Do Facial Rollers Actually Work?
You can’t 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 ‘add to cart’ button faster. But the million dollar question is, do facial rollers work? Let’s 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 you’re feeling particularly puffy? Yup, that’s 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 you’re 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 you’re 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? Don’t worry, we’ll explain the difference. In traditional Asian practices, the term ‘gua sha’ literally translates to ‘scrape the pain away’ 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 can’t get enough of the gua sha, often calling it ‘natural botox.’ While many are drawn to its aesthetic benefits—like reducing fine lines and wrinkles—gua sha fans have discovered so much more. Beyond beauty, it’s a powerful tool for releasing stress and tension, something you didn’t 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 you’re 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 you’re 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. We’ve 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 you’ll 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, you’ll notice your puffiness literally slide away and watch the compliments ‘roll’ in - pun intended! Have any other questions about using a facial roller or gua sha? Chat to our skin consultants today!
How to Get Rid of Blind Pimples Under the Skin
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been personally victimised by a blind pimple hiding under the skin. Yup, we thought there might be a few of you! While they might not look as scary to everyone else as your run of the mill pimples, they can often be quite painful and annoyingly unpoppable. We’re going to chat all things blind pimples: what they are and how to get rid of under the skin pimples overnight. That way, you’re not going in blind (sorry, we had to!). What are blind pimples? Before we delve into the nitty gritty, let’s establish what a blind pimple actually is. Blind pimples are essentially pimples that form under the skin. They form thanks to a mixture of bacteria and excess sebum, deeply clogging the pores, under the skin, leading to inflammation. They can also be caused by a cyst (benign growths filled with liquid) or a nodule (abnormal tissue growth) beneath the skin, but don’t worry, they aren’t as scary as they sound. As anyone who’s ever had a blind pimple will tell you, they can really hurt and can get quite angry. Think of it as a pressure that has built up and can’t be released. Sometimes, these pimples will rise to the surface and appear as the whiteheads or blackheads we all know and love - not! Other times, blind pimples can stay hidden beneath the surface. In these situations, you may feel a bump over the surface of the skin and redness where the blind pimple is lurking. The really annoying thing about these kinds of pimples is how stubborn they are. Unlike regular pimples that can be softened or, dare we say, popped, blind pimples are harder to get rid of. How to avoid blind pimples Of course, the best blind pimple treatment is prevention. Keeping your skin clean and free from bacteria and sebum build up is going to do wonders for avoiding blind pimples. Cleansing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser is going to get rid of any nasties. If you find yourself struggling with blind pimples, or pimples regularly, try our The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal. Ideal for skin prone to congestion, this magical product is enriched with the detoxifying power of Charcoal, helping draw out any impurities and purify those pores. After cleansing, fight congestion with our Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant, perfect to use a few times a week. This is going to unclog pores by clearing out any dead skin cells lurking. Then finish up with your favourite moisturiser. Always stick with products that are non-acnegenic, meaning they won’t clog pores and cause acne. Seems like a no-brainer, hey? Well the scary thing is, there are a lot of products out there, particularly makeup products, that can clog pores. Looking for an everyday foundation that is kind to your skin? Our Liquid Mineral Foundation is lightweight and non-acnegenic so isn’t going to trigger any of those nasty blind pimples. How to get rid of pimples under the skin Sometimes, despite doing all the right things for your skin, things like hormones or stress can send a blind pimple your way anyway. Life’s not fair, hey? That’s why you’ll want to take notes of these blind pimple treatments. The first and most important rule: don’t pop it. We repeat: put down the tweezers! No matter how good you think your pimple popping skills are, that sucker is too deep for you to reach. By trying to pop a blind pimple, you risk pushing the congestion further into the skin and irritating it further, causing scarring. Let’s make sure we’re on the same page here; popping is not how to get rid of pimples under the skin. Instead, you want to bring the pimple to a head. Even though the idea of having your pimple on full display is a big “no, thanks”, the sooner the head comes to the surface, the sooner it can be treated. Start by applying a warm compress for 10-15 minutes a couple of times a day as soon as you sense one brewing. This will help ease the pain while encouraging it to the surface. You also want to keep the area clean to minimise any bacteria causing further issues. Charcoal products are also going to be your best friend. The Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum is a powerful chemical exfoliator that is rich in AHAs to speed up cell renewal and decongest the skin. Plus, the big drawcard here is it draws out lumps under the surface of the skin, making it an amazing blind pimple treatment. On nights where you need some down time and Netflix, reach for the Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask to detox skin and draw out impurities (read: blind pimples). The bentonite clay fights harmful bacteria and buffs away dead skin. Now, on mornings where you wake up with the feeling of a blind pimple brewing, you won’t pull the covers over your face and hide; you’ll know exactly how to send that bad boy packing! If you need an extra helping hand dealing with pimples under the skin, chat to our skin consultants.
