Can You Use Vitamin C and Retinol Together?
Key takeaways Retinol and Vitamin C both deliver serious brightening and anti-ageing benefits. They can live in the same routine – just not layered on top of each other. Use Vitamin C in the morning for glow and antioxidant protection. Use retinol in the evening. Always finish your morning routine with SPF50+. If you’ve been part of the esmi family for a while, you’ll know our devotion to Retinol and Vitamin C runs deep. These two heavy-hitters anchor many of our routines for good reason. The results can be transformative – think: luminous, smoother, firmer-looking skin - provided you use them correctly. Vitamin C: Your morning glow-getter Products: Brightening 15% Vitamin C Serum Vitamin C is the ultimate multi-tasker. As a potent antioxidant, it helps neutralise free radicals caused by pollution and UV exposure – both known to accelerate the visible signs of ageing. It also plays a vital role in collagen synthesis and helps inhibit excess melanin production, meaning dark spots appear less pronounced over time. And while Vitamin C supports your skin against UV damage, it is not a substitute for sunscreen. Think of it as your SPF’s stylish best friend – strong alone, unstoppable together. The result? Skin that looks brighter, clearer and more luminous. Retinol: The hero of your PM routine Products: Encapsulated Retinol 0.25% Level 1 Encapsulated Retinol 0.50% Level 2 Encapsulated Retinol 0.75% Level 3 Encapsulated Retinol 1.0% Level 4 Derived from vitamin A, Retinol is renowned for accelerating cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. Translation: brighter-looking skin, softened fine lines and a fresher, more refined complexion. It’s also a quiet achiever for breakout-prone skin, helping to decongest pores and lightly exfoliate. When it comes to premature ageing, Retinol is less trend and more gold standard. If you’re new to Retinol, start low and slow. A peal sized amount every second night is plenty. Some mild adjustment (think slight dryness or flaking) can happen at first, but consistency – and patience – pays off. Can you use Retinol and Vitamin C together? Short answer: yes. Long answer: not at the same time. Both ingredients are highly active, and layering them can overstimulate the skin, leading to irritation and a compromised barrier – which, ironically, makes skin more vulnerable to environmental stressors. There’s also the science. Retinol and Vitamin C perform best at different pH levels. Apply them together and you risk destabilising both, reducing their potency and limiting results. The smarter approach? Separate them by time of day. How to make them work Use Vitamin C in the morning to amplify brightness and antioxidant protection. Brightening 15% Vitamin C Serum delivers a potent concentration designed to visibly improve pigmentation, boost radiance and support collagen production – ideal for skin showing signs of dullness, sun damage or uneven tone. Retinol belongs in your evening routine. Because it increases photosensitivity, it’s strictly an after-dark treatment. The Encapsulated Retinol range is formulated to deliver actives deeper into the skin with reduced irritation. Begin with Level 1 and only increase once your skin has comfortably adjusted. And every single morning? Wear sunscreen – and make sure it’s SPF50+. It's non-negotiable, especially when using actives. Retinol and Vitamin C may not share the same step, but when used strategically, they form one of skincare’s most powerful alliances. Glow by day, renew by night – and let consistency do the rest.
