Do Facial Rollers Actually Work?
You can’t scroll through Instagram or TikTok these days without seeing someone with a gorgeous glow and cheekbones for days. Just when you thought it came down to good genes, they pull out a facial roller and swear it is the key to a sculpted face. Honestly, we could not have hit that ‘add to cart’ button faster. But the million dollar question is, do facial rollers work? Let’s find out. What are the benefits of face rollers? Besides looking oh-so-cute on your dresser, face roller benefits include lymphatic drainage massaging, which helps to remove excess fluids and toxins in the body and face. Lymphatic massages give these fluids a helping hand to move along, rather than being trapped in your face. You know when you wake up and you’re feeling particularly puffy? Yup, that’s your cue to get out your facial roller. They also improve circulation and are frankly the ultimate relaxation tool. Anyone who uses a facial roller will tell you how they could spend hours rolling their face - it feels that good. If you’re a gold star skincare student, you can keep your facial roller in the fridge so that when you go to indulge in your morning self care, the coolness of the stone will help to awaken the skin and soothe inflammation. Now, besides the skincare benefits, many facial rollers are made of jade or rose quartz. These gemstones have their own healing powers, said to draw out negativity and provide balance. If you’re anything like us, you need as much help as you can get de-stressing and staying grounded. What are the benefits of a Gua Sha? Gua sha, a traditional Chinese therapy, offers several health and beauty benefits. It improves circulation by stimulating blood flow, helping to relieve muscle tension, pain, and stiffness, making it effective for conditions like neck pain and tension headaches. Gua sha also promotes lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and puffiness, which is particularly useful in facial treatments for a sculpted look. For skin health, gua sha enhances microcirculation, encouraging collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and brighten the complexion. It also provides a soothing, massage-like effect that lowers stress and promotes relaxation, supporting emotional well-being and better sleep. Facial roller vs Gua Sha One of the cousins of the facial roller is the humble gua sha, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Gua what now? Don’t worry, we’ll explain the difference. In traditional Asian practices, the term ‘gua sha’ literally translates to ‘scrape the pain away’ which sounds pretty good if you ask us. While a facial roller helps to drain puffiness and stimulate blood flow, a gua sha tends to work on a deeper level. Thanks to its unique shape, it gives the perfect, natural facelift, sculpting and tightening the face to prevent signs of ageing. Like facial rollers, a gua sha massages the skin to avoid fluid retention, reduce puffiness and help those cheekbones pop! If you have any muscle soreness, a gua sha can help to knead out those knots. Using one is like a spa massage for your face. Need a little gua sha inspiration? Our Gua Sha Stone is made from aventurine, a quartz linked to feelings of comfort, harmony and love. Not only will it provide a natural lift of your eyebrows and jowl area, it will also soften out any fine lines. Gua Sha Before and After By now, you've probably seen the buzz around this face-sculpting massage tool. Beauty gurus and influencers alike can’t get enough of the gua sha, often calling it ‘natural botox.’ While many are drawn to its aesthetic benefits—like reducing fine lines and wrinkles—gua sha fans have discovered so much more. Beyond beauty, it’s a powerful tool for releasing stress and tension, something you didn’t know you needed daily. Many users report visible slimming and sculpting effects, with smoother lines and a lifted, buoyant complexion. Plus, the holistic benefits, like feeling energised each morning, make the gua sha a valuable addition to any routine. How to use a Facial Roller or Gua Sha The good news is whether you’re using a face roller or a gua sha, they both use pretty similar techniques when trying to make the most out of them. As we mentioned, your best bet is to store yours in the fridge and use it as part of your morning routine. After cleansing, use an oil of your choice to allow for seamless movement across your face. Our top picks are the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil to tackle dryness, or the Peppermint Green Oil to soothe inflammation. Working your way upwards, start at the base of the neck and use an upwards motion with the gua sha or roller 3-5 times in each area. Once you’re finished with the neck, move to the under eyes. Start from the middle and move outwards across the cheeks and towards the ear to help with the lymphatic drainage. Finish things off with the same routine on your forehead. The general rule is to always move upwards. We’ve put together a handy gua sha tutorial right here. When using your roller, avoid areas of active acne, otherwise you risk inflaming them further or spreading bacteria. No thanks! For the best results (and the ultimate moment of relaxation), use your facial roller or gua sha for five minutes each day and you’ll cut glass with your chiselled face in no time! Make your mornings feel like a trip to the spa with a facial roller or gua sha. Aside from feeling suuuuper relaxed, you’ll notice your puffiness literally slide away and watch the compliments ‘roll’ in - pun intended! Have any other questions about using a facial roller or gua sha? Chat to our skin consultants today!
How to Get Rid of Blind Pimples Under the Skin
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been personally victimised by a blind pimple hiding under the skin. Yup, we thought there might be a few of you! While they might not look as scary to everyone else as your run of the mill pimples, they can often be quite painful and annoyingly unpoppable. We’re going to chat all things blind pimples: what they are and how to get rid of under the skin pimples overnight. That way, you’re not going in blind (sorry, we had to!). What are blind pimples? Before we delve into the nitty gritty, let’s establish what a blind pimple actually is. Blind pimples are essentially pimples that form under the skin. They form thanks to a mixture of bacteria and excess sebum, deeply clogging the pores, under the skin, leading to inflammation. They can also be caused by a cyst (benign growths filled with liquid) or a nodule (abnormal tissue growth) beneath the skin, but don’t worry, they aren’t as scary as they sound. As anyone who’s ever had a blind pimple will tell you, they can really hurt and can get quite angry. Think of it as a pressure that has built up and can’t be released. Sometimes, these pimples will rise to the surface and appear as the whiteheads or blackheads we all know and love - not! Other times, blind pimples can stay hidden beneath the surface. In these situations, you may feel a bump over the surface of the skin and redness where the blind pimple is lurking. The really annoying thing about these kinds of pimples is how stubborn they are. Unlike regular pimples that can be softened or, dare we say, popped, blind pimples are harder to get rid of. How to avoid blind pimples Of course, the best blind pimple treatment is prevention. Keeping your skin clean and free from bacteria and sebum build up is going to do wonders for avoiding blind pimples. Cleansing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser is going to get rid of any nasties. If you find yourself struggling with blind pimples, or pimples regularly, try our The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal. Ideal for skin prone to congestion, this magical product is enriched with the detoxifying power of Charcoal, helping draw out any impurities and purify those pores. After cleansing, fight congestion with our Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant, perfect to use a few times a week. This is going to unclog pores by clearing out any dead skin cells lurking. Then finish up with your favourite moisturiser. Always stick with products that are non-acnegenic, meaning they won’t clog pores and cause acne. Seems like a no-brainer, hey? Well the scary thing is, there are a lot of products out there, particularly makeup products, that can clog pores. Looking for an everyday foundation that is kind to your skin? Our Liquid Mineral Foundation is lightweight and non-acnegenic so isn’t going to trigger any of those nasty blind pimples. How to get rid of pimples under the skin Sometimes, despite doing all the right things for your skin, things like hormones or stress can send a blind pimple your way anyway. Life’s not fair, hey? That’s why you’ll want to take notes of these blind pimple treatments. The first and most important rule: don’t pop it. We repeat: put down the tweezers! No matter how good you think your pimple popping skills are, that sucker is too deep for you to reach. By trying to pop a blind pimple, you risk pushing the congestion further into the skin and irritating it further, causing scarring. Let’s make sure we’re on the same page here; popping is not how to get rid of pimples under the skin. Instead, you want to bring the pimple to a head. Even though the idea of having your pimple on full display is a big “no, thanks”, the sooner the head comes to the surface, the sooner it can be treated. Start by applying a warm compress for 10-15 minutes a couple of times a day as soon as you sense one brewing. This will help ease the pain while encouraging it to the surface. You also want to keep the area clean to minimise any bacteria causing further issues. Charcoal products are also going to be your best friend. The Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum is a powerful chemical exfoliator that is rich in AHAs to speed up cell renewal and decongest the skin. Plus, the big drawcard here is it draws out lumps under the surface of the skin, making it an amazing blind pimple treatment. On nights where you need some down time and Netflix, reach for the Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask to detox skin and draw out impurities (read: blind pimples). The bentonite clay fights harmful bacteria and buffs away dead skin. Now, on mornings where you wake up with the feeling of a blind pimple brewing, you won’t pull the covers over your face and hide; you’ll know exactly how to send that bad boy packing! If you need an extra helping hand dealing with pimples under the skin, chat to our skin consultants.
