Face Serum & Why You Should Have One
What is a face serum? Your skin’s superhero! Formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients, serums deliver a potent hit of ingredients quickly and deeply into the skin. We take a look at how and why to incorporate a serum into your routine to help improve everything from dehydration and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and wrinkles What does a serum do for your face? What sets face serum apart from other products in your skincare routine? They’re the fastest, most potent way to deliver the active ingredients your skin needs to help correct skin concerns. The small molecular structure of a serum - they’re usually water based - allows it to penetrate the skin more deeply than other products. A cream-based moisturiser, for example, sits on the top layer of skin. A serum, on the other hand, absorbs more rapidly and deeply into the skin. Serums aren’t designed to take the place of your moisturiser, they work together as a skin saving team. The serum delivers a potent hit of active ingredients and your moisturiser works to lock those nutrients in. We’ll cover more on exactly how to use serum in your routine in a moment! Serums target different skin concerns They’re formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants including vitamin A, C, and E. Some heavy hitting anti-ageing serums contain high doses of topical retinoids (Vitamin A). You can also find concentrated levels of omega 3, 6 and 9 in serums formulated with a combination of water and oil based ingredients. Here are a few key ingredients to look out for in a face serum to target some everyday skin complaints: Dehydration: Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Dullness: Vitamin C Fine lines & wrinkles: Peptides, retinol, and Vitamin C Redness & irritation: Niacinamide, linoleic acid (omega 6 fatty acid), Vitamin E Oily skin & congestion: Vitamin B and hyaluronic acid Our recommendations from the esmi Skin Minerals range of serums to address some of the most common concerns: 🧡 Dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum The ultimate skin hydrator for all skin types, this quick-absorbing serum fights dehydration for more hydrated, plumper, repaired skin. “Love this product. Makes my skin feel so soft and hydrated. I'm addicted! I've noticed a dramatic difference in my skins texture.” — Tia 🧡 Hyperpigmentation and dullness: Pomegranate Brightening Serum Ideal for most skin types to improve the look of pigmentation, sun damage, dull skin and enhance skin's luminosity and clarity. “Have definitely noticed a difference in my skin texture and appearance! I used to have really bad discoloration and acne scars and this product has made me confident enough to not feel like I need to cover up the discoloration with makeup anymore! Others have commented on how much nicer my skin looks and I definitely feel it, as well. Would highly recommend!!” — Abygail 🧡 Redness and inflammation: Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Suitable for all skin types to treat red, puffy or acne inflamed skin it’s ideal to use after laser, IPL or diathermy treatment. “Love this one! Really helps with evening my skin tone and lessening my rosacea in my cheeks. I use this at night before bed and in the morning any acne spots are noticeably reduced. Would recommend!” - Tara How to use a face serum If you’ve asked yourself “What is face serum?” you’ve probably wondered when and how to use a face serum too. Let’s find out! 🧡 Apply face serum after the cleansing step in your routine and while skin is still a little damp to encourage absorption.🧡 Drop a pearl sized amount of serum from the dropper onto your fingertips. Serums are potent so a little goes a long way.🧡 Massage into cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area.🧡 Allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin.🧡 Follow with a moisturising lotion (morning and evening) and then sunscreen (morning). A moisturiser works to seal the active ingredients of the serum into the skin. It’s important to use both a serum and moisturiser for the best results. Should you use face serum everyday? Many serums can be used twice a day (morning and evening) for the best results. The exception here may be a serum containing a high concentration of retinol (Vitamin A) which is usually recommended to apply at night. Always wear sunscreen the following day as retinol products make skin extremely photosensitive. If you’re using multiple serums to treat different skin concerns - dehydration and hyperpigmentation, for example - you could apply one serum in the evening and the other in the morning. Do I need a face serum? What is a face serum going to do for your skin? Plenty. You can move your skin results forward in leaps and bounds by incorporating a serum. They’re designed to intensify the strength of your skincare regimen and compliment your other products in addressing your skincare concerns. Depending on the ingredients they’re formulated with, face serums can provide antioxidant protection against free radical damage, boost hydration, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyperpigmentation and dullness can also be improved with the addition of a face serum. No matter your skin type or concern, you’ll see speedier results and a significant improvement in the overall health of your skin with a serum.
What Percentage of Retinol Should I Use?
Retinol. It is one of those buzzwords that is thrown around a lot in the skincare community, and for good reason! It is one of those products that we will shout from the rooftops about. Retinol can absolutely transform your skin, if (and it’s a big ‘if’) you do it correctly. There are different strengths of retinol products and to get the best results, you have to know which one your skin is going to love. If that seems overwhelming, that’s why we’re here! Let’s break it all down… What is retinol? The thing to remember here is that the world of retinoids is a complicated one. There are a bunch of different types and concentrations. We’re going to focus on retinol, which is derived from vitamin A. On most retinol products, you’ll see a retinol percentage. That is the strength of the product and is super, super important to take a note of. More on that later… Our vegan retinol products are Encapsulated Retinol and we’re a bit biased, but we think that’s the only way to do it. The retinol is enclosed in tiny capsules which allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin layer before being activated. This is perfect for sensitive skin, as it maximises skin benefits while minimising dryness, irritation, and flaking on the surface of the skin, sometimes a side effect of traditional retinol. Why use retinol? The list of results you’ll see from introducing retinol into your skincare routine is just about endless. It has anti-ageing and acne-fighting powers, and resurfaces the skin by speeding up cell turnover, giving you an IRL Instagram filter glow. It also stimulates collagen production to plump fine lines and fades any acne scars or hyperpigmentation from sun exposure. You’ll also see improved skin texture and tightened pores. And just because we like to go the extra mile, our retinol products contain tomato extract to regulate oil production and fight free radicals, carrot seed oil for anti-ageing benefits, and sunflower oil to strengthen the skin barrier. You will start to see results in 2-3 week with the possibility of some redness and slight peeling, but as long as you’re using the right strength retinol, it is nothing to worry about. Which retinol strength should I use? There is a misconception that retinol is always too harsh and irritating, which is usually a sign that the product is too strong and the skin is not used to it. While you may experience some slight sensitivity when you first start using retinol products, this is just the increased cell turnover. Your skin will become accustomed to it and you’ll be seeing those amazing results in no time. The golden rule to see results without irritation is to start low and slow. Think of using retinol like running a marathon - you have to train your skin! We’ve developed four levels of retinol strengths; 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%. Without fail, we tell all of our customers to start with the Level 1 Retinol, which has a retinol percentage of 0.25% (experts agree that you will struggle to see results with a lower concentration than this). If you are new to retinol or our retinol products, starting with the lowest concentration is going to seriously lower any risk of sensitivity or redness. Another thing to remember is that retinol is a treatment - don’t think of it like a moisturiser you can slather on twice a day. Use just a pearl sized amount every second night after cleansing. Then you can go ham with your moisturising lotion or oil. After finishing the first level of your Encapsulated Retinol, if any redness or peeling has stopped, then you’re ready for the next level - congrats! If you’ve got sensitive skin, you will probably want to stay around the Level 1 or Level 2 mark (and patch test before you start), whereas if you have oily or thicker skin, you’ll probably be able to tolerate and see results from a higher retinol percentage. In a nutshell, it is a super personal thing, so just go slowly to see what works for you. You don’t want to be messing around with strong retinol products if your skin is not ready for them, or you can risk long-term irritation, itchiness or flaky patches. Don’t stress though, if you start slowly and build your way up, your skin will become just as obsessed with retinol as we are and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! If you have any questions about our Encapsulated Retinol products, our friendly skin care experts are happy to help!
