Probiotics in Skincare: What You Need To Know
Probiotics for the skin? We're breaking down all the information you need to know about probiotics and how they benefit your skin. Probiotics as we know it: The potential beneficial effects of taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium orally has been extensively studied for intestinal health. Benefits include prevention of pathogenic (bad bacteria), strengthening the gut barrier, repair and modulation of your immunity. Since their potential for maintaining gut health has been so effective, various strains of probiotic(bacteria) have been tested on other areas of the body such as the mouth, reproductive system and of course, skin… About your skin and how it operates: Our skin forms the barrier between the outside world and your internal body. Without it, life would be impossible. Our epidermis prevents water loss and protects our insides from external pathogens (bad bacteria) and potential infections. An extreme case of the barrier being compromised would be severe burns or wounding. Less extreme breaches of the skin barrier can easily occur in everyday life. Scratches, acne where the skin is compromised/open and a high level of pathogens (bad bacteria) are present, wounds, slow healing ability (diabetes and other immune disorders), eczema and dermatitis where the oil glands have not fully matured. This skin is often compromised and broken leaving the cells exposed. If it’s been proven that in gut (health) probiotics can help with effective healing, barrier repair and immunity modulation, could we find a probiotic to live and benefit the skin conditions specifically? After extensive testing on keratinocyte monolayer scratches (one cell thick scratches) it was found that only a couple of lysate materials were effective in the healing and repair of the scratch. This good-bacteria can help kill pathogens (bad bacteria) or places good bacteria in an environment that is compromised (such as eczema and dermatitis) and open to bad bacteria to infect the skin. What is a lysate? A lysate is a concentrated dose of probiotic function A more stable way to include probiotic function in formulations Lysates probiotic bacteria possess a wide range of properties: it can be immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and stabilizing Can stimulate proliferation (rapid skin cell healing) accelerating wound healing To put it simply: Your skin is like an ecosystem. Different parts of your body have good and bad bacteria living there. The same way the rainforest, great barrier reef etc need specific conditions to thrive your skin is the same. It needs good bacteria to thrive and too much bad bacteria can lead to skin issues. esmi is your first skincare brand to use a 100% Australian made probiotic. The esmi Probiotic Skin Mylck features your specially selected and researched Australian Made probiotic Lysate ideal for skin application, helping create an ideal environment for your skin to thrive if compromised by outside elements and bad-bacteria. It can be great for extremely sensitive, compromised skin. We suggest you also use our Probiotic Skin Mylck with our Uncomplicated Cleanser original for best results. Have questions about choosing the best probiotic skincare for you? Have a chat with our team of skincare experts. Book your free skin consultation today! Ref: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4633615/ *esmi Skin Minerals are the first skincare company using a 100% Australian made Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate produced in Australia’s first and only cGMP/TGA certified facility for probiotic API manufacturing.
Post-Workout Skincare
Working up a sweat is amazing for your skin but only if you get your post workout skincare right! If you want to avoid breakouts, congestion, and irritation after hitting the gym, read on. How Working Out Benefits Your Skin Exercise doesn’t just benefit your muscles and mind, it energises your skin too. Increases circulation When you exercise blood circulation is increased around your body which means your skin receives a boost in oxygen and nutrients. Plus, who doesn’t love a post gym glow! Encourages lymphatic drainage Sweating it out also stimulates lymphatic drainage which helps detoxify your body and skin. During a workout, your body releases toxins through your pores in the form of sweat. Post Workout Skincare Tips to Avoid Breakouts, Congestion & Irritation While good things are happening to your skin when you exercise if you don’t take care with your post workout skincare routine - you’ll undo all the benefits! Exercise makeup free Your best post workout skin actually starts before you hit the treadmill. The golden rule for pre workout skincare is to avoid wearing makeup while working out, especially foundations, bronzers, blushes, and any heavy oil-based cosmetics. When you sweat while working out, the sweat mixes with the oils on your skin - including oil from cosmetics. This combination of sweat and oil makes for the perfect pore-clogging combination. Cleanse your skin ASAP after exercise When it comes to after workout skincare, the most crucial thing is to cleanse your skin as soon as possible to wash away oil, sweat, and bacteria. Choose a gentle cleanser to avoid irritating your face. Exercise heats your body up and your pores open which can leave skin extra vulnerable to irritation shortly after a workout. Cleanse and rinse with cool or lukewarm water so you don’t make a red post workout face even redder! Avoid exfoliation immediately after working out Using an exfoliator isn’t something we recommend in your post workout skincare routine. Skin is extra sensitive immediately after exercise and a strong exfoliating session may irritate the skin barrier. Only use makeup wipes in an ‘emergency’ Think the best post workout skincare tip is keeping a stash of makeup wipes in your gym kit? Think again. Relying only on makeup wipes to cleanse after exercising isn’t the best option for your skin. Makeup wipes are loaded with preservatives for the purpose of stopping mould and these ingredients can cause skin to become inflamed and dry. Plus, even the best post workout wipes won’t do the job a proper cleanse - only use them if you absolutely don’t have time to wash your face properly. Have a sensitive skin type? We recommend skipping them altogether. A better alternative to makeup wipes is dampening a cotton pad in micellar water for a quick, post workout wipe until you get the chance to cleanse properly. Sunscreen Exercising outdoors? Sunscreen is a must! If you applied sunscreen as part of your morning routine (and yes, you should be!) but you’re working out in the afternoon, top up with a fresh application. Best basic post workout skincare routine Your post workout skincare routine will depend on when you exercise. If you workout first thing in the morning, you’d likely follow your usual morning routine post exercise. But what if you work out in the afternoon or midday? Your skin can’t wait until your evening routine for attention or you’ll risk breakouts and congestion. We’ve put together a guide for a basic routine to follow immediately after exercise to keep skin fresh and clear plus recommended post workout skincare products. Step 1 - Cleanse As we mentioned above, cleansing as soon as possible after your workout is key to keep skin healthy and pores clear. The longer the mix of sweat, oil, and debris sits on your face the more likely it is to clog pores. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser or The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness Perfect for all skin types and concerns, The Uncomplicated Cleanser helps to balance skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness is deal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Step 2 - Moisturise Follow up with a light moisturiser or facial oil containing antioxidants and vitamins to nourish skin. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types with dehydration concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm, and hydrate while regulating oil flow. Step 3 (Day time) - Reapply SPF Heading back out into the sun or an office with windows? Don’t forget to apply SPF after your moisturising step. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 Comfortable, non-greasy SPF coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Step 3 (Evening / optional) - Apply a calming, soothing mask One way to turn your post workout skincare routine into a little self-care time is to apply a face mask. Exercise plus a calming mask is a wonderful way to treat yourself and your skin. The key is to avoid any exfoliating mask treatments, stick with those that are hydrating and calming. We recommend: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Instantly cools the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pregnancy Safe Skincare Ingredients
Expecting a new little arrival? Congratulations! Let us help you navigate safe skincare for pregnant women. This handy guide explains ingredients to avoid and pregnancy approved alternatives. Common pregnancy skin conditions There are some lucky mums-to-be out there that experience the best skin of their lives during pregnancy. Unfortunately, it’s not always the case! You may experience pregnancy-related changes in your skin that are more challenging to deal with. Hormonal acne - Breaking out around the chin and jaw? Acne in these areas can be linked to hormonal changes. Melasma - Sometimes called the ‘mask of pregnancy’ melasma is hyperpigmentation (skin discolouration) that can appear on your forehead, nose, and cheeks. Dryness - Dryness can make fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced. If you have any pre-existing conditions, like eczema or rosacea, these can get worse during pregnancy. You’ll need to manage these skin concerns while you’re expecting (and during breastfeeding) with skincare products that are safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy skincare — Ingredients to use and avoid Safe skincare for pregnant women means avoiding certain ingredients - a few tweaks to your existing routine might be necessary. Carefully read all the labels on the skincare products you’re currently using. You’ll want to press pause on applying the following ingredients during pregnancy: AVOID: Retinols, or any vitamin A derivatives (Anti-ageing) Retinol, retin-A, retinoic acid, and tretinoin shouldn’t be used if you’re expecting. These anti-ageing ingredients are all derived from Vitamin A, which is an effective vitamin for your skin but is problematic during pregnancy. Excessive amounts of Vitamin A has been found to interfere with fetal development. No matter the amount you include in your routine, the safest approach is to avoid retinol, or any vitamin A derivatives entirely. What Are the Best Anti-Ageing Pregnancy Skincare Alternatives? Thankfully, temporarily giving up Vitamin A doesn’t have to mean abandoning your anti-ageing routine. Alternative ingredients that are pregnancy safe and offer effective anti-ageing properties are easy to include in your pregnancy skincare routine. You may already be using some! Vitamin C Vitamin C is your antioxidant go-to for a pregnancy skincare routine. An effective all-rounder, it helps repair environmental damage, stimulate collagen synthesis, and brighten skin. Peptides Peptides are a type of protein that helps preserve and boost collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. Omega Fatty Acids Omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 play a role in maintaining youthful, healthy-looking skin. They deliver positive changes in skin hydration, scaling, and roughness. Pregnancy safe products we recommend for an anti-ageing routine The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Ageing Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Golden Anti-Ageing Serum (evening) Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. AVOID: Salicylic acid (Acne) Salicylic acid is a heavy hitter for treating acne. Its deep exfoliating action clears blocked pores to minimise bacteria and reduce congestion. When it comes to skincare for pregnant women though, it’s not on the ‘safe’ list in high doses so it’s best to skip this ingredient entirely. What Are The Pregnancy Safe Skincare Ingredients To Treat Acne? Take your pick of pregnancy safe ingredients to manage breakouts while you’re expecting. Lactic acid A sensitive skin hero, lactic acid is the gentler, yet effective, exfoliator of the acids group. Glycolic acid Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that naturally occurs in plants including sugar cane and citrus fruits. Fruit enzymes Enzymes found in some fruits and berries break down keratin proteins attached to dead cells to help target congestion. Bentonite clay and activated charcoal Detoxify and refine congested skin and help control oil. Polynesian sand An effective physical exfoliator for oily skin types, Polynesian sand helps to gently unblock pores for clearer skin. Breakout prone skin will also benefit from pregnancy safe skincare products that deliver deep hydration, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and plant-based oils that help regulate sebum production. Pregnancy safe skincare products we recommend for a breakout routine The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo Peppermint Green Oil Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Fresh Sea And Salty Sand facial exfoliant Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. AVOID: Hydroquinone (Hyperpigmentation) A depigmenting agent, hydroquinone is used to lighten darkened areas of skin by suppressing the formation of melanin in the skin. Research has shown hydroquinone to be problematic during pregnancy, so it’s one to avoid. What are the pregnancy safe skincare ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation? These powerful natural skin lighteners are safe to include in your pregnancy skin care products Vitamin C Vitamin C helps lighten patches of pigmentation without leaving your skin barrier compromised – no dryness, peeling or flaking as a result. It also gives the complexion a bright, radiant appearance. Kakadu Plum Kakadu Plum is believed to be the world’s most potent source of natural Vitamin C making it an excellent ingredient to help diminish the appearance of dark spots. Bearberry Bearberry Leaf extract is a natural skin lightener that works by helping to reduce melanin production. Liquorice A powerful brightening antioxidant, liquorice is high in anti-inflammatories – making it great for post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness/scarring after breakouts. Pregnancy safe skincare products we recommend for a hyperpigmentation routine The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Pomegranate Brightening Serum Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask These products are also safe to use during breastfeeding. Best Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Brand in Australia Best Pregnancy Safe Skin Care Brand in Australia, before the last line If you have any questions about safe skincare for pregnant women, we’re here to help! Book your free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. Learn More About Skincare How To Get Rid of Wrinkles How To Reduce Face Puffiness Before and After Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The Best Face Mask for Acne
