking, time to adopt an anti-acne routine, featuring the Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant (to gently remove congestion) and the Peppermint Green Oil (to balance oil flow and we love its antibacterial benefits). Keeping your skin clean and clear will also prevent future bumps and pimples which equals less picking - win, win! If you have some scarring, try our Encapsulated Retinol range (start with the lowest concentration and work your way up) to help with cell turnover and regeneration. How to stop skin picking - the donâts Donât reach for the pins & tweezers For the love of the skincare gods, put down the sharp objects. Your skin is delicate and if you donât know what youâre doing youâre likely to do more damage. They are rarely sterilised, meaning youâll only push bacteria and sebum further into your skin and cause permanent scarring. To sum it up; leave the extractions to the professionals. Donât ignore your triggers Next time you go to pick your skin, think about what made you want to. Were you stressed, bored, frustrated? Think of it like meditation; really become aware of your senses and triggers. Thatâs when you can avoid those triggers or replace the bad habits with more positive ones.  Skin picking can, in the best-case cause pain and irritation, and in the worst case, permanent scarring. Thatâs why avoiding it at all costs is key for clear and glowing skin. If you have any other questions on skin picking, chat to one of our Skin Experts.
Why You Need Probiotics for Your Hair
Here at esmi, skincare is pretty important to us (duh). Thatâs why we spend endless hours researching and formulating to give you products that are going to actually work, not just mask the issue. Itâs also why we know skincare doesnât end at the hairline. So, when it came to creating our hair care products, we took a skin-first approach. Our entire skin is a microbiome, in other words, a community of bacteria. But before you get all freaked out, a lot of that bacteria helps our skin stay healthy. The microbiome is responsible for keeping the balance between good and bad bacteria, which is why if it becomes compromised, youâll likely start to see some skin, and in this case, hair issues arise. Why is a Healthy Microbiome Important? A compromised microbiome (whether it is on your body, face or scalp) can arise from a range of factors, like UV exposure, harsh chemicals (especially in skincare and haircare products), stress and diet. When your scalp microbiome becomes damaged or unbalanced (meaning there is more bad bacteria than good), you will start to notice dehydrated, dull, oily, dry or weak hair. Anyone else having an âahaâ moment right now? Keeping your microbiome healthy and balanced is going to give you the hair of your dreams and thatâs where we come in! What is Special About Haircare by esmi? All of our products are heavily scientifically-researched to guarantee you get the best results - no room for guessing here. Thatâs why for this range, we collaborated with BiomeCentric to create custom (and totally unique to us) Biome Blends. âWhat on earth is a Biome Blend?â Excellent question. Our haircare products contain specific blends of beneficial probiotic lysates, one for each hair concern. A lysate is a concentrated dose of probiotics, and is a more stable way to deliver all the sweet, sweet benefits that come from probiotics. By balancing the scalp microbiome with probiotics, we create the ideal environment for hair to thrive. When we wash our hair, the products we use are absorbed by the skin on our scalp, so you want to be sure they are nourishing, gentle and will effectively target your hair woes for a healthier scalp and hair follicles. Just remember: a balanced microbiome means a healthier scalp, giving you lush, strong, nourished and shiny hair. Itâs a no-brainer, really! What Else is in Our Haircare Products? Along with our trademarked Biome Blends of probiotics, youâll find some of your favourite skincare ingredients in our haircare. Remember, skin doesnât end at the hairline so it only made sense for us to feature some hero skincare ingredients. Youâll recognise star players like coconut oil in our Dry Hair Shampoo and Dry Hair Conditioner, peppermint extract in the Oily Hair Shampoo and Oily Hair Conditioner and green tea extract in our strengthening shampoo and conditioner, just to name a few. The combination of skincare ingredients and the Biome Blend probiotics is going to give you long-lasting results that donât simply mask the problem, but actively target the issue. Did someone say hair goals? Which Product is Right For You? We have five formulations of both shampoo and conditioner to treat whatever hair concern you might be experiencing. Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner Oily Hair Shampoo and Oily Hair Conditioner Dry Hair Shampoo and Dry Hair Conditioner Dull Hair Shampoo and Dull Hair Conditioner Strength Shampoo and Strength Conditioner Since our hair products take a skin-first approach (we know we keep going on about it, but itâs important!), when choosing your products consider your scalp concerns. If you have dandruff, it is likely a sign you have an oily scalp. If you have dry hair, all roads lead to a dry scalp, meaning you should definitely try out our Dry Hair Shampoo and Conditioner. The best part? You can always mix and match to send a couple of hair concerns packing. Haircare by esmi is biome friendly, clean, vegan, scientifically-backed and takes a skin-first approach to give you long lasting results. We could be a little biassed, but we think they are pretty incredible!