What are AHAs in Skincare?
What are AHAs in skincare? You’ve probably figured out by now that those of us in the skincare world love an acronym - hey, some of those ingredients are really wordy! Speaking of loving an acronym, one of our absolute favourites is AHAs, otherwise known as alpha hydroxy acids. If you haven’t had your ‘aha!’ moment on what AHAs are (pardon the pun), by the time you finish reading you’ll well and truly be a member of their fan club. Without further ado, let’s dive into alpha hydroxy acids for skin. What are AHAs? While we’re keen to shout about why we love AHAs from the rooftops, let’s take a step back and ask the million dollar question - what are AHAs in skincare? They are acids (duh), but don’t let that word scare you - they are perfectly safe. They are often plant-derived and considered chemical exfoliants that buff away dead skin and congestion on the top layers of the skin. You may be more familiar with physical exfoliants (the gritty scrubs), but chemical exfoliants can penetrate deeper into the skin as they are water soluble. Plus, they won’t leave your skin red raw if used gently. There are 7 types of AHAs, but the most commonly researched (and the ones we’re going to be discussing today) are lactic and glycolic acids. AHAs benefits for skin AHA skin care is a favourite among dermatologists, and for good reason. In fact, the list of reasons to get behind AHAs is extensive, but we’re going to narrow it down to our top four. Great for acne-prone skin If you’re someone who struggles with acne, AHAs could be your golden ticket to clear skin. We all know that acne occurs as a result of clogged pores, and the beauty of AHAs is their ability to loosen whatever is clogging your pores and remove any dirt or sebum. This also means AHAs can make pores appear smaller, as they’re not as congested. Thanks to their exfoliating powers, glycolic and lactic acids also help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and overall skin tone. Anti-ageing benefits As we age, our skin is exposed to damaging environmental factors like pollution and UV rays. That, in combination with the cruelty of time means fine lines and wrinkles start to show up on our skin. The beauty of AHAs is their ability to promote collagen production. Collagen (the protein fibres that keep our skin plump) lies in the middle layer of the skin, where AHAs can reach. They destroy old collagen fibres to make way for fresh ones. Plus, AHAs in skincare also increase blood flow to the skin to give you a gorgeous radiance. Hydrate the skin AHAs will have your skin feeling soft and supple in a flash thanks to their hydrating powers. Some AHAs, like glycolic acid, are what’s known as humectants, meaning they draw water from their surroundings to the skin. Yup, that means while they exfoliate, you also get a hydrated glow. AHAs can also help other skincare products like your hydrating serum and moisturiser work more effectively, by removing dead skin cells that are stopping all of the good stuff from getting deep into the skin. Otherwise, your products are just moisturising dead skin and we don’t need to tell you that’s never going to work so well. Fades hyperpigmentation Using AHAs on a regular basis can help reduce the appearance of dark marks caused by sun damage, ageing or hormonal changes in pregnancy. AHAs increase cell turnover which allows newer skin, without pigmentation, to shine through. Skincare containing AHAs Like we said, there are at least seven types of AHAs, so knowing what to look for on your ingredients list can be a bit like acing a chemistry test. Luckily, we left tests behind in high school, so we’ve made it simple. Here are some esmi Skin Minerals products containing AHAs that will have people asking you who your facialist is (you can give them our details). Our go-to is the Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum. It contains 10% Fruit Acid Combination AHA's (5% Glycolic Acid and 5% Lactic Acid) to naturally and gently unclog pores and speed up cell renewal. It draws out impurities and works like a dream on blackheads, just FYI. If congested (rough and bumpy skin) has you down, reach for this little beauty. After using the Charcoal Serum, lock in moisture and get an extra dose of lactic acid with the Detox Hydra-Fluid Moisturiser. It will help to increase cellular turnover to leave skin smooth and soft, as well as featuring Red Algae Extract to hydrate and revitalise the skin. Before you lather on the AHAs, keep in mind the other ingredients in your skincare routine. You can layer your AHAs under any vitamin C serums, but they don’t play nicely with retinol as they are both exfoliants and can irritate the skin. If AHAs aren’t already a part of your skincare routine, do yourself a favour! They speed up your cell turnover by exfoliating the skin without harsh scrubs, leaving you with a clear, and brighter complexion - um, big yes to that! If you need a little more help figuring out which AHA products are right for you, chat to our skin consultants.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Skincare
Here at Makeup Cartel, we always want to be part of the solution, not the problem. It is no secret that the skincare and cosmetics industries have the potential to be detrimental to the environment, but they don’t have to be - we’re living proof that it’s possible to be an ethical skincare brand! We’ve made a serious commitment to creating eco friendly skincare wherever we can. It is at the heart of everything we do and is something we take really seriously - it’s up there with creating really, really good skincare! Our Sustainability Initiatives All of the plastic in our products is biodegradable and breaks down in 5-10 years, as opposed to the 100s of years it takes your stock standard plastic to break down. Mother Earth doesn’t have time to wait that long, and neither do we! Oh, and to make things even better, our packaging doesn’t leave behind any microplastics. Pretty clever, hey? As part of being a sustainable skincare brand, we’ve made sure that all of our glass and cardboard packaging is recyclable. That means, once you’ve finished using and loving your esmi products, clean out the glass packaging (and remove any plastic components) and send that beauty straight to recycling. Easy as pie! Speaking of glass bottles, did you know you can repurpose them? It’s true! Use them to house a new sapling or as the perfectly sized container for your favourite skincare when travelling. Read more about repurposing your glass bottles here. Our ingredient lists are predominately natural and completely clean, so they don’t contain any nasties that are going to harm the earth. After all, you wouldn’t put anything toxic on your skin, right? Plus, part of creating ethical skincare, means our products are completely cruelty-free, so we absolutely don’t test on animals. And just as the icing on the cake, all esmi products are completely vegan, so you won’t see any animal products in our skincare. We love to see it! We want our gorgeous esmi customers to enjoy our products for many years to come, which means we need to put our planet first! Creating sustainable skincare that you love using is our mission and we reckon we’ve done a great job of it, if we do say so ourselves!
What is Clean Beauty?