Revive Dull Skin
Get your glow back! 5 common causes of dull skin and tips for reclaiming your radiance. Dull skin is used to describe skin that lacks a healthy glow. It can appear lacklustre, tired, and may feel bumpy or uneven to touch. A few underlying issues can cause your skin to look less than its vibrant best. Dead skin cells building up If you don’t exfoliate regularly, dead skin cells and other debris build up on the skin’s surface. This build up is usually the main cause of dull skin. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to address - the quickest way to brighten up dull skin is to exfoliate! Exfoliation removes the dead, dull skin cells and other toxic pollution particles on the skin’s surface. The result? Fresher cells are revealed and skin appears brighter, clearer, and more even. Read our guide to the Different Types Of Exfoliants to discover the best choice for your skin. Bottom line? Exfoliation needs to be part of your weekly routine. Our Gentle-foliants range offers exfoliation solutions for congested, sensitive, dry, and dehydrated skin.= =You’re dehydrated To get that healthy glow and banish dullness, skin must be properly hydrated. Dehydrated skin lacks water and is a condition that can happen to any skin type. The symptoms can include dullness, itchiness, more pronounced fine lines, under eye circles, and increased sensitivity. Address dehydration by choosing dull skin treatments which include humectant ingredients. Acting like a personal hydration magnet for cells, a humectant ingredient draws water from the atmosphere and deeper layers of skin, to the surface. This keeps your stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) hydrated and healthy. The best products for dull skin in need of hydration include these humectant ingredients: Hyaluronic acid: A natural humectant with superior hydration qualities. Acts like a magnet to attract moisture deep within the skin’s cells. Hyaluronic acid is revered for its ability to hold x1000 its own weight in water. Niacinamide: Effective at restoring the skin barrier to guard against moisture loss and dehydration. Double down on boosting hydration levels by topping them up from the inside too. Fill your plate - and smoothies - up with water-rich foods like watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, and celery. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Perfect for all skin types and ages, this serum helps increase hydration from the inside out. In addition to hyaluronic acid, the serum also contains Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) which will help to balance skin and regulate oil flow. Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo The lightweight hydrating properties address multiple skin concerns at once - healing, protecting and hydrating. You’re surrounded by air pollution We’re all aware of the damage the sun can do when you get out and about without SPF. But did you realise being exposed to air pollution can cause skin trouble too? Nanoparticles in some forms of air pollution are small enough that they can actually become trapped in the pore and trigger free-radical damage. Left unchecked, this damage can lead to the deterioration of skin health including dullness, uneven skin tone, and other premature signs of ageing. If you live in a busy city area where pollution levels are high, the answer isn’t as drastic as relocating! A double cleanse in the evening is the ideal way to remove every trace of debris, including nasty nanoparticles, from your skin. A weekly exfoliation session will help keep your pores clear of pollutants too. Vitamin rich foods aren’t a big part of your diet Your bathroom cabinet is stocked with dull skin remedies but you’re not seeing much improvement? You may need to switch up your diet. Skin looks dull when we don’t eat enough foods rich in vitamins - and too much of the unhealthy stuff! Certain food and drinks (you know the culprits - alcohol, caffeine and sugar) may contribute to skin looking dull and dehydrated. Diet tips for dull skin? Keep your skin radiant with healthy choices including carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric, salmon, papaya, avocado, spinach, kale, and blueberries - to name a few! Try swapping your coffee for a green tea. Sipping on this antioxidant-loaded tea is incredibly beneficial for the health of your skin. Hyperpigmentation can cause dull skin If your skin is lacking a healthy colour, dullness may have shown up all over the skin - or maybe it’s isolated to certain dark spots, known as hyperpigmentation. The best way to address dullness due to pigmentation is to include active brightening ingredients in your skincare routine. Vitamin C is one of the best actives to help brighten skin and minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation. There are a lot of vitamin C derivatives but the pure form of Vitamin C is known as L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA). The percentage of LAA in a product can range anywhere from 10% - 20%. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is another common form of Vitamin C you’ll find in topical formulations. We recommend - Pomegranate Brightening Serum. This hardworking serum contains Kakadu Plum extract - nature’s most potent source of Vitamin C which is superb for skin brightening. You have a dry skin type ‘Dry' is used to describe a skin type that produces less sebum than normal skin. It’s common for this skin type to feel tight, rough, and look dull. Or, you may be experiencing temporary dryness due to a change in weather, hot showers, and indoor heating which can all have a drying effect on skin - no matter your skin type. Earlier we mentioned that dehydrated skin lacks water. Dry skin, on the other hand, lacks oil. Without enough oil, it’s a struggle for the skin to retain moisture which can lead to excessive flaking and overall dullness. Caring for dry skin is all about helping it retain natural oils and moisture.
Skin Care By Age: Best Skincare Products For Every Age
We’re breaking down skin care by age! Let’s take a look at the different skin challenges of every life stage and the best products to address them. Skincare in your teens Acne and oil. Two words many teenagers know well! A range of products can clear breakouts - but be careful. Many work effectively simply because they’re so strong. Sometimes, too strong. They may clear acne initially but leave the skin stripped, sensitised, and irritated. This can lead to other skin issues - and even more breakouts. Depending on the type of acne you have, a gentler choice for skin are cleansers with lower doses of active acne-fighting ingredients. These won’t strip the skin but still effectively kill acne forming bacteria. The best skincare for teens is a simple regime that will balance and regulate oil flow, whilst providing anti-bacterial clearing ingredients, as well as anti-inflammatories to reduce redness and inflammation. Common skin concerns in your teens Congestion Excessive oil Acne - from mild, moderate to severe Skin care by age: Your teens The best skincare products for teens from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, you could opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness Exfoliation Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo Moisturise Peppermint Green Oil SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 20s Your 20s is the decade to commit to a consistent skincare regimen and form habits your future self will thank you for. The most important habit? Applying SPF30 every day. This habit alone will make a dramatic difference in the way your skin ages over the years. Starting and continuing an effective cleansing routine is key too. If you used a strong cleanser to target acne in your teens, it won’t be a good fit for skin in your 20s. Switch to a gentler cleanser which won’t strip the skin of the oil it needs to stay healthy. Over cleansing compromises the skin barrier which leaves it susceptible to other skin concerns, including more breakouts! Common skin concerns in your 20s Acne you experienced as a teen may persist Congestion Collagen production begins to decrease in your late 20s Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from teen acne Skin care by age: Your 20s The best skincare products for your 20s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Exfoliation Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle Foliant Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Moisturise Acai Balancing Face Oil Treatments Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 30s Ageing concerns become more of... well, a concern in your 30s! Collagen and elastin production begins to slow down and the first signs of fine lines and wrinkles to creep in. In the later stages of your 30s, you may begin to notice more hyperpigmentation - especially if you were a sun bunny (without SPF!) in your 20s. Your skin will benefit from adding active ingredients to your routine to target fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. This is the time to get serious about taking an anti-ageing approach to your routine - if you haven’t already. What you do for your skin in your 30s can pay off decades later. Common skin concerns in your 30s Fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear Hyperpigmentation Dullness Dehydration Skin care by age: Your 30s The best skincare products for your 30s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Exfoliation Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 40s Focus on hydration and the right type of exfoliation for healthy looking skin in your 40s. Like the production collagen and elastin, your skin’s natural exfoliation cycle is slowing down too. That means it’s taking longer for new, fresh skin cells to be produced and the old, dry cells remain on the surface for longer. The result? Skin appears rough in texture, dull and pores and fine lines are increasingly accentuated. Using the right exfoliation method (with the right frequency) to remove the dead cells can leave skin looking brighter and fresher instantly. It can also help minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Dehydration is another skin concern you’ll find yourself dealing with as skin matures. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in our bodies and plays a key role in skin hydration. With age, the amount of hyaluronic acid produced declines and it’s harder for the skin to hold onto moisture - leaving it drier and rougher. You can also boost sluggish collagen production with peptides and Vitamin A. Common skin concerns in your 40s Loss of firmness Rough, dull skin Fine lines and wrinkles become more pronounced Dehydration Broken capillaries and hyperpigmentation result in uneven skin tone Skin care by age: Your 40s The best skincare products for your 40s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Exfoliation Rose and Bamboo Gentle Foliant Serum options Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Skincare in your 50s and beyond The production of collagen and elastin really drops off in your 50s as the hormonal changes of menopause kick in. These changes also affect the pH level of your skin barrier which makes it increasingly harder for skin to retain moisture. You may find skin is more easily damaged and less resilient. Lines and wrinkles become more prominent - especially around the eye, mouth, and neck area. Keeping your skin hydrated and moisturised will help strengthen your skin barrier and smooth the look of lines and wrinkles. Exfoliation is still important to keep skin looking fresh but the method you use and frequency may need to be adjusted - skin is more sensitive than it once was. Indulge your skin with deeply nourishing treatments and active ingredients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid that target mature skin concerns. Common skin concerns in your 50s Crepey and sagging skin including neck and jawline Skin is less resilient and more easily damaged Extreme dryness and dehydration Age spots Dullness Deeper lines and wrinkles Skincare by age: Your 50s and beyond The best skin care products for your 50s from the esmi Skin Minerals range. Cleanse The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Exfoliation Rose and Bamboo Gentle Foliant Serum options Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Moisturise 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Treatments Anti-ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask SPF protection Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Have questions about choosing skincare by age? Book a free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. We’re always here to support you on your skin journey!
