The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Noticing fine lines? Is your skin a little dull and lacklustre? Maybe your skin is super parched and is in need of a huge drink of water. Hyaluronic acid has the amazing ability to attract water and can actually hold 1000x times its weight! Making it a key ingredient for ALL skin types in EVERY skincare regime. Acid in skincare does sound a little scary, doesn’t it… but fear not! This little molecule has the opposite effect of an acid. Hyaluronic acid will absolutely drench your cells with water leaving your skin super dewy and plump. This will not only help dehydration but also plumping out fine lines, regulating oil flow for an oily skin type and can even help to rejuvenate dark circles under the eyes! What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid is naturally found within our bodies. Roughly half of the hyaluronic acid in the body is present in your skin, where it binds to water to help retain moisture. The rest is found in connective tissue and eyes. It helps to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist. As Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in our bodies, it is so much easier for your skin to recognise and absorb, making it so effective and chances of allergic reactions are very minimal – great for all skins down to the most sensitive. Any impaired skin barrier that is suffering from dry, flaky, reactive or over stripped skin will really benefit from adding this active ingredient into your regime making it an excellent skincare product for conditions like eczema and dermatitis, through to combination skin. What does Hyaluronic Acid do for the skin? For hydration: The key to youthful skin! Hyaluronic acid can draw water into the cells and hold onto it for rapid hydration benefits. It will keep skin plump, minimise fine lines and leave it looking radiant. Our bodies naturally lose water daily – and as we age our skin becomes drier as its ability to lock in water decreases. When this happens, our skin appears dull and our healthy cells slow down and become sluggish. To have our skin working at optimal capacity it has to be hydrated! It’s not only age that can make our skin become dehydrated, but it’s also those common culprits – drinking alcohol, laying in the sun, too much caffeine, not enough water- even air conditioners and heaters can really play havoc to your skin. Improves skin elasticity and texture When your skin barrier becomes dry it can cause your skin to look dull, become flaky, feel tight and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can become more prominent. When our skin is parched it also weakens our protective barrier, leaving it compromised. Sensitised skin is more exposed to infection, disease and free radical damage. Not only does hyaluronic acid hydrate but it also has antioxidant properties to protect your skin from this kind of environmental damage. Why Hyaluronic Acid deserves a spot in your skincare routine In actual fact, most of us from oily to dry are generally dehydrated in one form or another! Before you say, “I have an oily skin type, I don’t need any more hydration” note that oil and hydration are two completely different things! Hydration is water content in our skin cells which happens deep down in the layers of the skin and being oily means we have a skin that produces more oil, which can be seen on our skin barrier – that oily shine! It has nothing to do with water content, often an overly oily skin is sign dehydration, as the skin will overproduce oil to compensate for lack of water in the skin. On the flip side, a true dry skin type (lacking oil content) is skin that has always felt dry and produces less oil. Using a ‘hydration’ product such as Hyaluronic acid is only going to work if it is followed by an oil/moisturiser- if there is no oil to protect the skin barrier and help lock in that hydration it will evaporate, leaving the skin as it was – dry and flaky. So, as you can see when we begin to understand our skin it becomes apparent how important every little step and ingredient can be! This ingredient is so easily added into your regime – where it will take immediate effect with long term results if used daily! Hyaluronic acid could be the answer to most of our skincare concerns!
Eye Treatments for Puffy Eyes
We share our favourite ingredients for puffy eye treatment and why eye serums are more effective than eye creams to refresh and depuff a tired eye area. Why do eyes get puffy? What causes puffy, tired looking eyes anyway? 2 of the key culprits are: 👀 Dehydration: If you’re dehydrated, your body tries to hold onto fluid which causes water retention. This then causes the blood vessels to swell resulting in a puffy bloated under eye area. Too much alcohol, not drinking enough water, and foods high in salt can all dehydrate your body.. 👀 Ageing: As we get older, our blood vessels become more permeable and capillaries begin to break down. Blood accumulates in the tissues around the eye area causing the thin skin in the eye area to sag and become puffy looking. What is an eye treatment? Skincare eye treatments are designed specifically to treat the delicate skin around the eye area. They target concerns including puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, dullness, and tired looking skin. When comparing puffy eye treatment creams vs serums, you’ll find a serum is more effective for improving under eye troubles. What is eye serum exactly, and why is it better than a cream? An eye serum is water-based and formulated with a high concentration of active to target puffiness, lines, and uneven skin tone. Eye serums are absorbed more deeply into the skin than eye creams which work only on the surface layer. Serums are a more concentrated and efficient way to de-puff and re energise a tired eye area. Best ingredients for puffy eye treatment What ingredients should you look for in an eye serum? Those offering rapid de-puffing action as well as ingredients that work over time to boost firmness by stimulating collagen and elastin production. 👀 Caffeine Turns out a morning caffeine hit is good for your eyes too. Caffeine is what is known as a vasoconstrictor ingredient. When applied topically, it constricts blood vessels and can help with puffy skin and under-eye puffiness by reducing swollen blood vessels. A natural puffy under eye treatment caffeine is suitable for all skin types to target tired looking eyes. 👀 Green Tea extract Like caffeine green tea extract helps to restrict the capillaries and blood vessels in the under eye area. This causes the skin to quickly tighten and appear and less bloated. 👀 Plankton extract This natural extract has been found to refresh the appearance of tired eyes overall by working to depuff, smooth wrinkles and brighten dark shadows. 👀 Hyaluronic acid The ultimate hit of hydration for a puffy dehydrated eye area, hyaluronic acid delivers multi-depth hydration into the skin. A humectant ingredient, it works by attracting water to the skin to improve moisture levels. This moisture boost reduces puffiness and helps the skin appear more supple. 👀 Vitamin E Vitamin A helps to smooth and soothe the thin, delicate skin around your eye area. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties to target inflammation that can lead to puffiness around the eyes. 👀 Peptides Your skin loves peptides! Peptides are amino acids that make up certain proteins in your skin including collagen and elastin. Peptides stimulate the production of both these important proteins. The combination of improved elastin and collagen helps the skin underneath your eyes to appear firmer and taunter. Peptides also help ease inflammation, even out skin tone, and encourage the repair of damaged skin. esmi puffy eye treatments 👀 Hydrating Eye Serum Key depuffing ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and caffeine. This lightweight serum delivers continuous moisture and nourishes a tired, dehydrated eye area diminishing puffiness while plumping and firming fine lines. Hydrating Eye Serum is a potent formulation of marine extracts, antioxidants and a moisture-retaining hyaluronic acid to prevent transepidermal water loss while nourishing skin. The result? A more supple, softer and brighter eye area. 👀 Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Key depuffing ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptides, caffeine, and Vitamin E. Whatever the reason for the shadows, lines and puffiness - ageing and sun damage, lack of sleep or overindulgence - the Anti-Ageing Eye Serum restores hydration and vitality. Multi-action age-fighters including the revolutionary SNAP-8™ fight signs of ageing around the delicate eye area - crows feet, puffiness, dryness, and fine lines. Eyes are instantly refreshed and results are reinforced over time. Both puffy under eye treatment serums are vegan and cruelty-free. Hydrating Eye Serum is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Anti-ageing Eye Serum product Retinyl Palmitate which is not suggested to use whilst pregnant or breastfeeding. 👀 Eye Delight Reflection Eye Balm Key depuffing ingredients: Chinese Horse Chestnut, Jojoba Seed Oil and Peach Resin. Restore and refresh with this ultra-moisturising eye balm. Help to firm, hydrate, and reduce puffiness in the delicate eye area. Ideal for all skin types, this moisture-retaining, depuffing formula of plant-based actives helps address lines, puffiness and dryness. The eye firming action helps leave skin more supple, smooth, and lifted. How to apply eye serum After cleansing or exfoliating, and before moisturising, apply a grain of rice-sized amount (per eye) and massage to below the eye area and above on to the brow bone in an outwards motion. You can use eye serum in your morning and/or evening routine.
Is Moisturiser Necessary?