Pomegranate: The Benefits for Skin
It’s no secret that when it comes to skincare, we love to go mostly au naturale. Quite often, the foods we eat are packed with vitamins and minerals that work wonders on our skin. Take pomegranate for instance; not only is it super delicious, but it has been used in the skincare world for hundreds of years! More recently, pomegranate skin care has become even more popular, thanks to its skin-loving properties. Hey, it is the symbol of prosperity after all! So, let’s dive into why we’re a little bit obsessed with this superfood. Pomegranate Benefits for Skin To understand why we love pomegranates in skin care so much, we have to dig a little deeper. It is not so much the pomegranate itself, but rather what is inside it. Ever heard of polyphenols? Yeah, we don’t blame you. They are powerful antioxidants and rich in vitamin C - think of them like the fairy dust in pomegranate that is going to give you some incredible results. Pomegranate’s skin care benefits are far and wide, from its antioxidant properties and anti-ageing capabilities, to its brightening and anti-inflammation powers. Plus, let’s not forget its ability to protect us from those nasty UV rays. Antioxidants and Anti-Ageing The primary benefit of pomegranate for skin lies in its antioxidant powers. This fruit is packed with vitamin C and other winning antioxidants, giving you unparalleled protection against free radicals. If you’re new here, free radicals are unstable molecules that latch onto the skin cells and cause damage. These little suckers can even break down collagen, granting you a one way ticket to dull and sunken skin. Speaking of collagen, the vitamin C in pomegranate is key in the collagen production process. So, loading the skin up with it is going to rewind the ageing process, tell fine lines and wrinkles where to go, and give you that ‘glazed donut’ radiance every day. Brightens Pigmentation That vitamin C in pomegranate we love so much? It also helps to brighten any hyperpigmentation you might be experiencing. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme that produces melanin in the skin, helping fade any sun or age spots overtime. Honestly, is there anything vitamin C can’t do?! Calms Inflammation Pomegranate contains a little something called ellagitannin (don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz at the end), which calms inflammation. Pomegranate benefits skin that has redness from dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and acne. Protects the Skin from UV Rays There is evidence to suggest that pomegranate can protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays. Remember those antioxidants we mentioned earlier? Yeah, basically they fight off the free radical damage, helping provide some natural protection. But let’s get one thing straight - this is not your cue to skimp on the daily sunscreen. Layer your pomegranate skincare under your sunscreen for the ultimate sun protection and the kind of anti-ageing magic Jennifer Lopez seems to have access to (seriously, how does she do it?). Who is Pomegranate Skincare Best For? Want to hear the good news? All skin types will reap those sweet sweet pomegranate skin care benefits. Having said that, it is a super brightening ingredient, so if you experience hyperpigmentation from a range of factors like hormonal changes, sun exposure or ageing, pomegranate is going to become your new best friend. And if acne has taken up residence on your skin, pomegranate’s anti-inflammatory powers will soothe that redness right down. It also doesn’t clog pores which is just the icing on the cake! Skincare with Pomegranate Now that you’re a total pomegranate convert, you may be wondering, “do I need to rub a pomegranate all over my face to see these benefits?” While we would love to see that, there’s an easier, less messy way. Our Pomegranate Brightening Serum is, as the name suggests, packed with pomegranate (shocker!). It is a potent brightening, anti-pigmentation serum with powerful melanin inhibitors, skin lightening ingredients and powerful antioxidants. It will lift any pigmentation and brighten sallow skin. To really level up its vitamin C game, this serum also contains Kakadu Plum which has the world’s highest levels of vitamin C. Can you tell we’re big vitamin C fans yet? Reach out to skin service team, as this is an active skin treat and we want to ensure your skin is ready to introduce this into your routine! As a little bonus, our Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant also features the magic powers of pomegranate to exfoliate and brighten the skin for a stunning glow! Use it to buff away dead skin after cleansing - you can thank us later. The pomegranate benefits for skin are just about endless! Not only can it brighten the skin and fight free radicals, it can also slow signs of ageing, reduce inflammation and protect the skin from dreaded UV rays. If you’re not sure whether pomegranate is right for you, or you’re just not sure how to incorporate it in your skincare routine, our friendly skincare consultants are here to help!