An Oil Can Do Allllll of That?!
There are many myths and misconceptions about what can and can’t be used on an oily skin—oil based products being one of them. Time to shed some light on these tall tales and expose the amazing benefits of oil—you will want to bathe your skin in the brilliance of this liquid gold! So you’ve probably heard and believed some of these to be true: • Oil based products will make your skin oilier and greasy• They will make you breakout• Using oil-free products are the better choice for an oily skin Prepare to learn whilst we debunk these myths. What causes oiliness? Our skin type is hereditary and is determined by the amount of oil being produced. If your parents had an oily skin its most likely you will too. An oily skin is a result of the sebaceous (oil) glands in our skin being overactive, secreting excess oil which can lead to clogging of the pores and the perfect breeding environment for bacteria. Excess oil can also be the result of heightened hormone levels, which is why teenagers can often battle with acne. This is also the reason that women tend to have oilier skin during some parts of their menstrual cycle, while they’re pregnant and when they’re experiencing menopause. Although this skin type can be a precursor to acne a brilliant benefit can be that if looked after correctly, oily skin types can age much slower than normal/dry skin! So, why use oil-based products on an oily skin? #1. Oil attracts oil and can dissolve sebum, grease and make-up without stripping the skin of its natural oils. esmi’s expert advice:If you are using a gel/foam cleanser or soap that makes your skin feel tight, dry or aggravated, it’s most likely you are stripping your skin and compromising the skins natural protective barrier—known as the acid mantle. Most often an oily skin will produce more oil as a defence mechanism to balance out the loss of moisture on the skin, leading to more unwanted oil and breakouts! Use a cosmeceutical cleanser, prescribed by a professional skin therapist. Oil is GOOD, it protects and lubricates your skin, a cleanser should be gentle and complement your skin. #2. Facial oils can assist to hydrate, protect and repair the skin’s barrier function. esmi’s expert advice:Think of your skin as your protective shield, fighting to keep germs out and lock moisture in. Many oily skins are dehydrated and lack moisture due to the use of harsh cleansers, over exfoliation and lack of moisturising. Our skin needs to be kept hydrated both internally by drinking plenty of water and consuming good omegas in the diet, and externally by using the right tailored skincare. Did you know your skin needs water and moisture to help activate special enzymes in the epidermis that allow your dead skin cells to shed off? If the skin lacks moisture this can lead to more clogging, congestion and breakouts. #3. Using the correct skin oil can actually help to balance excess oil. esmi’s expert advice:Our skin’s sebum (oil) is made up of a combination of triglycerides, diglycerides, fatty acids, wax esters, squalane and cholesterol—all designed to lubricate, hydrate and protect our skin. You will notice a child’s skin has the perfect production of oil, however, when puberty and adulthood take place the correct ratio needed to keep the skin balanced can be all out of whack and may lead to a skin disorder like acne. Balance excess oil by partnering your favourite Esmi Skin Treat with the amazing benefits of esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil: In summary, these unique ingredients have a rapid skin absorption rate that will leave your skin feeling hydrated but not ‘oily’ or ‘greasy’. esmi 24K Gold Nourishing Oil has more highly concentrated actives which can help to achieve quicker skin results. 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
Eye Serum vs. Eye Cream
Eye serum vs eye cream. What’s the difference and how exactly do they work? We explain the benefits of both and how they fit into your routine to help address signs of ageing, fatigue, and puffiness around the eyes. Which is better: Eye serum or eye cream? Under eye serum and eye cream both offer benefits for perking up tired, puffy, crepey or dull skin but they work in different ways. What is eye cream? Moisturising and nourishing Reduces under eye dryness Improves skin texture Works on the skin’s surface Heavier texture Cream-based formula Eye creams and eye balms are a cream-based formula with a richer texture than a serum. What does eye cream do? They focus on delivering intense moisturisation to the delicate eye area to improve texture, nourishment and concerns of puffiness and dryness. Eye creams and balms contain emollient and occlusive ingredients which work on the skin’s surface to lock moisture in. What is eye serum? Target specific under-eye concerns: wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, loss of firmness Contain active ingredients Penetrate deeply into the skin Light texture Rapidly absorbed Water-based formula Lighter than a cream, under eye serum contains active ingredients like anti-aging peptides, antioxidants, and humectants to target specific skin concerns. With less (or no) occlusive or emollient ingredients, they don’t offer the same moisturising benefits as a cream. Eye serums are quickly and deeply absorbed into the skin where the active ingredients get to work targeting under-eye concerns like dark circles, fine lines, dark spots, and sagging. You might be wondering “If I’m using a serum is eye cream necessary?” They make a great team to address moisturisation (cream) and specific concerns (serum). Our favourite under-eye serums Which eye serum is best? esmi range of Intensive Eye Serums are designed to help address a range of common concerns from fine lines and puffiness to dehydration and dullness. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Ideal for: Crows feet, puffiness, fine lines, and dryness. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum fights 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. This lightweight serum lifts, tightens, and reduces wrinkle depth in the eye area. Hydrating Eye Serum Ideal for: Dehydration, signs of fatigue, puffiness and fine lines. The hero ingredient of our Hydrating Eye Serum is hyaluronic acid, which delivers long-lasting hydration to help restore under-eye skin. This lightweight serum also contains a potent formulation of marine extracts and antioxidants for skin conditioning and nourishment. Used consistently, it helps promote a firmer, softer and brighter eye area. Brightening Eye Serum Ideal for: Dark circles, age spots, eye bags, and wrinkles. Feeling less than bright-eyed? With a unique blend of plankton extract, peptides, and active ingredients (including potent skin brightener Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) Brightening Eye Serum acts on signs of dark circles, eye bags, and wrinkles. Promote a brighter, tighter and more youthful eye area with this lightweight, fast absorbing serum. 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. Massage until the product has completely absorbed. How to layer eye cream + eye serum Using an under eye serum and cream? Make sure you’re layering these eye care products correctly to maximise results. After cleansing, apply the eye serum in the step outlined above. When the serum is absorbed, follow with your eye cream or eye balm. Apply a rice grain size of the cream or balm (per eye) and massage in. The cream locks in the active ingredients of the serum (remember those actives are working deep in the skin layers!) while moisturising and nourishing the surface. Both eye serum and eye cream can fit into your daily AM and PM routine. If you are using a heavier eye cream, you may prefer to apply it only in your PM routine. View the range of esmi Intensive Eye Treatments
