The Best Teen Skin Care
Aaah, the teenage years—a perfect time to dive into the world of skincare adventures! It's not just about battling pesky pimples; it's about cultivating confidence and healthy habits for life. With quality, research-backed products tailored to unique skin types, teens can enjoy the journey while seeing real results. Understanding the delicate nature of teen skin, esmi Skin Minerals champions gentle yet effective skincare routines. Even the simplest regimen can work wonders. In this blog post, we'll explore the best skincare products for teens, empowering them to embark on a journey toward radiant, glowing skin. Why you should research skin care for teens before purchasing Teenage skin requires tender loving care, as harsh products like retinol and aggressive exfoliators can exacerbate issues or create new ones. Opting for gentle, nourishing and hydrating skincare is paramount. These products offer the perfect balance, ensuring teenage skin receives the care it deserves without unnecessary irritation or damage. From soothing cleansers to lightweight moisturisers, the key lies in products designed to nurture and protect youthful skin, guiding teens towards a healthy skincare routine that enhances their natural beauty. Creating a gentle skin care routine for teens For beginners, simplicity is key when crafting a first skincare routine. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, followed by a lightweight serum for hydration and nourishment, then seal the deal with a non-comedogenic moisturiser for balanced protection. We highly recommend our Teenage Skin Care Bundle - a curate bundle designed to navigate changing hormones and skin by easing your teen into an easy skin care routine. It includes our Probiotic Skin Mylck Cleanser, Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, Probiotic Skin Mylck, Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 and Microfibre Face Cleansing Mitt. We would recommend that teenagers avoid retinols, as teenage skin is often more sensitive and prone to irritation. It also isn't necessary to introduce it at such a young age. How does pre-teen skin care differ? Pre-teen skincare requires extra gentleness. Clear-skinned pre-teens typically only need a very mild cleanser to remove dirt and a light moisturiser, only if necessary. Unlike elaborate routines, simplicity reigns supreme, ensuring their delicate skin stays nurtured without unnecessary steps. You can read more about pre-teen skincare here. Choosing skin care for teens Identifying a teen's skin typeNavigating the vast world of skincare can be daunting, especially for teenagers discovering their skin's unique needs. Enter the esmi Skin Quiz, a valuable tool designed to demystify skincare by pinpointing individual skin types. By answering a few simple questions, teens can unveil insights into their skin's characteristics and discover whether it's oily, dry, combination or sensitive. Armed with this knowledge, choosing the most suitable skincare becomes a breeze. Take the esmi Skin Quiz! The best teen skin care by esmi As the transition from child to teenage skin presents its challenges, esmi Skin Minerals stands ready to support. With a commitment to boosting confidence and nurturing clear, healthy skin, our products empower teens on their skincare journey, ensuring radiance and resilience every step of the way.
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!
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!
A Guide to Lactic Acid in Skin Care
Lactic acid - don’t worry, it’s not nearly as scary as it sounds! In fact, it can have some pretty powerful skin benefits like clear, glowy skin, and isn’t that what we all want, right? So, if you want to know more about lactic acid for skin, you’ve come to the right place. 🩵 What is lactic acid? You might have heard us talking about alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). Well, lactic acid is a type of AHA, but not as strong as others like glycolic acid. As the name suggests, it comes from fermented lactose - yes, like the lactose found in milk, but don’t worry, you’re not going to smell like sour milk all day. Like all AHAs, lactic acid skincare is a chemical exfoliant that removes dead cells sitting on top of the skin. It is a magic ingredient that will give you skin smoother than a baby’s bottom. If you’ve heard of people taking milk baths (count Cleopatra as a fan), it is basically the same concept. 🩵 Benefits of lactic acid for skin Lactic acid, like other AHAs, is a powerful exfoliant. It works to dissolve the bonds of old skin cells on the top layer of the skin to reveal newer, smoother skin. Lactic acid increases cell turnover to give you that ‘Instagram IRL’ glow. Lactic acid can also treat a range of skin concerns like acne, congestion, hyperpigmentation and fine lines. You see, by sloughing away the top layer of dead skin, pores are decongested, minimising the risk of acne. If you’ve found yourself with acne scars (as if the pimples weren’t bad enough), lactic acid is going to help to brighten any pigmentation by letting new skin shine through. What you might not expect, is that lactic acid can lead to thicker, firmer skin as it promotes the production of collagen - the good stuff that keeps your skin plump and elastic. It also allows products to better penetrate the skin, leading to increased hydration. More collagen and hydration means fewer fine lines and wrinkles. 🩵 How to use lactic acid in skincare Being a chemical exfoliant, lactic acid comes with a few guidelines in order to safely get the most out of it. While lactic can be safer for sensitive skin than most AHAs, it still pays to tread carefully. If you notice any skin irritation like redness, burning or itchiness, step away from what you’re using. Very mild symptoms may appear the first time you use lactic acid, but if they continue, time to try a lower percentage or avoid it altogether. We recommend starting your lactic acid journey by dabbling just a couple of times a week, then work your way up to 3-4 times a week, just so your skin has time to adjust. Using AHAs can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage, which is why we always recommend using lactic acid products at night and never, ever skipping your Skin Shield Sunscreen in the morning. On a more positive note, lactic acid plays nicely with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, so don’t forget to grab your Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum for radiance like no other. 🩵 Lactic acid skin products If you love a facial (um, who doesn’t?), you have likely heard of a lactic acid peel. To safely get the best results from a lactic acid peel, your best bet is to leave it to the professionals. They are able to use a higher concentration of the acid to give you a serious glow and minimise any side effects. If, on the other hand, you want to safely get those incredible lactic acid results at home, we’ve got just the thing. The Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum contains a mix of glycolic and lactic acids to speed up the cell renewal process, helping maintain a soft and smooth youthful-looking complexion. The charcoal also draws out toxins and impurities, giving you the clear, smooth skin of your dreams. Yes, it really is that good. Don’t be sleeping on lactic acid skin care, this glow-boosting AHA can help clear acne, hyperpigmentation and plump fine lines and wrinkles. Trust us, you’re going to be attached at the hip to your lactic acid products. Still not sure if lactic acid is right for you? Chat to our skin consultants today!