What is Encapsulated Retinol?
Retinol as a skincare ingredient has been on our radars for a little while now. Dermatologists canât get enough of it and if youâve been in the world of esmi for a while, youâll know that neither can we. Just when you thought you were all over retinol and what it does, a newcomer has entered the game and we have to say, weâre obsessed! Introducing: encapsulated retinol. What is Retinol? Letâs take a step back shall we? Retinol is a form of vitamin A and has a list of talents longer than Beyonceâs (okay, almost). It speeds up cell turnover to give you a brighter, more youthful complexion. It helps to boost collagen production, meaning fewer fine lines and hyperpigmentation. Because it boosts cell turnover, it has the added bonus of lightly exfoliating the skin which means it is a miracle worker for anyone with acne, as it decongests the pores and controls oil flow. Before you run towards it at full speed, there are a couple of drawbacks to your stock-standard retinol. If your skin isnât used to it, retinol can be quite intense. When you start, you may notice some redness, sensitivity, dryness or even peeling. If that redness or slight sensitivity is too much to handle or doesnât go away after about a month, youâll want to reduce the strength of the product, or use a gentler version. It just so happens we know the perfect one⌠What is Encapsulated Retinol? What Are Its Benefits? Our Encapsulated Retinol Range has the brilliant benefits of regular retinol, with a difference in how it is delivered. Think of it like retinol surrounded by a protective blanket of lipids that keeps all of those active components safe until they reach their destination. Clever, right? Pure retinol starts working as soon as it hits the skin, which sounds all very well and good, but that can cause surface irritation, which exactly no one wants. Being encapsulated means the retinol can seep into the deep layers of the skin before being released and absorbed. In a nutshell, youâll get all of the best bits of retinol, without the drawbacks. In fact, because it can penetrate deeper into the skin, experts say encapsulated retinol can be more effective. Excited yet? We thought so! How to Use Encapsulated Retinol Even though encapsulated retinol is always going to be gentler than the retinols youâre used to, youâre still going to want to start very slow and steady. Whether youâre new to retinol or our encapsulated retinol, always start with Level 1, which has a strength of 0.25%. Use a pea sized amount every second night after cleansing to ease your skin into it. That way, youâll see that glow with little to no dryness or irritation. Once you have finished your bottle of Level 1 and your skin is loooving it, you can move to Level 2 and so on. You donât want to go too hard too quickly or your skin will have a bit of a freakout. So, be gentle and youâll see those anti-ageing, brightening and clearing benefits in no time. All types or retinoids, including encapsulated retinol, make your skin a little more sensitive to sunlight, so it is absolutely crucial youâre using SPF every single day. May we suggest the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen? We could be biassed but it has great protection powers while giving an extra dose of anti-ageing ingredients. As with all retinols, ours is not safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but after that, youâre good to go mama!  If youâre still not sure about encapsulated retinol, whether it is for you, or how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, our Skin Consultants are here to help you out - chat to them today!
Can You Use Niacinamide With Retinol?