Repeat after us: Moisturiser is absolutely necessary! There’s a good reason why moisturisers are the most prescribed products in dermatology. Don’t go skipping it now! It is all about finding the right fit for you. Once you do, trust us, you won’t look back. Luckily, when it comes to hydration, traditional cream moisturisers are not your only option. You’ve also got your serums, oils, gels and lotions. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we’re going to break it down for you. But before we dive into finding your perfect moisturiser, let’s take a step back. Why exactly is skin hydration important? Why is it important to moisturise your face? Your face and neck are often exposed to harsh elemental factors. We’re talking the sun, extreme heat and cold, wind and pollution. When faced with these elements, you’re looking at some pretty dry skin. When your skin gets dry, the first thing you’ll start noticing is a bit of tightness and discomfort, especially after hopping out of a hot shower. A lack of hydration can also speed up the aging process. Dehydrated skin loses its elasticity which can cause fine lines and sagging skin. Plus, a moisture deficiency limits the skin’s ability to heal itself. That’s a hard pass from us! In a nutshell, moisturisers work in two ways; they add hydration to your skin (win!) and they form a protective barrier that stops hydration from leaving your skin (double win!). Both of these help you feel more comfortable, keep your natural glow and slow down those wrinkles. Depending on the type of moisturiser you use, the level at which it adds moisture and stops moisture from leaving varies . Like we said, it is all about finding what suits your needs best. What products can you use to moisturise your face? Cream moisturisers The usual moisturiser go-to is the classic cream. It’s the one you were probably first handed as a teenager. Now, that’s not to say it doesn’t have its place, but many cream moisturisers don’t come with a huge amount of ingredients that actually boost your skin’s health. They do help with dreaded hydration loss, but if you’re in need of a hydration boost, we recommend pairing your cream with a little something extra. Facial oils For those on the dryer side, say hello to your new best friend - facial oil. Find one that is non-greasy and addresses dryness, dehydration and signs of aging. Facial oils are a type of emollient, which is just a fancy way of saying they help to strengthen the outer layer of your skin to prevent water loss. Many are packed with hydrating, antioxidant and anti-aging ingredients. Plus, they feel incredibly luxurious when you apply them which is a major bonus! Serums Hydrating serums are like the Beyonce of skin care products; they’ll change your life for the better and you’ll wonder what you did without them. Many contain lipid-replenishing elements that nourish the skin. Much like oils, serums contain powerful active ingredients that hydrate and combat aging. They are fast-acting and made of tiny molecules, so they can get deep into the skin and really work their magic. If you’ve never heard of hyaluronic acid, you’re going to want to write it down. The superstar addition to any hydrating serum, hyaluronic acid helps your skin hold on to moisture and keeps you looking radiant. As hyaluronic acid is a hydrator (not a moisturiser), it is beneficial to follow this hydrating serum up with a moisturising oil to lock in all that goodness. What moisturiser is best for me? Which moisturiser you should be reaching for really depends on what you need it to do, and that comes down to your skin type. If you’re not sure what yours is, head to our website for a free skin consultation. We’ll figure it out in no time! Oily skin If you’ve got oily skin, chances are you’ll feel the need to skip moisturiser, but not so fast! In fact, not moisturising can cause your skin to dry out and produce more oil, so you’re not doing yourself any favours by skipping this step. Instead, your best bet is to use an oil-controlling facial oil like our Peppermint Green Oil. It is lightweight and non-acnegenic so you don’t need to worry about it clogging up those pores. Dry/combination skin Lacking some serious moisture? You need the high-performance stuff. Try the 24K Gold Nourishing Oil for a non-greasy blend of nourishing coconut, jojoba and avocado oils. It is rich in skin-saving fatty acids and combines powerful vitamins with antioxidants. It is also great for combination skin on areas that are feeling a little dry. The gold flakes make it extra luxurious and the oil smells like you’ve just spent a day at the spa! Top with your favourite cream moisturiser to lock it in. Normal skin Just because you’re not feeling too tight after a shower doesn’t mean your skin won’t love some of that sweet, sweet hydration. Enter: the Hydrating and Nourishing Acai Duo. Hyaluronic acid replenishes the skin cell’s water content while the acai oil and essential fatty acids nourish skin ensure a soft, balanced complexion. It is quick-absorbing and fights dehydration to help plump skin, minimise lines, and boost radiance. Sensitive skin With sensitive skin, having calming and nourishing ingredients is key. The Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Hydration helps target dehydration in sensitive complexions with helpful bacteria to balance your skin’s microflora, restore damaged skin barriers, and increase hydration. Ageing skin If you’re looking for something that gives your skin a tall drink of water and fights fine lines, a luxe facial oil packed with vitamin E, amino acids and vitamin A should be your go-to. The secret weapon for all skin types When you’re on the go and feel that dreaded tightness of your skin come on, keep a hydrating mist handy. You won’t find us leaving home without our Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist. It works perfectly over makeup and makes you look glowy and refreshed. The best part? It works on all skin types so no one gets left out! If you’re still a little unsure about which moisturiser will save your skin, get in touch with an esmi Skin Consultant on our website. You might also like to read… What is Face Serum? The Difference Between Dry and Dehydrated Skin Face Creams vs Oils and Serums Reference links: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050617/ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7498985_The_clinical_benefit_of_moisturizers https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4885180/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5849435/ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/moisturizers-do-they-work https://www.dermstore.com/blog/your-burning-questions-about-moisturizers-answered-by-a-dermatologist/ https://maxmylooks.com/types-of-moisturizers/#Gels_vs_Lotions_vs_Creams_vs_Ointments https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-face-serum
The Difference Between Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Although they’re often confused as the same thing, dehydrated skin and dry skin are actually different skin concerns. While dehydrated skin lacks water and is a temporary skin condition, dry skin lacks natural oils and is a skin type. Read on to understand more about the difference between dry and dehydrated skin and how to treat each one. What is dry skin? Dry skin lacks oil in the stratum corneum - the skin’s outer layer. If you have a dry skin type, your skin produces less of its natural oil (sebum) than other skin types. Your skin needs a healthy balance of sebum to function at its best; oil helps hold moisture into the skin and keep it soft and smooth. When the skin doesn’t produce enough oil, it loses the capacity to hold onto moisture and dry skin is the result. The skin barrier is also more susceptible to sensitivity and damage without a sufficient layer of protective oils. Signs of dry skin include: Rough or itchy skin Flaky skin Redness and irritation Skin feels tight Small, fine wrinkles Thin, fragile skin Those with dry skin types are also prone to inflammatory and excessively dry skin concerns like atopic dermatitis (eczema) characterised by redness, cracking and inflammation. How to look after dry skin Caring for dry skin means focusing on products that help counteract the natural lack of oil on the skin’s surface. This is why oil-based skin care is a great choice for dry skin types. The right blends of plant oils can make a big difference for a dry, flaky complexion as they supplement the sebum your skin isn’t producing. Some of the best plant oils for dry skin include; Jojoba: With a molecular structure close to your skin’s natural sebum, jojoba is readily accepted by the skin and is an ideal facial oil. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, restore balance, and promote hydration. Avocado: Rich in antioxidant, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties, avocado oil promotes skin hydration, soothes and fights free radical damage. Rosehip: Packed with omega-6’s and omega-3’s fatty acids, rosehip is revered for its moisturising and regenerative properties for dry, itchy, damaged skin. It’s also rapidly absorbed and creates a protective barrier on the skin to guard against moisture loss. It’s also important to avoid products with strong ingredients that remove moisture and oil leaving skin dry, flaky and tight. For example; Benzoyl peroxide Salicylic acid Alcohol Witch hazel Sodium lauryl sulfate For dry skin we recommend 24k Gold Nourishing Oil One of our best sellers and an excellent moisturiser for dry skin, 24k Gold Nourishing Oil helps to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles on the face, neck, and decolletage. Non-greasy, it contains a blend of rosehip, coconut, avocado, and jojoba oil plus the anti-ageing, antioxidant power of 24k gold flakes. What is dehydrated skin? While dry skin lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks water and, unlike dry skin (which is a skin type), dehydration is a temporary skin condition that can happen to all skin types. Even oily ones! Signs of a dehydrated face include; Skin feeling tight and uncomfortable - even after moisturising Redness Congestion An oily, shiny complexion Inflammation Fine lines and wrinkles are more pronounced Dehydration caused by external factors, for example weather, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol or not enough water. How to look after dehydrated skin Using dehydrated skin products with ingredients that replenish the skin’s water content is key for treating thirsty skin. The best ingredient to beat dehydration is hyaluronic acid. It delivers a mega hit of moisture to the skin thanks to its ability to hold 1000 times its weight in hydration! A humectant ingredient, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the air to the skin, plumping and rehydrating cells from the inside out. Using a serum containing hyaluronic acid is the quickest way to deliver moisture to a thirsty complexion as serums are quickly and deeply absorbed into the skin. For dehydrated skin we recommend Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum This water-based serum is your ultimate skin hydrator! Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your skin containing triple action Hyaluronic Acid which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours. The serum also contains aloe vera, niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and allantoin which work together to improve skin hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. The hydrating serum isn’t a moisturiser and needs to be followed by a moisturiser or face oil on top to lock in the hydration for best results. We recommend following with 24K Gold Nourishing Oil or Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil. Take a holistic approach to treating dehydrated skin Tackling dehydration isn’t only about using the right dehydrated skin products. For the best results, you may need to make lifestyle changes too. For example, eating more water-rich foods and less salty ones (salt dehydrates the skin) and drinking more water and less alcohol. To view more skincare options for dry vs dehydrated skin click through to the Dehydration shop by concern or Dryness shop by concern. You might also like to read: The Different Skin Types Why Skin Gets Oily And How To Stop It What Causes Dry Skin