A Guide to Storing Your Skincare Products
Are you ruining your skincare products by storing them the wrong way? Follow our complete guide on how to store your skincare products to maximise results, avoid contamination, and help them last as long as possible! How Temperature And Light Affect Your Skincare Temperature and sunlight have a bigger impact on your skincare products than you might think. Extreme temperature and sunlight can result in the breakdown, oxidisation, curdling, or melting of formulations. If the product contains active ingredients, those actives become less effective - a good example is Vitamin C. This skincare superstar quickly becomes unstable in heat which reduces its potency. Let it get too hot and your vitamin C serum can’t do the job it’s truly capable of! Typically, benzoyl peroxide and retinol based formulations can also become easily compromised if exposed to heat or light. As sunlight can speed up the breakdown of active ingredients, keeping your stash on a window sill or leaving them in the car isn’t a good idea. As a general rule, the best way to store your skincare is at room temperature and out of direct sunlight - in a cabinet, drawer, or lidded box. Should You Store Skincare Products In The Fridge? We can all agree a mini-fridge stocked with skincare makes for a great Insta #shelfie. But is refrigeration actually necessary? Products that benefit from refrigeration It's not a must, but products like retinol and vitamin C serums can benefit from being refrigerated. The cooler temperature prevents active ingredients from breaking down and oxidizing so they stay effective as long as possible. Some benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments require refrigeration to remain stable, so always check storage directions. In general though, as long as a product contains preservatives, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Keeping it at room temperature, out of direct sunlight is fine. The cooling effect of the fridge is a nice pick me up though - especially on hot summer days. You can let your moisturiser, face mist, or mask chill in the fridge for 30 - 60 minutes before applying it. If you’re using products to target red, angry blemishes, cooling them first can help soothe the skin instantly when applied. The benefits of an eye gel can also be boosted with an extra cooling and de-puffing effect. What needs to be stored in the fridge? If you’ve whipped up your own food-based DIY natural skincare treatments at home without a preservative, these definitely need to be stored in the fridge. Leave them on your bathroom counter and they’ll be mouldy and unusable in no time. Some organic skincare or natural skincare has a shorter shelf life and will benefit from being stored in the fridge. The formulation won’t break down as quickly which means it lasts longer. Skincare you shouldn’t put in the fridge Balms and oil based products should be kept at room temperature. Extremely low temperatures can cause them to split, become cloudy and even solidify. If your cleanser or masks are clay formulas, keep them at room temperature - they will solidify in the fridge. Steam Spells Bad News For Skincare You’ll want to keep your beauty stash away from the effects of steam in your bathroom. Keeping your face cleanser in the shower to use might seem like a great time saving hack but steam can break down the active ingredients in skincare formulations. Then there’s the issue of mould. When products aren’t sealed properly, condensation can seep and they become the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Plus, washing your face in a hot shower isn’t the best move for your skin. Hot water strips the skin of the natural oils it needs and the result is often dry skin and a damaged skin barrier. Limit the amount of steam products are exposed to by storing them in the cabinet or drawer that can be closed. Stick to cleansing your face with lukewarm water before you shower. These Habits Will Contaminate Your Products Even the best skin care products can quickly become contaminated with a few bad habits. Not sealing the container Tightly close containers and jars after use. A damp bathroom environment is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow causing contamination and potential infections, breakouts, and irritation. Using dirty fingers If you need to dip your fingers into a product to apply it, make sure they’re clean! Unwashed hands harbour all kinds of bacteria that can happily make themselves at home in the product. Make sure you clean off the pumps of your products to remove any old build up too. Diluting products with water Adding water could allow potentially harmful microorganisms to contaminate the formulation. It will also reduce the product’s effectiveness. When Does Skincare Expire? No matter how on point your product storage is, all skincare products eventually pass their prime. Using old products can actually be dangerous for skin if they trigger bacterial growth or infections. How do you know exactly when a product expires? Only some skincare products, like prescription anti-acne creams, have actual expiration dates displayed on their packaging. Other types of skincare products have what is known as a PAO (Period After Opening) time frame. Somewhere on the packaging you’ll see the number of months the product is good for after opening. For example, 12M is 12 months. This PAO is usually listed on the packaging the product comes in - although it can be listed somewhere on the product container, bottle, or jar itself. If the PAO is only listed on the package, once you throw it out it can be easy to forget. A tip here is to use a marker to indicate the date opened on the bottom or back of the product. If skincare products aren’t stored properly, the formulation can easily go bad or become ineffective before the recommended PAO time frame. How to tell if a product has gone bad A few clues that one of your top skincare products should no longer be anywhere near your skin include: A funny smell / change in odor since you opened it. The texture has changed - it’s runny, separated, lumpy, etc. Feeling grainy or streaky on your skin. You’ve started to notice redness and irritation flare up after application. If any of the above rings true, it’s time to say goodbye. Your skin will thank you. We want you to get the most out of your skincare products and hope this guide helps with all things skincare storage!
Rose Oil Australian Bushfire Donations
Watching our beautiful country, its people and its animals in pain during the devastating Australian bushfires earlier this year is something none of us will forget. Like so many others who came together to help, we wanted to show our support and love to the people and wildlife experiencing their darkest hours. We came up with the idea to create a product exclusively for the Australian Bushfire appeal and donate 100% of the sales. And so, esmi Rose Oil was born! Making it happen was a huge team effort, we got our esmi Strawberry and Rose Oil on our site. Our amazing team of suppliers from around the world came together and donated their time, talents, and materials to develop this very special product for a very special cause. With the help of our awesome esmi Skin Minerals community, we’re proud to say we raised a massive $81,0016.65! Everyone who got behind this cause, thank you SO much. We wanted to give an update on how the funds were distributed - we split donations evenly between the following 3 organisations: Country Women’s Association Of NSW Donated: $27,005.55 to CWA of NSW's Disaster Relief Fund. The CWA is the largest women's organisation in Australia and aims to improve conditions for country women and children. CWA is involved in lobbying for change, helping the local community, creating a network of support and meeting together in towns and cities. CWA of NSW's Disaster Relief Fund is used to assist people in need. Wildlife Victoria Donated: $27,005.55 to Wildlife Victoria Bushfire appeal Wildlife Victoria has provided the community with a Wildlife Emergency Response service for 30 years. Their mission is to help and protect wildlife through rescue, education, and advocacy activities. Wildlife Victoria responds to community reports of distressed wildlife and facilitates the care needed. They also promote community knowledge and care of wildlife and advocate for the protection and welfare of wildlife. Wires Donated: $27,005.55 WIRES (NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service Inc.) has been rescuing and caring for wildlife for over 30 years and is the largest wildlife rescue organisation in Australia. Donations WIRES help rescue and care for more native animals, provide more wildlife information and education to the community, to protect and preserve native animals and to train and support more volunteer rescuers and carers. Let’s not forget that there are still so many people and animals with a long road of healing ahead. From the esmi team, thank you for purchasing Rose Oil to show your support!
Royal Hospital for Women Pink Headband Fundraiser
This September, the esmi team are getting behind a really special cause. We’re helping to raise money towards the purchase of a Babyleo Humidicrib for premature babies needing neonatal care at the Royal Hospital for Women. This special piece of equipment will help precious, tiny bubs have the best chance of making it through critical surgery with a lower risk of complication. Here’s how you can show your support! From 15th September 2020 for every order of $150 or more esmi Skin Minerals will donate $15 to the Royal Hospital for Women Foundation. You’ll also receive a free limited edition pink esmi Microfibre Headband to commemorate your contribution. Use code RHFW. *Cannot be used in conjunction with any offer. Together, let’s do our best to assist the RHFW with purchasing a new Babyleo Humidicrib (valued at $75,000) for premature babies. How Babyleo Humidicrib can help fragile babies and their families The Royal Hospital for Women provides life changing healthcare to women and newborns. The Babyleo Humdicrib, a technologically advanced incubator, will make surgery possible within the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Not moving a fragile premature or critically ill baby from their incubator to operating theatres reduces the risk of them becoming unstable or developing complications. This special humidicrib also allows mums, dads, and family to be comfortably closer to their little one and feel part of their care. Mum can be brought into the unit in a bed (e.g post caesarean) to be able to be right alongside her newborn baby. The Royal Hospital for Women does phenomenal work looking after a thousand babies a year while leading the way in cutting edge research recognised worldwide. Our hearts are really in this special cause. Let’s help give sick and premature babies their very best chance for successful, life-changing surgeries. If you’d like to make a personal donation towards the Babyleo Humdicrib, you can do so here.
7 Myths About SPF And Sunscreen Busted
The highest SPF rating is the best. I work in an office, I don’t need sunscreen! Sunscreen gives you acne. We’re on a myth-busting mission to clear up some of these common misconceptions, and more, about sunscreen! The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays Before we get to busting SPF myths, here’s a quick rundown of how the sun’s UVB and UVA rays affect your skin. UVB UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburn to the surface of the skin, resulting in visible redness. UVB rays also play the greatest role in causing skin cancers. UVA UVA rays have longer wavelengths, giving them the ability to penetrate deeper than UVB. They reach far enough into the skin to damage collagen. Skin loses elasticity and firmness which speeds up the visible signs of ageing like wrinkles and sagging. UVA also causes sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and the shortest wavelengths of UVA contribute to the visible appearance of sunburn. Of the two rays, UVA is responsible for most of the premature signs of ageing. Now you’ve got a handle on how UVA and UVB rays work, let’s bust some of the big myths about SPF. Myth - A high SPF Rating Means Your Skin Is Protected You may be surprised to discover the SPF protection rating on your sunscreen only measures the protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. That’s right. Sunscreen can have a high SPF rating and do a great job of protecting your skin against sunburn (UVB), but still leave you exposed to the damage of UVA! Don’t make your sunscreen selection based only on the SPF rating - choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, too. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Myth - You Only Need 1 Application Of The Highest SPF SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number that follows SPF is a guide to how long the sun’s UVB rays will take to burn your skin while wearing the sunscreen compared to if you weren’t wearing any at all. For example, if you were using sunscreen with SPF30, it would take you an estimated 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing it. The problem is, high SPF ratings can create a false sense of security. You may think 1 application of SPF 50 is enough for the day and not worry about reapplying or putting on a hat. Relying on just a single application of SPF, no matter how high, can still leave your skin exposed to long term damage. Every sunscreen, whether it’s SPF 30 or SPF 100 should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Myth - If You Work In An Office, You Don’t Need Sunscreen Spend a lot of time indoors? Doesn’t mean you should skip your daily sunscreen application. All exposure to sunlight - whether it’s walking around outside on your lunch break or sitting close to the office windows - has the potential to accelerate signs of ageing. Typical car, home, and office windows block most UVB rays but some UVA rays can still penetrate glass. You might not see the signs of sunburn but that doesn’t mean your skin isn’t affected. You’ll do your skin a big favour by wearing sunscreen every day, even if you spend a lot of time indoors. Myth - Sunscreen Will Make You Breakout If you’re shying away from sunscreen in fear it will clog your pores and cause breakouts, consider this myth busted! While some SPF creams can be heavy, greasy, and packed with oil (a nightmare for oily skin) many sunscreens are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores. Not all oils are bad in sunscreen either - some are very beneficial. We use carrot root oil in our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 to help tone and tighten skin! Steer clear of mineral oils though, as they can easily cause congestion. Look for formulations that are lightweight and non-comedogenic. Myth - Mineral Sunscreen Isn’t As Effective As Chemical Sunscreen Sunscreen falls into 2 categories “mineral” (also called “natural” or “physical” sunscreen) and “chemical”. Both protect your skin but do so in different ways. Chemical sunscreen penetrates the top layers of the skin. It absorbs and filters UV rays before they have the chance to cause damage. Mineral sunscreen, on the other hand, forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Rather than absorbing and filtering UV, it helps scatter and reflect rays away from the skin. A common misconception is that chemical sunscreen is always more effective than mineral sunscreen. This isn’t the case. Mineral sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both as natural active ingredients provide excellent broad spectrum protection. Myth - A higher SPF Rating Dramatically Increases Protection SPF ratings can vary dramatically between sunscreens - but does it make a big difference to the amount of protection? The breakdown is as follows - SPF 4 blocks 75% of UVB rays SPF 8 blocks 87.5% of UVB rays SPF 15 blocks 93.3% of UVB rays SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays Source arpanasa (Australian Radiation Protection And Nuclear Safety Agency) SunSmart recommends choosing a sunscreen labelled SPF30 or higher that is also broad-spectrum. Myth - You Only Need Sunscreen When It’s Sunny Outside This is one of the biggest, and most harmful, myths about sunscreen! It’s not safe to skip your daily dose of SPF because it’s cloudy and cool outside. Just because you can’t feel the warmth or burn on your skin, it doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t active. It’s been estimated up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds. Even on an overcast day, your skin can be susceptible to damage if you’re not wearing sunscreen. The free SunSmart app is a handy way to see UV levels and the potential risk of UV on a daily basis around Australia. Protect Your Skin All Day, Every Day How does your current sun protection measure up? We recommend trying our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF 30. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 enriched with antioxidants, this silky smooth, daily sunscreen protects against UV damage helping fight the first signs of ageing. Comfortable, non-greasy SPF coverage for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Skin Shield Natural Face Sunscreen is easy-to-apply and formulated with additional anti-ageing benefits of carrot root oil, hyaluronic acid, and green tea for hydrated, smoother skin.