Discover the Power of Anti-Ageing Serums
As we age, the quest for youthful, radiant skin becomes a priority for many of us. Fortunately, we have taken the science of anti-ageing skincare to the next level with our powerful range of anti-ageing serums. The differences between our anti-ageing serums Let's delve into the remarkable features of three of our standout products: the Golden Anti-Ageing Serum, Ageless Hyaluronic Serum, and Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol. The power of peptides and vitamin C Product spotlight: Golden Anti-Ageing Serum The Golden Anti-Ageing Serum is a true game-changer when it comes to combatting ageing concerns. This potent formula combines the benefits of peptides and Vitamin C to target a wide range of issues that arise with ageing skin. Peptides are powerful amino acid compounds that play a crucial role in stimulating collagen production. By including peptides in this serum, it ensures that your skin receives the necessary support to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a smoother, more youthful complexion. Vitamin C is renowned for its ability to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. By including this ingredient, the Golden Anti-Ageing Serum helps restore your skin's natural radiance, leaving it looking revitalised and fresh. Your everyday hydration hero Product spotlight: Ageless Hyaluronic Serum An everyday essential in the fight against ageing, the Ageless Hyaluronic can do no wrong. Enriched with broad-spectrum Hyaluronic Acid and peptides, this serum works wonders to promote collagen production and hydrate your skin. Hyaluronic Acid is a natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for maintaining skin hydration. Combined with peptides, it helps smooth out fine lines and prevent muscle contractions, effectively minimizing the appearance of expression lines. By incorporating the Ageless Hyaluronic Serum into your daily skincare routine, you can enjoy plumper, more supple skin that's better equipped to fight the signs of ageing. Embrace the power of bakuchiol Product spotlight: Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol The Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol is a unique addition to the esmi collection. This serum is designed to be used over water-based serums, and it boasts the extraordinary properties of Bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived, natural alternative to retinol. It is highly effective in reducing skin discoloration and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By incorporating Bakuchiol into the Afterglow Rejuvenating Bakuchiol, it provides a gentle yet potent solution for those seeking a retinol alternative. A trio of power The beauty of these serums lies not only in the individual benefits of each product but also in their compatibility for combined use. They can be used harmoniously together to form the ultimate anti-ageing solution. Bakuchiol and retinol: A dynamic duo If you're already a fan of retinol, you'll be thrilled to know that Bakuchiol can enhance its effectiveness. Bakuchiol has the unique ability to stabilise retinol and keep it effective for longer periods. Additionally, Bakuchiol's calming properties can help the skin tolerate retinol in higher amounts, making it a perfect complement to your existing retinol-based products. Whether used individually or in combination, these serums are sure to elevate your skincare routine and help you achieve the youthful, radiant skin you deserve. Embrace the power of anti-ageing serums and take charge of your skin's journey to timeless beauty.
Here's How Charcoal Can Help Your Skin
Charcoal … discovered by ancient Egyptians over 4000 years ago it was first used to manufacture bronze and embalm corpses for mummification. Not only did they discover the amazing preserving properties but also used it for medicinal purposes, writing and absorbing unpleasant odours. Fast forward through the ages the discovery of charcoal and its numerous benefits leaves little wonder that it is one of the most healing and popular ingredients in skincare and the health industry today. Just some of the benefits and uses of charcoal include: Amazing antibacterial and antiseptic properties Purification of water, air and the soil we grow food in Treating many different illnesses such as epilepsy, anaemia, and vertigo Used daily in medical facilities for drug and food poisoning, kidney and liver dialysis machines, to wound dressings, to anemia for cancer, and much more. Veterinarians also use charcoal for our furry loves that ingest anything harmful Charcoal = your genie in a bottle.So as you can see, with the history of this unique ingredient combined with the extraordinary benefits, we are bursting with excitement to introduce you to the esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum. But first … let’s talk about your skin.Wouldn’t it be nice if we could hop out of bed, shimmy out of our old skin like a snake and face the world unblemished and fresh-faced? Well, our skin is a little more fascinating, so fascinating, that if we had to journal exactly what it was doing right now, we would be writing until we die! Our skin is continually shedding in patches (without us even knowing) and new skin cells are constantly replacing those that have been lost. The cells responsible for this shedding action are called keratinocytes, and they make up 85% of the epidermis (the outermost layer of our skin). These cells have two major roles, the ability to actively divide and differentiate. Your age, genetics, hormones and lifestyle factors determine the rate at which these little guys divide, shed and renew. In your 20s your cell turnover is approx. 25+ days, 30s 35+ days, 40s 45+ days and so on. This shedding process can be impacted by the craziness and business of our lives. How can you tell?• Is your skin rough or flaky?• Uneven in appearance?• Tight?• Crepey?• Bumpy?• Dry or scaly?