The Complete Guide to Cream Cleansers
Find out everything you ever wanted to know about cream cleansers right here. What is cream cleanser, how to use one, their benefits, suited skin types, and best ingredients. We cover it all (and more!) in our complete guide to cream cleansers. How to use cream cleansers Dampen skin with lukewarm water. Apply a pearl-sized amount of the cleanser to damp hands. Then, massage gently into the skin with an upward motion. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or remove with esmi's Microfibre Facial Cleansing Mitt. Cream cleanser vs. gel or oil What is cream cleanser? A cream cleanser has a thicker, creamy texture and is formulated with ingredients to help the skin retain moisture, like plant-based oils. Sometimes called cleansing “milks” or “lotions” cream cleansers are gentle - they cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. They’re suited to all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin. What are the benefits of a cream cleanser vs gel or oil cleansers? Other types of cleansers include gel and oil cleansers. Like the name suggests, gel cleansers have a gel-like consistency and are usually clear. They’re designed for oily, breakout-prone skin, in particular, to offer a deep clean for pores and remove excess oil. Their deep cleaning action certainly works to get your skin ‘squeaky clean’ but in the process, some gel cleansers can strip skin of its natural oils. If your skin is feeling tight and dry after washing your face, it’s not a good sign. Stripping the skin of oil triggers it to produce even more and, over time, leaves the skin barrier compromised. When your skin barrier isn’t functioning at its healthiest, you’ll experience excessive dryness, irritation, itchiness, and sensitivity. Then, there are oil cleansers. The oils in these cleansers bind to surface debris to remove it from the skin. Oil cleansers are gentler for the skin than gels, but not all skin types will be compatible for this type of cleanser. While they can be a good option for a 'first cleanse', especially if you wear heavy makeup, oil cleansers cleansers aren’t well suited for the second cleanse in a double cleansing routine. A cream cleanser is not only gentle on the skin, it’s suitable for all skin types - from oily, acne prone to sensitive. It helps maintain the skin’s important oil / water balance and cleanser won’t disrupt the skin’s delicate pH balance. What to look for in a cream cleanser Best ingredients in a cream cleanser We’ve answered the question what is a cream cleanser - now let’s explore the ingredients you’ll want to look for in a cream cleanser formulation. Aloe vera Containing mostly (95%) water, aloe vera is hydrating and calming for skin. It also has excellent cleansing and very gentle exfoliant properties. Green tea extract Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity with the ability to soothe and calm redness. Stearic acid Helps cleanse debris from the skin while its emollient properties protect skin's surface against water loss. Capric triglyceride Helps to reduce skin dryness by minimising moisture loss by creating a barrier on the skin's surface. Active ingredients to target specific concerns Your cleanser can also include active ingredients to help target specific skin concerns. A couple of the best actives and what they address include: Dullness and hyperpigmentation Vitamin C and pomegranate extract are excellent skin brighteners. Congestion, excess oil, and acne bacteria Activated charcoal helps to draw out impurities and Tasmanian Mountain Pepper extract has natural antibacterial properties. Redness and inflammation Tasmanian Mountain Pepper extract is an anti-inflammatory and aloe vera calms skin. Fine lines and wrinkles Peptides encourage the production of collagen for a firmer looking complexion. Ingredients to avoid in a cleanser To avoid stripping and congesting the skin, steer clear of these ingredients in cleansers: Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): Causes skin irritation and dryness. Mineral oil or petrolatum derived ingredients: These can ‘suffocate’ skin and lead to congestion and dullness. Isopropyl myristate or isopropyl palmitate: Known to clog pores. Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances can cause irritation. SD alcohol 40: Drying for many skin types. Is a cream cleanser the right choice for you? Cream cleansers are an ideal choice for dry, sensitive, and mature skin and dry skin. If you’re dealing with a chronic inflammatory skin condition like rosacea, a cream cleanser is your best bet. Oily, acne-prone, and congested skin types will also benefit from a cream cleanser. Especially one formulated with active ingredients like activated charcoal to help detoxify and deeply cleanse pores. How to use cream cleanser Using a cream cleanser is the first step in both your morning and evening routine for glowing skin. How to use cream cleanser in your morning routine Step 1: Dampen skin with lukewarm water Step 2: Apply a pearl-sized amount of the cleanser to damp hands and massage gently into skin with an upward motion. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or remove with esmi's Microfibre Facial Cleansing Mitt. While skin is still damp, apply your serum, then moisturiser or face oil, and finally, sunscreen. Cleansing your skin with a cream cleanser in the morning has several benefits. It removes product residue from night time products plus any bacteria which found its way onto your face overnight. It also gives you a lovely clean base to apply your day time products and boost their absorption. How to use cream cleanser in your evening routine (double cleanse) Step 1: Dampen skin with lukewarm water. Step 2: Apply a pearl-sized amount of the cleanser to damp hands and massage gently into skin with an upward motion. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Then repeat step 2 for a double cleanse. Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or remove with esmi's Microfibre Facial Cleansing Mitt. While skin is still damp, apply your evening serum, moisturiser / face oil or face mask if you’re doing an overnight treatment. Don’t skip the extra cleanse in your evening routine when using a cream cleanser. A double cleanse makes sure everything that settles into your pores during the day is washed away. Any sweat, natural oils, debris, pollution, makeup, and sunscreen left on your skin can lead to congestion and breakouts. What to expect from a cream cleanser It’s pretty simple really! Using a cream cleanser you can expect your skin to feel clean, supple, and hydrated not dry, tight or itchy. Switching to a cream cleanser because you’ve been dealing with dryness, dullness or breakouts? You should start to see an improvement in these symptoms in 2 - 4 weeks of consistent use twice a day. In general, you’ll experience a difference in your skin immediately in terms of it feeling more supple and nourished. No more uncomfortable post-cleanse tightness. esmi offers a range of cream cleansers suited to different skin types and skin concerns. View The Uncomplicated Cleanser range.
Why Your Skin Needs Oil (Yes, Even Oily Skin Types!)
There is a lot to love about facial oil. It can plump and smooth lines, increase hydration, strengthen the skin barrier and regulate oil production. Let’s take a closer look at why incorporating the right facial oil into your routine will support healthy, glowing skin. Strengthens your skin’s protective barrier A well functioning skin barrier is the secret to healthy skin. It’s essentially your front-line protection against environmental stressors including; UV, pollution, infection, and toxic chemicals. This barrier is made up of multiple layers of cells called corneocytes and these layers are held together by lipids (your skin’s natural fats), cholesterol, and ceramides. They form a barrier which not only protects skin from external stressors but also keeps moisture from leaving the skin too. When this barrier is compromised skin becomes susceptible to conditions like irritation, redness and dry, flaky patches. Applying a facial oil helps seal up any of the cracks between the cells in the barrier, making it stronger and more effective at locking in moisture. Jojoba oil is especially good at strengthing a compromised skin barrier as it’s the closest botanical match to our skin’s natural sebum. Recommended: esmi Skin Mineral’s 24k Gold Nourishing Oil contains a trio of coconut, jojoba and avocado oils are excellent moisturisers, rich in skin-saving fatty acids and a combination of powerful vitamins and antioxidants. Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Some oils have earned an excellent anti-ageing reputation for their ability to firm skin and minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Rosehip oil and acai oil, in particular, have the ability to plump skin, increasing hydration and derma strength. Rosehip oil works by stimulating fibroblasts, which are responsible for the creation of collagen and skin’s overall firmness. Abundant in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals acai oil is also rich in fatty acids that help the skin appear firmer and work to protect it from environmental aggressors, which slows the signs of ageing. Boosts hydration levels Skin needs two types of moisture to function properly; oil moisture and water moisture. Getting the balance of these two right helps create a healthy, hydrated complexion. When skin is lacking is either water or oil, it becomes dull, flaky, sensitive and symptoms of ageing accelerate. As we age, oil production slows down and skincare habits like over-exfoliating, using harsh cleansers or a multitude of different products can also strip the skin of its essential oil. A facial oil suited for your skin type can help you deal with dehydration on the oil side of things and keep skin calm. It also helps repair the skin barrier, as mentioned earlier, which helps protect against excessive transepidermal water loss (moisture evaporation through the skin) which occurs when the skin barrier is compromised. Recommended: esmi Half Hydrating and Half Nourishing Acai Duo. Ideal for thirsty skin in need of extra nourishment to combat dehydration, fine lines and damage this skin treat hydrates, softens and regenerates. Repairs damaged skin and speed up scar healing External stressors like UV rays and pollution to lifestyle habits, such as smoking, poor diet all weaken the skin. Other factors such as medical trauma, acne and exposure to chemicals - including some skincare ingredients - also contribute to damaged skin cells. This leads to symptoms like inflammation, dryness, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. The right oils, fully of fatty acids and antioxidants, support the regeneration of skin cells, minimise scars, slow the ageing process, and help the skin to regain a brighter colour and smoother tone. Rosehip seed oil deserves a special mention here for its ability to repair damaged skin, thanks to its high levels of essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which play a key role in tissue and cell regeneration. Evening Primrose oil also contains a less common type of fatty acid called Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), which repairs skin, restores elasticity and improves hydration. Recommended: esmi Skin Mineral’s 24k Gold Nourishing Oil contains a trio of coconut, jojoba and avocado oils are excellent moisturisers, rich in skin-saving fatty acids and a combination of powerful vitamins and antioxidants. Helps regulate and balance oily skin - minimising breakouts Yes, it’s true! Using the right facial oil can actually regulate sebum production and restore the balance of oily skin. Excess production of oil occurs when the oil-water content of the skin is out of balance. If you use products that over-strip the skin in an effort to remove excess oil it can result in the overproduction of sebum which can make breakouts worse. Applying the right kind of oil after using a gentle cleanser can help the skin to rebalance, it won’t need to compensate for lost oil by producing more. Not all oils are created equal though - some can aggravate sebum production. The best options for oily, breakout-prone skin are lightweight oils with a low comedogenic rating and those with calming, anti-bacterial properties. Jojoba, acai, rosehip and almond oil are all effective options. Recommended: esmi Skin Minerals Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil - A lightweight face oil brimming with superfood ingredients to increase elasticity and hydration, reduce redness and regulate oil. If you have been hesitant to include a face oil in your routine, hopefully, these benefits have demonstrated how important replenishing and maintaining your skin’s oil is for a healthy, vibrant complexion. If you have any questions about the best kind of oil to use for your skin type, reach out to the team of esmi skincare experts for your complimentary skin consultation. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