5 Congestion Clearing Products We Swear By
We’re so excited you’ve brought balancing products that will take you from congested to clear! Stick your new congestion-fighting skincare routine on your bathroom mirror and follow along daily from Monday through Sunday to kiss blocked pores goodbye! But first, let’s take a deep dive into why your skin might be congested and what products could complement your skincare ritual. What Is Congested Skin? Congested skin is as common as low-rise jeans were in the early 2000s, we’re looking at you Britney Spears. If you have congested skin your pores are clogged with a combination of oil, dead skin cells, sweat and dirt. As this debris builds up, it’s unable to escape so becomes trapped which leads to blackheads, uneven skin texture and a dull appearance on your T-zone. What Causes Congested Skin? Our bodies produce natural oils through the sebaceous glands to nourish and moisturise our skin however, overactive oil glands can cause a build-up on the skin. This can be triggered by monthly menstrual cycles as hormones increase the production of sebum. Gut health and a poor diet also elevate blood sugar levels which can increase acne-causing hormones, excess oil and increased cell production. Take it easy on processed foods and limit refined sugar by prioristing a healthy lifestyle as part of your self-care habits. It can be tempting to touch your face but you’re also constantly touching things like your phone or EFTPOS machines so you’re transferring that bacteria right onto your skin. Add minimal or no skincare routine to this and you could be damaging your skin without even knowing it! Change your skincare routine by cleansing once in the morning and twice at night, we know it sounds like a lot but hear us out. The first cleanse is to remove makeup and SPF while the second is to get deep into the pores to remove the day’s debris and built-up oil. Congestion VS Acne They both seem to sound the same with pimples and blocked pores, right? Well, not quite so listen up! Congestion is just that, topical and irregular blockages that are likely brought on by poor skin health and lifestyle choices. Acne is a consistent skin condition that occurs in all skin types, even dry. It’s a form of inflammation and irritation that affects the deep layers of the skin with red and irritated breakouts. This is all thanks to oil glands becoming infected as they continue to excrete into clogged pores, creating a full pustule where bacteria can’t escape or be flushed out naturally. Can Sweat Cause Acne? We’re busting the myth wide open on sweat and pimples! Sweat doesn’t cause acne, it’s actually your best friend when it comes to flushing toxins from your body as long as you have clean skin before that sweat session. The only problem you might see here is if you bask in your sweat and don’t cleanse your face, this can attract dust and dirt that settles on the skin which can lead to sweat pimples. How Can I Decongest My Face? You might reach for a harsh scrub but steer clear of anything that strips the skin of its natural moisturising qualities. Choose The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal for a gentle cleanser that carefully removes all traces of makeup and impurities. It’s packed full of detoxifying charcoal to draw out toxins from deep within pores while aloe vera calms and heals inflammation. This creamy product is ideal for skin types that are prone to congestion, breakouts and large pores. Dehydrated skin can lead to problems that result in skin congestion as your skin will try to compensate for the dryness by overproducing oil, taking you right back to where you started. Seal in moisture to congested skin that’s been cleansed and exfoliated with esmi’s Detox Hydra-Fluid Moisturise to restore balance to oil-prone areas. The right moisturiser won’t leave your skin feeling heavy or greasy so choose this weightless gel to protect against environmental stressors and pollutants. It’s also formulated with lactic acid to increase cellular turnover for smooth skin and carrot root extract to promote cell regeneration. Not that we want to add more to your laundry list but not changing your pillowcase and bedding can cause your skin to break out even if you’re double cleansing every night. Your pillowcase carries dirt, sweat and built-up products from your hair and hands so we recommend changing it every few days. While you’re at it, why not give your makeup brushes a wash so they aren’t clogged with dead skin cells, dried makeup and dirt? Putting time and energy into a skincare routine just to top it off with dirty makeup brushes is totally counterproductive! Make this part of your weekly beauty routine so you’re on your way to glowing skin again. What Ingredients Are Best For Congested Skin? The best treatment for your skin is using naturally antibacterial ingredients that deeply clean pores and clear congestion without being abrasive to the skin’s surface. Glycolic Acid For Acne Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that boosts moisture retention, reduces the appearance of scars, treats hyperpigmentation and brightens skin. It’s a potent exfoliator that removes dead cells from the topmost layers of the skin, preventing the overproduction of oil that leads to breakouts. It also stimulates fibroblasts in the dermis to produce collagen which leaves your skin feeling plumper with fewer fine lines. Activated Charcoal For Acne We know you can find activated charcoal in lattes, smoothies and toothpaste but what about your skincare? It’s basically wood burnt down to an absorbent powder, composed of carbon and ash that makes for a gentle exfoliant. Activated charcoal works like a vacuum for your pores with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that minimises the nutrients that congestion feeds on, leaving you with a full face glow. Bentonite VS Kaolin Clay Any skincare products that use clay naturally purify, cleanse and detoxify your skin with absorbent properties that draw toxins and oil. Bentonite draws heavy metals, impurities and chemicals from the skin to leave you with a clear and balanced complexion. Coming from volcanic ash, it has slightly more powerful oil absorption properties than kaolin clay which makes it perfect for extremely oily skin. Kaolin Clay is the best option for sensitive skin that’s typically normal to dry. With gentle absorption properties, the mild white clay evens out skin tone and reduces redness while absorbing oil without affecting your skin's natural oil level. What To Avoid When You Have Congested Skin It’s best