Niacinamide and retinol. Two words that will bring a smile to any skincare loverâs face, and weâre no different. They are ingredients that we just canât get enough of, thanks to their anti-ageing and acne-fighting powers. If youâre a fan of them (join the club!), youâre probably wondering, can you use niacinamide with retinol? Well, letâs find out. What is Niacinamide and What Does it Do? Niacinamide in skincare, sometimes known as vitamin B3, has a pretty impressive list of talents. It is really great at calming inflammation, so if youâre experiencing redness and irritation from skin sensitivities, acne, dermatitis or other skin concerns, itâs time to make friends with niacinamide. If your sebum levels are in overdrive, niacinamide basically tells the cells to calm down, thank you very much. It helps your skin retain moisture and just in case that wasnât enough, it inhibits melanin production to reduce hyperpigmentation. Phew, what a clever cookie! What is Retinol and What Does it Do? Retinol is derived from vitamin A, and 9 out 10 beauty lovers will tell you it is the product they cannot live without. It speeds up skin cell turnover to lightly exfoliate and decongest the skin. Thatâs why it is an acne suffererâs best friend. Plus, it helps with signs of ageing as it boosts collagen production to plump fine lines and brighten pigmentation. Slow and steady is the key when it comes to retinol. Start with a low strength and use a pea sized amount every second night. When you first start, you may notice some redness and sensitivity, but your skin will get used to it and when you start seeing that glow, youâll wonder how you ever lived without retinol. Can You Use Niacinamide and Retinol Together? All of our beauties with acne or hyperpigmentation (or both!), put your hands up. Yup, we thought there might be a few of you. By now you can probably tell that retinol and niacinamide are top ingredients for acne, hyperpigmentation and signs of ageing, so the million-dollar question is, âcan you use niacinamide with retinol?â Well, we have some good news - you sure can! They play very nicely together and youâll see some beautifully brightening results when you layer them as part of your routine. Having said that, there are just a couple of rules to play by to get the most out of your skincare. Niacinamide can be used morning and night, but we recommend saving retinol for your night-time routine as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. So, it stands to reason that using them together should be reserved for your wind down. Use niacinamide first after cleansing, as it is usually in a water-based product and sits beautifully as the first step on dry skin. Speaking of, the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is rich in niacinamide for skin repair, restoration and oil flow regulation. It is beautifully hydrating for all skin types - yes, even if youâve got oily skin. If acne is taking up home on your skin, the Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie contains niacinamide to help reduce sebum levels, and calms inflammation from pimples. The benefit of using niacinamide before retinol is it helps to protect your skin from sensitivity and dryness that can come from retinol. That means youâll get the perks without the drawbacks. Sounds perfect to us! After your niacinamide serum, use a pearl sized amount of our Encapsulated Retinol every second night. Being encapsulated means the active ingredients can penetrate deeper into the skin and reduce the risk of any dryness that can occur with your typical retinol. Always start with Level 1 and once you finish your first bottle, if your skin is coping well, you can move up to the next level. Because retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV light, make sure youâre using your Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen every morning to keep your skin protected. Niacinamide and retinol are a match made in heaven, and when you use them together, youâll get double the dose of clearer, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin - um, sign us up! Have any other questions about retinol and niacinamide or maybe what other ingredients work beautifully together? Chat to our skincare consultants today!