• Presenting fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation? If you answered yes to any of the above, we can assist. Whilst we can’t stop the clock on ageing and we can’t change the skin type you were born with, we can introduce healthy habits and skin feeding ingredients to accelerate and activate these keratinocytes to work more efficiently, resulting in clearer, more radiant skin. Healthy skin starts from within.Choosing to eat organically and eating whole-foods is the first best step. Vital for keeping your skin plump from the inside out, include essential fatty acids as part of your diet (good fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, fish etc.) Drinking 3-4 litres of water a day will also help to flush toxins, hydrate the skin and keep your body functioning at its best. Combining a healthy diet, exercise and skincare routine is a ‘triple threat’ to preserving a youthful appearance. Charcoal + your skin = real results!This cocktail of powerful ingredients delivers the very best food to excite your skin cells and get them communicating. esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum was designed to gradually exfoliate, smooth skin and draw out skin impurities. Fuelled by glycolic, lactic and citric acid, these ingredients help to break down the ‘bonds’ or ‘glue’ that hold your surface dead skin cells together allowing them to shed off. This action unleashes fresh new skin, refines rough skin, stimulates cell turnover and allows for better product absorption. Grape seed oil, simmondsia chinensis seed oil (jojoba seed oil) and vaccinium myrtillus (European blueberry) have powerful antioxidant properties to fight free radicals and prevent the ageing. Improve your results by applying your favourite esmi Skin Treat once removing the Charcoal Serum. The inclusion of 24K gold flakes assists in increasing skin elasticity, blood circulation AND the prevention of collagen breakdown. Our star ingredient charcoal helps to purify underlying clogging and congestion by drawing out toxins from your skin’s pores, while detoxifying and drying impurities. The anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties help to diminish bacteria and inflammation on the skin’s surface. How to use your esmi Charcoal Detoxifying and Exfoliating Serum. 1. Using the dropper, apply a pearl-sized amount to your esmi Charcoal Brush.2. Massage into freshly cleansed skin, avoiding under the eye area, and allow to tingle. (The tingling may last from 5-10 minutes and may range from very mild to intense).3. Leave for 5-10 minutes before wetting the charcoal brush and massage around the face to remove any softened dead skin cells before washing off.4. If you want more of a tingle activate these ingredients further by adding a little water to your brush, continue to massage skin and remove after 5-10 minutes.5. Pair with other esmi Skin Treats.6. Can be used in a cycle of up to 5 consecutive nights with a 2-day break in between.7. Use with caution if using in conjunction with other product containing AHA or BHA acid Ingredients. Please note: The charcoal is a detoxifying ingredient and may draw out skin impurities. Continue use after impurities have emerged. Protect your skin daily with a sunscreen.
How to Use Glow Drops
Glow drops are the perfect way to add some extra radiance to your appearance! Typically containing illuminating pigments, light-reflecting particles, or shimmering ingredients, glow drops create a subtle glow when applied to your skin. Use it on your arms, legs, décolletage or even your face to enhance your natural complexion and give your skin a healthy, radiant glow. What are glow drops? Thanks to their blend of hydrating ingredients and light-reflecting properties, glow drops work wonders in the quest for radiant skin. Many glow drops contain fine particles that catch and scatter light, lending a subtle yet noticeable luminosity to the skin. What's truly remarkable about glow drops is their versatility—they're not just for the face! Many glow drops are suitable for use on both the face and body, making them a delightful addition to your full-body skincare routine. Bathe your limbs in a shimmering veil, accentuating your natural beauty from head to toe 🌟 This is where esmi's very own Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil enters the chat! Packed with a supercharged blend of coconut, papaya, and cranberry seed oils, this lightweight body oil will leave your skin feeling irresistibly soft and silky. The natural team of vitamin A and E work together to brighten and improve your skin tone, while leaving a subtle shimmer. Using glow drops: A step-by-step guide Here's a few tips for you to help you glow to your fullest potential. 🌟 Preparing your skin Before applying body glow oil, it's essential your skin is clean and exfoliated. This ensures that the product can effectively work its magic. To optimise the benefits of glow drops on the face and neck, consider using a toner beforehand. esmi's Gentle Refine Cleansing Toner helps rebalance the skin's pH levels and remove any residual impurities, creating a smooth canvas for subsequent skincare products. By prepping your skin with a cleanser and toner, you can enhance the absorption of glow drops, allowing them to impart their luminous goodness effectively. In terms of prepping the rest of the body, we recommend using an exfoliating mitt, such as our Hemp Mitt. It helps to increase circulation and provides a gentle exfoliation for smooth soft skin, creating the perfect base for some serious shine! 🌟 Using the right amount Start with just a small amount of glow body oil, as even a little can produce remarkable results! If you find you need more luminosity, it's easy to add a couple of more drops until you achieve your desired glow. 🌟 Applying the drops Apply alone or over a moisturiser for a luxurious glow. Indulge your senses with the delicate spiced caramel scent. Here's the fun part! esmi has a dedicated Glow Oil Body Brush so you can experience the magic of our Glow Oil Body Brush without product even touching your hands! The brush features super soft contoured bristles, ensuring a seamless application of body oil for an illuminating glow. Apply the oil to the desired area, whether it's your face or any part of your body, and use the brush to evenly spread it across the skin. If you don't have the brush, consider warming up the drops between your fingers before application. This gentle technique helps to activate the ingredients and ensures they seamlessly meld into your skin. Choosing the best glow drops for you esmi's Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil is a stand-out product that beautifully enhances your skin's radiance. Pairing seamlessly with a range of other products in the line, it offers a synergistic approach to skincare that elevates your glow to new heights! Remember, maintaining a quality skincare routine is paramount for keeping your skin healthy and vibrant. Embrace the power of glow drops and indulge in extra radiance.