to avoid products with ingredients that are known to irritate your skin and potentially cause breakouts. Our skin specialists recommend skipping comedogenic makeup and skin products while avoiding mineral oil, isopropyl myristate, propylene glycol, lanolin, alcohol and artificial colours. If you’re still not sure, book a consultation or start a live chat with our qualified skin consultants to receive a personalised routine or product recommendation. What Products Are Good For Congested Skin? This is where we come in, say hello to your new esmi skin treats and start your daily ritual off with these naturally clearing products that will keep your pores clean and refined. Green Smoothie, But For Your Face Our Anti-Redness Green Smoothie serum is the best product to treat skin redness, reduce puffiness and calm damaged skin. You’ll find it packed full of Tasmania lanceolate extract, a powerful antioxidant that speeds up healing along with anti-inflammatory arnica. It’s suitable for all skin types, although can be especially healing for acne-inflamed or damaged skin. Buff The Bad Excess dead skin cells are to blame for congestion so for a clearer complexion, our lightweight Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum draws out underlying congestion while buffing away dead skin cells. Glycolic acid also loosens and breaks apart the bonds of skin cells to encourage your softer side. Simply drop it onto a charcoal brush or your fingers and massage it into freshly cleansed skin! Don’t be alarmed if your skin purges afterwards, just keep using it after your impurities have said hello to help the healing process. It’s important to note that over-exfoliation will cause your skin to fight back, leaving you with more breakouts and redness so stick to once a week and have rest nights to let your skin recover and reset. Say Hey To Clay If you feel the need to squeeze any blemishes, use our Charcoal Clay Booster Mask instead! We love it because charcoal acts like a sponge to draw out impurities from deep within, soft kaolin clay regulates oil production and creamy bentonite clay neutralises harmful bacteria to buff away dead skin. The powerful combination of charcoal and clay refines and purifies for soft skin so apply a generous amount across the whole face or to just a few pimples. It takes time for skin-clearing ingredients to kick in so be consistent with your treatments and give congestion treatments at least four weeks to do their thing. If you’re just getting started on your skincare journey, why not refresh and refine unbalanced skin cells with our Congested Skin Solution Bundle?
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.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Skincare
Here at Makeup Cartel, we always want to be part of the solution, not the problem. It is no secret that the skincare and cosmetics industries have the potential to be detrimental to the environment, but they don’t have to be - we’re living proof that it’s possible to be an ethical skincare brand! We’ve made a serious commitment to creating eco friendly skincare wherever we can. It is at the heart of everything we do and is something we take really seriously - it’s up there with creating really, really good skincare! Our Sustainability Initiatives All of the plastic in our products is biodegradable and breaks down in 5-10 years, as opposed to the 100s of years it takes your stock standard plastic to break down. Mother Earth doesn’t have time to wait that long, and neither do we! Oh, and to make things even better, our packaging doesn’t leave behind any microplastics. Pretty clever, hey? As part of being a sustainable skincare brand, we’ve made sure that all of our glass and cardboard packaging is recyclable. That means, once you’ve finished using and loving your esmi products, clean out the glass packaging (and remove any plastic components) and send that beauty straight to recycling. Easy as pie! Speaking of glass bottles, did you know you can repurpose them? It’s true! Use them to house a new sapling or as the perfectly sized container for your favourite skincare when travelling. Read more about repurposing your glass bottles here. Our ingredient lists are predominately natural and completely clean, so they don’t contain any nasties that are going to harm the earth. After all, you wouldn’t put anything toxic on your skin, right? Plus, part of creating ethical skincare, means our products are completely cruelty-free, so we absolutely don’t test on animals. And just as the icing on the cake, all esmi products are completely vegan, so you won’t see any animal products in our skincare. We love to see it! We want our gorgeous esmi customers to enjoy our products for many years to come, which means we need to put our planet first! Creating sustainable skincare that you love using is our mission and we reckon we’ve done a great job of it, if we do say so ourselves!
What is Clean Beauty?
Clean beauty. It’s a niche that has dominated the skincare world in recent years and is definitely here to stay. What does “clean beauty” really mean, though? Well, the answer you get may depend on who you ask! The term is quite open to interpretation and there are differing views about the *exact* definition. In general, though, clean beauty describes products that are formulated with natural and plant-based ingredients and without any chemicals that have been deemed harmful to human health. This includes the 3 compounds we love to hate - parabens, phthalates, and sulfates which have been linked to concerns from skin irritation to hormone disruption. Beyond ingredients, clean beauty brands also extend their mindful formulation philosophies to include cruelty-free product testing and sustainable production. Clean beauty means clean ingredients We’re proud and passionate about the high clean beauty standards of esmi products. From ingredients through to testing and packaging, we believe in being totally transparent about how our products are made, what goes in them, and how they’re tested. Natural & plant-derived ingredients We use effective plant-based actives and natural ingredients in our formulations to help address a range of skin concerns from dehydration, and dullness to hyperpigmentation and signs of ageing. Some of our most-loved natural and plant-derived ingredients include: Aloe vera: Moisture promoting and skin-repairing aloe vera contains active ingredients including vitamins (vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, E and B12), enzymes, minerals, salicylic acids, and amino acids. Pomegranate: Contains