How to Use Hyaluronic Acid
Fight dehydration, dullness, oiliness and fine lines with hyaluronic acid skin care. All skin types can benefit from hyaluronic acid, a superior hydrating ingredient that attracts moisture to the skin’s surface for a plumper, hydrated and radiant complexion. Hyaluronic acid for your face Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring sugar molecule found in your body that helps skin retain much-needed moisture for plumpness and elasticity. Your body’s natural levels of hyaluronic acid decline as you age so using hyaluronic acid skin care can help increase moisture to combat dullness, loss of elasticity, fine lines, and wrinkles. The exciting thing about hyaluronic acid is its amazing ability to attract water. A humectant ingredient, it draws moisture from the air and deeper layers of your skin to the surface layer. It can actually hold 1000x times its weight in water! This makes it incredibly effective at boosting the skin’s moisture levels to address concerns like flakiness, dullness, and fine lines. Dry vs dehydrated skin - what is the difference? Hyaluronic acid skin care helps target the skin concern of dehydration. Dry skin and dehydrated skin share some similar symptoms but they are actually two different things. Dry skin lacks oil, whereas dehydrated skin lacks water. An itchy, flaky complexion are symptoms of dry skin while dehydrated skin is usually inflamed, dull, flaky, fine lines are more pronounced and skin feels tight even after moisturising. Put simply, dry skin is a skin type while dehydration is a skin condition. All skin types can become dehydrated; oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin. How can hyaluronic acid skin care help? To combat dehydration for all skin types, the skin cell’s water content needs to be replenished. Including hyaluronic acid skin care in your routine will deliver much needed hydration for smoother, plumped looking skin. Hyaluronic acid also helps repair an impaired skin barrier that is suffering from dry, flaky, reactive or over stripped skin. When your skin barrier is compromised, your skin is more susceptible to accelerated ageing and damage caused by inflammation, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Strengthening and repairing a damaged barrier helps skin protect itself against these stressors. This super hydrator also regulates oil flow for oily skin types to target breakouts and can even help to rejuvenate dark circles under the eyes. Because it’s found naturally in your body, it’s much easier for your skin to recognise and absorb rapidly and gentle enough not to irritate, making it ideal for sensitive skin. As all skin types are susceptible to dehydration - oily, dry, sensitive and combination - every routine will benefit from the hydrating powers of hyaluronic acid. Why your skin will love esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your cells containing triple action Hyaluron which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours for a plumper, brighter complexion. Perfect for all skin types and ages, this serum hydrates from the inside out, restores, repairs and reveals healthy skin with a radiant and hydrated glow. The hydrating serum also contains niacinamide (Vitamin B3) for skin repair, restoration and to regulate oil flow which in turn aids in breakout prevention for oily skin types. It also contains allantoin to promote cell longevity. Its lightweight texture means that it is a great way to hydrate oily skin without clogging pores, whilst it is gentle enough for sensitive skin types. How to use hyaluronic acid serum Dispense a pearl size amount of serum from the dropper onto fingertips and massage into the skin after cleansing or exfoliation. Can be used morning and night and around the eye area. The hydrating serum isn’t a moisturiser, it works by attracting water to the deeper layers of skin and rehydrating cells from the inside out. After hydrating the skin, it’s important to then apply a face oil or moisturiser over the top to lock in hydration. For combination dry or dry skin types we recommend applying 24k Gold Nourishing Oil or Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil to lock, seal and create a protective barrier on the skin. If you have any questions about hyaluronic acid skin care in your routine, our esmi Skin Experts are here to help! Get a free skin consultation today. You may also like to read: The Difference Between Oily Skin and Hydrated Skin The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Skin Hydration - Why It's Important
Skin Hydration... Why is it Important?
Did you know, your body’s largest and fastest-growing organ is your skin? It’s amazing, it acts as your body’s coat by protecting you and helping you stay warm when it’s cold, and cool when it’s hot. And unless it’s cut or damaged, it keeps stuff out, including germs and water. So why is it important to look after and keep it hydrated? Well when skin is well-hydrated, it’s more plump and resilient. This is due, at least in part, to an ingredient in the skin called hyaluronic acid. The job of hyaluronic acid in the skin is to hold water. When there is adequate water from inside and out the skin looks healthier and more alive and is less prone to wrinkles. It’s also important in order for the skin to protect our bodies from UV radiation, microorganisms, and toxic agents. Hydrated skin will remain flexible and allow our protective barrier to remain intact. If the skin is broken, environmental factors can damage our bodies and cause exacerbated water loss, feeding a pattern of more damage due to further dehydration. Hyaluronic Acid in skin care Hyaluronic Acid is great to use because it’s able to penetrate the skin’s upper layers to improve and benefit the skin when applied topically. Hyaluronic acid is a major component of skin, where it benefits tissue repair and protection. When applied in a HA cream or serum, hyaluronic acid forms and penetrates into the dermis, thus boosting the elasticity and hydration of the skin. The protective barrier on the skin locks in moisture, which gives the skin a youthful appearance. To hydrate your skin we suggest using our esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, it contains Hyaluronic Acid for complete skin hydration and improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. You can also pair this with our BB Cream or Maximum Coverage Liquid Foundation. Hyaluronic Acid is great to use because it's able to penetrate the skin’s upper layers to improve and benefit the skin when applied topically. Hyaluronic acid is a major component of skin, where it benefits tissue repair and protection. When applied in a HA cream or serum, hyaluronic acid forms and penetrates into the dermis, thus boosting the elasticity and hydration of the skin. The protective barrier on the skin locks in moisture, which gives the skin a youthful appearance. Not sure where to start? Talk to our skin specialist team who will guide you through your FREE personal Skin Care Plan and help you get on top of your skin concerns today. The team at esmi are always here to support you on your skin journey. CHAT: www.esmi.com.auEMAIL: skin@makeupcartel.com.auPHONE: 1300 66 11 76
The Benefits of Face Steaming
Face steaming is making a comeback! Give yourself a salon-worthy facial at home with our tips on how to steam your face and the skin beautifying benefits of doing so. The benefits of face steaming Facial steaming has been around for a long time. It's a traditional way to cleanse and invigorate the skin and often done during an in-salon facial. Lately, though, it seems more of us are incorporating face steaming into our home DIY facials! It’s not surprising. The benefits of steaming your face are big, especially if you have large pores and congestion-prone skin. What are the benefits of face steaming for your skin? Most skin types can benefit with a regular, gentle face steaming session which can help; Open pores to release trapped sebum and debris The heat from the steam does a wonderful job at loosening dirt, sebum, and any other debris trapped deep within the pore. It softens the build-up, allowing stubborn blackheads to be purged from the pore, leaving skin brighter and clearer. Energise and brighten skin Face steaming boosts circulation. The result is a natural, glowing flush - a sign of blood stimulation energising the skin. Improve product absorption One of the lesser-known benefits of steaming your face? It helps your other skincare products do their best work. Steam makes skin more permeable which means products and ingredients are better absorbed into the skin. Any skincare you apply directly after your steam your face will be working extra hard! Release toxins Sweating helps cleanse your body's largest organ (your skin) of impurities by releasing toxins. If you’re not up for a sweaty HIIT session, a gentle facial steam or sauna is a great alternative to purge toxins from within your body. You relax! It’s the perfect soothing self-care activity Face steaming is skincare, relaxation, and self-care all wrapped up together. Include steaming your face as part of your at home pamper session to unwind and enjoy the calming benefits. Steaming your face at home Steaming your face at home is simple, effective, and so enjoyable! Here’s how to do it; Step 1: Cleanse with a gentle cleanser Start by using a gentle cleanser to wash away any impurities, dirt, and oil. We recommend using a cleanser from The Uncomplicated Cleanser range. Have oily, congestion-prone skin? Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Charcoal is an ideal choice. If you wear makeup, double cleanse at this step. This helps remove every trace of makeup and sunscreen from your skin. Step 2: Heat water and add to a big bowl Ideally, it’s safest to heat the water to around 40 degrees. You can bring the water to the boil in a jug, pour it into a large bowl and wait for it to cool down. Never steam your face using boiling water or you’ll risk scalding your skin and broken capillaries. Step 3: Steam your face Once the water is at a safe temperature, hover your face about 30-45 cms above the bowl. Staying a comfortable distance away will avoid overheating your skin. If this is your first time steaming, we recommend face steaming initially for 2 minutes and observe how your skin reacts. If everything seems to be fine, without irritation, steam for another 8 minutes. Then, blot your face with a clean, soft towel. Tips for using a facial steamer You can turn up the salon-type experience up a notch with a facial steaming machine. A few tips for getting the most out of your face steamer; Always use purified or distilled water in your face steamer. Tap water contains minerals that build up and mess with the facial steamer functionality. Don’t put essential oils or any other additives into the water. Clean your facial steamer regularly - at least monthly - to demineralise the steamer and keep it working properly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Step 4: Apply a face mask Next, it’s time to take advantage of your fresh, open pores and put a face mask to work! While your skin is extra permeable and warm, the active ingredients in your masking product will be deeply absorbed. Discover our range of Booster Face Masks. They’re designed to treat a range of common skin concerns. Dull skin and pigmentation: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask Ageing concerns: Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Congested, oily skin: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Redness and inflammation: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Dry, sensitive, and mature skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Refer to the “How to use” guide (located on the product page) to apply your mask of choice as per the application directions. Step 5: Apply a serum After removing the mask apply a serum from our Skin Treats range to clean skin to double down on post-steam benefits. Face serums and masks can be mixed and matched but see our handy guide for suggested pairing below. Dull skin and pigmentation: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask | Pomegranate Brightening Serum or Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Ageing concerns: Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Congested, oily skin: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster | Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum Redness and inflammation: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask | Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Dry, sensitive, and mature skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask | Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Always finish with a moisturising lotion or facial oil to quench the skin after steaming and lock in moisture. What to avoid Unfortunately, not all skin types will benefit from steaming. If you have inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, steaming is not recommended. It will only aggravate sensitive skin and trigger uncomfortable flares of prolonged flushing and heat for rosacea-prone complexions. Even if your skin can benefit from steaming, please don’t go overboard! Ease facial steaming into your routine with sessions once a fortnight. See how your skin reacts and increase to once a week (at most) if your skin is reacting well. If you’ve got any questions about how to steam your face or what products to use reach out to the esmi Skin Team! You might also like to read: How to Give Yourself an At-Home Facial Skin Care for Rosacea How to Get Glowing Skin
Causes of Uneven Skin Tone
Uneven skin tone is the enemy of your smooth skin goals. If you’re struggling with an inconsistent skin tone it’s usually due to either hyperpigmentation or redness concerns. We explore what causes both of these issues and recommended skincare routines to encourage a smoother, more even complexion. Hyperpigmentation Problems with uneven skin tone often come back to the same core concern: hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives our skin, hair, and eyes their colour and is created by melanocytes, the pigment-making cells in the skin. When our body produces too much melanin, melanocytes offload the excess pigment into outer layers of the skin. This can cause areas of skin to darken more than the normal colour of your skin leaving your face looking uneven and patchy. Several factors can trigger an increase in melanin production and result in hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure Your tan might look smooth and glowing after a day on the beach, but over time, sun damage causes skin to form darker uneven patches. The leading cause of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, UV rays send melanocytes into overdrive. The result? A dull skin tone, "age spots", and other patches of discolouration. Pollution Toxic nanoparticles from air pollution - especially traffic related pollution - are able to penetrate the skin. Once they find their way into the skin, they can cause hyperpigmentation and accelerate other signs of ageing. Hormonal Hormonal changes can cause uneven skin tone too. Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that's more commonly seen in women and is directly linked to fluctuating hormone levels. Melasma is often referred to as the mask of pregnancy because it can be triggered by an increase in hormones in pregnant women. Melasma is more challenging to treat than other forms of hyperpigmentation and it’s also more difficult to prevent as it’s triggered by internal changes. While it is difficult to make it ‘disappear’, melasma can be managed with a good skincare regime and even in-salon treatments. Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation happens when the skin surface has been damaged and darker reddish patches are left behind. The most common cause of this type of hyperpigmentation is breakouts and acne. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation will usually fade over time and can be helped along with appropriate skincare and treatments. Blotchy, red skin Skin redness can also contribute to the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Blotchy, red patches of skin can be caused by skin issues like rosacea, sensitivity, and broken capillaries. Skin redness can be frustrating to deal with and the more flare ups you have the redder these areas will become, which is why management is so important. Some everyday things that may trigger the blotchy, red patches that lead to uneven skin tone include: Stress Extreme Temperatures Spicy food Fragrances and alcohol in skincare Alcoholic drinks – especially wine Smoking Recommend products to improve uneven skin tone for hyperpigmentation Brighten skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation with these uneven skin tone products. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening A gentle cream cleanser enriched with Kakadu Plum extract which is bursting with Vitamin C for a lit-from-within glow and a gentle but deep clean. Ideal for all skin types prone to dullness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Skin Treats Pomegranate Brightening Serum A potent brightening, anti-pigmentation serum with skin lightening ingredients and powerful antioxidants. Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Luxurious 24-karat gold leaf face oil nourishes for a visibly firmer, more youthful complexion - boosts skin elasticity, stimulates collagen production and improves blood circulation. Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo Ideal for all skin types to brighten a dull, dehydrated complexion prone to age spots and hyperpigmentation while stimulating collagen to firm and tone. Leaves skin soft, even and moisturised. Gentle Foliant Hydrating Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. Booster Masks Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask A silky soft brightening mask to wake up a tired complexion and promote a smoother, more luminous skin tone. Ideal for lightening, the appearance of hyperpigmentation his mask evens out skin tone for a smoother, brighter complexion. Suitable for most skin types. Eye treatments Brightening Eye Serum Instantly revive and illuminate tired eyes with a unique blend of plankton extract, active ingredients, and peptides to target dark circles, brightness and fine lines in the delicate eye area. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Sun damage is a key cause of hyperpigmentation. Every skincare routine should include SPF protection and this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection. Recommend prodicts to improve skin tone for red, blotchy skin It’s important to choose gentle skincare products as part of a good, regular skincare regime to help reduce redness. This can really make a world of difference, especially during a flare up. Cleanser The Uncomplicated Cleanser Gently removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Perfect for all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness A gentle cream cleanser enriched with redness-minimising and antibacterial Tasmanian Mountain Pepper extract to cool inflammation while gently removing impurities. Ideal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Skin treats Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Addressing the discomfort of inflamed skin, this serum cools and heals damaged, red skin. Contains potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties - the ideal anti-redness skin treatment. Peppermint Green Oil A lightweight, purifying face oil with plant-based antimicrobial ingredients to cool inflammation and freshen skin while targeting blemishes. Perfect for skin types prone to breakouts and oil balance concerns. Use instead of moisturiser to calm inflammation and redness, target acne, and regulate oil flow. Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil Ideal for all skin types with dehydration concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm, and hydrate while regulating oil flow. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil Non-greasy, it’s perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser to address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for hydrated, plumper, and repaired skin. Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum This exfoliating charcoal serum will gently buff, detox, and purify for a clearer, smoother complexion. Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist A hydrating and refreshing face mist to help replenish, rehydrate, and cool inflamed, red skin. Gentle-Foliant Is Rose and Bamboo the right gentle foliant recommendation to make here? Hydrating Hydrating and Ageless Volcanic Sand Gentle-Foliant This formulation pairs the physical element of volcanic sand with the power of cranberry enzymes to encourage a clearer complexion. Ideal for all skin types. If you have dry skin and are dealing with an uneven skin tone due to redness, we recommend the Rose and Bamboo Gentle-Foliant. Booster Masks Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Instantly cools the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be used to cool and repair trauma after laser and IPL treatments. Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask Wake up dull skin with this mask’s powerful detoxifying charcoal / clay combination to buff, refine and purify for soft, bright skin. Suits all skin types, even sensitive skin. Eye treatments Hydrating Eye Serum A moisture boosting miracle worker, this lightweight serum delivers continuous moisture and nourishes a tired, dehydrated eye area. Reduces puffiness while plumping and firming fine lines. Sunscreen Skin Shield Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Ideal for all skin types this non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enriched with antioxidant protection and fights the first signs of ageing. Sun exposure can quickly cause flare-ups so including SPF protection in your daily routine is a must. Need some help addressing uneven skin tone and putting a routine together? Book your free consultation with our skincare specialists.