2024 Skin Care Trends You Have to Try!
As we dive into the new year, let's spice things up and give our skin the love it deserves with the latest beauty trends! In this blog, we're breaking down the most anticipated skincare trends of 2024. These new year trends are here to make your skincare routine anything but ordinary. Now's the time to let your skin join the celebration and thrive in style! ✨ #1: A solution to the pigmentation problem In the tapestry of life, many people experience pigmented skin at some point. With the surge of the "clean-girl" aesthetic and the trend moving towards a more natural appearance, skincare enthusiasts are keen to tackle pigmentation head-on. Addressing this concern becomes a delightful journey with products like the esmi Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo, a vitality-boosting serum/oil combo infused with Kakadu Plum & Acai to brighten, tone and restore tired skin. Another product to enhance your glow is the Pomegranate Brightening Serum. This serum delivers a burst of radiance for pigmentation-prone skin. Lastly, don't forget your SPF: the esmi Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30, your trusted companion in safeguarding against sun-induced pigmentation. Embrace the beauty in addressing pigmentation with these power-packed products, making the journey to radiant, even-toned skin simpler. #2: Niacinamide will still be a hero in 2024 Niacinamide's surge in popularity throughout 2023 is anticipated to persist into 2024, thanks to its multitude of skin benefits. Renowned for brightening the skin, soothing redness and addressing hyperpigmentation, niacinamide stands out. For those seeking comprehensive hydration with niacinamide benefits, esmi's Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum and Ageless Hyaluronic Serum seamlessly combines both. Additionally, the Hyaluronic Booster Mask provides a concentrated treatment to enhance skin clarity. Integrating these esmi formulations into your skincare routine promises a holistic approach to achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin in 2024. #3: Scalp care will become just as important as skin care Upgrade your hair care routine effortlessly in 2024 with esmi Skin Minerals. First cab off the rank - the Hyaluronic Hydrating Hair Mask. This mask deeply nourishes, infusing your scalp with moisture and vital nutrients. Follow up with the enriching Hyaluronic Hydrating Hair Serum, a lightweight formula designed to hydrate and strengthen your hair follicles. For an added touch, incorporate the Strength Scalp Brush into your routine to gently exfoliate and stimulate blood flow. These simple additions to your shower regimen ensure a clean, fresh scalp and promote vibrant, healthy hair growth. Embrace simplicity with esmi for a beautiful, radiant mane in the coming year! #4: A focus on all-body skin care In the skincare landscape of 2024, a shift towards holistic body care is evident, recognizing the importance of extending beyond facial routines. Addressing specific concerns like shoulder acne and dry spots, esmi's body care products offer targeted benefits. The Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil, a limited edition treasure, not only hydrates but also imparts a radiant sheen, leaving the skin visibly healthier. Meanwhile, the Coffee & Caramel Body Butter combines the invigorating properties of coffee with a delightful caramel aroma, providing intense hydration for smoother, more indulged skin. Embrace these esmi offerings to ensure comprehensive care, promoting overall skin health and a radiant glow throughout your body in 2024. #5: The simplification of the skin care routine We're shifting away from extensive and time-consuming 12-step skincare routines this year. In 2024, we have a focus on simplicity. Recognising the need for purposeful products, esmi offers bundles that simplify skincare routines, making purchasing your products more manageable and value-packed. For instance, esmi's Your Essentials Bundle combines fundamental steps, including cleansing, nourishing and moisturising. Other popular bundles include the 3 Step Skin Care Bundle, allowing you to choose your own moisturiser, cleanser and Skin Treat, depending on your skin needs and goals. Another favourite is the esmi Starter Bundle with The Uncomplicated Cleanser, Mini Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum and Microfibre Mitt to help any skincare beginner kickstart their journey! Which skin care trends of 2024 will you try? As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of skincare trends in 2024, we're curious: which trend will you be trying this year?! Share your skincare journey and the trends you're diving into on social media. Tag @esmiskinminerals when you use our products, and don't forget to leave a review if a particular item becomes your go-to.