Product Spotlight: All About Ageless
Guess what?! Our Ageless Hyaluronic Serum hit its first birthday bash this month, and we're ready to throw it the ultimate product spotlight party! 🎉 This little gem has been stealing hearts left and right, becoming our second best-seller in the 12 months it's been around! The down-low on hyaluronic Let's dive into the juicy details about hyaluronic acid. Picture this: it's naturally present in your body - chilling out in your joints, skin, and even your eyes. Half of all the hyaluronic acid in your body hangs out in your skin, making it a VIP ingredient in the world of cosmetics and skincare! This sensation has a superpower – it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, keeping your skin feeling fresh and plump. Our hyaluronic acid is like the superhero version – it's got a triple action and comes in a full spectrum of molecule lengths, from small to large. It's like a perfectly balanced cocktail for your skin, absorbing lightning-fast to boost water content, firm up your skin, and strengthen your skin barrier. Just two hours after application, it slashes dehydration by 25%, and after 24 hours, it's outperforming other hyaluronic acids like it's no big deal – we're talking 55% more efficient than the low molecular weight ones and a whopping 125% more efficient than the high molecular weight ones! Other honourable mentions Our Ageless Hyaluronic Serum isn't just about the hyaluronic acid – it's got some extra special guests too! Cue the Watermelon extract, packed with antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C, and E, and amino acids to help your skin fight off environmental baddies and the pesky signs of aging and sun damage. Plus, fun fact: we're all about sustainability, so our Watermelon extract is upcycled from food waste – it's like giving your skin a delicious, eco-friendly treat! And let's not forget about Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, aka 'botox in a bottle'! Let's dive into these peptides some more... How do peptides work on the skin? In a nutshell, peptides are an essential fragment of protein made of short chain amino acids. They penetrate through the skin barrier and signal the cells to create new collagen and address various concerns such as ageing, hydration, texture, pigmentation and sensitivity. Peptides send signals to tell the cells what to do, certain peptides have been shown to simulate the production of collagen, enhance skin texture by increasing the cell turnover, inhibit melanin production which can reduce the signs of pigmentation and provide antioxidant protection to the skin. This little miracle worker interrupts those expression lines like a boss, smoothing out your skin's surface and giving you that youthful glow. And if you're wondering how peptides work, think of them as the superheroes of the skincare world – they signal your cells to create new collagen and tackle all sorts of skin concerns, from ageing to hydration to pigmentation and beyond! Difference between blue and pink?! Now, you might be wondering, what's the difference between our Ageless Hyaluronic Serum and our blue Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum? Well, think of the Ageless as your everyday go-to for plumping and firming, with a side of collagen-boosting peptides. Meanwhile, the Blue is all about repairing, healing, and balancing oil levels, thanks to niacinamide and allantoin. It's like having two besties – one for the AM and one for the PM – keeping your skin happy around the clock! If you already love our blue Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum, you can certainly continue to use this in your morning routine to hydrate and repair, then incorporate your new Ageless Serum into your night routine to stimulate skin firming and collagen production whilst you sleep!
Sheet Mask vs Booster Mask: Which Should I Choose?
In the pursuit of radiant skin, face masks stand as unparalleled allies, offering an extra layer of nourishment and rejuvenation to elevate any skincare routine. Enter esmi, renowned for its diverse range of sheet masks and booster masks. Today, we delve into a comparison to determine which option best suits your skincare needs. The benefits of a sheet mask Convenience: Sheet masks are incredibly easy to apply and require minimal effort compared to traditional masks. They come pre-soaked in beneficial ingredients, eliminating the need for measuring or mixing. Hydration: Sheet masks are designed to deliver intense hydration to the skin. The mask's material creates a barrier that prevents the evaporation of moisture, allowing the skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients fully. Fast results: Unlike some skincare products that require consistent use to see results, sheet masks provide instant gratification. They can instantly plump up the skin, leaving it looking refreshed and rejuvenated. Thirsty Skin Sheet Plumping Mask Let's take a look at some of the specific benefits of esmi's Thirsty Skin Sheet Plumping Mask. The Thirsty Skin Sheet Plumping Mask by e.s.m.i. offers a unique blend of ingredients tailored to provide deep hydration and rejuvenation to the skin. Here's why it stands out: Intense hydration: The Thirsty Skin mask is formulated with hyaluronic acid, a powerhouse ingredient known for its ability to attract and retain moisture in the skin. This ensures that your skin stays hydrated and plump throughout the day. Nourishing ingredients: In addition to hyaluronic acid, the mask contains a blend of botanical extracts and vitamins that nourish and revitalize the skin, leaving it looking radiant and healthy. Suitable for all skin types: The Thirsty Skin mask is suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Its gentle formulation makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin who may be prone to irritation from other skincare products. Easy application: Like all sheet masks, the Thirsty Skin mask is incredibly easy to apply. Simply unfold the mask and place it over your face, leaving it on for the recommended amount of time. There's no mess or hassle involved, making it perfect for busy individuals or those looking for a quick skincare pick-me-up. Immediate results: Upon application, you'll notice an immediate improvement in the texture and hydration levels of your skin. The mask works quickly to deliver visible results, making it a must-have in your skincare routine, especially before special events or occasions when you want your skin to look its best. How often to use a sheet mask There is no set number of times you should be using the sheet mask. We recommend using it the night before a special event, anytime you feel like an extra indulgent self care moment or once per week! There is no right or wrong time to use our sheet masks. Can sheet masks break you out? The misconception that sheet masks cause breakouts often arises due to concerns about comedogenic ingredients. However, esmi's Thirsty Skin Sheet Plumping Mask is formulated with non-comedogenic components, significantly reducing the risk of pore blockage. Hyaluronic Acid, a key ingredient in the mask, delivers lightweight hydration without adding excess oils, crucial for maintaining the balance of acne-prone skin. Allantoin possesses soothing, anti-inflammatory properties, effective in reducing redness and irritation. The mask also incorporates gentle exfoliating agents, like fruit extracts, to eliminate dead skin cells and unclog pores without causing irritation. Components like niacinamide and ceramides contribute to balancing the skin's pH levels and regulating oil production, helping prevent acne flare-ups. Still unsure about a sheet mask? Try a booster mask! esmi's booster masks offer a myriad of benefits that cater to various skin types and needs, distinguishing themselves from the sheet mask. Here's an exploration of the advantages of our booster masks: Tailored to specific skin types: One of the standout benefits of booster masks is their ability to target specific skin concerns. Unlike the generic sheet mask, booster masks come in a variety of formulations tailored to address diverse skincare needs. For example, the Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask is perfect for those with dehydrated skin and the Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask is great for those concerned about ageing. Longer lasting: Booster masks offer longevity compared to the traditional sheet mask. While sheet masks typically come as single-use packets, booster masks are designed for multiple applications. Control over application: With booster masks, users have greater control over the amount and distribution of product applied to their skin. Unlike sheet masks, which come pre-soaked in serum, booster masks allow individuals to adjust the coverage according to their preference. Shop sheet masks and booster masks with esmi As we explore the benefits of esmi's sheet masks and booster masks, it becomes evident that both offer exceptional skincare benefits. For optimal results, consider incorporating both into your routine, alternating between them weekly. Discover more about esmi's face mask collection.