The Difference: Cleanser vs. Face Wash
What is a facial cleanser and is it the same as a face wash? We’re breaking down the difference between cleanser and face wash, why it matters, and how to know which one is right for you. The difference between cleanser & face wash Face cleanser and face wash both share the basic goal of getting your skin clean (no surprises there!) but they go about it in different ways. One can help you achieve hydrated, calm, and supple skin while the other often leads to dryness, irritation, breakouts, and oiliness. Let’s take a look at the difference between cleanser and face wash. What is a Facial Cleanser? A face cleanser has a gel or cream consistency and gently removes excess oil, debris, and makeup from the skin’s surface. What does a cleanser do that a face wash doesn’t? The cleanser helps keep the pH level of your skin barrier at its healthiest (around 5.5 - slightly acidic) by maintaining the natural water and oil balance of the skin. In general, cleansers are much more mild and gentle on the skin. What is a Face Wash? Face wash takes a more heavy-duty approach to cleaning the skin. Like soap, face wash foams, and lathers upon application. The problem is, that the foaming agents and preservatives in many face washes strip your skin of natural oils and moisture, leaving it dry and tight. While it does clean the skin, face wash can also disrupt the pH level, causing it to become too alkaline, which leads to a decrease in skin hydration. Over time this can damage your skin barrier leaving you with a red, sensitive, and inflamed complexion. Face Cleanser vs. Face Wash Choosing the gentle cleanser option is a safe bet for most skin types, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. A mild cleanser won’t disrupt the skin’s delicate pH balance and helps keep skin hydrated, supple, and calm. Cleansers are often formulated with additional antioxidants and other active ingredients to nourish skin and target specific skin concerns, like the Uncomplicated Cleanser range. Face wash can make breakouts and oiliness worse Even oily and acne-prone skin will benefit from a face cleanser rather than a face wash. When you strip away the oil with a foamy face wash, the skin dries out and then produces more sebum to counteract this drying effect. More breakouts follow! Using a gentle cleanser on acne-prone skin is the best way to break the oily skin cycle. Removing makeup with a facial cleanser Gentle cleansers aren’t as heavy-duty as a face wash when it comes to makeup removal. Use an eye makeup remover first or double cleanse for a deep clean without any residue. Click through to view the Uncomplicated Cleanser range. Learn more How and When to Double Cleanse Your Face The Best Cleanser for Your Skin Type What Is Face Serum And Why You Should Have One
The Truth About Alcohol in Skincare
Alcohol in skin care doesn’t have the best reputation. While some alcohol deserves its skin-ruining rep, alcohols are an extremely diverse bunch and many are beneficial! The truth is, Benzyl alcohol and fatty alcohols can be helpful and even necessary in your skincare routine. Depending on the type of alcohol, it can play a few different roles in your products. Most commonly alcohol in skin care acts as a preservative to keep mould from growing. No one likes to find fungus in their face cream or cleanser! If a product contains water, it needs a preservative to keep bacteria out and keep the formulation stable. Alcohols can also be used to enhance product texture for a silky smooth feeling and help boost moisture levels in the skin. Some alcohols are also known to increase the penetration of active ingredients like vitamin C and retinol in the skin. Benzyl Alcohol in Skin Care Benzyl alcohol is found naturally in essential oils, plants and can also be synthetically made. Thanks to its preservative properties it’s commonly used in skincare to prevent bacteria growing and formulations becoming mouldy. Is benzyl alcohol bad for the skin? When used in a correct concentration, benzyl alcohol is considered a safe ingredient. It’s an approved preservative under the COSMOS Organic Certification criteria. Although it is a very safe ingredient, if you have sensitive skin, we always recommend doing a patch test with any product containing benzyl alcohol. Alcohols Derived from Fats Fatty alcohols are derived from natural plant and animal fats. The different types of fatty alcohols you might see on an ingredients list include cetearyl, steararyl, cetyl and behenyl alcohol. They’re usually included in products used as emollients and thickeners to improve the texture of the product and help trap moisture into the skin. Fatty alcohols are very safe and unlikely to irritate the skin. They can actually be very beneficial for dry skin thanks to their emollient properties which help make the outer layer of the skin feel smoother and softer. Alcohol Denat in Skin Care This is the type of alcohol you want to avoid in skincare! Denatured alcohol, also known as alcohol denat, isopropyl alcohol, and SD alcohol is often used to preserve products. It’s also used in some over-the-counter acne treatments as the alcohol acts as an astringent to target bacteria and excess oil. While you might see an improvement initially using acne products with alcohol denat in skin care, it’s very harsh on the skin. Over time it will damage the skin barrier, stripping the skin of the healthy oils it needs. This results in inflammation, sensitivity, patches of extremely dry skin as well as increased oiliness and more breakouts. Is Alcohol Bad in Skin Care? Ultimately, it depends on the kind of alcohol and the concentration in your skin care products. Benzyl alcohol and fatty alcohols are generally considered very safe for skin. When used in safe concentration, some alcohols are necessary preservatives used to create high quality, long lasting products and prevent formulations going bad. Plus, some have the added benefit of improving moisture levels and softening the skin. If you’re concerned, the best thing to do is patch test a small amount of your neck area. This can help you avoid a potential allergic reaction to any type of alcohol in the product. If you have any questions at all about the ingredients used in esmi Skin Minerals range, reach out! Our expert team of skin consultants are here to help you!
What Does Gold Leaf Do In Skin Care?
Our 24K Gold Nourishing Oil is one of our most popular products! Gold is a potent antioxidant revered for its youth-promoting properties. Find out more about the incredible benefits of gold leaf skincare. What is 24K Gold Leaf Oil? You can’t tell looking at the loose coins rolling around in your wallet, but gold contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are incredibly beneficial for skin. The youth-promoting benefits of gold skin care Gold is revered for its ability to promote youthful-looking skin by stimulating collagen and increasing elasticity for a firmer complexion. We’re not suggesting you rub gold coins onto your face! Gold skin care infused with gold leaf (flakes of gold) is the way to impart this precious metal’s benefits to your skin. How is gold leaf made? The basic method of producing gold leaf has remained the same for centuries - bars of gold are essentially beaten into tiny flakes. These tiny flakes of precious metal are then infused into different types of gold skin care alongside other beneficial ingredients. Meet our esmi 24k Gold Nourishing Oil! Luxurious and non-greasy esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil contains high quality, cosmetic grade, 24k gold flakes and is perfect for combination to dry skin as a moisturiser. It helps address dryness, dehydration, ageing, fine lines and wrinkles on face, neck, and décolletage. A 100% cruelty free and vegan formulation, the oil also contains natural and plant derived ingredients including a blend of rosehip, jojoba, avocado, and coconut oil. We look at the benefits of these incredible oils further along! How does gold leaf oil affect skin? The pure gold in esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil offers powerful anti-ageing and skin saving benefits. Helps boosts circulation Gold is known to help improve blood circulation. The oil imparts a beautiful healthy glow post-application thanks to this boost in circulation! Stimulated collagen and improves skin elasticity Gold skin care counters the breakdown of collagen fibres and elastin in the skin. This breakdown occurs naturally with age and increases with free-radical activity leading to sagging skin, fine lines, loss of volume and skin elasticity. esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil can help stimulate skin’s collagen production and strengthen elasticity for a smoother, firmer, looking complexion. Protects against environmental stressors Not only does gold antioxidant activity help increase the production of new collagen, but it can also help protect the health of existing collagen. It aids in guarding the skin against the free-radical damage caused by external stressors including pollution, UV light, and other toxins our skin comes in contact with every day. The antioxidants in our gold leaf skin care helps neutralise damaging free radical activity on existing collagen to fight signs of fine lines, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. How do you use 24K gold leaf oil? esmi 24k Gold Nourishing Oil is designed as the moisturising step and fits into your routine like this: Cleanser followed by 24K Gold Leaf Oil or, if you use a serum, cleanser then serum then 24K Gold Leaf Oil Use the dropper to apply 2-3 drops of oil directly onto your palm and massage into the skin - including around the eye area. You can use the oil in your morning and evening routine. Supporting ingredients It’s not just the gold working hard for your skin in our 24K Gold Leaf Oil! It also contains a blend of plant oils and other skin-saving ingredients to help boost moisture levels, improve elasticity and firmness, fight free radical activity, minimise pigmentation, and aid in healing damaged skin. Rosehip oil High in vitamin A, rosehip oil aids in skin regeneration, brightening, evening out skin tone, and improving firmness and elasticity. Jojoba oil A plant oil with characteristics similar to your skin’s own sebum, jojoba helps to regulate oil production, heal the skin barrier, and has anti-inflammatory and moisture promoting qualities. Avocado oil Packed with vitamins A, B, C and D, and vitamin E, the fatty acids in avocado oil promote firmer, softer skin, hydration, and neutralise free radical damage. Coconut oil With skin-saving fatty acids, like linoleic acid and lauric acid, coconut oil is also antibacterial and provides emollient, skin softening benefits. Squalane Squalane is an oil with excellent emollient, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-boosting benefits. Products to team with 24k Gold Nourishing Oil for optimal results The Uncomplicated Cleanser It’s important to use a gentle cleanser with the oil. The Uncomplicated Cleanser suits all skin types and concerns, the cleanser balances skin and won’t leave it dry or tight, just clean, calm, and supple. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Team 24k Gold Nourishing Oil with Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum for deep rehydration and skin plumping. The ultimate skin hydrator, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for more hydrated, plumper, repaired skin. Ideal for all skin types, apply the serum after cleansing and before applying the oil in your routine. 24K Gold Nourishing Oil is one of our most popular products! Purchase today in a Skin Bundle to get the 24k Gold Nourish Oil and the complementary products you need for an amazing skin routine. You might also like to read: 5 Of The Best Active Ingredients Myths About Certain Ingredients 3 Ways To Fight The Effects Of Pollution On Skin