Using Retinol & Vitamin C Together
If youâve been part of the esmi family for a while, youâll know we have a deep love for both retinol and vitamin C - and if youâre new here, welcome, youâll hear us talk about them a lot. They are both key parts of our skincare routines, thanks to some pretty incredible benefits. Having said that, to see those killer results and use them safely, there are just a few things to keep in mind. Luckily, when it comes to vitamin C and retinol, weâve got all the answers. Before we dive into the retinol and vitamin C duo, letâs make sure weâre all over what they do individually. What is retinol & what does it do? Retinol is derived from vitamin A and has a pretty significant fan base thanks to its ability to speed up cell turnover and boost collagen production. That means brighter skin, fewer fine lines and a glow that you previously thought was reserved for Instagram filters. Retinol is perfect for anyone battling acne, as it lightly exfoliates and decongests the skin, and is pretty much a lifesaver for tackling premature ageing. Can you see why weâre obsessed yet? To get the best results from your retinol, start with a low strength and use a pea sized amount every second night. You may notice your skin go through some slight adjustments when you first start using retinol, but your skin will get used to it and thank you later. What is vitamin C & what does it do? Another favourite here at esmi HQ, there are heaps of reasons to love vitamin C. It is a prime antioxidant, which means it fights off free radicals, the tricky rogue electrons that damage our skin and break down collagen. Yeah, not a fan. As if that wasnât enough, vitamin C is a key part of collagen production, making sure our skin stays plump and inhibiting melanin to keep those dark spots away. And for the cherry on top, vitamin C may help to protect you against UV rays. Now, before you run out the door without your sunscreen, stop right there! Vitamin C is NOT a substitute for sunscreen, it just gives it a helping hand to protect your skin. Just like Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, theyâre amazing apart, but even stronger together. All in all, vitamin C is basically a youth serum and a staple on our skincare shelf. Who doesnât want to look younger for longer?! Using retinol & vitamin C safely As you might have gathered, retinol and vitamin C tackle some pretty similar skin concerns. So, if premature ageing and pigmentation are things that youâre struggling with, you might be thinking, âsurely I can combat these issues at twice the speed by using bothâ, right? Hold your horses. Your question should be, âcan I use retinol and vitamin C together?â Well, the answer is yes. These two superstar ingredients can be used in the same skincare routine, but should not be layered on top of each other. As Retinol and Vitamin C are both quite active ingredients layering them over one another can often overstimulate the skin which can lead to irritation and a sensitised barrier, which is more susceptible to UV and free radical damage - less is more in some cases! Another reason not to layer your retinol and vitamin C, is it may diminish their effectiveness. Bear with us while we get a little technical. The active forms of retinol and vitamin C have very different pH levels. Using them at the same time will lower retinolâs pH and raise vitamin Câs, making the retinol less active and the vitamin C less able to penetrate the skin. All in all, you wonât see the amazing results youâre after. So now that you know what not to do, letâs talk using vitamin C and retinol safely and effectively. The bottom line is to make sure youâre using your vitamin C and retinol products at different times of the day. Save your vitamin C products for the morning to get that brightening glow. Need some ideas in the vitamin C department? Weâve got you covered. The Pomegranate Brightening Serum is rich in Kakadu plum, which has one of the worldâs highest levels of vitamin C. It also contains Ethyl Ascorbic Acid a very potent and stable form of Vitamin C to help minimise the appearance of pigmentation and promote that glow! It is ideal for most skin types, helping improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin, and enhancing the skin's luminosity and clarity. The Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo is another way to give your skin that sweet, sweet vitamin C. This Skin Treat brightens dull and dehydrated complexions prone to age spots and hyperpigmentation, all the while stimulating collagen to firm and tone. Retinol should be saved for every second night. It speeds up skin cell turnover which brightens the skin and fights ageing, but also makes your skin photosensitive, hence why we save this little beauty for when the sun goes down. Our Encapsulated Retinol range delivers the active ingredients deeper into the skin for less sensitivity. Always start with Level 1 and once you finish your first bottle, if your skin is coping well, you can move up the ranks. As always, make sure youâre using your Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen every morning to keep your skin protected, especially as it may be a bit more sensitive to UV light.  To sum things up, you can definitely use retinol and vitamin C in your skincare routine. After all, who could turn down all of those brightening and anti-ageing benefits? Just make sure youâre saving vitamin C for your morning glow up, and retinol for your skin rejuvenation overnight. Have any other questions? Chat to our esmi skin service consultants, 7 days a week!  RECAP: Retinol and vitamin C have amazing brightening and anti-ageing benefits They can be used in the same overall skincare routine, but not layered Using them one after the other can cause skin sensitivity It can also reduce the effectiveness Use vitamin C in the morning Pomegranate Brightening Serum Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Use Encapsulated Retinol every second night Donât forget Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen!