Why Glow Body Oil is Your Body Care Essential This Summer
Meet your skin's new summer crush: the Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil. This limited-edition beauty is the ultimate secret to flawless and radiant skin. Designed for all skin types, it's more than just glow; it's your skin's best friend. Packed with nourishing oils, it quenches your skin's thirst while sprinkling you with a golden shimmer. Versatile and dazzling, use it as a body highlighter or mix it with your favorite products. Summer's about to get a lot more radiant, and it all starts with this golden elixir. The glow difference The Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil is your ticket to a radiant summer. Our limited-edition body oil brings a host of benefits to your skin. First and foremost, it provides your skin with an illuminating glow for day or night, so you can shine bright whenever and wherever. Plus, it leaves your body feeling soft and silky, making every touch an indulgent experience. What's the secret behind this glow? It's all thanks to a supercharged blend of ingredients, including sea buckthorn oil, cacay oil, and cranberry seed oil. These natural wonders are essential for promoting your skin's health, keeping it nourished, hydrated, and irresistibly glowing. Let's look into these ingredients a little further... The benefits of Sea Buckthorn Oil for skin Sea buckthorn oil, often hailed as a skincare superhero, plays a crucial role in the remarkable formula of esmi's Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil. Its inclusion in this limited-edition body oil is no accident; it's a carefully chosen ingredient, and here's why: Hydration & nourishment: Sea buckthorn oil is a moisture-rich powerhouse, and when it comes to body care, hydration is the name of the game. It deeply quenches your skin's thirst, leaving it soft, supple, and pampered. Its high content of essential fatty acids, like omega-3, -6, and -9, provides the much-needed nourishment your skin craves, ensuring it remains healthy and radiant. Skin health: Beyond hydration, sea buckthorn oil is a champion for overall skin health. It's loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help protect your skin from environmental stressors and UV damage. With your skin safeguarded, you're well-prepared to flaunt that coveted glow, day or night. Anti-ageing benefits: Let's not forget that sea buckthorn oil is a natural anti-aging elixir. Its ability to boost collagen production and combat free radicals helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, ensuring your skin maintains a youthful, luminous look. Scar & sun damage reduction: If you have scars or sun-damaged skin, sea buckthorn oil's high vitamin E content can be your ally. It promotes skin regeneration, potentially fading those imperfections and contributing to an even, flawless complexion. A gorgeous glow: Sea buckthorn oil doesn't just stop at skincare; it adds to the magic of the Golden Glow Body Oil by enhancing its ability to create a captivating, shimmering effect. When combined with other glow-boosting ingredients in the formula, it elevates the product's illuminating power, ensuring your skin becomes a radiant masterpiece. Cacay Oil benefits Cacay oil, a body care powerhouse, was chosen for esmi's Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil for good reason: Deep nourishment: It keeps your skin deeply hydrated, ensuring softness and suppleness. Anti-ageing champion: Cacay oil's natural retinol and vitamin E stimulate collagen production, reducing fine lines and promoting an even skin tone. Repair & regeneration: Ideal for scars and sun damage, it encourages skin cell turnover, leaving you with a flawless complexion. Enhanced luminosity: This oil elevates the Golden Glow Body Oil's shimmering effect, making your skin the star of the show, day or night. Cranberry Seed Oil for your body! Cranberry seed oil, a hidden gem in body care, shines in esmi's Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil. Its inclusion in this limited-edition product is strategic for these reasons: Intensive hydration: Packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, it deeply hydrates, leaving your skin soft and supple. Skin barrier support: It reinforces the skin's natural barrier, maintaining moisture balance and a healthy glow. Antioxidant boost: Rich in antioxidants, it safeguards your skin from environmental damage and UV radiation, contributing to youthful skin. Radiant glow: Cranberry seed oil enhances the product's shimmering effect, ensuring your skin is the star of the show. How to use our summer essential How often to use As often as lightweight hydration and shine is needed! How to apply Shake well before use. Use the dropper to apply the body oil on its own or on top of a moisturiser/lotion. Massage the oil into your skin for lightweight hydration or when you're after a subtle glow. Wait 4-5 minutes to dry to avoid it transferring to garments. Sun care While the Golden Glow Body Oil adds a stunning glow, it doesn't replace your sunscreen. You should always apply a broad-spectrum SPF before heading out into the sun. For sun protection, consider Sun Skills. They offer excellent sun protection to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. It’s time to glow up! As sun-kissed days approach, it's time to pamper your skin with esmi's Golden Glow Illuminating Body Oil. Pair the body oil with some of esmi’s other best-selling products, such as the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum or 24k Gold Nourishing Oil to keep the glow going from head-to-toe. Get glowing!