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen: Explained
With so many sunscreen options available, finding the right one for your skin type can feel overwhelming. From lightweight gels to hydrating creams, sunscreen formulations are as varied as the skin types they cater to. Beyond just the texture and feel, sunscreens also differ in how they protect the skin. The two main categories, mineral (also known as physical) and chemical sunscreens, work in distinct ways to shield you from the sun’s harmful rays. This guide will break down the differences between these types of sunscreens, helping you choose the one that best fits your needs and skin type. When shopping for sunscreen, a few key elements should be at the top of your checklist: A broad-spectrum label, meaning it protects against both UVA (which causes aging) and UVB (which causes burns) rays At least SPF30 for everyday use Consider water-resistant formulas for outdoor activities or swimming Ingredients - If you have sensitive skin, you may need to avoid certain chemical filters or fragrances Skipping sunscreen is never worth the risk. Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and, most critically, skin cancer. Whether it's cloudy or sunny, indoors or out, UV rays can still penetrate your skin, causing damage over time. Daily sunscreen use is the easiest way to protect your skin and keep it healthy for many years to come! What is a mineral/physical sunscreen? Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, work by forming a protective barrier on the surface of your skin, reflecting and scattering harmful UV rays away from it. These sunscreens are typically formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — two ingredients recognised by the FDA as safe and effective for sun protection. Mineral sunscreens are especially beneficial in blocking UVA rays, which are responsible for causing hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and the breakdown of collagen. Many mineral sunscreens are now lightweight, matte and blend more seamlessly into the skin. esmi's Skin Shield Sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen - effectively deflecting UVA and UVB rays. The main reason why our customers love this sunscreen is the fact that it is fragrance-free. What is chemical sunscreen? Chemical sunscreen is an excellent choice for active days when you'll be sweating or swimming, as many of these formulas are water-resistant, providing extended protection. Unlike mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreens feature active ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. These compounds work by absorbing UV rays before they can penetrate your skin, acting like a filter to minimise sun damage. One of the major benefits of chemical sunscreens is their lightweight texture, making them easy to apply and blend seamlessly into the skin without leaving a white cast. Their water-resistant properties also make them ideal for outdoor activities or humid conditions. Our range from Sun Skills caters to a range of skin types. Sun Skills For Her is the ideal SPF for those after a fast-absorbing formula that dries with a clean finish. Sun Skills For All is our bestselling Sun Skills suncreen - includes skin-loving ingredients for the whole family with enriching vitamin E and native Kakadu plum to protect against free radicals, a subtle hint of mango and pineapple and high aloe vera content for hydration. Sun Skills For Sensitive is perfect for those whose skin can be easily irritated. The sheer and weightless formula protects your skin without clogging or a reaction. Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which one is right for you? It’s crucial to examine the ingredients carefully and consult with a dermatologist to ensure the product is suitable for your skin type. While the wrong sunscreen can trigger breakouts, the right one can protect and even improve your skin’s appearance over time. Ultimately, the best sunscreen for you depends on your individual needs, preferences and lifestyle.
Marionette Lines Treatment: Everything You Need To Know
Marionette lines — those deep creases that run from the corners of your mouth to your chin— can have a significant impact on both your emotional well-being and physical appearance. While they are a natural part of aging, their presence can affect your self confidence, big-time. Understanding the causes, effects, and treatment options for these lines is crucial for anyone looking to maintain a youthful and confident appearance. What are marionette lines? Marionette lines are deep creases that extend from the corners of the mouth down towards the chin, resembling the lines seen on a 'marionette puppet'. These lines are a common concern as people age. Deep creases: Marionette lines are often characterised by their depth and distinctiveness, creating a visible groove or indentation on either side of the mouth. Downturned corners: These lines can make the corners of the mouth appear turned downward, even when the person is not actually frowning or unhappy. Ageing effect: They can give the impression of a perpetual frown or sadness, which does not necessarily reflect the individual's true emotions or mood. What causes marionette lines? 💜 Loss of collagen + elastin (Ageing): As we age, the skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, two proteins that help maintain skin's firmness and elasticity. This reduction leads to thinning skin and the formation of deeper lines and wrinkles, including marionette lines. 💜 Gravity Gravity exerts a constant downward force on the skin. Over time, this force contributes to the sagging of the skin, which can deepen existing lines and contribute to the formation of new ones, such as marionette lines. 💜 Facial expressions Repeated facial movements, such as smiling, frowning, or chewing, can cause the skin to crease. Over time, these repeated expressions can lead to the development of marionette lines, as the skin loses its ability to bounce back and retain its smooth appearance. 💜 Sun damage Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can accelerate the aging process of the skin. UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature wrinkles and deep lines, including marionette lines. 💜 Severe stress Chronic stress can impact overall skin health, leading to inflammation and a breakdown in collagen production. This can contribute to the formation of deeper lines and wrinkles, including those around the mouth. 💜 Unhealthy lifestyle habits Smoking and other unhealthy habits can significantly affect skin health. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin, depriving it of essential nutrients and oxygen, which accelerates the aging process and contributes to the formation of wrinkles, including marionette lines. Understanding these factors can help in taking preventative measures and seeking appropriate treatments to manage and reduce the appearance of marionette lines. How do you get rid of marionette lines? Marionette lines, those vertical wrinkles that form around the mouth and chin, can be a common concern as we age. Fortunately, there are several methods to treat or prevent these lines, ranging from natural remedies to professional treatments. Here’s a breakdown of both approaches: How to get rid of marionette lines naturally? Hydration: Keeping your skin well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining its elasticity and suppleness. Drink plenty of water daily and use a moisturiser that helps retain skin moisture. Hydrated skin is less likely to develop deep wrinkles. Facial exercises: Regular facial exercises can strengthen the muscles around the mouth and chin, potentially reducing the appearance of marionette lines. Try exercises like puckering your lips and lifting them or placing your fingers on your smile lines and gently pushing upward. Consistency is key for seeing results. Sun protection: Sun exposure can accelerate skin aging and worsen marionette lines. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Consider incorporating a quality sunscreen with products designed to shield your skin while also providing nourishment. We recommend esmi's Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 or any sunscreen from the Sun Skills SPF range. Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats supports skin health. Foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish can improve skin elasticity and repair damage. Ensure your diet includes vitamins A, C, and E, which are known for their skin-rejuvenating properties. Serum: Serums can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Look for products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, or peptides, which are known for their anti-aging benefits. These serums can boost collagen production and improve skin texture over time. We recommend esmi's Ageless Hyaluronic Serum, Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol and Golden Anti-Ageing Serum. Marionette Lines professional treatments Botox: This treatment involves injecting botulinum toxin into specific facial muscles to relax them. While Botox primarily targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, it can help improve the overall appearance of the face, indirectly affecting marionette lines. Dermal fillers: Fillers are injected into the skin to add volume and smooth out wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, for instance, can be used to plump up the areas around the marionette lines, making them less noticeable. Laser treatments: These procedures use focused light to remove damaged skin and stimulate collagen production. Laser treatments can improve skin texture and reduce the depth of marionette lines. Skin resurfacing: Methods like fractional laser or chemical peels remove the outer layers of skin to reveal fresher, smoother skin underneath. These treatments can improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time. Choosing the right approach depends on your skin type, concerns, and desired outcomes. Combining natural remedies with professional treatments may offer the most comprehensive solution for addressing marionette lines. How to get rid of lines around mouth? Natural remedies, like facial massages, oils and certain skincare routines, may not completely eliminate marionette lines but can help prevent them from worsening by improving skin elasticity and hydration. While these methods offer gradual improvements, they don't provide the instant results of cosmetic treatments like botox or fillers. Before considering drastic treatments, it’s always wise to consult an esmi skin specialist and book a free skincare consult. They can guide you toward the best options for your skin type and concerns, ensuring that any decision aligns with your skincare goals and overall health!