The Skin Benefits of Grapeseed Oil
Thereâs something about putting oil on your face that seems a bit ⌠well, oily (eww, David!). We totally get that it feels counterintuitive to slather oil all over your skin, but listen up, because weâve got some news for you! Using a face oil can have some skin-loving benefits and one of our favourites is grapeseed oil. What is Grapeseed Oil? Technically, grapeseed oil is exactly what it sounds like. Grapeseed oil is a byproduct of winemaking - once the grapes are squeezed, the leftover seeds are pressed to extract an oil with a silky texture and a light green-yellow colour. We love a zero-waste concept! Have your wine and put it on your face too! Unlike other oils that can clog pores and only suit particular skin types, grapeseed oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it contains ingredients that arenât going to clog your skin so itâs suitable for even the most sensitive and acne prone skin. What are the benefits of grapeseed oil for skin? They say that drinking wine can help you live longer and look younger, but what else can the humble grape do for you? Grapeseed oil is known for being packed with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It also contains omega chain fatty acids and vitamin E, which deeply nourish the skin and allow it to retain moisture and improve elasticity. If your skin is feeling dull and dehydrated, grapeseed oil can cover a multitude of sins, by moisturising, hydrating, reducing the appearance of fine lines and evening out your skin tone. Who is grapeseed oil best for? Acne-prone skin Acne prone skin is usually deficient in a little something called linoleic acid, which means the sebum produced is thick and will clog the pores more easily. The high levels of linoleic acid in grapeseed oil are a fabulous source of omega-6 fatty acids which assist in controlling acne by minimising sebum and clogged pores. The natural wonder that is grapeseed oil also has proven antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It works to fight breakout-causing bacteria deep within your pores to clear your skin. Plus, the vitamin E found in grapeseed oil helps to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Dry skin As weâve mentioned, grapeseed oil contains fatty acids, which can also increase the skinâs moisture level, keeping you hydrated and plump all day long! As an added bonus, the vitamin E in grapeseed oil forms a protective barrier around the skin to stop transepidermal water loss. It locks in moisture and replenishes any natural oils lost throughout the day. Ageing skin Look, getting older happens to the best of us, and weâre all looking to minimise those fine lines and wrinkles as best we can, naturally and easily. Grapeseed oil contains powerful antioxidants and phytosterols (a fancy word for a molecule found in plants), which youâll be pleased to learn can assist in reducing the signs of ageing. These antioxidants fight free radicals to assist in boosting and preserving your skinâs collagen and elastin. Inflammation & redness The phytosterols in grape seeds can reduce inflammation, including any irritation resulting from rosacea and eczema. Grapeseed oil is a fantastic natural remedy for inflammatory skin conditions. When phytosterols are applied topically, they help to gently nourish, strengthen the integrity of the skinâs cell membrane and fight off that flare-up inducing irritation and redness. Impressed with grapeseed oil yet? We thought so! As it is such a lightweight and âall rounderâ oil, you can use it either morning or night, but similar to most oils, youâll see the greatest benefits when itâs applied as one of the last steps in your skincare routine, either under your moisturiser or as the final step. As we always say, layer your serums and oils from thinnest to thickest. If you need help choosing a product with grapeseed oil, weâve got you covered. First up is our best seller, the Probiotic Skin Mylck. Brimming with probiotics and our hero ingredient grapeseed oil, sheâs full of goodness to help strengthen your skinâs barrier while moisturising and balancing. The linoleic acid in grapeseed oil can also help strengthen the skin's barrier function, in conjunction with probiotics. Like her predecessor, our classic Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration is packed with similar ingredients, but with an extra boost of intense moisture to target dehydration while keeping your skinâs barrier strong and hydrated. If youâre keen on a spa-like experience every night of the week, this is one to include in your routine. While weâre on the topic of hydration, our next product is perfect for on the go. Our Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist was basically made for your handbag, so you can give your skin a little refreshing snack to help replenish and rehydrate your skin and makeup when exposed to air conditioning, UV light, wind and weather.  The grapeseed oil benefits for skin are just about endless. It is a powerful, natural ingredient with heaps of benefits for your skin, including improving your tone, texture and elasticity. Itâs super gentle and safe for most skin types. Bring on all of the glowy benefits! If youâre keen to learn more about this mighty little seed, chat to one of our skin experts today.