Vitamin C to help with skin brightening and encourages skin repair and regeneration. Gold leaf: A natural antioxidant with active properties, gold helps boost circulation, stimulate collagen, and increase skin elasticity. Kakadu plum: The world’s most potent natural source of vitamin C, this Australian super fruit helps diminish the appearance of dark spots and promotes a glowing complexion. Avocado oil: A natural oil with a high percentage of active Vitamin E which is proven to aid in strengthening the skin barrier and keeping skin moisturised. Clean beauty products can also contain safe synthetic “nature identical” ingredients that are healthy and effective for the skin. Nature identical ingredients are synthetic (created in a lab) but they are safe and stable for use - ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and synthetically produced Vitamin A are good examples. Plus, the production of synthetic ingredients is often more environmentally responsible than harvesting the ingredient from natural sources. Living cultures for your skin to thrive Our probiotic skincare range is formulated with a scientifically developed probiotic lysate strain. These live cultures (aka: good bacteria) benefit the skin by helping strengthen the skin barrier and maintain balance. You can discover more about the benefits of probiotics in this article - a recommended read for anyone with sensitive skin. Probiotics can do wonders for a reactive complexion! FDA approved We only use the highest quality TGA and FDA approved ingredients in our products. This means they are safe for consumers under labelled or customary conditions of use, and are properly labelled. View our full ingredients page here and the ingredients of each product under the "INGREDIENTS" tab on each product page. Clean Beauty Doesn’t Cost The Earth At esmi we’re proud to play a role in promoting ethical, safe and more sustainable product choices across the skincare industry and beyond. We want to drive change by helping to create a world where all businesses are conscious and ethical. It’s not only your skin we care about with our clean, safe formulations; we care about animals and the environment too! Cruelty-free esmi products are completely cruelty-free and we’re committed to no animal testing at any stage. We use FDA approved cruelty-free ingredients and the final product is tested on happy human volunteers! We don’t sell our products to countries where animal testing is mandatory, either. Packaging We design our packaging with the environment in mind so all esmi products come in recyclable packaging. The shipping bags and boxes we use are biodegradable too - even the white packaging fill is all natural and non-toxic. It’s made from corn and is water-soluble. Shop esmi Skin Minerals range for clean beauty in Australia and discover skin solutions for every skin type and concern. You might also like to read: Our Favourite Natural Skincare Products Myths About Certain Ingredients 5 Amazing Vegan Skin Care Products
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.
Real Results: Deborah
“I’m so happy and so confident in my skin!” We’re so excited to share Deborah’s skin story and the fantastic results she’s seen since using esmi Skin Minerals products. For as long as Deborah could remember, she had suffered from red, dry, and irritated skin. It was itchy, uncomfortable and really affecting her confidence. If that wasn’t enough, Deborah was experiencing perioral dermatitis; inflammation around the mouth causing red bumps. Products she had tried in the past seemed to be worsening the problem, causing flare ups in sensitivity and her perioral dermatitis. Deborah was on the hunt for products that would soothe her irritated skin, calm inflammation and keep her dermatitis away. Spoiler alert: that’s where we came in! “I was online one day and came across esmi. I reached out to one of the consultants who was absolutely beautiful and who led me on my skin journey.” Our skin expert listened to Deborah’s concerns, looked at photos of her skin and created an anti-redness skincare routine for her sensitive skin. “We slowly worked to where I am today.” The skincare routine Deborah now follows focuses on calming irritation, nourishing the skin and protecting the skin barrier. She starts with the Probiotic Skin Mylck Cleanser to remove the day’s dirt and grime. Deborah was hesitant to use a cleanser, as they are what used to cause the bulk of the irritation, but she was pleasantly surprised by this one. It is ultra gentle, and helps heal, protect and maintain the skin’s moisture balance. Next come Skin Treats. Deborah uses the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum to keep her skin plump and hydrated, all while giving her a boost of radiance and protecting her skin. The Probiotic Skin Mylck acts as her calming and restorative moisturising lotion. The good bacteria protect and heal the skin barrier and soothe inflamed, damaged skin. She follows this up with the Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil, which reduces redness thanks to the magic of acai oil. Deborah also keeps the Skin Snack Face Mist at her work desk to keep her hydrated and refreshed all day. Of course, she protects her skin everyday with the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen. “I stopped using sunscreens as they would break me out with dermatitis, but with this one, I have not had any reactions at all!” As a once a week treat, Deborah uses the Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant to (gently!) remove any buildup of dead skin, and the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask to deeply soothe, nourish and moisturise the skin. And what results has she seen from her new routine? “My skin isn’t red, definitely not itchy, not irritated. It feels hydrated. I’m so happy and confident in my skin!” Deborah has some advice for anyone struggling with skin concerns. “Reach out to one of esmi’s skin consultants and they will guide you on your skin journey.” “I am so glad I reached out to one of the consultants who knows what they’re talking about and guided me to where I am today. I hope that you’re going to be as happy with your skin journey as I am!” We’re so thrilled to see Deborah’s amazing skin transformation and we’d like to thank her for sharing her skin story with us! Meet more beautiful people who have achieved amazing results with esmi Skin Minerals on our Real Results page. If you’d like to book a free skin consultation with our skin specialists, speak to us on chat or send an email to skin@esmi.com.au.