Clean beauty. It’s a niche that has dominated the skincare world in recent years and is definitely here to stay. What does “clean beauty” really mean, though? Well, the answer you get may depend on who you ask! The term is quite open to interpretation and there are differing views about the *exact* definition. In general, though, clean beauty describes products that are formulated with natural and plant-based ingredients and without any chemicals that have been deemed harmful to human health. This includes the 3 compounds we love to hate - parabens, phthalates, and sulfates which have been linked to concerns from skin irritation to hormone disruption. Beyond ingredients, clean beauty brands also extend their mindful formulation philosophies to include cruelty-free product testing and sustainable production. Clean beauty means clean ingredients We’re proud and passionate about the high clean beauty standards of esmi products. From ingredients through to testing and packaging, we believe in being totally transparent about how our products are made, what goes in them, and how they’re tested. Natural & plant-derived ingredients We use effective plant-based actives and natural ingredients in our formulations to help address a range of skin concerns from dehydration, and dullness to hyperpigmentation and signs of ageing. Some of our most-loved natural and plant-derived ingredients include: Aloe vera: Moisture promoting and skin-repairing aloe vera contains active ingredients including vitamins (vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, E and B12), enzymes, minerals, salicylic acids, and amino acids. Pomegranate: Contains Vitamin C to help with skin brightening and encourages skin repair and regeneration. Gold leaf: A natural antioxidant with active properties, gold helps boost circulation, stimulate collagen, and increase skin elasticity. Kakadu plum: The world’s most potent natural source of vitamin C, this Australian super fruit helps diminish the appearance of dark spots and promotes a glowing complexion. Avocado oil: A natural oil with a high percentage of active Vitamin E which is proven to aid in strengthening the skin barrier and keeping skin moisturised. Clean beauty products can also contain safe synthetic “nature identical” ingredients that are healthy and effective for the skin. Nature identical ingredients are synthetic (created in a lab) but they are safe and stable for use - ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and synthetically produced Vitamin A are good examples. Plus, the production of synthetic ingredients is often more environmentally responsible than harvesting the ingredient from natural sources. Living cultures for your skin to thrive Our probiotic skincare range is formulated with a scientifically developed probiotic lysate strain. These live cultures (aka: good bacteria) benefit the skin by helping strengthen the skin barrier and maintain balance. You can discover more about the benefits of probiotics in this article - a recommended read for anyone with sensitive skin. Probiotics can do wonders for a reactive complexion! FDA approved We only use the highest quality TGA and FDA approved ingredients in our products. This means they are safe for consumers under labelled or customary conditions of use, and are properly labelled. View our full ingredients page here and the ingredients of each product under the "INGREDIENTS" tab on each product page. Clean Beauty Doesn’t Cost The Earth At esmi we’re proud to play a role in promoting ethical, safe and more sustainable product choices across the skincare industry and beyond. We want to drive change by helping to create a world where all businesses are conscious and ethical. It’s not only your skin we care about with our clean, safe formulations; we care about animals and the environment too! Cruelty-free esmi products are completely cruelty-free and we’re committed to no animal testing at any stage. We use FDA approved cruelty-free ingredients and the final product is tested on happy human volunteers! We don’t sell our products to countries where animal testing is mandatory, either. Packaging We design our packaging with the environment in mind so all esmi products come in recyclable packaging. The shipping bags and boxes we use are biodegradable too - even the white packaging fill is all natural and non-toxic. It’s made from corn and is water-soluble. Shop esmi Skin Minerals range for clean beauty in Australia and discover skin solutions for every skin type and concern. You might also like to read: Our Favourite Natural Skincare Products Myths About Certain Ingredients 5 Amazing Vegan Skin Care Products
The Skin Benefits of Grapeseed Oil
There’s something about putting oil on your face that seems a bit … well, oily (eww, David!). We totally get that it feels counterintuitive to slather oil all over your skin, but listen up, because we’ve got some news for you! Using a face oil can have some skin-loving benefits and one of our favourites is grapeseed oil. What is Grapeseed Oil? Technically, grapeseed oil is exactly what it sounds like. Grapeseed oil is a byproduct of winemaking - once the grapes are squeezed, the leftover seeds are pressed to extract an oil with a silky texture and a light green-yellow colour. We love a zero-waste concept! Have your wine and put it on your face too! Unlike other oils that can clog pores and only suit particular skin types, grapeseed oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it contains ingredients that aren’t going to clog your skin so it’s suitable for even the most sensitive and acne prone skin. What are the Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Skin? They say that drinking wine can help you live longer and look younger, but what else can the humble grape do for you? Grapeseed oil is known for being packed with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It also contains omega chain fatty acids and vitamin E, which deeply nourish the skin and allow it to retain moisture and improve elasticity. If your skin is feeling dull and dehydrated, grapeseed oil can cover a multitude of sins, by moisturising, hydrating, reducing the appearance of fine lines and evening out your skin tone. Who is Grapeseed Oil Best for? Acne Prone Skin Acne prone skin is usually deficient in a little something called linoleic acid, which means the sebum produced is thick and will clog the pores more easily. The high levels of linoleic acid in grapeseed oil are a fabulous source of omega-6 fatty acids which assist in controlling acne by minimising sebum and clogged pores. The natural wonder that is grapeseed oil also has proven antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It works to fight breakout-causing bacteria deep within your pores to clear your skin. Plus, the vitamin E found in grapeseed oil helps to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Dry skin As we’ve mentioned, grapeseed oil contains fatty acids, which can also increase the skin’s moisture level, keeping you hydrated and plump all day long! As an added bonus, the vitamin E in grapeseed oil forms a protective barrier around the skin to stop transepidermal water loss. It locks in moisture and replenishes any natural oils lost throughout the day. Ageing Skin Look, getting older happens to the best of us, and we’re all looking to minimise those fine lines and wrinkles as best we can, naturally and easily. Grapeseed oil contains powerful antioxidants and phytosterols (a fancy word for a molecule found in plants), which you’ll be pleased to learn can assist in reducing the signs of ageing. These antioxidants fight free radicals to assist in boosting and preserving your skin’s collagen and elastin. Inflammation and Redness The phytosterols in grape seeds can reduce inflammation, including any irritation resulting from rosacea and eczema. Grapeseed oil is a fantastic natural remedy for inflammatory skin conditions. When phytosterols are applied topically, they help to gently nourish, strengthen the integrity of the skin’s cell membrane and fight off that flare-up inducing irritation and redness. Using Grapeseed Oil in Your Skincare Routine Impressed with grapeseed oil yet? We thought so! As it is such a lightweight and ‘all rounder’ oil, you can use it either morning or night, but similar to most oils, you’ll see the greatest benefits when it’s applied as one of the last steps in your skincare routine, either under your moisturiser or as the final step. As we always say, layer your serums and oils from thinnest to thickest. If you need help choosing a product with grapeseed oil, we’ve got you covered. First up is our best seller, the Probiotic Skin Mylck. Brimming with probiotics and our hero ingredient grapeseed oil, she’s full of goodness to help strengthen your skin’s barrier while moisturising and balancing. The linoleic acid in grapeseed oil can also help strengthen the skin's barrier function, in conjunction with probiotics. Like her predecessor, our classic Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration is packed with similar ingredients, but with an extra boost of intense moisture to target dehydration while keeping your skin’s barrier strong and hydrated. If you’re keen on a spa-like experience every night of the week, this is one to include in your routine. While we’re on the topic of hydration, our next product is perfect for on the go. Our Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist was basically made for your handbag, so you can give your skin a little refreshing snack to help replenish and rehydrate your skin and makeup when exposed to air conditioning, UV light, wind and weather. The grapeseed oil benefits for skin are just about endless. It is a powerful, natural ingredient with heaps of benefits for your skin, including improving your tone, texture and elasticity. It’s super gentle and safe for most skin types. Bring on all of the glowy benefits! If you’re keen to learn more about this mighty little seed, chat to one of our skin experts today.