Delivering Care Packages with Ash Barty
We love our community and relish any opportunity to give back whenever we can! Someone who shares these values with us is brand ambassador Ash Barty, former women's world number one tennis player. We recently had the pleasure of partnering with Ash to provide self-care packs to some incredible COVID nurses. They work so tirelessly to provide lifesaving care and put themselves on the front line to protect us. Surprising them with everything they need for a moment of self-care was the least we can do to show our gratitude. The packs included a mix of cleansers, Booster Face Masks, and of course, the hero Probiotic Skin Mylck. Wearing protective masks every day, while incredibly important, can wreak havoc on the skin. Using probiotic skincare restores the skin barrier to prevent sensitivity, dryness, and mask-ne. The packs also included a beautiful note and video from Ash, thanking the nurses for their hard work in caring for the community. Kind words from an Aussie hero to other Aussie heroes! With Ashâs help, we were able to gift packs to over 400 nurses working in COVID wards across the GCGU, Royal Melbourne and Western Health. Providing self-care gift packs to those working so hard gives them permission to take the time to look after themselves. We strongly believe in the power of taking a moment (or two!) to look after yourself. After all, you canât pour from an empty cup! Giving back is at the heart of our values here at Makeup Cartel, and is something we will continue to do. Our customers and community allow us to do what we love - provide you with skincare that makes you feel incredible. This is our way of saying thank you. Read more about how we give back here.
Makeup Cartel & Baby Give Back
Here at Makeup Cartel, we understand our fortunate position to be able to give back to our community, so we take the opportunity whenever we can! Baby Give Back provides invaluable support for families in crisis, who are unable to provide the essentials for their children, including families that have been hit by natural disasters and personal tragedies who need a helping hand. âOur team works tirelessly to ensure that vulnerable babies and children have an equal start to life.â Their team of 300+ volunteers collect donations of key items like nappies, cots, wipes, prams - everything we take for granted. Being a smaller organisation, every little bit goes directly to the families in need and the demand is growing each and every month. We have been working with the incredible team at Baby Give Back since 2019 and have supported them through a range of initiatives and fundraising events. Care Packs to Mums in Need We have been able to donate care packs full of esmi products to mums who cannot always afford skincare. While this may seem like a luxury, giving mothers in need necessities like body wash and sunscreen, as well as skincare, provides a sense of normalcy and an opportunity for a moment of self care. After all, we cannot pour from an empty cup! We have even had the honour of presenting care packs directly to mothers in need. Being able to hear their stories is always such a strong reminder of why we do what we do, if you are able to assist those around you, it is such a rewarding experience to do so. Natural Disaster Donations During previous flooding events, Makeup Cartel HQ became a donation hub, where locals could donate items that would be passed onto Baby Give Back. Weâre so proud of our community who have always come out in force, donating nappies, wipes, childrenâs clothing, toys, books and everything in between. High Tea Sponsorships As part of their fundraising initiatives, Baby Give Back hosts annual high teas which we are honoured to sponsor. They are such enriching days where we are surrounded by incredibly inspiring members of the community, passionate about providing for children in need. We create gift bags for all attendees, many of whom are those Baby Give Back has directly assisted, packed with our luxe skincare. Social Media Support Our close relationship with Baby Give Back means they are able to alert us when stock of particular donations are low. Thatâs when we make the call out to the Makeup Cartel community who generously come together and donate in droves. It is moments like these that remind us how much we adore our customers - yes, that means you! We are so excited to continue to support Baby Give Back for many years to come. If you want to contribute to their incredible work, head to their donations page here.