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.
esmi Skin Minerals Real Results: Brooke Schmidt
“The best thing I ever did for my skin.” 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.
The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Dry Skin
Anyone with dry skin will tell you it is less than fun. The irritated, itchy and flaking skin is no one’s idea of a good time. Now is a good time to remind you that there is a difference between dry and dehydrated skin (more on that here), and they need different treatments. Today, we’re focusing on the best vitamins for dry skin to keep those symptoms away. This includes your general dryness, to more extreme concerns like dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. So for all of our dry skin beauties, listen up and take notes! Vitamin E Vitamin E and dry skin is a match made in heaven. It has an oil base so it is super nourishing. You might be more familiar with shea butter, which is a rich source of vitamin E. It is what is known in the skincare world as an emollient, which is just a fancy way of saying it helps to strengthen the skin barrier and limit water loss from the skin. Vitamin E is also anti-inflammatory, which makes it an ideal vitamin for eczema and other dry skin conditions. So, not only will it deeply moisturise the skin, it will also stop any moisture leaving and sooth any redness and irritation. Vitamin C Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant (win) and is also a key component of collagen production (double win). If your dry skin is showing up in patches of flakiness, itchiness or sores, vitamin C is where it’s at. Collagen is what helps to keep your skin strong and youthful, so upping your vitamin C is going to heal your skin. We love vitamin C in our dry skin supplements, our foods (think citrus), and because it’s us, our skincare! Vitamin D You may have heard of vitamin D as the sun vitamin; that’s because the skin is triggered to produce it with UV exposure. It is a great vitamin for dry skin as it strengthens the skin barrier, not only healing any flakiness, but also preventing water loss. Research has also suggested that skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis (some key culprits of dry skin) can be caused by low vitamin D levels, so if that’s not a reason to reach for your vitamin D dry skin supplements, we don’t know what is. Besides supplements, you can also find vitamin D in foods like red meat and fish. Now while it’s true that a little sunlight is great for your vitamin D levels, you know what we’re going to say, right? Don’t forget to wear your sunscreen! Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) One of our favourites here at esmi, vitamin B3, (also known as niacinamide) is another one of those super ingredients that boosts collagen production to heal any irritation and inflammation. It improves the skin barrier function to keep all of that good hydration locked inside. Vitamin B3 often comes in the form of your skincare ingredients (you’ll find heaps of our products contain this little beauty). Zinc If you go looking through the ingredients of creams that soothe rashes or itchy skin, you’ll see one thing pop up time and time again: zinc. It has some fantastic anti-inflammatory benefits to prevent redness and dryness. Zinc is such a great supplement for dry skin and if you read just a little further, we’ll tell you about our favourite… Fish Oil Fish oil, packed with Omega-3s, is something you should get familiar with if you’ve got dry skin. The fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and heal the skin by increasing hydration and limiting moisture loss. Fish oil works wonders for eczema, as it deeply nourishes the skin, heals a compromised skin barrier, and keeps water where it should be - in your skin! The Best Products for Dry Skin Luckily, we’ve made things super simple for those of you with dry skin by putting together a handy page with all of our products, perfect for you here. We’re going to run through some of our must-haves. The 24K Gold Nourishing Oil is rich in nourishing oils like avocado and jojoba for dry skin, as well as vitamin E. As a general rule, oils are fantastic at protecting the skin barrier and limiting any transepidermal water loss (any hydration leaving the skin). So, not only does this Skin Treat nourish dry skin, it also stops any moisture from disappearing. Sounds pretty good to us! Speaking of oils, the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask is full of the best! It is the perfect relaxation companion and rescues dry skin thanks to rich shea butter and skin strengthening vitamin B3. If your skin needs some extra love, leave this mask on overnight to really soak up that nourishing goodness. Repeat after us: you don’t just have to live with the side effects of dry skin. There are some great vitamins and supplements for dry skin that will have you feeling deeply nourished in no time! If you have any other questions about treating dry skin, contact one of our knowledgeable skincare experts today!
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. “Our team works tirelessly to ensure that vulnerable babies and children have an equal start to life.” 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. We’re so proud of our community who have always come out in force, donating nappies, wipes, children’s 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. That’s 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.