Real Results: Deborah
“I’m so happy and so confident in my skin!” We’re so excited to share Deborah’s skin story and the fantastic results she’s seen since using esmi Skin Minerals products. For as long as Deborah could remember, she had suffered from red, dry, and irritated skin. It was itchy, uncomfortable and really affecting her confidence. If that wasn’t enough, Deborah was experiencing perioral dermatitis; inflammation around the mouth causing red bumps. Products she had tried in the past seemed to be worsening the problem, causing flare ups in sensitivity and her perioral dermatitis. Deborah was on the hunt for products that would soothe her irritated skin, calm inflammation and keep her dermatitis away. Spoiler alert: that’s where we came in! “I was online one day and came across esmi. I reached out to one of the consultants who was absolutely beautiful and who led me on my skin journey.” Our skin expert listened to Deborah’s concerns, looked at photos of her skin and created an anti-redness skincare routine for her sensitive skin. “We slowly worked to where I am today.” The skincare routine Deborah now follows focuses on calming irritation, nourishing the skin and protecting the skin barrier. She starts with the Probiotic Skin Mylck Cleanser to remove the day’s dirt and grime. Deborah was hesitant to use a cleanser, as they are what used to cause the bulk of the irritation, but she was pleasantly surprised by this one. It is ultra gentle, and helps heal, protect and maintain the skin’s moisture balance. Next come Skin Treats. Deborah uses the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum to keep her skin plump and hydrated, all while giving her a boost of radiance and protecting her skin. The Probiotic Skin Mylck acts as her calming and restorative moisturising lotion. The good bacteria protect and heal the skin barrier and soothe inflamed, damaged skin. She follows this up with the Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil, which reduces redness thanks to the magic of acai oil. Deborah also keeps the Skin Snack Face Mist at her work desk to keep her hydrated and refreshed all day. Of course, she protects her skin everyday with the Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen. “I stopped using sunscreens as they would break me out with dermatitis, but with this one, I have not had any reactions at all!” As a once a week treat, Deborah uses the Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant to (gently!) remove any buildup of dead skin, and the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask to deeply soothe, nourish and moisturise the skin. And what results has she seen from her new routine? “My skin isn’t red, definitely not itchy, not irritated. It feels hydrated. I’m so happy and confident in my skin!” Deborah has some advice for anyone struggling with skin concerns. “Reach out to one of esmi’s skin consultants and they will guide you on your skin journey.” “I am so glad I reached out to one of the consultants who knows what they’re talking about and guided me to where I am today. I hope that you’re going to be as happy with your skin journey as I am!” We’re so thrilled to see Deborah’s amazing skin transformation and we’d like to thank her for sharing her skin story with us! Meet more beautiful people who have achieved amazing results with esmi Skin Minerals on our Real Results page. If you’d like to book a free skin consultation with our skin specialists, speak to us on chat or send an email to skin@esmi.com.au.
The Best Facial Sunscreen for Summer
Summer is coming and it’s going to be a scorcher. It’s also that time of year when we can enjoy days on the beach and live a little more — especially outside! But, what does this mean for our skin? Anytime the sun shines (including in the cooler months) UV light can damage our skin, even if you are only outside for 15 minutes (eek!). Hats and sunglasses are proven to protect your face from the sun's harsh rays but it’s never a guarantee. The most effective way to protect your face from the sun is facial sunscreen. Luckily, esmi has a specific facial Skin Shield Sunscreen that is perfect for shielding your skin from the sun, no matter what skin type or concern you have. Still not convinced you need facial sunscreen this Summer? Keep reading — trust us when we say you won’t want to miss this step in your skincare routine! Why is facial sunscreen so important? Ask the esmi team (or any dermatologist for that matter) and they will say “sunscreen is the most important product to put on your face.” And, there’s a good reason for this. Sunscreen, when applied daily, can help to prevent sun damage to the skin (duh!). But, using facial sunscreen can slow down the process of premature ageing and can prevent the development of an uneven skin tone over time. Our esmi facial sunscreen also includes the element of hyaluronic acid — making sure you’re getting a boost of hydration when applying SPF throughout the day (because yes, you do need to apply it more than once per day). This isn’t available in all facial sunscreens and is one of the active ingredients that make our Skin Shield Sunscreen effective for all skin types. Imagine waking up each morning to smooth, crease-free skin? When you use SPF on the reg this could be your reality. Does 30 SPF sunscreen protect me from the sun? It is widely known that SPF protects against sunshine rays. But by how much? Facial sunscreen with 30 SPF blocks 97% of the Australian sun from hitting your skin, only 1% less than that of 50 SPF. So, if you’ve been thinking you need facial sunscreen that is 50+ SPF think again. When applied regularly, facial sunscreen with 30 SPF will protect your face whether you have fair or dark skin. Our facial sunscreen is specifically formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection to complement the other active ingredients for the ideal sun protection formula. Can I wear facial sunscreen under makeup? Wearing makeup over sunscreen has always been a challenge. Sometimes facial sunscreens are greasy and don’t mix well, even with the best foundation and BB cream formulas. However, wearing sunscreen under makeup is most definitely recommended as makeup, including full-coverage products, will not protect your skin from the summer sun. The best sunscreen under makeup has a non-greasy formula with hydrating properties and isn’t harsh on the skin. Our formula for facial sunscreen is exactly this (you’re welcome sensitive skin queens!). The esmi team wanted (and needed) a formula that was ideal under makeup and non-comedogenic — meaning free from pore-clogging ingredients — to make sure every person could look their best and get sun protection at the same time. Summer is coming! Choose the best facial sunscreen now. esmi’s Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 is the best facial sunscreen for your day-to-day summer adventures. Not only is it ideal for daily sun protection, but this product is also: Anti-ageing with the added benefits of carrot root oil Non-greasy and has no chalky residue Ideal for all types of skin (even sensitive and acne-prone skin!) Combined with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration Ideal under makeup Non-comedogenic (no more clogged pores!) We’ve truly made the best facial sunscreen for everyone and know that our wonderful esmi community loves it just as much as we do! For more information on the specific ingredients, reviews and how to use our Skin Shield Sunscreen click here.
esmi Skin Minerals Real Results: Brooke Schmidt
“The best thing I ever did for my skin.” Meet Brooke. With painful, burn-like reactions that would swell up, leaving the skin raw, red and very irritated, Brooke had been on quite the skin journey before finding esmi.
The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Dry Skin
Anyone with dry skin will tell you it is less than fun. The irritated, itchy and flaking skin is no one’s idea of a good time. Now is a good time to remind you that there is a difference between dry and dehydrated skin (more on that here), and they need different treatments. Today, we’re focusing on the best vitamins for dry skin to keep those symptoms away. This includes your general dryness, to more extreme concerns like dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. So for all of our dry skin beauties, listen up and take notes! Vitamin E Vitamin E and dry skin is a match made in heaven. It has an oil base so it is super nourishing. You might be more familiar with shea butter, which is a rich source of vitamin E. It is what is known in the skincare world as an emollient, which is just a fancy way of saying it helps to strengthen the skin barrier and limit water loss from the skin. Vitamin E is also anti-inflammatory, which makes it an ideal vitamin for eczema and other dry skin conditions. So, not only will it deeply moisturise the skin, it will also stop any moisture leaving and sooth any redness and irritation. Vitamin C Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant (win) and is also a key component of collagen production (double win). If your dry skin is showing up in patches of flakiness, itchiness or sores, vitamin C is where it’s at. Collagen is what helps to keep your skin strong and youthful, so upping your vitamin C is going to heal your skin. We love vitamin C in our dry skin supplements, our foods (think citrus), and because it’s us, our skincare! Vitamin D You may have heard of vitamin D as the sun vitamin; that’s because the skin is triggered to produce it with UV exposure. It is a great vitamin for dry skin as it strengthens the skin barrier, not only healing any flakiness, but also preventing water loss. Research has also suggested that skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis (some key culprits of dry skin) can be caused by low vitamin D levels, so if that’s not a reason to reach for your vitamin D dry skin supplements, we don’t know what is. Besides supplements, you can also find vitamin D in foods like red meat and fish. Now while it’s true that a little sunlight is great for your vitamin D levels, you know what we’re going to say, right? Don’t forget to wear your sunscreen! Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) One of our favourites here at esmi, vitamin B3, (also known as niacinamide) is another one of those super ingredients that boosts collagen production to heal any irritation and inflammation. It improves the skin barrier function to keep all of that good hydration locked inside. Vitamin B3 often comes in the form of your skincare ingredients (you’ll find heaps of our products contain this little beauty). Zinc If you go looking through the ingredients of creams that soothe rashes or itchy skin, you’ll see one thing pop up time and time again: zinc. It has some fantastic anti-inflammatory benefits to prevent redness and dryness. Zinc is such a great supplement for dry skin and if you read just a little further, we’ll tell you about our favourite… Fish Oil Fish oil, packed with Omega-3s, is something you should get familiar with if you’ve got dry skin. The fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and heal the skin by increasing hydration and limiting moisture loss. Fish oil works wonders for eczema, as it deeply nourishes the skin, heals a compromised skin barrier, and keeps water where it should be - in your skin! The Best Products for Dry Skin Luckily, we’ve made things super simple for those of you with dry skin by putting together a handy page with all of our products, perfect for you here. We’re going to run through some of our must-haves. The 24K Gold Nourishing Oil is rich in nourishing oils like avocado and jojoba for dry skin, as well as vitamin E. As a general rule, oils are fantastic at protecting the skin barrier and limiting any transepidermal water loss (any hydration leaving the skin). So, not only does this Skin Treat nourish dry skin, it also stops any moisture from disappearing. Sounds pretty good to us! Speaking of oils, the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask is full of the best! It is the perfect relaxation companion and rescues dry skin thanks to rich shea butter and skin strengthening vitamin B3. If your skin needs some extra love, leave this mask on overnight to really soak up that nourishing goodness. Repeat after us: you don’t just have to live with the side effects of dry skin. There are some great vitamins and supplements for dry skin that will have you feeling deeply nourished in no time! If you have any other questions about treating dry skin, contact one of our knowledgeable skincare experts today!