How To Tackle Oiliness & Our Best Oily Skin Products
Shiny hair? Great! A shiny face? Not so much. Discover how to tackle oiliness and choose the right oily skin products to keep your complexion on the happy side of shiny! What Causes Oily Skin? Oily skin types have overactive sebaceous glands which means the skin produces excessive amounts of oil. Characteristics of this skin type include: A shiny or greasy appearance Enlarged pores Prone to congestion and breakouts Skin can appear thick If you have very oily skin, there’s naturally more oil present on the surface so it's easier for pores to become blocked. Left unchecked, blocked pores quickly lead to congestion and breakouts. The best oily skin products aim to keep pores clear of excess oil (to prevent breakouts) and balance sebum production without compromising the skin barrier. Typically, having a true oily skin type comes down to genetics but other skin types may find their skin produces more oil at certain times, too. Hormonal changes, stress, or using the wrong skincare products can all increase oil production. If this is the case, switching to oily skin products temporarily might be necessary to get a spell of oiliness under control. Don’t Over-Cleanse Your Skin When you’re dealing with oily skin, it can be tempting to use a strong face wash to dry your skin out and get oil under control. The problem here? Aggressively stripping your skin of its natural oil can actually trigger more oil production. The best cleanser for oily skin will gently dissolve the oils and deeply clean at the same time, without stripping the skin. Cleansing in the morning, evening, and after exercise is a must for oily skin types. We always recommend you double cleanse your skin each morning and night. The first cleanse is to remove any products - like SPF or makeup. The second is to get deep into the pores to remove debris and any built-up oil. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. To achieve more targeted results for oily skincare, you can cleanse with The Uncomplicated Cleanser and follow with The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal for the second cleanse. This cleanser is ideal for all skin types prone to congestion, breakouts, and large pores, the active ingredient charcoal purifies and balances oils for a refined, clearer complexion. Moisturise With Face Oil All skin types require daily moisturiser, even oily ones. You may be surprised to learn that the best moisturiser for oily skin can actually be more oil! The right face oils can be very beneficial to regulate oil production and improve hydration. They act as an emollient moisturiser, helping seal moisture into the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. That said, not all oils will benefit oily skin. Heavy oils, like coconut and mineral oil, are highly comedogenic (pore-blocking) and can be problematic for oil-prone complexions. Choose lightweight oils with a low comedogenic rating and those with calming, antibacterial properties. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are the most beneficial for oily skin. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face Peppermint Green Oil (An excellent moisturiser for oily, acne prone skin in teens) Keep Skin Hydrated Oil is not a sign that skin is adequately hydrated. Hydration = water, not oil so just because your skin has a lot of oil doesn't mean it has enough water. When the skin is dehydrated (lacking water) it overcompensates by producing more oil. Excessive oiliness, therefore, can actually be a sign of dehydration. Hydration helps keep sebaceous glands in check which encourages the skin to become balanced. The line up of oily skin products in your routine should include some of these powerhouse hydration ingredients: Hyaluronic acid: A natural humectant with superior hydration qualities. Acts like a magnet to attract moisture deep within the skin’s cells. Niacinamide: Effective at restoring the skin barrier to guard against moisture loss and dehydration. Squalene: Non-irritating and ideal for acne-prone skin, squalene is an antioxidant with beneficial moisturising properties. Ceramides: Increase water retention properties by strengthening the skin barrier. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Exfoliate Regularly But Don’t Overdo It! An exfoliator should have a place in your kit of oily skincare products. Exfoliation is essential for maintaining the health of oily skin and keeping pores clear of oil, dead cells, and acne-causing bacteria. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are effective for exfoliating oily skin, particularly salicylic acid. Acids are classified as chemical exfoliants and work by dissolving the "glue" that binds your dead cells, helping them loosen and slough off the skin. Fruit enzymes can also be effective for oily skin care. Enzymes are also considered chemical exfoliants, but they are milder than alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids. The right enzymes can gently exfoliate the skin to reduce the build-up of dead cells to keep skin clear and help minimise excess oil. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum for chemical exfoliation with salicylic acid. Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant for both chemical exfoliation with papaya enzymes and physical exfoliation with Polynesian sand. How often should you exfoliate? It depends on your skin and the type of exfoliation method you use. It’s best to start out slowly and adjust accordingly. Over exfoliation can cause the skin to produce even more oil and leave you with a damaged skin barrier. You can have a chat with our Skin Consultants too. They’ll guide you through choosing the right exfoliant skin care products for oily skin and frequency of use. Switch To Mineral Makeup If you have oily skin wearing makeup loaded with oil will leave you with a glossy sheen by lunchtime. Why not try a powder-based mineral foundation instead? Ideal for oily, acne prone complexions, powder-based mineral foundation is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t block pores. Powder also absorbs oil providing breathable coverage that leaves you with a fresh complexion. We recommend exploring the esmi range of mineral foundation, BB cream, and powder. You’ll find the perfect fit for every skin tone. If you have questions about the best oily skin products for your skin, book a free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. Our team of experts are here to help!
Best Foods To Eat To Improve Your Skin
What are the best foods for skin? You’re in the right place to find out! Read on to learn more about what to eat for healthy skin. How Your Diet Affects Your Skin What you eat can have a dramatic influence on the health of your skin. Certain foods can help protect against premature ageing by inhibiting free radical activity, promoting a hydrated skin barrier, and encouraging cell regeneration. Other foods - especially refined sugar - do the opposite and accelerate skin damage and ageing. So, what to eat for healthy skin in general? Foods that are brimming with vitamins (antioxidant activity), minerals, and essential fatty acids. Vitamins The best foods for skin are packed with antioxidants. Heavy-hitting vitamins with potent antioxidant activity (vitamin A, C, and E) can help decrease the risk of sun and other environmental damage, including pollution, by neutralising free radical damage. They may also help improve skin texture and, depending on the vitamin, offer a host of other benefits. Essential fatty acids - omega 3 and omega 6 These two essential fatty acids are the building blocks of healthy skin cells and healthy cells translate to a happy complexion. Omega 3 and omega 6 also play a key role in maintaining the strength of the skin barrier which is essential for hydrated, smoother looking skin. Minerals Minerals like zinc, silica, and selenium play an important role in helping to keep the skin’s pH levels balanced, promoting the production of collagen, and helping protect the skin from oxidative damage. Best Foods For Skin If you want to eat the best food for skin, you’ve got plenty of tasty options to fill your plate! Salmon One of THE best foods you can stick a fork in for your skin is salmon. A fatty fish, salmon is packed with omega 3 fatty acids that help strengthen the skin barrier, encourage moisture retention, and serve as building blocks for healthy skin cells. The antioxidants in salmon also help calm inflammation in the body. Avocado Love a bowl of fresh, homemade guacamole? So does your skin. It’s one of the creamiest fruits good for skin. Brimming with vitamin A, D, and E plus good fats and phytonutrients, avocados deliver a range of nutritional benefits to help fight free radical damage and support supple skin. The linoleic acid in avocados helps moisturise your skin from the inside while lauric acid has antimicrobial properties. Almonds Increase your nutrition for healthy skin by snacking on almonds. One of the best foods for skin in the nut category, almonds contain high levels of Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that may slow the signs of ageing by minimising free radical activity. Broccoli This humble cruciferous veggie is harbouring skin saving superpowers. Broccoli can aid in supporting healthy collagen and supple skin thanks to its vitamin C content. Then there’s vitamin E, which helps guard skin cells against oxidative stress that can accelerate premature signs of ageing. Pumpkin seeds Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on your yoghurt or into your trail mix for a healthy hit of zinc. Known as a “trace mineral” zinc is incredibly beneficial for skin thanks to its ability to halt the formation of damaging free radicals and protect cells. Its anti-inflammatory properties can aid in the healing of inflammatory acne. Greek yoghurt Replete in vitamins B2, B5 and B12, Greek yoghurt can assist with maintaining the moisture balance of skin and helps in cellular regeneration. Any old yoghurt won’t do, make sure it’s Greek style to reap the full benefits for your skin. Olive oil One of the best foods for skin, olive oil offers skin regenerative benefits thanks to its levels of squalane. Polyphenols can also strengthen and improve skin texture while vitamin E can improve skin elasticity and moisturisation. Olive oil can also help your skin better absorb the nutrients of other foods. Bonus! Fermented foods This healthy bacteria in fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso can support in minimising acne and early signs of ageing and promote a brighter, more even skin tone. Blueberries These skin beautifying berries are rich in antioxidants that can help protect skin against the damaging effects of free radical activity. Flaxseed A small but mighty food in the fight against premature lines and wrinkles, flaxseed contains Omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants to aid in the promotion of skin smoothness and hydration. Kale This leafy green is a skin health enhancer. Packed with vitamins C, K, and beta-carotene, kale can assist in maintaining collagen, skin healing, and increasing a healthy glow. Carrots Whether you grate them for coleslaw or blitz them in a juice, carrots are incredibly beneficial for skin. They contain vitamin C and beta-carotene which helps minimise skin inflammation and can speed up the healing process after skin trauma. Dark chocolate Do the best foods for skin get tastier than dark chocolate? We think not! Eating dark chocolate in moderation can provide your skin with vitamins and minerals - including copper, iron, and magnesium - that can assist in the production of collagen and help repair skin. Choose dark chocolate with at least 80% cacao content for maximum healthy skin food benefits. Sweet potato It's no secret vegetables are good for skin and sweet potato is one of the best root vegetables to support a healthy complexion. They possess high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and magnesium. Collectively they target free radical activity and can encourage healthy collagen production. Chia seeds Omega-3 fatty acids are the foundation of healthy skin cells and a strong skin barrier. Chia seeds are packed with Omega 3 - they’re one of the richest plant-based sources of this essential fatty acid. Sprinkle them on your salad, breakfast oats, or into a smoothie. Spinach Dark leafy greens in general are some of the best foods for good skin and spinach is no exception. Packed with zinc and antioxidant zeaxanthin, spinach can help reduce inflammation, aid in breakout prevention, and promote a more even skin tone. Foods To Avoid Or Only Eat Occasionally Refined sugar Sugar increases inflammation in the body which fuels the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin leading to an increased number of fine lines and wrinkles. Existing skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema can also be exacerbated by refined sugar. Fast food and food high in trans fats Research has linked acne flare ups with a diet rich in calories, fat, and refined carbohydrates. Many processed foods high in fat - like burgers, fries, and pizza - are high-GI that raise blood sugar levels quickly and cause insulin levels to jump. Like refined sugar, this triggers inflammation in the body which has the potential to worsen existing skin conditions. Foods That Commonly Trigger Skin Issues While not all skin concerns are caused by - or can be entirely solved by - your diet, some types of foods are more likely to trigger inflammatory skin conditions. These foods aren’t ‘bad’ as such, but many people react badly to them when it comes to their skin. Studies have found a link between milk products and acne but to discover the impact dairy has on you, temporarily cut it from your diet and monitor your skin for changes. If you have rosacea, it’s best to steer clear of foods that may trigger flare ups including tomatoes, citrus, cinnamon, and chocolate. Warming spices, hot sauces, and alcohol are also common culprits of rosacea redness flares. If you are dealing with skin issues a change in diet may help but it’s not the entire picture. Take a holistic approach to include the right skincare, alternative therapies, or medication as needed. Before making any radical changes to your diet, we recommend consulting with a health professional. We hope these suggestions will be helpful to steer you towards making the right choice in food for better skin.