How To Reduce Face Puffiness
Here's why your face can get puffy. Face puffiness can range from a temporary (yet annoying!) skin complaint through to something serious like an underlying health issue or allergic reaction. We take a look at the common causes of face puffiness and how to reduce swelling in your face. Dehydration Signs your body is dehydrated will show up quickly in your face, especially around the eyes where the skin is thinner. Too much alcohol, not drinking enough water, and foods with a high sodium content contribute to face puffiness and eye puffiness. We talk about tackling dehydration in more detail further along. Laser treatment If you’ve recently had laser resurfacing some swelling and puffing of the face is usually expected post-treatment. Use the right skincare to aid healing the skin as quickly as possible and reduce puffiness. Sunburn A case of sunburn might be to blame for your puffy face. Nothing good for your skin comes from being sunburnt! Always use sunscreen SPF of 30+ or higher, cover up with a hat and protective clothing, and stay out of the sun during the hottest times of the day. Sleeping position “Why is my face so puffy in the morning?” How you sleep has a lot to do with your rounder morning face. Sleeping face first or with your cheek flat on the pillow causes the fluid in your body to pool in those areas. The result is puffy eyes and a slightly swollen face staring back in the mirror of a morning. Washing your face with cool water and a quick face massage to get fluids moving can help reduce morning face puffiness quickly. Medications or health issues Some anti-inflammatory over the counter drugs like ibuprofen and blood pressure medication can lead to puffy face side effects for some people. Angioedema is a medical issue where too much fluid collects under the skin, usually around the face. It can also be triggered by medication. If face puffiness and swelling have come on quickly or are extreme in any way, please consult your health practitioner. It may be a sign of an allergic reaction or underlying health problem needing immediate professional care. Hydration to Fight Face Puffiness Dehydration. It’s one of the main culprits of face puffiness and bloating. In the early stages of dehydration, your body tries to hold on to fluid causing water retention. Water is drawn into the blood vessels, causing them to swell. This leads to areas of the body, especially the face, becoming bloated and puffy looking. Drinking plenty of water and eating water-rich foods is the easiest go-to solution to keep your body hydrated and face puffiness at bay. Diet and Foods to Avoid to Prevent Facial Bloating In addition to staying hydrated, there are a few dietary tweaks you can make to prevent a puffy face and eyes. The key is cutting back on foods that are high in sodium which dehydrates the body. After eating these kinds of foods, the body tries to restore hydration by retaining water. Keep an eye on your intake of: Salt Alcohol Processed meats Condiments like soy and teriyaki sauce Chips and pretzels Processed carbohydrates Fluid retention is especially noticeable around the eyes where the skin is thinner. Calming Ingredients that Reduce Face & Eye Puffiness Cutting back on salty food isn’t the only way to combat face puffiness. Choose skincare with calming ingredients to decrease swelling and tackle a case of the puffy face! Green tea extract: Research has shown tannins in green tea have to restrict capillaries and blood vessels causing the skin to tighten. Caffeine: Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor. This means it constricts blood vessels and can help with puffy skin and under eye puffiness by reducing swollen blood vessels. Vitamin C: This superhero vitamin stimulating collagen synthesis to improve skin thickness which can help reduce the appearance of bloating and face puffiness. Wild Mint: Abundant in anti-inflammatory properties, wild mint can help get allergic skin under control. Cleanser to Target Puffiness The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Ageing Suitable for all skin types, the cleanser promotes elasticity, suppleness, and moisture while balancing skin for a more youthful-looking complexion. Contains Green tea extract, aloe vera, and peptides to aid in calming and hydrating skin. The Uncomplicated Cleanser Plus Anti-Redness Ideal to address skin prone to redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, this cleanser balances skin and delivers an improvement in redness. Skin Treat to Target Puffiness Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie This lightweight serum cools and heals damaged, red skin with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hydrating properties. Suitable for all skin types to treat red, puffy or acne inflamed skin it’s ideal to use after laser, IPL or diathermy treatment. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum Perfect for all skin types and ages, Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is the ultimate skin hydrator. This quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for more hydrated, repaired skin. Booster Mask to Reduce Inflammation Anti-Inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Shut down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Ideal for red, irritated and acne prone skin the mask can also be used to cool and repair trauma after laser and IPL treatments. The products we’ve recommended above all relate to puffiness caused by inflammation or external factors. So, no matter the reason for your puffiness, they can help! Create an Anti-Puffiness Bundle Get the essentials to help tackle face puffiness, redness, and inflammation with our Tri Essentials Bundle. With your choice of a Cleanser, Skin Treat, and Booster Mask you can target face puffiness and eye puffiness in one handy bundle. Easy!
Night Skin Care Routine
Beauty sleep is real! Get un-ready with our guide to building the best night skin care routine. Tuck your skin in for a good night’s sleep and wake to a fresh complexion. Night Skin Care Routines Aren’t Just For Celebs We’re a little obsessed with the Go To Bed With Me skincare series from Harper’s BAZAAR. It’s fun peeking into the beauty stash of celebs and influencers as they share the lowdown on their evening skincare routines. But a great night skin care routine isn’t just an influencer thing - it’s something we all need! What you put on your skin in the evening plays a huge role in the health of your complexion. What Your Skin Does At Night During the day, your skin is in defence mode, fighting off free radical attacks caused by environmental stressors including pollution and UV damage. At night skin switches into repair mode - combating any damage done during daylight hours. It does the heavy lifting of regenerating itself while you sleep. Skin is more permeable at night which means it’s better able to absorb the ingredients in your skincare. You want to maximise the benefit of this deep absorption by using products brimming with active ingredients such as retinol (Vitamin A), peptides, vitamin C, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid. At night, your skin isn’t contending with the environmental stressors it handles during the day. That’s good news too because there’s nothing to ‘interrupt’ its natural regeneration process; providing you get good quality sleep. Your skin is as individual as you are! This means there isn’t one optimal routine to suit everyone but our guide below will help you put together the best night skin care routine for you. Step One: Cleansing Think about all the things that make their way onto your skin during the day - makeup, excess oil, pollution particles, and dirt. Going to sleep with all this on your skin is not a recipe for a glowing complexion! Without cleansing your skin, pores become clogged with debris which leads to congestion and breakouts. Pollution nano-particles can do long term damage too - they’ve been found to trigger free radical activity which can speed up the signs of ageing. The best night skin care routine should include a double cleanse to remove all traces of build up. All skin types and concerns benefit from a gentle, non-drying cleanser which maintains the delicate balance of oil and moisture on your skin. Look for ingredients including: Aloe vera: Hydrating and calming for skin with very gentle exfoliant properties. Green tea extract: Anti-inflammatory to soothe and calm redness. Stearic acid: Emollient properties minimise water loss while cleansing. Capric triglyceride: Reduce skin dryness by minimising moisture loss. We recommend using The Uncomplicated Cleanser for the first and second cleanse. Or, if you’re targeting a specific skin concern, you may like try one of the following cleansers for the second cleanse: The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Redness - Redness concerns The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Brightening - Hyperpigmentation and dullness The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Anti-Ageing - Ageing concerns The Uncomplicated Cleanser plus Charcoal - Congestion and oiliness Step Two: Exfoliating 1-3 times Per Week Exfoliation removes the dead, dull skin cells and other build up on the skin’s surface. The result? Fresher cells are revealed and skin appears brighter, clearer, and more even. Read: Why Your Skin Needs Exfoliation The best night skin care routine should include an evening exfoliation session 1 - 3 times a week depending on the frequency your skin can handle. Choosing the type of exfoliation ingredients right for you depends entirely on your skin type and concerns you’re dealing with. Here’s our quick guide on suggested exfoliant ingredients to match skin concerns. Dry and sensitive skin Bamboo extract has mild exfoliation properties that can encourage cell turnover to reveal younger, softer skin. Jojoba beads and rice powder are also gentle exfoliant choices for skin needing extra TLC. Lactic acid offers the gentlest exfoliating action of all alpha-hydroxy acids and generally well suited to sensitive and dry skin. We recommend: Rose And Bamboo facial exfoliant. The delicate exfoliation action of bamboo extract works in harmony with the power of mixed fruit enzymes for sensitive skin and a dry, damaged complexion. Breakouts and congestion Exotic Polynesian sand has an ultra-fine texture to provide gentle exfoliation and assist in removing pore-clogging debris to encourage a clearer complexion. We recommend:Fresh Sea And Salty Sand facial exfoliant from esmi Gentle Foliant range for oily and congestion prone skin. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and papaya enzymes are good choices for oily skin types with large pores prone to congestion and breakouts. Don’t underestimate the importance of choosing the right exfoliant. Exfoliating with the wrong product or too frequently can cause micro-tears in the skin and lead to excessive irritation. Step Three: Skin Treatments The best night time skin care routine wouldn’t be complete without a treatment to target specific skin concerns. The improvement of hyperpigmentation, ageing concerns, dullness, and dryness can all be addressed while you sleep. A few of our favourite treatments to use overnight include: Golden Anti-Ageing Serum Fine lines and hyperpigmentation Potent antioxidant activity makes this serum the perfect night time defence against free radical damage, fine lines and pigmentation associated with ageing. All ages and skin types. Pomegranate Brightening Serum Hyperpigmentation, dullness, and uneven skin tone Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. Face Masks Is there a more luxurious way to treat your skin overnight than with a face mask? Thanks to increased permeability, skin deeply absorbs the active ingredients while you sleep - plus it has more time to work! Each Booster Mask in our range is a great choice for night time use. Step Four: Eye Treatments The skin around your eye area is delicate and prone to puffiness, dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Including a separate eye treatment in your nighttime skincare routine is an effective way to target these concerns. Eye serums are lightweight with a potent hit of active ingredients that can penetrate more deeply into the skin than cream based formulations. Key ingredients to target specific concerns and eye serum recommendations for the best night skin care routine Brighten: Peptides, Vitamin C Brightening Eye Serum Address signs of ageing: Caffeine, peptides, Vitamin E Anti ageing Eye Serum Hydrate: Hyaluronic acid Hydrating Eye Serum Apply the treatment hour or so before you go to bed to give the product time to absorb before placing your face on the pillow. Step Five: Moisturise The increased permeability of your skin at night isn’t all good news. While products are better absorbed the downside is moisture evaporates more easily from the skin while you sleep. Choosing the right moisturiser for your best night skin care routine will help minimise water loss and work to lock hydration into the skin. What does a moisturiser do? Moisturisers work on the topmost layer of the skin to prevent the moisture from evaporating off the skin’s surface and soften skin with occlusive and emollient ingredients. If the formulation includes humectant ingredients (those that attract water to the skin) a moisturiser can help top up water levels, too. Overall, moisturiser helps skin plump, soft, hydrated, and strengthen the skin barrier. Face oils as moisturisers Face oils can act as the moisturising step in your best night skin care routine to improve skin hydration. Face oils contain beneficial emollient and occlusive properties which help seal moisture into the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Or, you can follow your cream based moisturising step with a face oil. The most beneficial oils for skin: Some of the most beneficial oils include: Rosehip: Anti-ageing and encourage hydration Avocado: Moisturising, promotes collagen production, and healing Jojoba: Can help balance oil production Evening primrose oil: Addresses dryness, fine lines, and improves skin texture Acai oil: Improve skin elasticity, anti-ageing, and acne clearing Black tea seed oil: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory Peppermint oil: Anti-microbial and refreshing Face oils for oily skin Even oily skin types will benefit from certain lightweight face oils to help keep skin hydrated and regulate oil production to control breakouts. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are the most beneficial for oily skin. The final step in your routine Applying a face oil should be the final step in your evening routine. Leaving it until last creates a shield over the skin - helping lock in moisture the serum, eye treatment and/ or cream moisturising steps have delivered to your skin. We recommend: 24K Gold Nourishing Oil (All skin types) Luxurious 24-karat gold leaf face oil nourishes to encourage a firmer, more youthful complexion. Suitable for all skin types, it can aid in boosting skin elasticity, stimulating collagen production and improving blood circulation. Acai Skin Balancing Face (Excellent for oily skin types) Ideal for all skin types, especially oily skin with balance concerns, this nourishing oil can replace moisturiser to improve tone, calm and hydrate while regulating oil flow. Peppermint Green Oil (Oily, acne prone skin in teens) This lightweight oil will help to balance oil flow whilst being cooling and providing anti-bacterial benefits. If you need help putting together the best night skin care routine for your complexion, our esmi Skin Experts are here to guide you! Book your free skin consultation today.
Before and After Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum
One of our best sellers, Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, is a deep hit of hydration for your skin Ideal for all skin types in a daily routine, this super soaking serum helps skin retain much-needed moisture for plumpness and elasticity. esmi Skin Minerals customer Kristin loves her hyaluronic acid before and after results. Incorporating the serum into her daily routine, Kristin first saw signs of a more refined complexion after just 3 days. Her skin continued to improve a month into using the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum. If you’re just getting started with the serum, you should notice positive changes in skin texture in the first week of use. 4 weeks of using the serum daily will deliver the best results. Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Hyaluronic acid benefits in skincare include: Increased moisture Helping repair a damaged skin barrier Plumper, smoother skin Signs of fine lines and wrinkles are minimised Brighter skin More refined skin Improved elasticity Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is like a big drink of water for your cells containing triple action Hyaluron which increases hydration by 25% within 2 hours for a plumper, brighter complexion. Here’s what Kristin has to say about using the serum in her routine; “Within the first 3 nights of using it, I really did notice a change in the pore size of my skin!” “It was wild. Honestly, I'd never hugely believed in skin products (like, I swap products all the time because in the general scheme of things, I find my skin reacts in the same way to moisturisers and serums) but this was specifically noticeable!” “The longer I used it, the more "long-lasting" the smoothness was in my skin. It's soooo good!” What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do For the Skin? Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate (you might see it listed either way on a label) is not like other acids in skin care, salicylic or glycolic for example, that exfoliate the skin. Instead, this acid is a naturally occurring substance in your body that helps provide lubrication for skin, hair, eyes, nerves and joints. How does hyaluronic acid work? A humectant ingredient, the thing that makes it a hydrating superstar is hyaluronic acid’s ability to draw moisture to the skin's surface. It attracts water from the air and also deeper layers of the skin. By pulling moisture to the surface it visibly plumps, smooths and hydrates the skin. A superior hydrator, it can hold an incredible 1000 x its weight in water! What does hyaluronic acid do for skin when formulated in topical products? It’s ideal to combat dullness, flakiness, loss of elasticity, fine lines, and wrinkles for all skin types. An effective way to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your routine is with a serum. Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is absorbed deeply and rapidly into the skin. It can penetrate deeper than a moisturiser to deliver a big hit of moisture to skin cells. How to use Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum This serum is the perfect addition to your morning and evening routine. After cleansing, and while your skin is still damp, dispense a pearl size amount of serum from the dropper onto fingertips. Gently massage into the skin. Remember, the hydrating serum is designed to work with a moisturiser, not replace it. You’ll need to apply a face oil or moisturiser immediately afterwards to seal in all the hydration and maximise the serum’s effectiveness. Have a combination or dry skin type? We recommend applying 24k Gold Nourishing Oil or Acai Skin Balancing Face Oil to lock, seal and create a protective barrier on the skin. Click here treat your skin to this hydrating hero and experience your own hyaluronic acid before and after results!
Q + A with Brooke Iseppi
“Self-care has helped me feel myself again after so many months of focusing on my little one!” Brooke Iseppi’s Instagram feed chronicles family life with her 3 stunning daughters, Isabella, Mia, and Quinn - her “3 queens.” With close to 1 million followers, Brooke is one of the most popular Aussie influencers on Instagram. Brooke simply glows. But, like so many mummas, finding time to take care of her skin and fit self-care into her day wasn’t always easy. After having her youngest daughter Quinn, Brooke wanted to step up her skincare routine and rediscover her “me time”. She turned to esmi Skin Minerals (hooray!) to tackle her skin concerns. We had a quick chat with this glowing mumma about her esmi experience. What made you want to try esmi for the first time? A few of my girlfriends had started using it and we're seeing great results so of course, I had to jump on the bandwagon! What specific results can you share? After having my youngest daughter last year, I really let myself go. My skin was very dull, congested and overall didn’t look good. After 2-3 months using esmi products, my skin looks so much brighter and healthier! Also allowing myself a few minutes twice a day for some self-care has helped me feel myself again after so many months of focusing on my little one! What would you say to somebody on the fence about trying esmi? It’s 100% worth it! My skin has never looked or felt this good! Who is someone you look up to and why? My Mama Bear - she's everything I hope to be and more. She is the most selfless, strong-willed, caring person I have ever met, not to mention the best ‘Lollie’ to my girls! What is your favourite thing about being a woman? Being able to grow life - it still blows my mind how amazing a woman’s body is and what it is capable of! We have a caring and dedicated esmi Skin Service team available 7 days a week to reach out to. Book your complimentary skin consultation today!