Vegan Skincare Benefits: A Healthier Approach to Beauty
Vegan... Skincare? What on earth does that mean?! Vegan skincare means that it is free from animal-derived ingredients and isn't tested on animals. Instead, plant-based alternatives are used. Ingredients like beeswax, lanolin and collagen are replaced with cruelty-free options. Vegan skincare is becoming more popular in this day and age as we become more aware of our ethical and environmental footprint. Many more people are striving to include vegan skincare in their beauty routine as a way of supporting ethical consumption and environmental preservation while being gentle on the skin. Benefits of using vegan skincare Vegan skincare products offer numerous benefits, including the use of natural, plant-based ingredients that are often a lot more gentle on the skin. They avoid harsh chemicals and animal by-products, reducing the risk of irritation and allergies. Beyond clean beauty, embracing vegan skincare supports the well-being of animals by avoiding animal testing and ingredients. It also promotes environmental sustainability through eco-friendly sourcing and packaging. By choosing vegan products, you prioritise ethical consumption and the health of our planet. Incorporating vegan skincare into your routine can lead to healthier, more radiant skin while making a positive impact on the world. Planet-friendly & cruelty-free Vegan skincare products are often made with sustainable practices, reducing the environmental footprint and ensuring that no animals are harmed in the process. Non-toxic formulations These products avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients, opting instead for natural, plant-based components that are safer for both your skin and overall health. Gentle for sensitive skin Vegan skincare is typically free from common irritants and allergens, making it a suitable choice for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Good for your health By using ingredients free from pesticides, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, vegan skincare products can minimise the risk of negative health effects and promote overall wellness. Effective and better for your skin Many vegan skincare products are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can nourish, protect, and improve the appearance of your skin more effectively than conventional products. Is your skincare vegan? To identify whether a product is vegan or non-vegan, consider the following steps: Check the Packaging: Look for labels or certifications stating "vegan" or "cruelty-free." Examine the Logo: Recognize trusted vegan logos such as the Vegan Society's sunflower logo, Leaping Bunny, or PETA's cruelty-free bunny. Identify animal-derived ingredients: While we are moving forward in the world of vegan skincare, there's still a lot for us to look out for. Learn to spot scientific names of common non-vegan ingredients: Beeswax (Cera Alba): Often found in balms and moisturisers. Lanolin (Adeps Lanae): Derived from sheep's wool, used in lotions. Collagen: Animal protein used for anti-ageing benefits. Keratin: Found in hair care products, sourced from animal hooves and horns. Carmine (Cochineal extract): Red pigment from crushed beetles, used in makeup. Common non-vegan ingredients to avoid: Glycerin (unless plant-based): Can be animal or plant-derived. Stearic Acid: Often from animal fat, though plant-based versions exist. Squalene: Traditionally sourced from shark liver oil, now also derived from plants. Empower consumers: By understanding labels and ingredient lists, consumers can confidently switch to a vegan skincare routine. Embrace products that are kind to your skin, animals, and the environment for a compassionate and healthy beauty regimen. Is esmi Skin Minerals a vegan skin care brand? esmi Skin Minerals exemplifies industry expertise in vegan and mineral-based product production, proudly leading as the best vegan skincare brand in Australia. Renowned for its commitment to high standards, esmi ensures all products are paraben and sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and packaged in recyclable materials. The company was created to provide clean, ethical skincare solutions that prioritise both customer health and environmental sustainability. With a dedication to creating premium, effective skincare using only vegan ingredients, esmi stands at the forefront of Australia’s vegan skincare market, championing a holistic approach to beauty and well-being.
Sheet Mask Your Way to Glowing Skin (In Only 20 Minutes)!
In the dynamic world of skincare, where trends come and go, one beauty ritual has proven its staying power – the beloved sheet mask. These thin, serum-soaked sheets have become a global sensation, offering a plethora of benefits for various skin concerns. At esmi Skin Minerals, we take this skincare classic to new heights with our Thirsty Skin Plumping Sheet Mask, promising you instantly brighter, firmer, and more hydrated skin – all in just 20 minutes! Why choose esmi's Thirsty Skin Plumping Sheet Mask? Triple Action Hyaluronic Acid: Quench your skin's thirst with our exclusive triple action hyaluronic acid. Superior to others on the market, this powerhouse ingredient works wonders by deeply hydrating, rejuvenating, and locking in moisture within your skin's cells. Unique Peptide Complex: Achieve instant elasticity and a youthful complexion with our exclusive peptide blend. Firming your skin, reducing fine lines, and promoting bounce, it works through muscle relaxation. Nourish with Postbiotics: Nurture your skin's natural microbiome with our powerful postbiotics. Postbiotics maintain a balanced and friendly bacterial environment on your skin's surface, providing protection and strength. Natural Preservative System: Embrace the future of skincare with our NEW natural preservative system. Expertly formulated to preserve the product without compromising your delicate skin barrier, this innovation ensures your sheet masks stay fresh and effective. Effortless Luxury: Each package contains three one-and-done sheet masks, offering an indulgent and effortless skin care experience. Treat yourself to the luxury of instantly brighter, bouncier, and hydrated skin without the fuss. Revitalise your skin effortlessly with esmi's Thirsty Skin Plumping Sheet Mask, your secret weapon for an instant and luxurious boost. Whether it's once a week or before special events, get ready for compliments on your radiant skin!
Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen
When it comes to sun protection, sunscreen is an essential component of your skincare routine. But the journey to finding the perfect sunscreen isn't just about the SPF number on the bottle. The list of ingredients in your sunscreen matters just as much, if not more, than the sun protection factor it offers. In this guide, we will help you navigate the world of sunscreen ingredients, shedding light on what to avoid and what to actively seek in your quest for the ideal sun protection. 🙅🏼♀️ Top 3 ingredients to avoid in sunscreen Using sunscreen daily is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. However, using products with toxic ingredients on a daily basis can harm your skin over time. Here are the top five ingredients to avoid in sunscreen and why they should be omitted from your daily skincare routine. 1. Oxybenzone Oxybenzone is known to penetrate the skin, and it has been linked to hormone disruption and allergic skin reactions. Prolonged use may have adverse effects on the endocrine system. 2. Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate) Octinoxate can cause skin irritation and allergies. It has also been shown to disrupt the endocrine system, affecting hormonal balance when used regularly. 3. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) While vitamin A itself is beneficial, when exposed to sunlight, retinyl palmitate can break down into harmful compounds that may contribute to skin cancer and accelerate the aging process. 👍🏽 The best sunscreen ingredients When choosing a sunscreen, it's essential to look for ingredients that provide not only SPF (Sun Protection Factor) but also offer broad-spectrum protection and additional skincare benefits. Here are ten key ingredients to consider. Pssst - they're all found in our Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30. 1. Zinc Oxide This is a physical sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It forms a physical barrier on the skin's surface to block harmful rays. 2. Carrot Root Oil High in antioxidants which assist to protect against premature ageing. 3. Broad-Spectrum Protection Ensure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, which shields against both UVA and UVB rays. This information should be on the product label. 4. Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Enhances the sunscreen's photoprotection by providing antioxidant benefits that reduce oxidative damage caused by UV radiation. 5. Camellia Provides potent antioxidant properties, helping to shield the skin from UV-induced free radical damage while supporting overall skin health. 6. Rosehip Offers natural moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and hydrate the skin while protecting it from the sun's harmful effects. 7. Green Tea Extract Can help calm redness, soothe acne-prone skin and target signs of ageing. 8. Aloe Vera Aloe vera has soothing and moisturizing properties, which can be beneficial for sun-exposed skin. 9. Cucumber Extract Cucumber Extract is high in vitamin C and caffeic acid which helps deliver an antioxidant boost while calming inflamed and irritated skin. 10. Fragrance-Free or Low Fragrance Fragrances can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, so it's wise to opt for a sunscreen with little to no added fragrance. 😍 Why esmi's Skin Shield is the best sunscreen in Australia Australia experiences some of the world's harshest sun conditions, demanding top-tier sun protection. esmi's Skin Shield Sunscreen excels in safeguarding the face, neck, and décolletage. Tailored for facial use, its thoughtfully crafted ingredient composition ensures effective protection and makeup compatibility, making it a standout choice in the Australian sun care lineup. Formulated for the face: Unlike generic sunscreens, esmi Skin Shield Sunscreen is expertly crafted with the face in mind. Its composition takes into account the unique needs and sensitivities of facial skin. Broad-spectrum protection: This sunscreen doesn't just block out the sun; it provides comprehensive sun protection (SPF 30!) against both UVA and UVB rays - essential for preventing sun damage and premature aging. Ideal under makeup: One of the many challenges of wearing sunscreen is its compatibility with makeup. Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 is designed to work seamlessly as a base, so you can confidently apply your cosmetics without worrying about a greasy or heavy feel. Ingredient makeup: The choice of ingredients in this sunscreen is what truly sets it apart. It often includes elements like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which act as physical barriers against harmful UV rays. Antioxidants like Vitamin C and E provide additional defense against sun damage. Hydration & nourishment: Sun-exposed skin can quickly become dry and damaged. esmi's Skin Shield Sunscreen often includes ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.
Milia: Let's Talk About Those Pesky Bumps
At esmi Skin Minerals, we understand that achieving flawless and healthy skin is a top priority for many individuals. However, there are certain skin concerns that can be particularly tricky to handle. One such concern is milia, those small bumps that can appear on your skin and be stubborn to remove. What are milia? Milia are tiny, white or yellowish bumps that often appear on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. These bumps form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin's surface, usually due to a clog in the skin caused by skincare products or makeup. Unlike regular pimples or blackheads, milia do not have an opening onto the skin's surface (pore or hair follicle), making them difficult to extract through squeezing. Causes of milia Milia can occur due to a variety of factors, including: Dead skin cell buildup: When dead skin cells are not properly exfoliated, they can accumulate and lead to the formation of milia. Skincare or makeup buildup: Certain skincare products or heavy makeup can clog pores, trapping dead skin cells beneath the surface and causing milia to develop. Sun damage: Prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage, making it easier for milia to form. Injury or trauma: Skin injuries or trauma, such as burns or rashes, can trigger the development of milia. Certain skin conditions: Some skin conditions, like rosacea or bullous lichen planus, may contribute to the appearance of milia. Why you should avoid squeezing milia As tempting as it may be to try and squeeze or pop milia like you would with a pimple, we highly recommend against it. Since milia do not have an opening on the skin's surface, attempting to extract them yourself can cause redness, inflammation, and even scarring. It's best to leave milia removal to the professionals. Professional treatment for milia removal If you're dealing with milia, consider visiting your local beauty salon or clinic to seek the assistance of a professional therapist. They can perform a quick and painless extraction to remove the milia safely. This method ensures minimal risk of damage to your skin and reduces the likelihood of scarring or other complications. esmi skincare products to help with milia While milia can be tricky to address with skincare alone, incorporating certain products into your routine can aid in preventing their formation and promoting overall skin health. Here are some esmi Skin Minerals products that may help: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum: This serum contains activated charcoal, which can help draw out impurities and excess oil from the skin, potentially reducing the risk of clogged pores and milia. Gentle-Foliants: These products are designed to exfoliate the skin gently, promoting healthy skin cell turnover and reducing the buildup of dead skin cells. Gentle Refine Cleansing Toner: A gentle toner can help balance the skin's pH and remove any residue that might contribute to clogged pores. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum *preventative: Keeping the skin hydrated can help maintain its health and reduce the likelihood of dead skin cell buildup. Detox Hydra-Fluid Moisturiser *preventive: This product aids in maintaining skin hydration and supports the skin's natural detoxification process. Milia can be a frustrating skin concern, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Remember, avoid trying to remove milia yourself, and instead, opt for professional treatment to ensure safe and efficient extraction. Additionally, incorporate appropriate esmi Skin Minerals products into your skincare routine to prevent new milia from forming and to maintain healthy, radiant skin. With patience and a balanced skincare regimen, you'll be well on your way to smoother, clearer skin.