What Causes Dry Skin?
The causes of dry skin can be complex - anything from genetics to your skincare habits can be causing your flaky skin woes. Read on to find out more about what triggers dry skin and our suggested routine to care for it. An Introduction To Dry Skin Before we look at the causes of dry skin, let’s find out more about what dry skin is and the difference between a dry skin type and a dry skin condition. The outer layer of your skin is known as the stratum corneum - or skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is made up of dead cells and enough natural protective oils (sebum) to help trap in moisture and keep the skin soft and smooth. The root cause of dry skin is a lack of protective oil in the outer layer. When the protective oils are diminished, the skin loses its capacity to hold onto moisture and dry skin in the result. Dry skin type vs dry skin condition You may have what is known as ‘true’ dry skin - which means you have a dry skin type. Dry skin types produce less sebum which means the skin barrier is naturally lacking oil making it more susceptible to dryness and damage. On the other hand, you may be experiencing a dry skin condition - where dryness is temporary and has been triggered by some of the causes of dry skin we’ll look at shortly. Even oily skin types can experience dry symptoms, especially if the skin is dehydrated. Signs of dry skin include: Rough or itchy skin Flaky skin Redness and irritation Skin feels tight Small, fine wrinkles Thin, fragile skin Cracks and bleeding in severe cases Causes Of Dry Skin What causes dry skin on the face? Whether you have naturally dry skin or are experiencing temporary dryness some of the following things can exacerbate or cause the problem. Seasonal changes (especially winter!) Following the same skincare routine year-round might not work so well when temperatures drop. Winter is one of the main causes of dry skin for all skin types. If you’re experiencing temporary dryness try adding a richer moisturising formulation than you might use in summer to target flaky, dry patches. Facial oil makes an excellent moisturiser for dry skin in winter to help it better cope with the seasonal change. Oils contain essential fatty acids and antioxidants which help seal in moisture to keep the skin hydrated. If you are a true dry skin type, your routine should be focused on relieving dry skin year-round but you’ll need to take extra care during the winter months. Skin is also prone to dryness in summer. Spend too long in the sun without protection and skin will gradually lose moisture and essential oils, appearing dry, flaky, and more wrinkled. Bottom line: Never skip the SPF! Skincare ingredients Avoid ingredients with the potential to irritate or cause loss of oil or moisture. A few of the worst offenders include: Sodium lauryl sulfate Fragrance Potent prescription retinoids Sodium laureth sulfate Sodium tallowate (in soap) Salicylic acid What about the ingredients dry skin needs? Ingredients with occlusive, emollient, and humectant properties play vital roles in treating the causes of dry skin. Occlusives - The cornerstone of dry skin treatments, occlusive ingredients form a seal over the skin, helping trap moisture in. Emollients - Smooth and soften dry, rough skin. Humectants - Have the ability to pull moisture to the skin’s surface from the air and the deeper layers of skin. Key ingredients to remedy the causes of dry skin include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide (Vitamin B3), shea butter, rose essential oil, and squalene. Ageing As we age, the sebaceous glands produce less oil and it becomes harder to keep the skin moist, resulting in dryness, more wrinkles, and a rougher appearance. Not only does skin produce less oil, but the amount of hyaluronic acid present in our bodies also declines. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that plays a key role in skin hydration. Even if you have an oily skin type, you will find your complexion becoming drier with age. Skincare habits A simple change to your skincare habits can eliminate some of the causes of dry skin. Over-cleansing Cleansing your skin too frequently or using a harsh cleanser quickly depletes the skin of the natural oils that act as its first defence against external irritants and help seal in moisture. Cleansing in the morning and evening is a must but if you’re experiencing a bout of excessive dryness, steer clear of gel cleansers and opt for a gentle cream or oil cleanser instead. Over-exfoliating Just like over-cleansing, excessive exfoliation will quickly spell dry, flaky skin. This is one of the common causes of dry skin in oily skin types with large pores. Overdoing exfoliation with the intent to keep pores clear of bacteria and oil build-up leads to stripped skin and a dry, damaged barrier. Keep exfoliation sessions to a maximum of twice a week and even less if you have a dry skin type. When you do exfoliate, it's important to replenish the lost oils and moisture lost from your skin by following up with a moisturiser or face oil. Applying moisturiser at the wrong time Knowing when you apply your moisturiser can help minimise dry skin. Following cleansing, while your face is still damp, the skin is porous and more receptive to products. If you apply moisturiser to completely dry skin, you’ll miss this window of maximum absorption. Not drinking enough water How much water do you drink each day? Skincare is only one part of the equation when it comes to solving the causes of dry skin. If you’re not sufficiently hydrated, you’ll still be dealing with the signs of dry skin, no matter how great your skincare routine is. Including more healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 oils can boost the moisture-holding capacity of the skin, too. Foods like salmon, flaxseed, and plant oils are good sources of healthy fats - get more of them on your plate! Skincare Routine For Dry Skin Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Skin Treats Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. A superior dry skin treatment. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Non-greasy, it’s perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist A hydrating and refreshing snack through the day to help replenish, rehydrate, and refresh your skin. Booster Masks Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Ideal for dry skin types in need of nourishment to reduce fine lines, inflammation, uneven skin tone, and heal damaged skin. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Every skin care routine for dry skin should include SPF protection and this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 enriched with antioxidant protection. If you have any questions about the best dry skin treatment for your skin, book a free consultation with an esmi Skin Minerals Consultant. We’re here to help!
Myths About Wrinkles
“What can I do about my wrinkles?” Type that into Google and you’ll find information from all corners of the internet about this universal skin concern - but don’t believe everything you read. We’re debunking some of the big myths out there about wrinkles! How wrinkles form Before we get to debunking some of the most common myths around wrinkles, let’s take a look at how they form in the first place. Collagen and elastin are the proteins that give the skin its structure and firmness. When these proteins break down - due to age or skin damage - the skin begins to lose its shape and doesn’t bounce back like it once did. This leads to various types of fine lines and wrinkles forming. Superficial lines: Very fine lines that can be easily improved with the right anti-ageing skincare products. Dynamic lines: These are laugh lines and eye wrinkles in the corners of your eyes. They are caused by repeated facial expressions - like smiling - but aren’t as obvious when your face is relaxed. Static wrinkles: These are deep set in the dermal layer of skin and are visible even when your face is relaxed. Some forehead wrinkles and under eye wrinkles are examples. Now it’s time to debunk some of the most common myths about wrinkles! Myth #1 - There’s one ‘magic’ product or ingredient that can address all your wrinkle concerns There is no single magic anti-wrinkle cream or ingredient to erase the appearance of fine lines. The best anti-ageing skincare routines work to improve the look of wrinkles and age-related concerns in multiple steps. From cleansers and moisturisers to overnight masks and serums, each product can play a role in supporting healthy, firm skin. Include products in your routine that contain ingredients that can help improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, including: Hyaluronic acid - Deeply hydrates, keeping skin plump and minimises fine lines. Vitamin A - Revered for its anti-ageing benefits, Vitamin A can cause the dermis to thicken for firmer skin and brighten skin. Hydroxy acids - Can remove dead skin cells and are effective in minimising fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C - Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens and smooths for an even skin tone. Omega Fatty Acids - Assist in delivering positive changes in skin hydration, scaling, and roughness. Peptides - Can improve collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. Myth #2 - The more anti-wrinkle treatments you use, the faster the results When it comes to your anti-ageing skincare routine - good things come to those who wait! You need to be patient. Using a whole arsenal of wrinkle treatments doesn’t necessarily mean instant results. Products improve the look of concerns like under eye wrinkles and forehead wrinkles over time - your skincare efforts will pay off in the long run. Myth #3 - All sunscreen will help protect your skin from wrinkles Instead of searching for the ‘best wrinkle cream’ focus on using sunscreen instead - the sun is the number one cause of premature ageing. The sun’s UV rays are damaging to your skin all year round. Not just during summer or on hot days. The sun emits two types of rays that affect the skin - UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin and speed up the breakdown of collagen, causing wrinkles to develop faster than the natural pace of ageing. UVB rays cause the skin to burn and too much exposure to either UVA or UVB can lead to skin cancers. Not all sunscreens are created equal - you need to choose one with broad-spectrum protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. If sunscreen doesn’t provide broad-spectrum protection, your skin is protected against UVB but still vulnerable to the damage of UVA rays. Wearing daily broad-spectrum SPF is the best way to prevent premature wrinkles and fine lines forming. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Myth #4 - Beyond a certain age, it’s “too late” to address wrinkle concerns While the saying “Prevention is better than the cure” is true for skincare, even if you don’t get started with a great anti-ageing routine until your later years, all is not lost. The appearance of wrinkles and fine lines can still be improved with the right approach. That said, it’s never too early to be proactive about protecting your skin - especially with daily SPF - to help slow the signs of ageing. Myth #5 - “Mum had great skin so I don’t have to worry” Genetics plays a big role in how your skin will age. If you look at how your mum’s skin has aged, your skin will likely age in a similar way. However, good genetics can’t make up for things that can damage and age your skin prematurely like smoking, spending too much time in the sun, chronic stress, and poor sleeping habits. Just because your mum looks great for her age, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to how you treat your skin or skip an anti-ageing skincare routine. Myth #6 - Sticking with the same skincare routine will slow signs of ageing Consistency is important when it comes to skincare but sticking with the same routine, every year, all year round isn’t always helpful. Your skin’s needs change not only as you age but also during different seasons of the year. Your summer routine, for example, might not give the support your skin needs during the colder months. Fine lines and wrinkles may seem more pronounced in winter when the air is less humid and indoor heating quickly strips moisture from the skin. For your healthiest skin at every age and in every season keep an eye on how your skin is behaving and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Best Anti-ageing Skincare Routine Even if you live a super healthy lifestyle and pay careful attention to your skin, ageing - and the wrinkles that come along with it! - are an inevitable part of life. The good news is there’s plenty that can be done to improve the look of existing wrinkles and slow the speed at which new ones appear. We recommend the below skincare routine to assist in improving the appearance of ageing skin concerns, including wrinkles and fine lines. Gentle cream cleanser The best anti-ageing skincare cleansers are gentle as skin becomes drier, thinner and more sensitive with age. Look for cream cleansers enriched with ingredients to plump, hydrate and soften skin. Gentle cleansers won’t strip your skin of natural oils. Cleanse in the morning and evening. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Antioxidant rich serum - morning and evening Serums deliver a higher dose of ingredients, including anti-ageing antioxidants and peptides than other anti-aging face creams. Why? Their smaller molecules allow them to penetrate deeper into the layers of skin. Choose a serum for the morning and evening which contain combinations of different antioxidants including Vitamin A, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin C. We recommend: Sunset Skin Anti-Ageing Acai Duo and Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Facial oil to moisturise Rosehip oil, avocado, jojoba, squalane, and argan are some of the best anti-ageing skincare products. Facial oils are typically a single oil or an oil mixture made up of retinol and acids. You can replace your moisturiser with a facial oil or add a few drops of facial oil to your moisturiser and apply together. We recommend: 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Sunscreen The #1 step to slowing signs of ageing skin is applying broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen daily. The best anti-ageing sunscreens also contain active ingredients such as vitamins C and E, sometimes A (retinoids) and B3 to nourish while protecting skin. Finish with a foundation that provides additional sun protection. We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 and Liquid Mineral Foundation. Hydrating night time mask treatment Focus on hydration and addressing skin ageing concerns with a mask treatment while you rest. Mature skin will benefit from overnight masks with antioxidants to fight free radicals and boost collagen and elasticity. Hyaluronic acid, peptides, and amino acids can assist to soften fine lines, even skin tone, brighten, and strengthen the skin’s barrier. We recommend: Anti-ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask Exfoliate weekly Physical or chemical exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layers which can minimise the look of fine lines and photoaging. Citric, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, retinoids, and fruit enzymes clear dead skin, and stimulate collagen renewal. Include an under eye wrinkle treatment Provide the delicate skin around your eye with additional anti-aging and firming support for a fresher eye area. We recommend: Anti-Ageing Eye Serum
Why Your Skin Needs Exfoliation
Pollution, makeup, UV rays, humidity, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Your skin has so many potential irritants to deal with every day! Exfoliation can help combat hyperpigmentation, dryness, dehydration, and dullness that these daily stressors can cause. Why Is Exfoliation Important? In a nutshell, exfoliation is the process of removing the dead cells from the outer layer of your skin to encourage a clearer complexion and stimulate skin cell renewal. You can do this either with a physical exfoliation method - like granules, a scrub, or a textured mitt - or a chemical exfoliation method which may include alpha hydroxy acids and enzymes. For many skin concerns the best approach will involve both chemical and physical methods. We recommend reading our guide to the Different Types Of Exfoliation. The guide will help you understand more about physical vs chemical exfoliants and how to make the best exfoliator choice for your skin. How Exfoliation Can Help With Daily Skin Stressors During the day, your skin is busy defending itself against a range of environmental and lifestyle stressors it comes in contact with - from air pollution to heavy makeup. Regular exfoliation is essential in helping combat and prevent some of the skin concerns caused by these irritants. Let’s take a look at what your skin faces every day. Skin Concerns: Dullness And Hyperpigmentation Daily Causes: Air pollution And UV rays Air Pollution In urban areas where pollution levels are high, there’s trouble in the air (literally!) for your face. Don’t underestimate the serious impact pollution can have on your skin - from irritation to accelerating the signs of ageing. Toxic nanoparticles from traffic pollution and other types of air pollution can enter the skin causing free-radical damage and chronic inflammation. This leads to hyperpigmentation, dullness, and the premature formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Pollutants deplete the skin of hydration and essential vitamins too, leaving it dehydrated and in need of nourishment. UV rays Our biggest skin stressor is exposure to UV rays. It’s a pretty tough one to avoid entirely - you need to be extra vigilant in guarding your skin against the effects of sun damage as much as possible. Leaving your skin unprotected against UV rays - especially UVA - is the number one cause of premature ageing. It will fast track the appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation - including age spots. How Exfoliation Can Help With Dullness And Hyperpigmentation Skin exfoliation can improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation by helping to diminish discoloration - over time revealing a more even skin tone. While exfoliation may help improve the appearance of sun-related hyperpigmentation, the best skincare move you can make is to prevent it in the first place. Protect your face with SPF 30+ every day, no matter the weather. A dull, lackluster complexion (thanks, traffic fumes!) can also be perked up with exfoliation. You’ll remove the dead, dull skin cells on the surface plus other toxic debris helping reveal a brighter complexion beneath. Best Types Of Exfoliants For Dullness And Hyperpigmentation Physical Exfoliants Icelandic volcanic sand is a mild exfoliator that can gently assist renewing the outer layer of skin to help support a fresher, smoother looking complexion. We recommend: Hydrating And Ageless Volcanic Sand from esmi Gentle Foliant range. This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Chemical exfoliants (Acids) Kojic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and linoleic acid work to help lighten pigmentation issues, smooth out skin texture, and brighten. Skin Concerns: Rough, Dry Skin Daily Causes: Seasonal Changes And Hot Water Dry, cold air One of the most common skin conditions to come along with cold weather is dry, flaky skin. Even oily skin types can experience dry patches due to seasonal changes. When faced with the dry, cold air of winter, skin can quickly lose its glow and become dull. It’s usually a result of dehydration - both on the inside and outside. Heightened sensitivity can also be a problem if skin isn’t properly cared for during the colder months. Hot water Skincare 101: always cleanse with lukewarm water. Hot water will damage your skin barrier as it strips away the protective lipid layer of your skin. This protective layer is responsible for sealing moisture in while keeping bacteria and irritants out. A damaged skin barrier can’t hold onto moisture and as a result, skin becomes itchy, red, and dry. How Exfoliation Can Help With Dry, Rough Skin If your skin is dry, inflamed, and flaky it’s clearly already in distress mode. While exfoliation can help improve the situation, you need to go about it the right way (gently!) or your skin will suffer more damage. Gentle exfoliation can assist dry, rough skin in two important ways. First, it lifts the old, flaky skin cells from the surface which helps improve the appearance and texture of the skin. Second, by removing the build up of dry cells, exfoliation allows the hydrating and moisturising properties of your skincare to better penetrate the skin and act more effectively on the surface. As dead skin cells build up on the surface, it makes it difficult for the ingredients in your skincare products to do their best work! Dry, dehydrated skin can actually receive the hydration and moisture support it needs from active ingredients without a layer of old cells standing in the way. Best Exfoliants For Dry, Rough Skin Physical exfoliants Bamboo extract has mild exfoliation properties that can encourage cell turnover to reveal younger, softer skin. Ideal for a weakened or sensitised skin barrier, acne-prone, and dry skin. Jojoba beads and rice powder are also effective yet gentle face exfoliators. They’re soft on skin types needing extra care during exfoliation. We recommend: Rose And Bamboo facial exfoliant from esmi Gentle Foliant range. The delicate exfoliation action of bamboo extract works in harmony with the power of mixed fruit enzymes. An excellent exfoliator for sensitive skin and a dry, damaged complexion. Chemical exfoliants (Acids) Lactic acid is derived from milk and offers the gentlest exfoliating action of all alpha-hydroxy acids. This makes it a great choice for sensitive and dry skin. Skin Concerns: Congestion And Breakouts Daily Causes: Humidity, Makeup, Skincare Habits Humidity Humidity and acne-prone, oily skin do not get along! On humid days, the skin is enveloped in moisture and heat. Pores open up wider and sebaceous glands work overtime producing excess oil. It’s the perfect storm for pores to become blocked leaving skin congested and breaking out. Makeup Is your makeup the main culprit in your congested pore concerns? Many makeup formulas are loaded with oil and considered ‘comedogenic’. This means the chances of the ingredients blocking pores - which then leads to congestion and acne - is high. If you wear heavy oil-based makeup, your skin has to deal with an extra blanket of oil covering (suffocating!) it throughout the day. It’s easy to see how quickly pores become clogged. Discover our range of non-comedogenic mineral based foundation and BB cream. The formulations allow skin to breathe and be nourished with minerals including silica, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for skin conditioning. Not cleansing properly A less than consistent cleansing routine can also leave your skin congested and breaking out. Cleansing in the morning and evening is essential to remove everything that finds its way onto your face and into your pores during the day - including dirt, sweat, makeup, oil, and toxins from air pollution. How Exfoliation Can Help With Congestion And Breakouts Chemical exfoliants can penetrate your pores to dislodge and dissolve dead skin cells and debris while promoting skin regeneration. Physical exfoliation also clears build-up from within the pore but rather than dissolving debris, dead skin is manually sloughed away. Best Exfoliants For Congested, Breakout-Prone Skin Physical exfoliants The ultra-fine consistency of exotic Polynesian sand provides gentle exfoliation to assist in the removal of pore-clogging debris and encourage a clearer complexion for oily skin. We recommend: Fresh Sea And Salty Sand facial exfoliant from esmi Gentle Foliant range - our best face exfoliator for oily skin! This exotic Polynesian sand physical exfoliator combined with the additional exfoliating power of papaya enzymes gently but effectively exfoliates away dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants (acids and enzymes) Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and papaya enzymes are good choices for oily skin types with large pores prone to congestion and breakouts. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum This exfoliating charcoal serum will gently detox and purify for a clearer, smoother complexion. A Final Word On Exfoliation: Do It The Right Way! We can see how exfoliation helps skin defend itself against and recover from the stress it faces on a daily basis. However, it’s absolutely essential that you exfoliate properly - choosing the products and ingredients suited to your skin and concerns. Over exfoliation, or exfoliating with the wrong product, can lead to excessive irritation of the skin and excessive dryness. If you’re exfoliating aggressively, initially you may see an improvement. Ultimately though, things can get much worse in the long run. To understand how to exfoliate your face correctly, read our guide on Different Types Of Exfoliation.