Bearberry Extract and Skincare for Pigmentation
One of those really annoying parts of ageing (like the 2-day hangovers) is pigmentation. It happens to the best of us (particularly if you’re a little partial to a day in the sun), but not to worry, some clever cookies have found ingredients that help to brighten the skin and keep premature ageing away. One that you might not have heard of, but really should become familiar with, is bearberry extract. What is Bearberry Extract? Yes, it has a super cute name, but there’s more to bearberry extract than just that! It has been having a moment in K-beauty thanks to the huge range of bearberry extract skin benefits, particularly in the world of anti-ageing. The extract comes from a shrub that produces red berries - who would have thought something so small would be so fantastic? Bearberries contain something called arbutin, which is where all of the magic comes from. So, we’ll be referencing both here, just to keep you on your toes, but we’re talking about the same thing. The Benefits of Bearberry Extract for Skin You may have noticed we’re fans of bearberry extract for skin. The main reason is its amazing anti-ageing properties. One of the key components of cracking the anti-ageing code is steering clear of pigmentation. If you’ll allow us to get a bit geeky for a second, arbutin breaks down into hydroquinone, which disrupts the enzyme that produces dark spots - talk about an underrated hero! It is a renowned skin-lightening ingredient. In a nutshell, bearberry extract in skin care halts melanin production. As a powerful antioxidant, bearberry extract fights free radicals which, put simply, are unstable atoms that damage the cells and break down collagen. Collagen is what gives your skin a gorgeous, plump and youthful glow. So yes, it is kind of important. Free radicals on the other hand, are absolutely not. Hence, having a team of antioxidant soldiers in the form of arbutin is going to make a world of difference. Because it protects skin cells from free radicals which helps collagen production, bearberry extract in skin care plumps fine lines and wrinkles. It allows the body to produce collagen at its optimum level, so you can soak up all of those complements with your youthful-looking skin! As a bonus to evening out the skin tone, reducing melanin and slowing the signs of ageing, bearberry in skincare is also anti-inflammatory, helping to heal irritated skin and fade scars. Including Bearberry Extract in Skincare We’re going to guess you’re pretty impressed by the skin brightening and anti-ageing talents of arbutin in skin care by now - we sure are! Finding products that are packed with the good stuff is going to seriously transform your skincare routine. A crowd favourite, the Pomegranate Brightening Serum reduces the body’s melanin production which, you guessed it, lightens hyperpigmentation. We’ve also added amino acids to brighten full, sallow skin, plus vitamin C as the icing on the brightening cake. This Skin Treat targets pigmentation and sends it packing. While we’re on the brightening train going full steam ahead, the Brightening Eye Serum revives tired eyes by lightening pigmentation. Because the only bags we want are designer, this eye serum will keep dark circles away thanks to the magic of bearberry extract. If you’re looking for the plumping benefits of bearberry extract, you really can’t go past the Golden Anti-Ageing Serum. Yes, it looks incredible, but there’s more to this serum than meets the eye (it’s not just a pretty face!). The peptides and antioxidants reduce fine lines and wrinkles, all the while nourishing the skin. Arbutin in skincare fights free radicals for firmer skin, which is a major win. Bearberry extract may go by many names, but its brightening and anti-ageing properties work just as well, no matter what you call it! To find out more about the magic of this little berry, chat to one of our skincare experts!
10 Things You Can’t Live Without
What does this look like for you? Okay, we’ve all pondered it. You’re stuck on a deserted island. And can only have with you, a few essential items. No wifi. No laptop. No phone. No Instagram… wait… if I eat something and don’t share a photo of it, did it really even happen?! Okay, so we’re slightly exaggerating with that last one! But when you think of 20 things you couldn’t live without… What are they? Here’s our list - bearing in mind we are collating this with a #livingyourbestlife vibe, not a #winnerofsurvivor vibe. We might not NEED these to survive an apocalypse, but they’re definitely in this day and age version of ‘things we can’t live without’. 1. Skincare #bestfaceforward While water would be our number one SURVIVAL item for the ‘deserted island’ scenario, this list is more aligned with the ‘daily life’ scenario, so skincare is AT THE TOP! A solid skincare routine using products that will feed your skin the nutrients it needs are absolute ‘cannot live without’ items. Grab one of our skin treats and see for yourself! 2. Clean water + good food It doesn’t need to be water from a spring in the Swiss Alps or cuisine from the fanciest restaurant in town, but food and water will ALWAYS be a necessity! And even better if it looks super cute on your Insta feed right?! #gramgamestrong 3. Phone Whether it’s to call a loved one, communicate with your kids to know they're safe, check in on a friend or update your social media account. I think we’d all consider our phones to be a pretty important thing to have these days. And with the beauty of the internet in your pocket, you have endless possibilities of things to find, people to meet and community engagement to access. Let’s just all be mindful to use it for the benefit of others. 4. Coffeeee! Liquid gold. The good stuff. If you can live without, you go glen coco. Maybe you’re a tea drinker? Green Tea Matcha? Whatever your choice of beverage… who can imagine a life without them?! 5. Clothes We don’t know about you, but nothing worse than being caught on your daily commute to work, butt naked in the middle of the train right?! I mean, really this one is for the benefit of those around you. And with fashion forever evolving (or going back to the ’90s, YUSSS!) how fun that we can all dress in our own way. 6. The beach Now we’re getting into those things that just make life BETTER. How good is the feeling after a long day at work, or a day cooped up studying or with a house full of over-energetic kids, to just go and walk along the sand and to look out at the beautiful ocean around us? Bliss. 7. Books A book can be so powerful. Each one merely words set out on pages, bound together to form a book, but each with such a unique purpose. Some allow you to study and complete your degree. Some help advance and further your career. Some might teach you a new skill or guide you to learn a new way of life. Maybe it feeds your soul and teaches you about your religion. Or perhaps it is used to inspire you, as it journey’s through the life of somebody else. And our personal favourite, the books that entertain you with their multi-layered fictional characters and unfolding story. 8. Company Okay, so this is not a ‘thing’. But have you ever tried to live your life without ANYONE’S company? No human contact (as we’ve learnt throughout this pandemic) is certainly not the ideal. Even introverts who love their own space, would need at least small amounts of human contact and company. So it deserved a spot on our list. 9. Screens Again, we’re not talking about survival here. We’re talking about what are those everyday things that we can’t live without (anymore!) And although screens get a bad rap because they can be used too much, a balanced amount is healthy. Your laptop? Can allow you to work from wherever while looking after family or travelling around the country making memories. All the while being able to provide for your family. On the computer! This is where the next inventions in the tech world are created! Your living room TV can provide the family with the movie we all sit to watch together with a shared blanket and giant bowl of popcorn. And who doesn’t love sitting in a movie theatre with an oversized slushy and 2 hours of purposed chill out time?! 10. Music There have been studies done that show the physical and psychological benefits of what music does for living beings. Have you ever watched a movie or TV and show and imagine what it would be like without the music in the background? Weird! Imagine Christmas time without Christmas carols? Playing it in the car on the long road trip to visit the in-laws, having it on in the background of your dinner party, experiencing it live as people play the instruments in front of you or even jumping up and down at a concert! #groupie Most religions even use music as a form of worship, powerful. This is some of our things we can’t imagine life without. What are some of yours?