Taming the Duo: Dry Skin with Breakouts
Let's talk about a topic that often seems like a skincare puzzle – dry skin with breakouts. Yes, you heard it right! Acne can make an appearance even if you've been dealing with the Sahara Desert on your face. But fret not, we're here to decode the mysterious combination and recommend some effective esmi products that will have your skin feeling nourished and less inflamed. Why the odd couple? Picture this: your pores are like little tunnels. Whether you have oily or dry skin, they can still get clogged by oil and dead skin cells. These unwanted guests lead to inflammation and, you guessed it, a breakout! Now, if your skin is feeling a bit like a desert landscape, it might overcompensate by producing more oil to protect itself, which only adds to the clogging conundrum and can result in more acne. The game plan: Gentle and effective No need to feel overwhelmed – we've got your back with a simple and effective routine that addresses both dryness and acne. It's like giving your skin a cosy blanket and a superhero cape all in one! Cleanse with care: The first step is crucial! Use The Uncomplicated Cleanser to whisk away impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils. It's like a spa day for your face! H2O hero: Quench your skin's thirst with the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. Hyaluronic acid is your skin's best friend, ensuring it's plump and hydrated, while not overwhelming your pores. Spot of green goodness: For those pesky breakout moments, turn to our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie as a spot treatment. Packed with goodness, it's like a nutritious shake for your skin. Charcoal charisma: Exfoliate gently with our Detoxifying Charcoal Exfoliating Serum. It's like giving your skin a mini-vacation and sweeping away the debris that's been causing trouble. Probiotic power: Introduce your skin to the magic of Probiotic Skin Mylck. This superhero not only calms redness but also supports your skin's natural defense. It's like a hug for your face! Moisturise like you mean it: Remember, every skin type needs moisture. Our Nourishing Moisturiser or Hydrating & Nourishing Acai Duo are like blankets for your skin, sealing in all the goodness. The Secret Sauce: Strengthening the Barrier Elevate your skincare game by incorporating ingredients like our Probiotic Lysates. These bad boys heal and support your skin's natural defense, making it an inviting home for thriving skin. Your skin deserves that level of pampering! So, whether your skin is feeling like a desert adventure or a roller coaster ride, remember that a tailored skincare routine is your trusty sidekick. Embrace the power of esmi Skin Minerals and bid farewell to the enigmatic combo of dry skin and breakouts. Your skin will thank you with its radiant glow and newfound confidence!
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 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
What are AHAs in Skincare?
What are AHAs in skincare? You’ve probably figured out by now that those of us in the skincare world love an acronym - hey, some of those ingredients are really wordy! Speaking of loving an acronym, one of our absolute favourites is AHAs, otherwise known as alpha hydroxy acids. If you haven’t had your ‘aha!’ moment on what AHAs are (pardon the pun), by the time you finish reading you’ll well and truly be a member of their fan club. Without further ado, let’s dive into alpha hydroxy acids for skin. What are AHAs? While we’re keen to shout about why we love AHAs from the rooftops, let’s take a step back and ask the million dollar question - what are AHAs in skincare? They are acids (duh), but don’t let that word scare you - they are perfectly safe. They are often plant-derived and considered chemical exfoliants that buff away dead skin and congestion on the top layers of the skin. You may be more familiar with physical exfoliants (the gritty scrubs), but chemical exfoliants can penetrate deeper into the skin as they are water soluble. Plus, they won’t leave your skin red raw if used gently. There are 7 types of AHAs, but the most commonly researched (and the ones we’re going to be discussing today) are lactic and glycolic acids. AHAs benefits for skin AHA skin care is a favourite among dermatologists, and for good reason. In fact, the list of reasons to get behind AHAs is extensive, but we’re going to narrow it down to our top four. Great for acne-prone skin If you’re someone who struggles with acne, AHAs could be your golden ticket to clear skin. We all know that acne occurs as a result of clogged pores, and the beauty of AHAs is their ability to loosen whatever is clogging your pores and remove any dirt or sebum. This also means AHAs can make pores appear smaller, as they’re not as congested. Thanks to their exfoliating powers, glycolic and lactic acids also help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and overall skin tone. Anti-ageing benefits As we age, our skin is exposed to damaging environmental factors like pollution and UV rays. That, in combination with the cruelty of time means fine lines and wrinkles start to show up on our skin. The beauty of AHAs is their ability to promote collagen production. Collagen (the protein fibres that keep our skin plump) lies in the middle layer of the skin, where AHAs can reach. They destroy old collagen fibres to make way for fresh ones. Plus, AHAs in skincare also increase blood flow to the skin to give you a gorgeous radiance. Hydrate the skin AHAs will have your skin feeling soft and supple in a flash thanks to their hydrating powers. Some AHAs, like glycolic acid, are what’s known as humectants, meaning they draw water from their surroundings to the skin. Yup, that means while they exfoliate, you also get a hydrated glow. AHAs can also help other skincare products like your hydrating serum and moisturiser work more effectively, by removing dead skin cells that are stopping all of the good stuff from getting deep into the skin. Otherwise, your products are just moisturising dead skin and we don’t need to tell you that’s never going to work so well. Fades hyperpigmentation Using AHAs on a regular basis can help reduce the appearance of dark marks caused by sun damage, ageing or hormonal changes in pregnancy. AHAs increase cell turnover which allows newer skin, without pigmentation, to shine through. Skincare containing AHAs Like we said, there are at least seven types of AHAs, so knowing what to look for on your ingredients list can be a bit like acing a chemistry test. Luckily, we left tests behind