The Effects Of Stress On Your Skin
Stressed out skin? When your anxiety levels are sky high - about work, relationships, or anything in between - the effect of stress on your skin can leave it far from bright and healthy. Stress can have detrimental effects on skin, with the most common effects including breakouts, slow healing, fine lines and wrinkles appearing and worsening of existing conditions (like eczema). Some people also experience stress rashes, blisters or hives during high stress periods. This Is What Happens To Your Body Under Stress Let’s start with a quick crash course in the chemistry of stress. When you experience a stressful situation, your brain sends distress messages to your adrenal glands. This triggers the adrenal glands to release a cocktail of hormones into your body. 2 of the main hormones released are cortisol and norepinephrine. These both play a role in the signs of stress on your face. Cortisol: A rise in cortisol causes skin to produce excess sebum and reduces the skin’s ability to retain water. This can result in some of the skin conditions caused by stress we’ll look at next. Norepinephrine: Reduces the blood flow to the skin, leading to flare-ups and undesired bumps, blemishes, or rashes. Now you know a little more about what goes on inside your body when you're stressed, let’s take a look at how stress shows up on your skin. Signs Of Stressed Skin Breakouts and stress related acne The root cause of all types of acne is essentially the same, your pores become clogged with excess oil (sebum) and dead cells. Clogged pores become the ideal environment for skin bacteria p. Acnes, to thrive causing acne, inflammation, and swelling. It’s not unusual for the effect of stress on skin to cause breakouts. Your skin produces more oil during times of stress, boosting the amount of oil on your skin. This increases the chances of blocked pores and yes, you guessed it, stress spots! Healing slows down If you’ve noticed a blemish or cut on your skin that just doesn’t seem to go away, it may be stress related. Studies show that during times of high or prolonged stress, the healing of wounds - including blemishes and blisters - can slow right down. Fine lines and wrinkles pop up Prolonged stress can add years to your face by causing wrinkles and fine lines to appear prematurely. When large amounts of cortisol are released into the body it causes sugar levels in the bloodstream to rise. This results in a process called glycation which destroys both collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin give the skin its structure and elasticity. When they are damaged, the skin becomes weaker and fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear. Elevated levels of cortisol can also cause dehydration. Your overall tone and complexion can appear uneven, and fine lines will be more obvious. Existing conditions get worse The effect of stress on skin can trigger a flare-up of existing skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Acne can also get worse after going through a stressful event, like doing an exam or dealing with a high pressure work situation. You can get stuck in a problematic cycle. Stress triggers a skin condition, you then feel more stress about what’s happening on your face which only makes things worse. You may experience a ‘stress rash’ Red, itchy hives aren’t only caused by seasonal allergies. The effect of stress on skin can cause hives to break out in what is commonly called a ‘stress rash’. The hormonal and chemical changes our bodies experience under anxiety and tension cause blood vessels to expand and leak, resulting in red and swollen patches of skin. If drinking a glass (or three) of wine is your way to manage stress, think again. Alcohol can increase the severity of hives, as can heat. Most stress rashes go away within a few days, though some can persist for weeks. You can help relieve swelling and itching with a cool compress or ice pack. Over-the-counter antihistamines may also be an option but always check with your medical practitioner before taking medication to address the effect of stress on skin. Calm Your Mind & Skin It’s clear stress and skin health are linked. Any of the above signs could be your skin sending a message to reduce tension in your life. We know this is easier said than done, but a few simple steps in the right direction can help reduce the skin conditions caused by stress. Get more quality sleep Stress and a lack of sleep are a disastrous combination for your skin. If you’re so stressed that it’s hard to sleep, you’ll get stuck in a cycle of stress-related insomnia. Try shutting down all screen time at least an hour before bed and use essential oils in the bedroom with calming properties to encourage restful sleep. Our 24k Gold Nourishing Oil is an ideal facial oil for a relaxing evening routine. It’s beautifully scented with the calming aroma of ylang ylang and geranium to soothe the senses as you fall asleep. Sticking to a regular schedule will also help - go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Hit the gym, park, or yoga mat You’ve heard it before but here’s a reminder - exercise is a major stress reliever. Regular exercise has the power to transform your body, your spirits, and your skin! If you’re not up to an all-out sweat session, gentle activities like yoga or even a 10 minute stretching session are great ways to reduce the effect of stress on skin too. Embrace the power of No If you’re naturally the “Yes, I’ll be there/ help/do it” type, learning to say “No” takes practice but it’s so worth it! When you get better at declining demands on your time that don’t serve you, you’ll cut the stress of trying to juggle it all and simplify your life. Plus, you’ll find more time to do the things that do serve and energise you. Create self-care rituals to soothe anxiety Self-care is about being good to yourself and your mental health. Simple, self-care rituals can give you a little space to take a much needed mental break and minimise the effect of stress on skin. Don’t underestimate the power of creating a calm mental oasis during your day - even if it’s just a few minutes. We’ve put together a list of easy self-care ideas to inspire you to introduce more ‘me time’ into your day and dial down stress levels. Our favourite? Turning your skincare routine into a self-care ritual!
Causes Of Uneven Skin Tone
Uneven skin tone is the enemy of your smooth skin goals. If you’re struggling with an inconsistent skin tone it’s usually due to either hyperpigmentation or redness concerns. We explore what causes both of these issues and recommended skincare routines to encourage a smoother, more even complexion. Hyperpigmentation Problems with uneven skin tone often come back to the same core concern: hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives our skin, hair, and eyes their colour and is created by melanocytes, the pigment-making cells in the skin. When our body produces too much melanin, melanocytes offload the excess pigment into outer layers of the skin. This can cause areas of skin to darken more than the normal colour of your skin leaving your face looking uneven and patchy. Several factors can trigger an increase in melanin production and result in hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure Your tan might look smooth and glowing after a day on the beach, but over time, sun damage causes skin to form darker uneven patches. The leading cause of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, UV rays send melanocytes into overdrive. The result? A dull skin tone, "age spots", and other patches of discolouration. Pollution Toxic nanoparticles from air pollution - especially traffic related pollution - are able to penetrate the skin. Once they find their way into the skin, they can cause hyperpigmentation and accelerate other signs of ageing. Hormonal Hormonal changes can cause uneven skin tone too. Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that's more commonly seen in women and is directly linked to fluctuating hormone levels. It is often referred to as the mask of pregnancy because it can be triggered by an increase in hormones in pregnant women. Melasma is more challenging to treat than other forms of hyperpigmentation and it’s also more difficult to prevent as it’s triggered by internal changes. While it is difficult to make it ‘disappear’, melasma can be managed with a good skincare regime and even in-salon treatments. Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation happens when the skin surface has been damaged and darker reddish patches are left behind. The most common cause of this type of hyperpigmentation is breakouts and acne. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation will usually fade over time and can be helped along with appropriate skincare and treatments. Blotchy, Red Skin Skin redness can also contribute to the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Blotchy, red patches of skin can be caused by skin issues like rosacea, sensitivity, and broken capillaries. Skin redness can be frustrating to deal with and the more flare ups you have the redder these areas will become, which is why management is so important. Some everyday things that may trigger the blotchy, red patches that lead to uneven skin tone include: Stress Extreme Temperatures Spicy food Fragrances and alcohol in skincare Alcoholic drinks – especially wine Smoking Recommended Products To Improve Uneven Skin Tone For Hyperpigmentation Brighten skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation with these uneven skin tone products. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening A gentle cream cleanser enriched with Kakadu Plum extract which is bursting with Vitamin C for a lit-from-within glow and a gentle but deep clean. Ideal for all skin types prone to dullness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Skin Treats Pomegranate Brightening Serum A potent brightening, anti-pigmentation serum with skin lightening ingredients and powerful antioxidants. Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Luxurious 24-karat gold leaf face oil nourishes for a visibly firmer, more youthful complexion - boosts skin elasticity, stimulates collagen production and improves blood circulation. Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Ideal for all skin types to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion prone to age spots and hyperpigmentation while stimulating collagen to firm and tone. Leaves skin soft, even and moisturised. Gentle Foliant Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. Booster Masks Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask A silky soft brightening mask to wake up a tired complexion and promote a smoother, more luminous skin tone. Ideal for lightening, the appearance of hyperpigmentation his mask evens out skin tone for a smoother, brighter complexion. Suitable for most skin types. Eye treatments Brightening Eye Serum Instantly revive and illuminate tired eyes with a unique blend of plankton extract, active ingredients, and peptides to target dark circles, brightness and fine lines in the delicate eye area. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Sun damage is a key cause of hyperpigmentation. Every skincare routine should include SPF protection and this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection. Recommend Products To Improve Uneven Skin Tone For Red, Blotchy Skin It’s important to choose gentle skincare products as part of a good, regular skincare regime to help reduce redness. This can really make a world of difference, especially during a flare up. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness A gentle cream cleanser enriched with redness-minimising and antibacterial Tasmanian Mountain Pepper extract to cool inflammation while gently removing impurities. Ideal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Skin treats Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Addressing the discomfort of inflamed skin, this serum cools and heals damaged, red skin. Contains potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties - the ideal anti-redness skin treatment. Peppermint Green Oil A lightweight, purifying face oil with plant-based antimicrobial ingredients to cool inflammation and freshen skin while targeting blemishes. Perfect for skin types prone to breakouts and oil balance concerns. Use instead of moisturiser to calm inflammation and redness, target acne, and regulate oil flow. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types with dehydration concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm, and hydrate while regulating oil flow. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Non-greasy, it’s perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum This exfoliating charcoal serum will gently buff, detox, and purify for a clearer, smoother complexion. Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist A hydrating and refreshing face mist to help replenish, rehydrate, and cool inflamed, red skin. Gentle Foliant Is Rose and Bamboo the right gentle foliant recommendation to make here? Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. If you have dry skin and are dealing with an uneven skin tone due to redness, we recommend the Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant. Booster Masks Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Instantly cools the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be used to cool and repair trauma after laser and IPL treatments. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask Wake up dull skin with this mask’s powerful detoxifying charcoal / clay combination to buff, refine and purify for soft, bright skin. Suits all skin types, even sensitive skin. Eye treatments Hydrating Eye Serum A moisture boosting miracle worker, this lightweight serum delivers continuous moisture and nourishes a tired, dehydrated eye area. Reduces puffiness while plumping and firming fine lines. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Ideal for all skin types this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection and fights the first signs of ageing. Sun exposure can quickly cause flare-ups so including SPF protection in your daily routine is a must. Need some help addressing uneven skin tone and putting a routine together? Book your free consultation with our skincare specialists.