Caffeine Eye Serum for Tired Eyes
We see what all the caffeine buzz is about in skincare. If you’re struggling with a tired, sagging eye area read on to find out more about caffeine’s firming, brightening and calming benefits. Caffeine for eye bags & dark circles Is coffee your non-negotiable morning pick-me-up? We feel you! You’ll be happy to know caffeine eye cream can give your skin a boost in the A.M too. Caffeine is a vasoconstrictive ingredient. This means it temporarily restricts the blood vessels which can improve the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. The skin around your eyes is extremely thin which makes the veins underneath easy to see. By constricting the blood vessels, they become less visible and shadows are improved. This tightening effect caffeine has on the skin also minimises under-eye bags for a fresher, tauter looking eye area. Caffeine to soothe skin Coffee for skin care can help soothe and calm inflamed, irritated skin. The chlorogenic acids (CGA) found in caffeine are a class of phenolic acids that can help reduce inflammation in a red, itchy eye area. Caffeine eye cream can also diffuse the free radical activity that leads to signs of ageing around the eye area. How does caffeine fight free radicals? With its potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect skin cells against the damage done by UV radiation (free radicals attacks) to slow down the signs of premature ageing in the eye area. Serums for tired eyes Caffeine isn’t the only ingredient that helps firm a sagging, dull eye area. Our serums for tired eyes are formulated with a wealth of brightening, hydration and anti-ageing ingredients - including caffeine. Anti-Ageing Eye Serum Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, SNAP-8™(peptides), caffeine, and Vitamin E. esmi Anti-Ageing Eye Serum fights signs of ageing around the delicate eye area - crows feet, puffiness, dryness, and fine lines. Hydrating Eye Serum Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and caffeine. With a team of caffeine and super hydrator hyaluronic acid, esmi Hydrating Eye Serum restores under-eye skin to youthful looking radiance - a fresher, firmer, depuffed eye area. Brightening Eye Serum Key ingredients: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), caffeine, Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. esmi Brightening Eye Serum acts on common signs of tiredness and ageing in the delicate skin area: dark circles, eye bags, and wrinkles to promote a brighter, tighter and more youthful eye area. Caffeine skin care FAQs What does caffeine do for your skin? Caffeine tightens, depuffs, and soothes skin thanks to its antioxidant and vasoconstrictive properties. Is caffeine in skincare safe? Caffeine in skincare is generally considered safe for all skin types. However, if you are allergic to caffeine, avoid it in your skincare products. Is caffeine good for under eyes? Yes, caffeine is good for under the eyes as it targets puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles for a firmer, more youthful eye area. What does caffeine in an eye cream or serum do? Caffeine helps make your eye area look fresher, brighter, and firmer. View our full range of Eye Treatments to brighten, hydrate, and firm tired eyes in need of extra TLC. You Might Also Like to Read What Does Gold Leaf Do in Skincare? Tired Skin? Here’s How to Wake It Up Revive Dull Skin
6 Hyaluronic Acid Benefits For Hair
For those of you playing the esmi drinking game at home, you can take a shot because we’re about to talk about one of our favourite ingredients: hyaluronic acid. No wait, don’t click away, we promise this is different! We’re going to be chatting about hyaluronic acid for hair. While it might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to hair care, we know that skincare doesn’t end at the hairline. A lot of the ingredients we love for our skin also have some amazing benefits for the scalp and the hair. Today, we’re breaking down 6 hyaluronic acid benefits for hair. Hair hydration Hyaluronic acid provides deeply nourishing hydration without the risk of greasy build-up, thanks to how quickly it sinks into the scalp and hair follicles. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts moisture from its surroundings like a magnet, giving your hair a big drink of water, keeping it smooth and super hydrated. We’ll get into why that’s so important in a bit… Scalp hydration Like we said, we take a scalp-first approach to haircare (you can read more about that here). After all, by supporting the scalp microbiome, we can keep the hair happy and healthy. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the scalp to keep it nice and hydrated. Just like how you can’t have wine without cheese, you can’t have healthy hair follicles without a healthy scalp. Hydrating the scalp is going to keep flakiness away and reduce hair loss by creating an environment conducive to hair growth. Reduces Frizziness One of the best hyaluronic acid benefits for hair is its ability to keep frizz under control. For those of us who dread a rainy day thanks to our hair getting a bit wild, hyaluronic acid is going to be your saviour. Frizzy hair can often be a sign of dry or damaged hair, and if you’re suffering from one or the other, or both, the outer cuticle opens up in an attempt to let in that much needed moisture. When too much moisture is retained, these cuticles start to swell and voila, your hair might be looking like you just touched one of those balls of electricity from middle school science class. To avoid the frizz, your best bet is to keep dryness at bay with hyaluronic acid. Improves porosity of hair If you’re wondering, “what is hair porosity?”, don’t worry, just consider us Google! Porosity is the measure of your hair’s ability to absorb and store moisture. Majority of the time, porosity is determined by good ol’ genetics and external factors like the use of heat appliances. Having dry, damaged or bleached hair means it is going to be higher on the porosity spectrum, so you’re more susceptible to losing moisture. Think of it like filling up a bucket of water with holes in the bottom - you’re going to lose all that moisture! Hyaluronic acid plugs those holes and helps your follicles retain hydration. Helps to Treat Dermatitis If you’ve got a bad case of seborrheic dermatitis (in other words, dermatitis on the scalp), you’re going to want to get friendly with hyaluronic acid. Signs of seborrheic dermatitis include a red and itchy scalp, as well as dandruff. Most of the time, this type of dermatitis occurs in high oil-producing areas of the body, like the scalp, and is triggered by factors like stress, hormones, cold weather or harsh chemicals. Hyaluronic acid is going to help calm inflammation and irritation, keeping dermatitis at bay and boosting hydration. Suitable for everyone While some moisturising products can cause one’s hair to feel heavy and greasy, hyaluronic acid is suitable for all hair types and textures, just like it is great for all skin types. We love an inclusive ingredient! Hair products including hyaluronic acid When you’re scouring the internet for hair products that contain hyaluronic acid, you might be a little confused by the lack of options. That’s only because in reality, most hair products will list sodium hyaluronate instead, which is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. Being smaller in structure, it can penetrate deeper into the scalp and hair follicles. If you’re looking for your new favourite hyaluronic acid shampoo and conditioner, you’re in luck. We happen to know the perfect ones! The esmi Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner are rich in hyaluronic acid to boost hydration for healthier, smoother and more nourished hair. With the help of our unique biome blend of probiotic lysates, our Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner is going to also hydrate your scalp and restore your precious skin barrier. If you haven’t tried hyaluronic acid for hair, your world is about to be changed (dramatic, but true). Want to know more? Chat to our esmi skin (and now scalp!) experts today.