in high school, so we’ve made it simple. Here are some esmi Skin Minerals products containing AHAs that will have people asking you who your facialist is (you can give them our details). Our go-to is the Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum. It contains 10% Fruit Acid Combination AHA's (5% Glycolic Acid and 5% Lactic Acid) to naturally and gently unclog pores and speed up cell renewal. It draws out impurities and works like a dream on blackheads, just FYI. If congested (rough and bumpy skin) has you down, reach for this little beauty. After using the Charcoal Serum, lock in moisture and get an extra dose of lactic acid with the Detox Hydra-Fluid Moisturiser. It will help to increase cellular turnover to leave skin smooth and soft, as well as featuring Red Algae Extract to hydrate and revitalise the skin. Before you lather on the AHAs, keep in mind the other ingredients in your skincare routine. You can layer your AHAs under any vitamin C serums, but they don’t play nicely with retinol as they are both exfoliants and can irritate the skin. If AHAs aren’t already a part of your skincare routine, do yourself a favour! They speed up your cell turnover by exfoliating the skin without harsh scrubs, leaving you with a clear, and brighter complexion - um, big yes to that! If you need a little more help figuring out which AHA products are right for you, chat to our skin consultants.
The Skin Benefits of Grapeseed Oil
There’s 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 we’ve 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 aren’t going to clog your skin so it’s 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 we’ve mentioned, grapeseed oil contains fatty acids, which can also increase the skin’s 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 we’re 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 you’ll be pleased to learn can assist in reducing the signs of ageing. These antioxidants fight free radicals to assist in boosting and preserving your skin’s collagen and elastin. Inflammation and 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 skin’s cell membrane and fight off that flare-up inducing irritation and redness. Using Grapeseed Oil in Your Skincare Routine Impressed with grapeseed oil yet? We thought so! As it is such a lightweight and ‘all rounder’ oil, you can use it either morning or night, but similar to most oils, you’ll see the greatest benefits when it’s 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, we’ve got you covered. First up is our best seller, the Probiotic Skin Mylck. Brimming with probiotics and our hero ingredient grapeseed oil, she’s full of goodness to help strengthen your skin’s 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 skin’s barrier strong and hydrated. If you’re keen on a spa-like experience every night of the week, this is one to include in your routine. While we’re 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. It’s super gentle and safe for most skin types. Bring on all of the glowy benefits! If you’re keen to learn more about this mighty little seed, chat to one of our skin experts today.
The Best Facial Sunscreen for Summer
Summer is coming and it’s going to be a scorcher. It’s also that time of year when we can enjoy days on the beach and live a little more — 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 it’s 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 — trust us when we say you won’t 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 “sunscreen is the most important product to put on your face.” And, there’s 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 — making sure you’re 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 isn’t 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 you’ve 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 don’t 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 isn’t harsh on the skin. Our formula for facial sunscreen is exactly this (you’re welcome sensitive skin queens!). The esmi team wanted (and needed) a formula that was ideal under makeup and non-comedogenic — meaning free from pore-clogging ingredients — 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. esmi’s 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!) We’ve 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.
Your Guide to Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C serum is the skincare step you definitely don’t want to miss. Every skin type and concern can benefit from this hero antioxidant. Vitamin C brightens, firms and protects skin and it’s never too late (or too early) to incorporate a Vitamin C serum into your routine. We take a look at why it’s brilliant for fading pigmentation, anti-ageing and guarding against (and reversing!) sun damage. Plus, we explore the esmi range of serums powered by this all-star ingredient so you can choose the best Vitamin C serum for your individual skin concerns. What are the benefits of vitamin C serum? Vitamin C serum lightens pigmentation and acne scars, firms skin, and offers a big hit of antioxidant protection against UV and pollution. It’s the perfect all-round ingredient for any routine. The most common forms of Vitamin C used in skincare include: Ascorbic Acid - also known as L-ascorbic acid Ethyl ascorbic acid Ascorbyl palmitate Sodium ascorbyl phosphate These forms of Vitamin C have a notable amount of research confirming their effectiveness and stability in skincare formulations. Vitamin C serums may also include natural forms of the antioxidant. For example, Kakadu Plum is an Australian native botanical ingredient that is the richest known source of natural Vitamin C in the world. Serums are an excellent way to incorporate Vit C into your routine as they penetrate more deeply into the skin than other products. Vitamin C Serum & pigmentation A potent skin brightener, Vitamin C is famed for its ability to fade and smooth the appearance of various forms of pigmentation including: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne or other skin damage. Liver spots or sunspots. Melasma associated with hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy. Vit C serum helps to fade the appearance of pigmentation and dull, uneven skin by inhibiting the production of melanin which is the pigment responsible for causing darker areas of skin. Vitamin C & acne The healing process of deep inflammatory types of acne such as nodules and cysts can leave behind marks and scars. The ‘marks’ are dark spots and discolouration on the skin are known as hyperpigmentation. Skin is darkened but it