Sensitive Skin Care Ingredients Guide
If youâre a little sensitive, we totally feel you. Sensitive skin we mean! We donât need to tell anyone with sensitive skin what a pain it can be, but not to worry, your esmi skincare guardian angel is here. Weâve made a list of all of the skincare ingredients you shouldnât touch with a ten-foot pole, and the best ingredients for sensitive skin. Signs you have sensitive skin Before we get into the doâs and donâts of sensitive skin, weâre going to first help you figure out if youâre on the sensitive side. If you are experiencing redness, be it rashes, bumps or flushing, these are tell-tale signs that your skin is irritated. Most of the time, sensitivity and redness comes with its fair share of itchiness and pain. The next culprit is dryness. Sensitive skin can present itself in the form of cracked, flaky skin that is drier than the Sahara Desert which is fun for exactly no one. Sensitive skin is also far more susceptible to sunburn and UV damage. The last one might not be what you expect, but often those with sensitive skin experience breakouts. Sensitive skin can come from both external factors like weather changes, or the products youâre using, and internal factors like hormonal changes or good old genetics. No matter the cause, more often than not youâll find it is all thanks to a damaged skin barrier. Our skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin and has two main functions; keeping the nasties out, and keeping all of the good things in. Okay, that is a pretty simplified explanation but it's the basics of what you need to know. If your skin barrier is damaged, it cannot effectively retain moisture, protect the skin from UV rays or keep out bacteria, leading to dryness, increased sun damage and acne. If you are experiencing sensitivity, repairing the skin barrier should be your main goal. Ingredients to avoid for sensitive skin Letâs start with the bad news first - all of the worst ingredients for sensitive skin and ones you should be saying âno, thanksâ to. A lot of active ingredients are on the stronger side, which is great if your skin can handle it and you want some killer results, but not so great if you have sensitive skin. Ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin A (you might know her as retinol) and AHAs are powerful and can irritate sensitive skin. As a general rule, they are ingredients to avoid for sensitive skin. Now before you get too disappointed, for most of our sensitive skin beauties, once the sensitivity subsides and the skin barrier is repaired, you can slowly (very slowly!) introduce these ingredients back into your routine. But letâs be clear, if an ingredient has you back in Sensitive Skin Town, population you, put it down. Synthetic fragrances might smell good, but they can often irritate the skin and make your sensitivity worse. If you canât quite give up on the fragrance, natural fragrances are the way to go (it just so happens that our products that smell amazing are all naturally fragranced - no chemical nasties here). Some chemical sunscreens are a no-no for sensitive skin because they absorb UV light, which is what we want, but then release it as heat which can be too much for some skin types. Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide which physically blocks UV rays. Thatâs where our Skin Shield Sunscreen comes in. Everyone should be wearing sunscreen every single day, but especially if you have sensitive skin. Now for the good news⌠Best ingredients for sensitive skin By now you are probably wondering, âokay, what ingredients are good for sensitive skin?â So glad you asked! Your skincare routine starts with a cleanser and with sensitive skin, youâll want one that is super gentle, but still does the job. The Uncomplicated Cleanser is packed with sensitive skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera which soothes skin and supports the skin barrier. The green tea also calms redness which is a miracle worker for sensitivity. Up there with the best skincare ingredients for sensitive skin is vitamin E. Deeply nourishing, lightweight and sinks into the skin quickly, vitamin E is a fantastic antioxidant that fights free radicals, which your skin is highly susceptible to when youâve found yourself with a damaged skin barrier. Oh, and vitamin E also restores that skin barrier which is the icing on the cake. Looking for a hit of vitamin E (and other moisturising oils)? May we suggest our 24K Gold Nourishing Oil? Some of the best sensitive skin products are the esmi Mylcks range - our probiotic skincare. Probiotics are key to supporting the skin barrier. When the microbiome of the skin is out of balance, there is more bad bacteria on the skin than good, disrupting the barrier. Giving your skin a dose of probiotics is going to make a world of difference to those with sensitivity. The good bacteria in the esmi Skin Mylck creates the ideal environment for your skin to heal and thrive, while helping to balance its delicate microflora. Basically, probiotic skincare is sensitive skin's best friend. Sensitivity is never fun, we totally feel you, but on the plus side, youâre now an expert on the best ingredients for sensitive skin and the best sensitive skin products, as well as what ingredients you need to put down, stat. As always, if you need a little more help, our experienced and qualified skin service team are on hand for a free skin consultation.