Makeup Cartel & Baby Give Back
Here at Makeup Cartel, we understand our fortunate position to be able to give back to our community, so we take the opportunity whenever we can! Baby Give Back provides invaluable support for families in crisis, who are unable to provide the essentials for their children, including families that have been hit by natural disasters and personal tragedies who need a helping hand. “Our team works tirelessly to ensure that vulnerable babies and children have an equal start to life.” Their team of 300+ volunteers collect donations of key items like nappies, cots, wipes, prams - everything we take for granted. Being a smaller organisation, every little bit goes directly to the families in need and the demand is growing each and every month. We have been working with the incredible team at Baby Give Back since 2019 and have supported them through a range of initiatives and fundraising events. Care Packs to Mums in Need We have been able to donate care packs full of esmi products to mums who cannot always afford skincare. While this may seem like a luxury, giving mothers in need necessities like body wash and sunscreen, as well as skincare, provides a sense of normalcy and an opportunity for a moment of self care. After all, we cannot pour from an empty cup! We have even had the honour of presenting care packs directly to mothers in need. Being able to hear their stories is always such a strong reminder of why we do what we do, if you are able to assist those around you, it is such a rewarding experience to do so. Natural Disaster Donations During previous flooding events, Makeup Cartel HQ became a donation hub, where locals could donate items that would be passed onto Baby Give Back. We’re so proud of our community who have always come out in force, donating nappies, wipes, children’s clothing, toys, books and everything in between. High Tea Sponsorships As part of their fundraising initiatives, Baby Give Back hosts annual high teas which we are honoured to sponsor. They are such enriching days where we are surrounded by incredibly inspiring members of the community, passionate about providing for children in need. We create gift bags for all attendees, many of whom are those Baby Give Back has directly assisted, packed with our luxe skincare. Social Media Support Our close relationship with Baby Give Back means they are able to alert us when stock of particular donations are low. That’s when we make the call out to the Makeup Cartel community who generously come together and donate in droves. It is moments like these that remind us how much we adore our customers - yes, that means you! We are so excited to continue to support Baby Give Back for many years to come. If you want to contribute to their incredible work, head to their donations page here.
What Vitamins Are Good for Your Skin?
Vitamins: not just that thing you’re supposed to take in the morning but never quite remember! Vitamins not only make sure your body is working at its best, but vitamins and skincare go hand in hand. Now, there are plenty of vitamins that are going to give your body a boost, and a healthy balanced diet can get you well on your way. But when it comes to your skin, it often needs a helping hand with some vitamin-packed products. We’re going to break down the four best vitamins for skin. Vitamin A An A+ skincare routine isn’t complete without vitamin A. It is a crowd favourite amongst dermatologists due to its regenerative properties. It can be split into two categories: retinoids and carotenoids, but both are converted to retinol - an ingredient you’re probably more familiar with. The skin is a retinoid-responsive organ which means it can easily absorb vitamin A if applied topically, so you can fully reap all of those benefits. If you’re not well and truly a member of the vitamin A fan club, you’re missing out. It can stop acne in its tracks by acting as an exfoliant that sloughs off dead skin cells and unclogs pores. It also stimulates collagen production to reduce fine lines, speeds up skin cell turnover to reveal healthier skin, plus has the bonus of antioxidant properties. Phew, now that’s what we call a show-off! Alright, let’s talk giving your routine a vitamin A boost. Like we said, retinoids are a form of vitamin A so retinol products are going to be your first port of call. It just so happens that our range of encapsulated retinol is the perfect hit of vitamin A. The retinol is enclosed in tiny capsules which allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin layer before being activated. Our range comes in four levels of concentration. Always start with our lowest level and just a couple of drops once a day to work your way up. Congratulations, you’re officially a member of the vitamin A fan club - we have t-shirts (okay we don’t, but we totally should). Vitamin B3 Much like Snoop Dogg, vitamin B3 has had many names in its life, but when it comes to skincare, you’ll likely see it called Niacinamide (or Niacin). It is an incredibly restorative vitamin that can bring even the most tired skin back from the brink. Our bodies can’t actually produce niacin so applying it topically is crucial. One of Niacinamide’s key benefits is its ability to smooth the skin’s texture. This means it can reduce the depth of wrinkles (major yes) and help to keep acne at bay, especially because it also regulates oil production. It also helps your skin to retain moisture so if you’re on the dehydrated side, it will change your life. Plus, Niacin is like a meditation session for the skin; it is uber calming so will keep redness and sensitivity in check. So basically, vitamin B3 is like the queen B-eyonce, there’s not much it can’t do! To give your skin a shot of Niacinamide, our Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum has you totally covered. It fights dehydration to help plump skin, minimise lines, and boost radiance. It is our go-to for skin repair, restoration and to regulate oil flow. Vitamin C Did anyone else get told as a kid to eat their carrots because the vitamin C would help them see in the dark? Just us? Okay… Whether that is true or not, what is true is that vitamin C can have enormous benefits for the skin. Board certified dermatologist, Patricia Wexler, says it is “ a potent antioxidant… vitamin C aids in your skin’s natural regeneration process, which helps your body repair damaged skin cells.” This means it helps to stimulate collagen production to keep your skin gorgeous and plump. If years in the sun are showing on your skin, vitamin C can lift hyperpigmentation (well, that and wearing sunscreen daily). It is basically an anti-aging magician. Vitamin C is another one of those vitamins that our bodies can’t store, so incorporating it into our diets and skincare is going to make a world of difference. Our Pomegranate Brightening Serum is packed with pomegranate (of course) and Kakadu Plum extract, which has one of the world’s highest levels of Vitamin C and is superb for skin brightening. Want a double dose of antioxidant protection? Our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen will not only keep the sun’s harmful rays off you, but the vitamin C in the carrot root oil and cucumber will fade those sun spots. Vitamin E Calling all of you with dry skin. Yes, you! Vitamin E is your nourishing and soothing superhero. It helps to seal in moisture and smooth the skin, so you can say “see ya” to dry patches. It can calm inflammation and give you some of those sweet, sweet anti-aging benefits. In skincare, you’ll often see vitamin E come in the form of shea butter. So if dry skin is causing you stress, let vitamin E get you on the right track. Luckily, we have heaps of products packed with the good stuff. Firstly, our Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo contains vitamin E-rich seaweed extract to keep your skin super hydrated. Then embrace your extra side with our 24K Gold Nourishing Oil, and when you need a ‘treat yourself’ moment, reach for the Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask that embraces the power of shea butter. Want to know more about the vitamins you should be looking for for your skin? Chat to our skincare experts on our website!