remains smooth without texture irregularities. Acne scars, on the other hand, change the texture of the skin - leaving indentations and raised spots. This is an indication that the damage has occurred at a deep level. Vitamin C can assist with improving the appearance of both acne marks and scars. It promotes collagen synthesis which is vital for wound healing and rebuilding healthy skin - acne scars - while its brightening properties can help fade discolouration - acne marks. Vitamin C for skin firming & anti-ageing Healthy, young looking skin has plenty of collagen. Collagen gives your skin volume, keeps it looking plump and those fine lines and wrinkles at bay. Ageing, lifestyle factors (like smoking and a poor diet) and the environment (pollution and UV exposure) all contribute to the breakdown of collagen. This is where Vitamin C serum comes in. Vitamin C plays a major role in helping the skin produce more of the good stuff (collagen!) and also inhibits the breakdown of existing collagen. Double win. We recommend incorporating Vitamin C serums into your routine at any age. In your 20s it’s the ideal preventative skincare to set the stage for healthy skin ageing and keep your complexion firm as long as possible. In your 30s and beyond, Vitamin C can help turn back sun or environmental damage and plump fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C & sun protection This powerhouse vitamin is an antioxidant well-known for its ability to protect the skin from the damage caused by UV rays and pollution. When your skin is exposed to the sun and other environmental aggressors - like pollution - free radicals form and attack healthy skin cells. They do this by ‘stealing’ an electron from a healthy cell causing it to weaken and damage collagen and elastin. This results in the signs of premature aging like fine lines, rough skin, and discolouration. Antioxidants, especially Vitamin C, stop free radical destruction in its tracks by ‘giving’ an electron to the free radical so it doesn’t steal from the healthy cells. Not only does Vitamin C protect the skin from damage, but it also helps reverse existing sun damage by brightening sun spots and stimulating collagen production. Don’t skip sun protection though; Vitamin C serum isn't a replacement for sunscreen. Daily application of broad spectrum SPF, like esmi Skin Shield, is still a must for every skincare routine. Think of Vitamin C and sunscreen as a skincare power couple; they work best together! The longer you use Vitamin C serum, the better the results. While most skin types will usually notice a brighter complexion after a few weeks of use, consistent use over months will deliver optimal results - more luminous, firmer, and softer skin. The best vitamin C serums Firm, brighten, protect. No matter your goal, there’s an esmi serum formulated with Vitamin C to suit your skin type and concerns. Our Vitamin C serums and lotions should be applied following the cleansing step in your routine. Pomegranate Brightening Serum Pomegranate Brightening Serum is our Vitamin C serum that illuminates skin with the power of Vitamin C and Kakadu Plum. A true brightening team! Suitable for: Most skin types to tackle pigmentation, sun damage and dullness concerns.If you have hypersensitive skin, we recommend introducing our Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Brightening first to introduce your skin to brightening ingredients. Formulated with: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) and Kakadu Plum. How to use Pomegranate Brightening Serum (morning and / or evening) Use the dropper to apply an amount smaller than a pearl on cleansed skin and gently massage in. Allow the serum to absorb before applying other products. You can use this Vitamin C serum in your morning and evening routine. Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Golden Anti-Ageing Serum is formulated with powerful peptides and antioxidants, including Vitamin C, to visibly plump fine lines, brighten and condition. Suitable for: All skin types and ages as a night time defence against fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation. Promotes a brighter, smoother complexion. Formulated with: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), peptides, and vitamin E. How to use Golden Anti-Ageing Serum (evening) Using the dropper, apply a pearl sized amount and gently massage into skin, including the under eye area. The Golden Anti-aging Serum is designed to be used at night as the skin repairs and regenerates while you sleep. Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Brightening Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Brightening is moisturising lotion gentle enough to offer the lightening benefits of Vitamin C serums without irritating sensitive skin. Suitable for: All skin types, especially hypersensitive skin. Formulated with: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Kakadu Plum and Probiotic Lysates. How to use Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Brightening (morning and / or evening) Using the dropper drip a thumb size amount of Mylck onto your fingertips or palm. Massage into cleansed skin. Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo is the best Vitamin C serum that offers the moisturising benefits of a face oil too. Suitable for: Ideal for all skin types to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion prone to age spots and hyperpigmentation while stimulating collagen to firm and tone. Formulated with: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), niacinamide, and acai oil. How to use Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo (morning and night) Shake the bottle well to mix the acai oil and water-based serum together. Dispense a pearl size amount of mixed oil/serum directly to your palm and massage into the skin. Brightening Eye Serum Wake up a tired, dull eye area with our Brightening Eye Serum designed to target dark circles, brightness and fine lines in the delicate eye area. Suitable for: All skin types to promote a brighter, tighter and more youthful eye area. Formulated with: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), caffeine, Vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid. How to use Brightening Eye Serum (morning and / or evening): After cleansing or exfoliating, and before moisturizing, apply a grain of rice-sized amount (per eye) and massage to below the eye area and above on to the brow bone in an outwards motion. For vit C face masks and cleansers to complement your serum view our entire range of Vitamin C skincare products.