10 Ways to Get Rid of Pimples
What is the best way to get rid of pimples? You asked and we’ve answered! There are plenty of things you can do to battle breakouts, from lifestyle and dietary changes to skincare routines. Read on for our tips to get rid of pimples and clear breakouts. 1. Wash bedding regularly Is your bedding contributing to breakouts? It’s icky to think about but dirty pillow covers, sheets, and bed covers are hotspots for bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil. When your skin comes in contact with dirty bedding it also comes in contact with all these factors that can trigger breakouts. If you’re wondering how to get rid pimples, the answer could be simple: change your bedding at least once a week. 2. Don’t touch! It might seem like one of the easiest way to get rid of pimples, but squeezing them never ends well! It might be momentarily satisfying to pop a pimple but you’re making breakouts worse. When you pick at your skin, it spreads bacteria to other parts of your face. Skin also becomes red, inflamed and the chances of scarring increase. Even if you don’t pop a pimple, touching and rubbing your face can also transfer the dirt and oil from your fingers to your face. Become more mindful of how often you touch your skin during the day and try to minimise it. 3. Sanitise your phone Most phone screens are dirtier than a toilet seat. Gross but true, according to research by Scientists at the University of Arizona. Along with bacteria, phone screens carry oil and dirt which is transferred to the skin around your cheek area. If you’re wondering how to stop pimples that keep appearing in this area, it could be as simple as cleaning your dirty phone screen. Keep your phone screen germ free by regularly cleaning it with sanitising wipes. 4. Remove makeup before bed We know it can be tempting to skip the PM cleanse and just crawl into bed after a busy day or a big night. The problem? Makeup left on overnight blocks pores, causes irritation and chances are, you’ll wake up to pimples. No matter how tired you are, always take a few minutes to cleanse before bed with a gentle cleanse like The Uncomplicated Cleanser. It’s time well spent for clearer, healthier skin. 5. Reach for complex carbs A few simple dietary changes may help get rid of pimples too. Switching foods like white pasta, bread, pizza, and cakes for complex carbohydrates (low-glycemic foods) can be beneficial for your skin. Good sources of complex carbs include brown rice, wild rice, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, corn, lentils, kidney beans, chickpeas, and other veggies like asparagus and zucchini. 6. Drink more water Good things come to those who drink plenty of water! Including healthier, calmer skin. Sipping H2O helps keep your skin hydrated which in turn can balance out excess sebum production. Your skin is triggered to produce more oil when it is dry and dehydrated. It’s your body’s way of trying to add moisture to the skin. Less oil reduces the chance of clogged pores which means fewer pimples. 7. Wear sun protection! Not protecting your face with SPF is the #1 skin crime. Sunburn speeds up the signs of ageing, increases the chances of skin cancer and can also contribute to acne. Sunburn triggers the skin to produce more oil. Excess sebum mixed with dry, peeling sunburnt skin builds up on the surface and becomes trapped in pores. Stay sun safe and help prevent pimples with our Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen with SPF 30. Ideal for all skin types, including oily skin, this antioxidant-rich sunscreen is non-greasy and won’t block pores. 8. Avoid harsh products It sounds strange but many skincare products (especially cleansers) promoted to get rid of pimples can actually make the problem worse. Strong products strip the skin of acne bacteria but also of its natural oils and moisture. You may see a short term improvement as pimples clear up but in the long run, these products are keeping you trapped in an oily cycle. When your skin is stripped of moisture and oils, the surface becomes dry. Your sebaceous glands go into overdrive producing more oil to compensate for the loss of moisture. More oil increases the chance of blocked pores and pimples. The skin barrier can become damaged with the long term use of harsh cleansers causing skin to become red and reactive too. 9. Oils are your friend Don’t shy away from oils because you have acne-prone skin. Using the right facial oil regulates sebum production and restores the balance of oily, breakout prone skin. Including healthy oils and foods that contain essential fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s in your diet can improve skin too. Omega 3 and 6 are the building blocks of healthy skin cell membranes helping to keep skin hydrated and clear. Good sources of these fats include salmon, sardines, flaxseed oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds. 10. Adopt a skin care routine A customised skin care routine is one of the best ways to get rid of pimples. The basic skincare routine for pimples includes: A gentle cleanser Always use a gentle cleanser that nourishes and hydrates the skin rather than stripping it of oil and moisture. We recommend: The Uncomplicated Cleanser Hydrating serum and anti-redness serum A hydrating serum helps regulate oil flow as skin is hydrated and not triggered to produce more sebum to compensate for lack of moisture. Incorporating an anti-redness serum will cool inflamed, red skin and is ideal for inflammatory types of acne. We recommend: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum and Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie. Moisturiser or face oil with anti inflammatory and antioxidant benefits Follow the serum step with a moisturiser or face oil to lock in moisture and provide extra antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial benefits. We recommend: Peppermint Green Oil Weekly exfoliation Exfoliation helps keep pores clear by removing the buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and debris from the surface of the skin. We recommend: Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant Weekly anti redness mask A regular masking session can help minimise the appearance of red, inflamed pimples and treat them with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. We recommend: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Discover our full range of acne skin care formulated to help get rid of pimples. You can also talk to one of our esmi Skin Consultants for a free skin care plan to tackle pimples.