Leading The Way to Carbon Neutral Beauty: Our Story
You might have seen the terms ‘carbon neutral’ and ‘carbon negative’ floating around the beauty community. These buzzwords are evident of more brands committing to sustainable practices for the environment, but how do they relate to esmi Skin Minerals? esmi has always been passionate about producing vegan and cruelty-free skincare that is made in Australia. Our next goal is to continue this journey by lessening and eventually neutralising our carbon footprint. We’re excited to announce that from November 2022 we’re continuing our transition to becoming carbon neutral! What does carbon neutral mean? Carbon neutral means that our business, product and operations actions emit the same amount of CO2 into the atmosphere as what we offset. Becoming carbon neutral can look like altering our packaging to contain fewer microplastics to promote new green initiatives within the brand office and warehouse. Whilst certain changes may be small, they will make a big difference in the long term — showing our commitment to carbon neutrality and the environment. Now, let's dive deep into the new initiatives that will help esmi become a carbon neutral beauty brand. Reducing our carbon footprint through product packaging The esmi brand has been using unique Sugarcane bioplastic since 2019 in most of our tube products. What is sugarcane you may ask? The sugarcane crop is carbon negative (meaning it actually removes carbon from our atmosphere!), allowing the process of producing this type of packaging to be carbon neutral. We use Sugarcane bioplastic as it is a sustainable, environmentally friendly material that uses renewable resources — this is a fossil-fuel-free plastic that is 100% recyclable (can we get a hell yes!). Microplastics are also a cause for concern as they can be detrimental to the environment. Therefore, we also include biodegradable technology in our tubes, allowing the plastic and commercial packaging resins to biodegrade without leaving behind any microplastics. This is a game changer when it comes to skincare packaging and we are proud of it! But what’s esmi doing now? From November 2022 we began moving our plastic packaging to have the following features: Product packaging is made of 25% to 35% recycled materials Caps and bottles being 100% recyclable Caps and bottles are 100% biodegradable (if the packaging ends up in landfill). Removing a number of products from their boxes Infinite recyclability for our glass bottles (yes, we’re talking Skin Treats and Moisturiser jars!) Becoming carbon neutral through shipping initiatives Changing shipping practices will also help esmi lead the way to a carbon neutral future. We hope that every purchase made from esmi will do something good for the environment including once it has left our warehouse. To do this we’ve partnered with Shopify Planet — an app aiming to focus on carbon removal from Shopify stores (like us!) instead of offsetting carbon. With this software we can calculate the emissions produced by every parcel that’s shipped from our warehouse, ensuring we can neutralise our carbon footprint from shopping with the right data. The contributions made each month to help neutralise carbon emissions will go towards funding cutting-edge carbon removal projects through the Shopify Sustainability Fund which backs the development of technologies that remove carbon from the atmosphere. At this point, you might also be asking how our shipping packaging is changing. Well, esmi has always been environmentally friendly when sending parcels to ensure products arrive safe and intact. Our shipping packaging initiatives include: 100% recyclable shipping packaging that does not contain polypropylene film (which is harmful to the environment in many forms) The use of soy ink and water-based varnish that won’t interfere with the recycling process Paper packaging that is low on carbon Cornstarch used for filling in packages that is both biodegradable and compostable All paper materials coming from responsibly managed FSC-certified forests Parcels secured with paper packaging tape and natural rubber adhesive that is both recyclable and environmentally friendly And, what about our office? We can’t forget about the esmi headquarters where our office and warehouse team up to create an environmentally friendly workplace. We have our own recycling bins for cans and bottles and encourage green habits like sipping takeaway coffee from your own reusable cup and refusing single use plastic. The office has a long way to go but implementing small changes means we’re continually growing towards being as carbon-neutral as possible. When REDcycle is up and running again, we will re-incorporate that into the business. Joining a collection of carbon neutral beauty brands Our esmi team and community are undoubtedly excited to join a collection of carbon neutral beauty brands that put the environment first. And, this is in no way the end of our journey. As a brand, we are always researching and implementing new initiatives and technologies to help us reduce our carbon footprint. It’s our responsibility and one the esmi brand is extremely passionate about.
How to Stop Skin Picking
Does anyone else have that friend who is obsessed with popping pimples? If you don’t, you’re probably the friend. If you’re guilty of skin picking, don’t worry, this is a safe space. While we here at esmi are believers in the no-face-touching policy, we know it can be hard to resist the urge to pick that pimple that is driving you crazy. While it might seem like no big deal, skin picking can cause long-lasting damage and scarring. So, let’s help you jump off the picking bandwagon with some do’s and don’ts. Why Do We Pick Our Skin? It’s fairly normal for people to pick at the bumps on their face from time to time, and it often comes down to being a bad habit or stress related. However, if picking becomes chronic, it may be a medical skin-picking disorder called excoriation. Now in those extreme cases, it might be time to visit a naturopath or GP, but if you’re a regular old skin picker, read on. For most, skin picking starts with pimples and acne, but can also surface thanks to a rash that can lead to scabbing. Picking at your skin can become so routine, you don’t even think about it - kind of like opening Instagram every time you turn on your phone. You might not even notice you’re doing it! Aside from a habit, skin picking can be a symptom of anxiety. Have you gone through a really stressful time in your life recently? You might notice skin picking becomes a subconscious relief mechanism. How to Stop Skin Picking - The Do’s Do Keep Your Hands Busy Whether the root cause of your skin picking is habit or stress, keeping your hands occupied can go a long way to letting the urge to pick pass. Okay hear us out, stress balls. We know it sounds silly, but they help to relieve stress and take your mind off skin picking. Keep one near your bed or in your bathroom. If the humble stress ball sounds like a stretch to you, take up a habit like crocheting - crochet bucket hats are having a moment! Another option is to replace the bad habit with a good one. Every time you feel the need to pick your face, moisturise instead. In dire cases, if you think you might be picking in your sleep, grab yourself a cheap pair of gloves to wear while you sleep, just at least until your skin has a chance to heal. Do Keep Your Nails Short and Clean Okay, we love using Kylie Jenner’s Instagram as our nail inspo, but if you’re prone to skin picking, you’re going to want to keep them on the shorter side to avoid too much damage to your gorgeous skin. Plus, and perhaps more importantly, keep your nails clean - please! The underside of your nails can harbour bacteria which, if you are picking, can end up under your skin and in some cases lead to infection (as if you needed another reason not to chew them). Do Have a Skin Picking-Friendly Skincare Routine Remember what we said about bacteria under the skin causing infections? Yeah, that’s why you’re going to want to use products that keep your skin clean and help it to heal. As is the case with any open wounds, keeping your skin clean is vital. Cleansing twice a day with The Uncomplicated Cleanser will send nasty bacteria packing which is exactly what we want! If pimples are what’s causing your skin picking, time to adopt an anti-acne routine, featuring the Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant (to gently remove congestion) and the Peppermint Green Oil (to balance oil flow and we love its antibacterial benefits). Keeping your skin clean and clear will also prevent future bumps and pimples which equals less picking - win, win! If you have some scarring, try our Encapsulated Retinol range (start with the lowest concentration and work your way up) to help with cell turnover and regeneration. How to Stop Skin Picking - The Don’ts Don’t Reach for the Pins and Tweezers For the love of the skincare gods, put down the sharp objects. Your skin is delicate and if you don’t know what you’re doing you’re likely to do more damage. They are rarely sterilised, meaning you’ll only push bacteria and sebum further into your skin and cause permanent scarring. To sum it up; leave the extractions to the professionals. Don’t Ignore Your Triggers Next time you go to pick your skin, think about what made you want to. Were you stressed, bored, frustrated? Think of it like meditation; really become aware of your senses and triggers. That’s when you can avoid those triggers or replace the bad habits with more positive ones. Skin picking can, in the best-case cause pain and irritation, and in the worst case, permanent scarring. That’s why avoiding it at all costs is key for clear and glowing skin. If you have any other questions on skin picking, chat to one of our Skin Experts.
Why is Self-Care Important?