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
5 Best Nutrients for Great Skin
Beauty comes from within; it’s a cliche and probably caused a few eye rolls from you, but it’s true! The state of our body really shows on our face, so if you have been hitting the takeaways a bit recently and had not just a few late nights, your poor skin is going to be the first to give it away. Really nourishing our skin from the inside out with some powerhouse nutrients is going to give your skin a gorgeous glow. Skin nutrition isn’t as hard to incorporate into your daily routine as you might think! In fact, clear skin from within is just around the corner. Let’s break down the five best nutrients for great skin... Vitamin A Let’s start from the beginning. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that helps your body fight illness and keeps your skin healthy. For your skin, it works to prevent sun damage by interrupting the collagen breakdown process (which incidentally also slows down signs of ageing - bonus). It also works as an antioxidant and helps in the production of new skin cells, keeping things plump and smooth as a baby’s bottom. Skimping on the vitamin A can cause dryness, itchiness and bumps which are things no one wants! To get your vitamin A hit, you’ll want to have the most important meal of the day, breakfast! Foods like eggs, cheese, milk and yogurt are all rich in vitamin A. As if we needed an excuse to dig into the cheese. In its active form, vitamin A is only available from animal sources. If you’re vegan, foods such as carrots and sweet potatoes contain something called beta carotene which will convert to vitamin A in the body. While the more active form is only in animal products, having a diet rich in beta carotene will set you up in the best way! If you want to level up your vitamin A absorption, topical products like our Encapsulated Retinol will boost collagen, even out your skin tone and help to keep acne in check. Vitamin C Talk about a triple threat! Vitamin C keeps your skin in great condition by boosting collagen production, smoothing fine lines and evening the skin tone. Basically, it is an anti-aging star. This anti-inflammatory nutrient can’t be produced by our bodies naturally, so giving our skin a little helping hand is key. Fruits and vegetables are the most common source of vitamin C, with foods like oranges, berries and broccoli being your best bets. So, make like your middle school health class and embrace the food pyramid! Having said that, research suggests that to get maximum skin boosting benefits from vitamin C, you’re going to want to apply it topically. The Pomegranate Brightening Serum is packed with Kakadu Plum extract, which has one of the world’s highest levels of vitamin C. She’s a showoff but we love her for it. Zinc Zinc is one of those essential nutrients that we rarely think about, but it will absolutely get you on the way to perfect skin from within. One of its major benefits is its anti-inflammatory skills. It helps to calm redness and irritation which makes it a fantastic nutrient if you have acne prone skin, as it also decreases oil production. If you’ve got oily skin, you’re going to want to take notes on upping your zinc intake. “But how do I do that?”, we hear you ask. Good question. Red meat is rich in zinc, as are more obscure foods like oysters, if you’re feeling particularly fancy (oysters pair perfectly with champagne, just saying). For all of our vegetarians, no need to stress! Legumes are an excellent source of zinc. Mix through chickpeas, lentils and beans into your salads for the nutrient (and taste) boost. Feeling snacky? Nuts will also get you across the zinc line. When applied to the skin, zinc can protect against the sun, which is why you’ll find most sunscreens, like our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen, harness its powers. Omega 3 Sometimes called fatty acids (trust us, they are better for you than they sound), omega 3s just so happen to be key to the structure of every cell wall, so yeah, they’re pretty important. They are crucial for the overall health of your body as they keep your energy levels high and your immune system running at full steam. When it comes to your skin, they can help to regulate oil production, which is music to anyone with oily skin’s ears. In other good news, omega 3s also improve the skin barrier to seal in moisture and fight dryness and inflammation. The omega 3 MVP is fish, so whether you go for seafood or down your fish oil tablets, it’s time to get friendly with fish! Omega 3 is also found in most seeds and plant oils, like canola oil. Protein Protein is the building block for all skin tissue, so getting familiar with protein is key for youthful looking skin. It helps to maintain elasticity and firmness (no sagging skin here, thank you very much). Making sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet is one of those anti-aging secrets spam ads tell you dermatologists don’t want you to know about. In good news, eating foods rich in protein is not too difficult. Of course, red meat, chicken and fish are your best bet, but other animal products like eggs and dairy are also a great way to go. For our vegan readers, legumes and nuts are what you’re going to want to reach for. While you might want to go full body builder and go hard on protein all the time, you’re actually better off eating small amounts in each sitting because our bodies can’t store it. Skin nutrition isn’t something you need a Harvard degree to understand, it can actually be quite simple! When it comes to clear skin from within just look for vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, omega 3 and protein - simple! If you want to know more, chatting to a naturopath can be a great source of information on how to eat for your skin!
Why is My Skin Peeling?
Our ideal spa day would not be complete without a peel, but the kind of skin peeling we’re talking about today is just about the last thing anyone wants! It can be a real pain (in the literal sense) and unlike a spot here or there, dry, flaky skin on the face can be difficult to cover with makeup. Plus, it can feel irritating and downright uncomfortable. That’s why nipping it in the bud is so crucial. Before you know it, you’ll have skin like a baby’s bottom! What is Peeling Skin? Believe it or not, skin peeling on the face isn’t always a bad thing. When the outer layer of skin (the epidermis for skincare nerds like us) sheds, it is a sign that your skin is healing from damage and is being replaced by healthier, new skin. Majority of the time, peeling occurs after sunburn (as if you needed another reason to religiously apply sunscreen), when you have dry skin and when you suffer from eczema. The area affected might feel dry, itchy, painful and be a little red. Alright, now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk about how to get rid of flaky skin. Causes and How to Soothe Peeling Skin Sunburn Even though you apply sunscreen everyday, and reapply with prolonged sun exposure (Right? Right??), the fact is that sometimes sunburns are unavoidable. As most of us would know, after the burn comes the incredibly annoying peeling. Painful, itchy and not so cute - a total pain in the butt. When the top layer of the skin becomes damaged, collagen breaks down and causes the skin to pull apart, prompting this super not fun process. Now let’s start with the obvious: avoid scaly skin caused by sun exposure by lathering on a thick layer of the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen. If you’ve crossed over into flaky territory, calm the skin with the Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask. It will soothe irritated and peeling skin on the face. Then, top it off with the Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration to restore the damaged skin barrier and increase hydration. Dry Skin If you’ve got skin on the dryer side, you’re going to be more susceptible to cracking and peeling (We feel for you!). Dry skin has a skin barrier that is compromised, meaning it can't retain moisture and oils so well. In other words, all of the good stuff that keeps your skin plump is exiting stage right. To avoid making the situation worse, avoid harsh products and boiling hot showers - they are only going to strip even more moisture out of your skin and make the flaking problem worse. When it comes to your skincare routine, go for the most luxe, moisturising products around. Luckily, we know just the products! Our Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask is packed with moisturising ingredients like shea butter and coconut and almond oils. Your thirsty skin is going to love them and start to heal any skin peeling on the face. Then dab on a few drops of the Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo for peak moisture. The wonder ingredient is provitamin B5, which is a natural skin healer and protector - say “see ya” to dry, flaky skin! Eczema and Contact Dermatitis Eczema is a term for a bunch of skin conditions that cause red, dry skin and, in many cases, that damn flaking. While there’s no cure (cue eye roll), there are things you can do to help heal irritated and peeling skin from these conditions. Contact dermatitis, in particular, occurs when the skin comes into contact with chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. If you know you’re prone to reactions, always (always!) patch test products before lathering them all over your face. Another hot tip? Stick with natural and gentle products that aren’t going to exacerbate the situation. Speaking of, our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum plumps the skin, and the niacinamide (Vitamin B3) works to restore damaged and peeling skin on the face, making it perfect for giving flaky skin the flick. For a super boost of nourishment, use a few drops of the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil. The trio of coconut, jojoba and avocado oils are excellent moisturisers and this skin treat is rich in skin-saving fatty acids. To find out more about the cause of skin peeling and what products are going to send it packing, book a free skincare consultation with one of our experts!