How to Minimise Your Pores
âMy pores are huge.â - Regina George, Mean Girls While we hate to be the bearers of bad news, Regina, but the size of our pores is one of those genetic things that we canât actually change. It is not all bad news, though! There are certain factors that make our pores appear larger which means there are steps you can take to minimise the appearance of your pores! If youâre feeling like your pores are looking a little larger than usual, you can pretty much guarantee that congestion is the culprit. Thatâs where a killer skincare routine steps in to save the day. Ageing also makes our pores appear larger due to a loss in skin elasticity. While we canât stop aging (trust us, weâve tried), we can adopt a skincare routine packed with products that helps tighten pores. Reduce Congestion to Minimise Poresâ Appearance Clogged pores (also known as congestion) make them appear larger which is a big âno thanksâ. Congestion occurs thanks to pores being clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, hardening and making those pores more visible. The longer pores stay clogged, the higher the chance they will stay stretched out and make the problem worse, so youâre going to want to get started on that decongesting skincare routine, stat! Start with a gentle cleanser. As it happens, we know the perfect one! Our Uncomplicated Cleanser will remove the dayâs grime and oil so they donât clog your pores. Then itâs exfoliation time to remove those dead skin cells and reduce the texture brought about by those clogged pores. A physical exfoliator will slough away dead skin while a chemical exfoliation will dissolve the debris. It just so happens our Gentle-Foliants have a healthy mix of both! As long as you donât have super sensitive skin, incorporating one of our Encapsulated Retinol products into your routine will dramatically help to minimise the appearance of large pores. 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. Staying hydrated is so key. Dryer skin means pores open wider which is not at all a vibe. Hydrating products, such as our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum will work wonders to keep those pores in check. Hereâs the key: donât strip the skin as that will just tell it to produce more oil and then weâve got the same problem! Use gentle, but effective ingredients. Key Ingredients to Tighten Pores There are a few ingredients to look out for when curating your pore tightening skincare routine. Think of this as your little black book of pore minimising. Exfoliating enzymes will help to keep congestion in check by getting rid of dead skin cells trapped in the pores. That keeps them from stretching and looking larger than ideal. Our Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant is ideal for oily skin with large pores prone to congestion and breakouts. It uses papaya enzymes and Polynesian sand to gently exfoliate your skin. It is an acne-prone skinâs best friend! Retinoid shrinks pores by increasing skinâs collagen production and decreasing oil which all leads to tighter pores. If we can offer a word of warning, only use a very small amount (weâre talking a couple of drops) and start with a gentle version, like our Encapsulated Retinol 0.25%. Topical retinoid is used to treat acne because it prevents pore blockage by restricting the clumping of cells. Hyaluronic acid is such a favourite ingredient for us. Weâve already mentioned our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum but weâre going to give it another shout out because it is that good. âKeeping skin hydrated can play a role in reducing the appearance of enlarged pores,â says Dr Winnie Uchendu. It also helps to tighten the skin which is just another added bonus. An ingredient you might be surprised to find here is caffeine. When topically applied, it can dehydrate fat cells, making the skin look smoother and firmer. Both of which means those pores are looking snatched. Other Considerations for Minimising Pores Back your skincare routine up with a few other pore-minimising tricks: limit sun exposure, watch your diet, and drink plenty of water. Hereâs a little esmi secret you may not know: weâre big advocates of sunscreen. Okay, okay, itâs not a secret, weâll tell anyone who listens. Sunscreen also actually has pore minimising effects (is there anything it canât do?). Rachel Nazarian, dermatologist M.D says, âthe sun breaks down your skinâs collagen, responsible for keeping your face firm and elasticised, so youâre left with larger pores and stretchier skin after repeat exposure.â Time to lather on that sunscreen! Sorry, but that SPF 15 isnât going to cut it, youâre going to need SPF 30+ at least! There are a few foods that contribute to congested pores which, if youâve gotten this far, youâll know makes your pores appear larger. Those foods include refined carbohydrates such as bread and pasta (noooooo!), as well as refined sugars. If youâre reading this, grab a big glass of water and get it into you. Donât worry, weâll wait. Water keeps your skin hydrated and nice and plump, which helps to reduce the appearance of pores. It also promotes natural detoxification, helping to prevent those pores from clogging. If youâd like to know more about how to make your pores appear smaller, weâve got your back! Head to our website to chat to one of our knowledgeable skin consultants.