Your Highschool Teenage Skincare Routine
Feeling a bit lost about putting your first teen skincare routine together? We’re here to help! Learn how to build a simple yet effective regime with our best teenage skincare products. Know Your Skin Type Putting together a routine of teenage skincare products right for your skin all begins with identifying your skin type! This gives you a great starting point to build a routine that suits your skin and treats specific concerns. Using the wrong products and ingredients will hinder, rather than help your skin. The most common skin types are sensitive, dry, normal, oily, and combination. You may already know your skin type but if you need a little help figuring it out read our guide here. Skincare for Teenagers — Acne, Excessive Oil and Congestion One of the big skin complaints about teen skin is excessive oil production which results in congestion and teen acne. Why is an oily skin problem so common for teens? One word: hormones! During puberty, your hormone levels surge. This causes your sebaceous glands (oil glands) to enlarge which leads to increased production of oil (sebum) in the skin. Excess oil mixing with dead cells and other debris on the skin surface can quickly lead to blocked pores causing blackheads, whiteheads, and even cysts. Hormones aren’t the only culprit for breakouts in your teen years. Genetics can also play a role; if your parents had acne it’s more likely you’ll experience it too. Stress, diet, and lifestyle choices can also contribute to acne flare ups. Morning Skincare Routine for Teens Cleanse The most important step in your teen skincare routine is cleansing! Removing the build up that finds its way onto your skin every day (dead cells, makeup, oil, dirt) is key to keeping your complexion clear and fresh. Stick with a gentle cleanser. Many cleansers targeted towards teenage acne can be very harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils. Stripping the skin only makes oily issues worse as your sebaceous glands are triggered to produce yet more oil to compensate for what’s been lost. A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser is the best face wash for teenage skin. Choose a gentle formulation that includes active ingredients to target specific issues, depending on your skin type and concern. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser The original Uncomplicated Cleanser is gentle and ideal to remove surface products. If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, we recommend a double cleanse in the morning and evening. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness (acne prone | double cleanse) You can opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness for the second cleanse. Containing antibacterial properties, this cleanser is ideal for soothing inflammation and minimising acne flare-ups. Serum Containing potent ingredients to target specific skincare concerns, a serum is something you can opt to include in your teen skincare routine. Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are good all-rounders to start with to improve skin hydration - these humectant ingredients draw moisture to the skin. No matter your age or skin type, extra hydration can benefit everyone. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Hyaluronic Serum contains Vit B3 (niacinamide) which will help to balance skin and regulate oil flow which can act as a preventative for breakouts. It also accelerates healing and repair post-breakout. Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo (Acne prone skin) The 'gentle' dose of actives in this formulation is perfect for teens and helps to balance and strengthen skin, promote repair, and soothe skin. Moisturise Moisturiser plays a crucial role in your teen skincare routine - even if you have oily skin. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that if you have oily skin you don’t need moisturiser. This step is especially important if you are taking acne medication or using over-the-counter spot treatments which can be particularly drying for the skin. Moisturiser forms a protective barrier on the surface to help minimise water evaporating from the skin and help prevent environmental irritants from entering in. Facial oils are suitable for most skin types - even oily ones - to replace a cream based moisturiser or apply over the top of one. We recommend: Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types, especially oily skin with balance concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm and hydrate while regulating oil flow. Peppermint Green Oil (Acne prone skin) Highly moisturising with antiseptic and astringent properties to treat acne-prone skin, as well as anti-inflammatory properties targeting redness and inflammation. Apply SPF Let your teenage years be the time you commit to wearing sunscreen every day - this is a skincare habit you’ll never regret. The earlier you start this step, the better your skin will be in the future. Trust us! We recommend: Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 PM Routine For Teen Skincare Cleanse We always recommend you double cleanse in the evening. The first cleanse is to remove any products (like SPF or makeup) and the second is to get deep into the pores to remove debris and any built-up oil. You can use the same cleanser for both or a combination of cleansers to achieve more targeted results. Similar to your morning routine, if you're dealing with teenage acne, we recommend double cleansing in the evening. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser is ideal for the first cleanse. You can follow with a second cleanse using The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal. Ideal for all skin types prone to congestion, breakouts, and large pores, the active ingredient charcoal purifies and balances oils for a refined, clearer complexion. If you’re experiencing cystic acne or acne that is inflamed, you could opt for The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness again. Spot treatment Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may want to include a targeted spot treatment as part of your teen skincare routine. The evening is a good time to do this. Apply the treatment and wait for it to dry before adding serum. Serum Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, opt for the Acai Hydrate & Nourish Duo again or, if you’re dealing with breakouts, try the Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie. Moisturise Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil or Peppermint Green Oil (Acne prone skin) Weekly Treatments For Teenage Skin Care Routine Mask Face masks can be beneficial but finding the formulations that work best for your skin type and concerns is important - so is going not overboard with treatments. It’s best to introduce masks once your skin is responding well to the core products in your teen skincare regime - cleanser, moisturiser, and serum. We recommend: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask The mild exfoliation action of kaolin clay is kind to sensitive and breakout-prone skin, soothes and regulates oil production while deeply cleansing to remove impurities. Teenagers should introduce this step slowly, once the skin is used to the actives in the cleansers and serums. Exfoliate Teenage skin can benefit from exfoliating in the right way with the right ingredients to remove dead cells, keep pores clear, and encourage a smoother complexion overall. There are a few methods you can use to approach exfoliation; chemical (acids and enzymes), physical (scrubs, granules, textured mitt), or a combination of both. Chemical exfoliation works by dissolving any breakout forming build-up on the surface (oil, dirt, dead cells) to keep pores clear. Physical exfoliation removes build up by manually moving the scrub, granules, or mitt/washcloth across your skin's surface. We recommend: Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum (Acne prone / congestion) Using this 2-3 times per week will help to clear dead skin cells from the surface and detoxify the skin by drawing out impurities. This serum contains powerful drawing agents, it will draw out any underlying congestion - so don’t be alarmed if your skin purges. Continue use after impurities have emerged to aid healing. Or you could opt for Fresh Sea And Salty Sand. This exotic Polynesian sand physical exfoliator combined with the additional exfoliating power of papaya enzymes gently but effectively exfoliates away dead skin cells. The 5 Best Teenage Skin Care Products The Uncomplicated Cleanser is ideal for daily use to gently cleansing teenage skin without stripping the skin of natural oils. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum to deeply hydrate skin and regulate oil flow to prevent breakouts. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil to moisturise skin using a gentle dose of actives that are perfect for teenage skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum to exfoliate in the evenings 2-3 times each week. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask for deep cleansing. Should be slowly intergrated and used once a week. Find the Best Teenage Skincare Routine for You with esmi Skin Minerals Find the best skin care products for teenage acne and skin care with the esmi range of cruelty-free, vegan and mineral-based products. Explore our range of effective acne products and cleansers. Learn More About Skincare What Type Of Acne Do I Have? Causes Of Acne The Best Cleanser for Your Skin Type Our Guide To A Basic Skincare Routine
Preservatives In Skincare: What You Need To Know
Are all preservatives in skincare a bad thing? The short answer is no - many products need preservatives to be safe to use on your skin. Not all preservatives are created equal though and you’ll want to avoid the unhealthy ones. Read on to understand what you need to know about preservatives in skincare products. What Is A Preservative In Skincare? A preservative is a natural or synthetic ingredient that is added to skincare to protect the formulation’s integrity and the health of your skin. Preservatives prevent skincare ‘going bad’ either due to bacterial growth or chemical changes that compromise the effectiveness and stability of the formulation. Do All Skincare Products Need Preservatives? Preservatives have gained somewhat of a dubious reputation. One of the big myths on this topic is that ALL preservatives in skincare products are bad. “Preservative-free” is often promoted as more healthy or “clean” than skincare with preservatives - but the truth is, the opposite can be true. If a skincare product contains water or water-based ingredients, it needs a preservative (natural or synthetic) to remain stable and safe to use on the skin. The only types of skincare safe to be formulated without are anhydrous products. Anhydrous means “without water” - products that are made of plant oils, butter, and waxes that contain no water. A product that contains water and is “preservative free” will quickly become a home to mould, bacteria, and microbial growth. Not a healthy choice for your skin. Even some anhydrous products can become contaminated if they are designed to come in contact with water during use. Wet fingers can introduce water to the formulation, opening the door to microbial growth if there is no preservative. Different Kinds Of Preservatives So why have preservatives earned themselves a bad reputation? There are both synthetic preservatives and natural preservatives - many synthetic preservatives are highly irritating to skin and considered toxic. Some have been linked to serious long term health issues too. Some of the common preservatives to avoid include: Parabens (Butylparaben, Methylparaben and Propylparaben) The most widely used preservatives in cosmetics, skincare and personal care products, parabens have been linked to health issues including reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and skin irritation. Diazolidinyl urea and Imidazolidinyl urea These are types of antimicrobial preservatives that release forming formaldehyde which acts as a preservative in cosmetic products. Studies have shown both can trigger health problems including skin sensitisation, eye and skin irritation, and respiratory issues when inhaled. Benzalkonium chloride A known eye and skin irritant, benzalkonium chloride has also been linked to organ damage and issues with the lymphatic system. It’s these kinds of toxic options that have given preservatives in skincare a bad reputation. Triclosan Triclosan (TCS) is an antibacterial and antifungal agent used as a preservative in antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics. Triclosan was banned for use in over the counter products in the US by the Food and Drug Administration due to the health risk posed by using products that contain Triclosan over time. With growing awareness about the potential health risks of these types of synthetic preservatives, consumers are increasingly looking for safer alternatives. Thankfully, there’s plenty of them. Healthier choices for your skin and body include both natural preservatives for skin care products and “Nature-identical” preservatives. These are identical to those found in nature, but are synthesised in a laboratory. A few common examples include: Natural phenethyl alcohol Phenethyl alcohol is an all-natural preservative derived from corn. It has antimicrobial functions against bacteria, fungi, yeast, and mould. Benzyl alcohol Benzyl alcohol is an almond-scented, aromatic alcohol. Deemed as safe for use in foods by the US Food and Drug Administration, benzyl alcohol is an approved preservative under the COSMOS Organic Certification criteria Phenoxyethanol (PE) Phenoxyethanol is a preservative found naturally occurring in green tea and chicory. As a “nature identical” chemical it’s synthetically re-created in a lab for cosmetic / commercial purposes. Caprylyl glycol An alcohol derived from a fatty acid caprylyl glycol offers both humectant benefits (drawing moisture to the skin) and preservative-like properties. A safer option than traditional preservatives, such as parabens or those that release formaldehyde, caprylyl glycol is derived from the natural fatty acid found in palm and coconut oils. It also helps increase the antimicrobial activity of other preservatives. Potassium sorbate Potassium sorbate is a salt of sorbic acid which is naturally found in some fruits. A “nature identical” preservative this ingredient is synthetically recreated for use in cosmetics, skincare products, and food. There are also what’s known as broad spectrum preservative ‘systems’ that have been deemed safe for use in certified organic skincare. Broad spectrum means the preservative is effective against bacteria, mould, and yeast. For example, a preservative ingredient on its own may not protect against all 3 contaminants, but combined in a formulation with other preservatives, the result offers broad spectrum activity. One example is a system called Preservative Eco which is composed of benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin and sorbic acid. You’ll find most skincare products are formulated with more than one type of preservative to achieve broad spectrum activity. Are vitamin E, rosemary extract or grapefruit seed extract preservatives? Another myth about skincare preservatives and organic preservatives for cosmetics is that antioxidants such as vitamin E, grapefruit seed extract and rosemary extract act as natural preservatives. Antioxidants can help stabilise oil and butter based formulations (preventing them from oxidising) but they don’t provide protection against bacteria, yeast, or mould growing in a product. We want to point out it’s still possible to have a reaction to any preservative (even natural ones) if you’re allergic to the substance - like honey, for example. For this reason, we recommend always patch testing a product before using it. Have more questions about preservatives in skincare? Our team of skincare experts is here to help!
Real Results: Erica's Story
“I have never felt so confident in my own skin, I am beautiful.” We’re really excited to introduce Erica and share the amazing results she’s achieved treating acute adult acne with esmi Skin Minerals. Erica struggled with acne throughout her teenage years but dealing with adult acne, she says, was even more challenging. “Having adult acne was worse for me.” “I’m a working mum, I’m busy and rushing around. Always feeling so self-conscious about leaving the house with no makeup was consuming. I would just feel awful about myself.” After a bad reaction to prescription medication and loss at what to do next, overwhelmed Erica reached out to our skincare team to seek help for her acne. “I was honestly lost, I had tried so many brands and treatments, I just didn’t know what to do. After reaching out to the skincare team on Facebook they jumped on board to help me with a skincare routine.” “The response was so fast, lovely, and compassionate because it was obviously something I was really self-conscious about.” After helping Erica choose the right products to begin treating her skin, our consultants continued to guide her on slowly introducing new products over the next 12 months. This steady approach helped strengthen and improve Erica’s skin without overwhelming it. “Over the last 12 months, they’ve been there the whole way through.” “They’ve helped with slight changes along the way and have always been there to answer all my questions.” Erica’s before and after photos say it all. Her results are incredible! “My breakouts have significantly reduced - pretty much gone. If I do have breakouts I have the tools to fight them so I no longer get the awfully painful acne.” “The esmi team has helped me work on the acne scarring I have which has also improved so much.” Erica’s advice if you’re considering esmi Skin Minerals and a consultation with our skin consultants? “100% go for it.” “I have never felt so confident in my own skin. I am beautiful.” We’re SO happy to see your results Erica! Thank you for sharing your skin journey with esmi Skin Minerals. 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@makeupcartel.com.au