Leading The Way to Carbon Neutral Beauty: Our Story
You might have seen the terms ‘carbon neutral’ and ‘carbon negative’ floating around the beauty community. These buzzwords are evident of more brands committing to sustainable practices for the environment, but how do they relate to esmi Skin Minerals? esmi has always been passionate about producing vegan and cruelty-free skincare that is made in Australia. Our next goal is to continue this journey by lessening and eventually neutralising our carbon footprint. We’re excited to announce that from November 2022 we’re continuing our transition to becoming carbon neutral! What does carbon neutral mean? Carbon neutral means that our business, product and operations actions emit the same amount of CO2 into the atmosphere as what we offset. Becoming carbon neutral can look like altering our packaging to contain fewer microplastics to promote new green initiatives within the brand office and warehouse. Whilst certain changes may be small, they will make a big difference in the long term — showing our commitment to carbon neutrality and the environment. Now, let's dive deep into the new initiatives that will help esmi become a carbon neutral beauty brand. Reducing our carbon footprint through product packaging The esmi brand has been using unique Sugarcane bioplastic since 2019 in most of our tube products. What is sugarcane you may ask? The sugarcane crop is carbon negative (meaning it actually removes carbon from our atmosphere!), allowing the process of producing this type of packaging to be carbon neutral. We use Sugarcane bioplastic as it is a sustainable, environmentally friendly material that uses renewable resources — this is a fossil-fuel-free plastic that is 100% recyclable (can we get a hell yes!). Microplastics are also a cause for concern as they can be detrimental to the environment. Therefore, we also include biodegradable technology in our tubes, allowing the plastic and commercial packaging resins to biodegrade without leaving behind any microplastics. This is a game changer when it comes to skincare packaging and we are proud of it! But what’s esmi doing now? From November 2022 we began moving our plastic packaging to have the following features: Product packaging is made of 25% to 35% recycled materials Caps and bottles being 100% recyclable Caps and bottles are 100% biodegradable (if the packaging ends up in landfill). Removing a number of products from their boxes Infinite recyclability for our glass bottles (yes, we’re talking Skin Treats and Moisturiser jars!) Becoming carbon neutral through shipping initiatives Changing shipping practices will also help esmi lead the way to a carbon neutral future. We hope that every purchase made from esmi will do something good for the environment including once it has left our warehouse. To do this we’ve partnered with Shopify Planet — an app aiming to focus on carbon removal from Shopify stores (like us!) instead of offsetting carbon. With this software we can calculate the emissions produced by every parcel that’s shipped from our warehouse, ensuring we can neutralise our carbon footprint from shopping with the right data. The contributions made each month to help neutralise carbon emissions will go towards funding cutting-edge carbon removal projects through the Shopify Sustainability Fund which backs the development of technologies that remove carbon from the atmosphere. At this point, you might also be asking how our shipping packaging is changing. Well, esmi has always been environmentally friendly when sending parcels to ensure products arrive safe and intact. Our shipping packaging initiatives include: 100% recyclable shipping packaging that does not contain polypropylene film (which is harmful to the environment in many forms) The use of soy ink and water-based varnish that won’t interfere with the recycling process Paper packaging that is low on carbon Cornstarch used for filling in packages that is both biodegradable and compostable All paper materials coming from responsibly managed FSC-certified forests Parcels secured with paper packaging tape and natural rubber adhesive that is both recyclable and environmentally friendly And, what about our office? We can’t forget about the esmi headquarters where our office and warehouse team up to create an environmentally friendly workplace. We have our own recycling bins for cans and bottles and encourage green habits like sipping takeaway coffee from your own reusable cup and refusing single use plastic. The office has a long way to go but implementing small changes means we’re continually growing towards being as carbon-neutral as possible. When REDcycle is up and running again, we will re-incorporate that into the business. Joining a collection of carbon neutral beauty brands Our esmi team and community are undoubtedly excited to join a collection of carbon neutral beauty brands that put the environment first. And, this is in no way the end of our journey. As a brand, we are always researching and implementing new initiatives and technologies to help us reduce our carbon footprint. It’s our responsibility and one the esmi brand is extremely passionate about.
Up-And-Coming Beauty Trends in 2023
2023 is here (where did that time go) and we’re super excited about what’s to come in the beauty and makeup trends space for the new year. But what will the top beauty trends of 2023 look like? Will a skincare-first approach take the beauty community by storm or is it all about creating a makeup look with bolder colours at the forefront? Whatever your favourite beauty routines and products are, there is a range of trends to jump on and explore in the new year. So, let’s get trendy! Protecting the Skin Barrier Taking care of your skin through quality skincare is nothing new but what about targeting your skin barrier specifically? What is the skin barrier you may ask? The purpose of your skin barrier is to protect your skin from harsh environments which often cause damaged skin — think humid or dry environments, sun and harsh chemical exposure, and even over-exfoliation can cause damage to the skin barrier. This is why gentle, non-toxic skincare will be a staple in your product cabinet in 2023! Get ahead of the trend and try our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum! Containing Vitamin B3 and allantoin for skin repair as well as hyaluronic acid (of course) to hydrate the skin throughout the day both with and without makeup, to ensure your skin barrier is protected to the fullest. Sunscreen is Queen SPF has proven to be the most effective preventative skincare measure in 2022 and will continue to be a staple in 2023 (and hopefully beyond!). Not only does adding SPF into your morning routine protect your skin from the harsh sun rays, but it also prevents ageing and the appearance of skin impurities. Many sunscreen brands, including esmi, are adding extra elements to their sunscreen formula like carrot root oil and hyaluronic acid for added hydration and plumping fine lines. It’s no doubt that using a facial sunscreen that works for you and your skin on a deeper level will be the next big thing in