When it comes to creating a self-care routine, we can often be stuck on the pampering side of self-care — think long baths and extravagant pedicures. But, as the esmi Skin Specialists know, self-care can happen in the everyday and shouldn’t be a treat for when you feel most burnt out. But, why is self-care important? We know it can be easy to let self-care become your lowest priority and sometimes life can get the best of us. We can forget how important self-care is to nurture our physical and emotional health. Keeping this front of mind is essential for overall wellbeing, and With R U OK? Day approaching, the esmi team wants to share some of our favourite self-care suggestions so you can take some time out for you! Put your body first Self-care can be seen as indulgent and selfish, but esmi acknowledges that putting yourself first is essential for physical health. Putting your body first can differ for everybody! Some people love to cuddle up and relax, others might find that moving their body makes them feel best. You may also find you love a bit of both — yoga and matcha anyone? Whatever it is, figuring out what makes your body happy can be a game changer for your self-care routine. Skincare as self-care Once you have relaxed or pumped out a killer sweat sesh, taking care of your skin should be the next step! We may sound biased (and we are) but the stress and busyness of life can impact your skin by causing breakouts, dryness, under-eye circles or serious skin issues to flare up like eczema. Using skincare as self-care on a regular basis will help reduce and repair these skin reactions. So, why not incorporate skincare into a daily self-care ritual? Taking some time before work or after your nightly shower to slow down and apply your skincare intentionally is a great way to relax and one that the esmi team stands by. If you’re unsure what a self-care skin routine should look like try to incorporate products that are gentle on the skin, tailored to your skin type, and make you feel a little luxurious. Remember skincare should be an enjoyable experience and one that allows you to feel nurtured from the outside! Treat yourself or someone else! Self-care for your body and skin is important, but what about the small joys in life? Treating yourself to a colourful lipstick, some beautiful flowers, or a delicious coffee is a great way to add a bit of joy throughout the day. Surprising someone else with something special can also be a great way to make their day and boost your mood with some all-important serotonin. Now, we wouldn’t recommend this self-care tactic all time as it can get a little pricey, but when something is getting you down it isn’t a crime to simply treat yourself and others! Curate your space Clearing your space of clutter can be a game changer for your mental clarity. We’ve all been guilty of leaving a mess in the house due to a hectic week (especially the esmi team!) but taking time to clean and curate your space can positively affect your emotional wellbeing. You can even take it a step further and add self-care items to your clean space. Maybe a comfy robe, a relaxing essential oil or even a moisturising lip balm. Adding these items to your space can make you feel at ease and ready to love your calming self-care routine. Plan something to look forward to Looking forward to dinner with friends or an exciting holiday can make all the difference when managing any worries. Having something to look forward to can put current struggles into perspective and allow joy into your life when you need it most. Planning these events could even be a form of self-care! Creating a future for yourself that you know will spark happiness can do wonders for your day-to-day mental health and is something we encourage our esmi community to do regularly. Ask for help and accept it when offered All too often we perform our own self-care and neglect the help around us. But the truth is when we need the most self-care it can be wise to ask for help and actually accept it. It is also a great idea (when you’re feeling good) to ask others if they need help also and assist where you can! R U OK? Day is happening on September 8th and esmi stands by the organisation's purpose to encourage others to stay connected and converse with each other when times get tough. Support R U OK? Day here and learn how you can make a difference to someone who is struggling.
Delivering Care Packages with Ash Barty
We love our community and relish any opportunity to give back whenever we can! Someone who shares these values with us is brand ambassador Ash Barty, former women's world number one tennis player. We recently had the pleasure of partnering with Ash to provide self-care packs to some incredible COVID nurses. They work so tirelessly to provide lifesaving care and put themselves on the front line to protect us. Surprising them with everything they need for a moment of self-care was the least we can do to show our gratitude. The packs included a mix of cleansers, Booster Face Masks, and of course, the hero Probiotic Skin Mylck. Wearing protective masks every day, while incredibly important, can wreak havoc on the skin. Using probiotic skincare restores the skin barrier to prevent sensitivity, dryness, and mask-ne. The packs also included a beautiful note and video from Ash, thanking the nurses for their hard work in caring for the community. Kind words from an Aussie hero to other Aussie heroes! With Ash’s help, we were able to gift packs to over 400 nurses working in COVID wards across the GCGU, Royal Melbourne and Western Health. Providing self-care gift packs to those working so hard gives them permission to take the time to look after themselves. We strongly believe in the power of taking a moment (or two!) to look after yourself. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup! Giving back is at the heart of our values here at Makeup Cartel, and is something we will continue to do. Our customers and community allow us to do what we love - provide you with skincare that makes you feel incredible. This is our way of saying thank you. Read more about how we give back here.
6 Hyaluronic Acid Benefits For Hair
For those of you playing the esmi drinking game at home, you can take a shot because we’re about to talk about one of our favourite ingredients: hyaluronic acid. No wait, don’t click away, we promise this is different! We’re going to be chatting about hyaluronic acid for hair. While it might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to hair care, we know that skincare doesn’t end at the hairline. A lot of the ingredients we love for our skin also have some amazing benefits for the scalp and the hair. Today, we’re breaking down 6 hyaluronic acid benefits for hair. Hair Hydration Hyaluronic acid provides deeply nourishing hydration without the risk of greasy build-up, thanks to how quickly it sinks into the scalp and hair follicles. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts moisture from its surroundings like a magnet, giving your hair a big drink of water, keeping it smooth and super hydrated. We’ll get into why that’s so important in a bit… Scalp Hydration Like we said, we take a scalp-first approach to haircare (you can read more about that here). After all, by supporting the scalp microbiome, we can keep the hair happy and healthy. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the scalp to keep it nice and hydrated. Just like how you can’t have wine without cheese, you can’t have healthy hair follicles without a healthy scalp. Hydrating the scalp is going to keep flakiness away and reduce hair loss by creating an environment conducive to hair growth. Reduces Frizziness One of the best hyaluronic acid benefits for hair is its ability to keep frizz under control. For those of us who dread a rainy day thanks to our hair getting a bit wild, hyaluronic acid is going to be your saviour. Frizzy hair can often be a sign of dry or damaged hair, and if you’re suffering from one or the other, or both, the outer cuticle opens up in an attempt to let in that much needed moisture. When too much moisture is retained, these cuticles start to swell and voila, your hair might be looking like you just touched one of those balls of electricity from middle school science class. To avoid the frizz, your best bet is to keep dryness at bay with hyaluronic acid. Improves Porosity of Hair If you’re wondering, “what is hair porosity?”, don’t worry, just consider us Google! Porosity is the measure of your hair’s ability to absorb and store moisture. Majority of the time, porosity is determined by good ol’ genetics and external factors like the use of heat appliances. Having dry, damaged or bleached hair means it is going to be higher on the porosity spectrum, so you’re more susceptible to losing moisture. Think of it like filling up a bucket of water with holes in the bottom - you’re going to lose all that moisture! Hyaluronic acid plugs those holes and helps your follicles retain hydration. Helps to Treat Dermatitis If you’ve got a bad case of seborrheic dermatitis (in other words, dermatitis on the scalp), you’re going to want to get friendly with hyaluronic acid. Signs of seborrheic dermatitis include a red and itchy scalp, as well as dandruff. Most of the time, this type of dermatitis occurs in high oil-producing areas of the body, like the scalp, and is triggered by factors like stress, hormones, cold weather or harsh chemicals. Hyaluronic acid is going to help calm inflammation and irritation, keeping dermatitis at bay and boosting hydration. Suitable for Everyone While some moisturising products can cause one’s hair to feel heavy and greasy, hyaluronic acid is suitable for all hair types and textures, just like it is great for all skin types. We love an inclusive ingredient! Hair Products Including Hyaluronic Acid When you’re scouring the internet for hair products that contain hyaluronic acid, you might be a little confused by the lack of options. That’s only because in reality, most hair products will list sodium hyaluronate instead, which is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. Being smaller in structure, it can penetrate deeper into the scalp and hair follicles. If you’re looking for your new favourite hyaluronic acid shampoo and conditioner, you’re in luck. We happen to know the perfect ones! The esmi Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner are rich in hyaluronic acid to boost hydration for healthier, smoother and more nourished hair. With the help of our unique biome blend of probiotic lysates, our Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner is going to also hydrate your scalp and restore your precious skin barrier. If you haven’t tried hyaluronic acid for hair, your world is about to be changed (dramatic, but true). Want to know more? Chat to our esmi skin (and now scalp!) experts today.