sunscreen development! Skin Minimalism The no makeup, makeup look has been around long before 2023. But, it used to be the case that many products would be used to create this ‘no makeup look’ — not anymore! In 2023 we are levelling up and choosing select products based on quality that will become staples in our day-to-day. The term skin minimalism means focusing on products that benefit the skin to ensure you don’t have to wear as much makeup. This is a great trend to jump on for those on the go or people who want a less intensive makeup routine in 2023. Get involved in this trend through our Liquid Mineral Foundation which promotes coverage as well as powerful vitamins and antioxidants for skin health! Brushed-Up Brows Gone are the days of one-dimensional brows — enter brushed-up brows! For those who don’t know, brushed-up brows is a technique that allows your eyebrow to stand straight and gives a feathered look. This natural brow look is perfect for those who want to make their brows stand out without going crazy with the product. As with skin minimalism, this brushed-up brow 2023 trend will be a staple in everyone's daily makeup routine. To get this brow look try our Zebra Clear Brow Gel for long-wearing brushed-up brows! Statement Lip Colours The nude lip and minimal makeup has its moment, but 2023 is here and it’s time to add some colour! Statement lips colours are set to be all the rage in 2023 and not just for nights out. Rocking a bold lip in the office, at a casual lunch or when shopping with friends will be common, making your bold makeup look even bolder! Will wearing a statement lip be your go-to makeup trend in 2023? If so check out our Lipstick range over at Lip Heroes! Eyes that Pop! No doubt the Gen Z’s of the world have been killing it lately with their creative and colourful eye looks that pop! We’re talking eyeliner designs that break the rules and the use of super bright colours to match every single detail of their outfit. This makeup trend is set to continue in 2023 and with the help of some killer eye products you can make the most of it! Scalp-Centered Hair Care Ensuring your hair remains healthy from the scalp is set to be the most popular hair beauty trend of 2023. Not only does scalp health help with hair growth and strength from the get-go, it also regulates oil production and removes dead skin cells (goodbye dandruff), leaving the scalp balanced and healthy for the long term! Scalp treatments can be bought separately but why not have them included in your shampoo and conditioner? esmi Hair Care is the best way to jump on this trend early and incorporate it into your hair-washing cycle. It’s a yes from us for scalp care in 2023! Which beauty and makeup trends will you try in 2023? The esmi team are ready for what the beauty and makeup industry has in store for us in 2023. Whether you want to simplify your makeup routine or take your skincare to the next level, 2023 is the year for it!
How to Stop Skin Picking
Does anyone else have that friend who is obsessed with popping pimples? If you don’t, you’re probably the friend. If you’re guilty of skin picking, don’t 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, let’s help you jump off the picking bandwagon with some do’s and don’ts. Why Do We Pick Our Skin? It’s 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 you’re 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 don’t even think about it - kind of like opening Instagram every time you turn on your phone. You might not even notice you’re 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 Do’s 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 and Clean Okay, we love using Kylie Jenner’s Instagram as our nail inspo, but if you’re prone to skin picking, you’re 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, that’s why you’re 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 what’s 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 Don’ts Don’t Reach for the Pins and Tweezers For the love of the skincare gods, put down the sharp objects. Your skin is delicate and if you don’t know what you’re doing you’re likely to do more damage. They are rarely sterilised, meaning you’ll only push bacteria and sebum further into your skin and cause permanent scarring. To sum it up; leave the extractions to the professionals. Don’t 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. That’s 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. That’s 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 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 — think long baths and extravagant pedicures. But, as the esmi Skin Specialists know, self-care can happen in the everyday and shouldn’t 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 — 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 you’re 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 wouldn’t recommend this self-care tactic all time as it can get a little pricey, but when something is getting you down it isn’t 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. We’ve 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 you’re 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.
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 Ash’s 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 can’t 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.
6 Hyaluronic Acid Benefits For Hair
For those of you playing the esmi drinking game at home, you can take a shot because we’re about to talk about one of our favourite ingredients: hyaluronic acid. No wait, don’t click away, we promise this is different! We’re 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 doesn’t 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, we’re 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. We’ll get into why that’s 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 can’t have wine without cheese, you can’t 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 you’re 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 you’re wondering, “what is hair porosity?”, don’t worry, just consider us Google! Porosity is the measure of your hair’s ability to absorb and store moisture. Majority of the time, porosity is determined by good ol’ 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 you’re more susceptible to losing moisture. Think of it like filling up a bucket of water with holes in the bottom - you’re going to lose all that moisture! Hyaluronic acid plugs those holes and helps your follicles retain hydration. Helps to Treat Dermatitis If you’ve got a bad case of seborrheic dermatitis (in other words, dermatitis on the scalp), you’re 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 one’s 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 you’re scouring the internet for hair products that contain hyaluronic acid, you might be a little confused by the lack of options. That’s 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 you’re looking for your new favourite hyaluronic acid shampoo and conditioner, you’re 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 haven’t 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.