Probiotic Skincare: Benefits & How it Works
Probiotics (good bacteria) aren’t only beneficial for a healthy gut - they can help heal compromised and ultra-sensitive skin too. We explain the exciting benefits probiotic skincare can deliver and their place in your skincare routine. What are probiotics? Probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for your body. Their benefits, when taken orally, have been studied extensively for gut health with impressive results. Probiotics have been found to strengthen the gut barrier, improve immune function, and prevent bad bacteria from overtaking the gut. With such effective potential for maintaining a healthy gut, various strains of probiotics have also been tested on other areas of the body such as the mouth, reproductive system, and skin. This is where probiotic skincare gets really interesting! The eco-system of your skin barrier and probiotics The skin is the body’s largest organ. It plays a critical role as the primary barrier between the external environment and your internal body. The outer layer of the skin is called the epidermis, which in itself has several layers. The upper most layer - the one that is visible and exposed to the outside environment - is the stratum corneum also known as the skin barrier. The skin barrier is essentially a mix of dead cells, skin lipids, and natural moisturising factors like amino and fatty acids. It helps keep the skin hydrated, prevent microbes and bad bacteria (pathogens) entering in and acts as a shield against the abrasion of the layers underneath. Keeping the skin barrier functioning optimally is the key to healthy skin. A strong barrier helps keep skin hydrated, fight off irritants, and prevent bad bacteria thriving. Your skin is like an ecosystem with both good and bad bacteria living there. The same way the rainforest or great barrier reef need specific conditions to flourish so does your skin. It needs good bacteria to function properly and thrive. Too much bad bacteria can weaken and compromise the skin barrier, triggering or exacerbating all kinds of skin concerns. The skin barrier can become compromised in many different ways. An extreme example would be a severe burn or wound. Other less extreme examples include scratches, acne where the skin is compromised/open and a high level of pathogens (bad bacteria) are present, wounds, slow healing ability (diabetes and other immune disorders), eczema and dermatitis. Any of the above can cause the skin to become compromised and broken with tiny wounds leaving the cells exposed to increasing levels of bad bacteria. In short, the skin’s environment - its eco-system - is no longer a healthy, well-functioning place. What has all this got to do with probiotics? It’s been proven that probiotics help improve the health of the gut by healing weakened gut walls, restoring the balance of good and bad bacteria, and boosting immunity. So, could a probiotic do the same for the skin barrier? Is there a type of probiotic to benefit the skin conditions specifically? The answer is yes. Probiotics can be part of your skincare routine! After extensive testing on keratinocyte monolayer scratches (one cell thick scratches) it was found that only a couple of beneficial bacteria were effective in the healing and repair of the scratch. Enter esmi Skin Minerals Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate! This good-bacteria can help kill pathogens (bad bacteria) or place good bacteria in a skin environment that is compromised (such as eczema and dermatitis) and susceptible to the infection of bad bacteria. What is a lysate? A lysate is a concentrated dose of probiotic function. It’s a more stable way to include probiotic benefits in skincare formulations. How can lysate benefit skin? Lysates probiotic bacteria possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and stabilising properties to support optimal skin health. It can stimulate rapid skin cell healing to accelerate the healing of wounds. Introducing, esmi Skin Minerals probiotic skincare The esmi Probiotic Skin Mylck features your specially selected and scientifically proven Australian Made probiotic Lysate ideal for skin application, helping create an ideal environment for your skin to thrive if compromised by outside elements and bad-bacteria. The esmi Skin Mylck is a lightly moisturising lotion and can be great for extremely sensitive, compromised skin. We suggest you also use our Probiotic Skin Mylck with our Uncomplicated Cleanser original for best results. esmi is your first skincare brand to use a 100% Australian made probiotic. Have any questions about probiotic skincare and how the esmi Skin Mylck range can work in your skincare routine? Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4633615/ *esmi Skin Minerals are the first skincare company using a 100% Australian made Lacticaseibacillus.rhamnosus Lysate produced in Australia’s first and only cGMP/TGA certified facility for probiotic API manufacturing.
Start Your Day with a Minty Green Smoothie
A green smoothie for my face? You bet! What is the first thing you think of when you hear the words ‘green smoothie’? Maybe it’s words like health, glowing skin, and nourishment. Or maybe it’s more along the lines of “why would I ever drink that?!” Well the benefits of eating greens, as we all know, are astounding for overall health! It’s amazing for your digestive health, bone strength, immunity support, lowers cholesterol, and drinking them is a great way to bump up your intake of those precious B Vitamins we all need. So why not take all those benefits, and apply them to your SKIN! I’m going to what?! No no! Put the blender jug down! We are not suggesting you pour the remnants of your morning kale smoothie directly onto your face. We have a much more effective solution for you. Say hello to our Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie Serum! (Cue the hallelujah chorus). A lightweight skin serum with an energising wild mint aroma. This anti-redness serum cools and heals damaged, red skin with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hydrating properties. Suitable for all skin types, it can help treat red, puffy, or acne inflamed skin. It’s also an ideal skin redness treatment to use after laser, IPL or diathermy treatments! Why do we love this anti-redness face serum? It’s cooling and calming. Think cold shower after a hot day at work, or drinking an icy cold drink after a day trip to the beach (is that the hallelujah chorus I can hear again?). Our Minty Green Serum contains Aloe Vera, providing a soothing, calming effect to the skin while also working to heal the skin. HOT TIP! You can even carry your application of the serum down to your decolletage, to help relieve redness from too much time in the sun! It’s great for acne-prone skin. Having acne-prone skin can be a constant source of frustration. Trying to find products that are sensitive and won’t break you out, but will also be effective in giving you the results you’re looking for can be one tough gig. We all know the feeling of having a whole bathroom vanity full of skin care products that you spent precious money on but never continued to use because they under-delivered. Well, you won’t find that problem here! Our Green Smoothie’s anti-bacterial, anti-septic and anti-microbial properties make for the perfect skin serum to apply to acne-prone skin with confidence. It is also wonderful in the management of acne rosacea, with one of the active ingredients being Arnica which helps to speed the healing process. Collagen production! Our Minty Green Smoothie contains an ingredient known as Glycosaminoglycans (GAG’s), which is not something you need to be able to pronounce, but it is something for you to know about! Why? It hydrates the skin and maintains good skin condition by supporting collagen and a healthy elastin structure. So you can wave goodbye to pre-mature ageing! #winning And one final thing we love... Vegetables! Okay, so maybe you don’t LOVE eating veggies, or perhaps you’re a total veggie fan, either way - you can now have it as a part of your skin care routine! That’s right. The Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie contains broccoli, cabbage, and alfalfa! And with a wild mint aroma, you’re absolutely set for a win. So instead of getting the side-eye from bystanders watching you rub a broccoli floret all over your face, consider applying our green serum instead! Are there other products I can pair my green serum with? Glad you asked! We have a whole range of skin care products, specifically designed to work together. So try pairing your Anti-Redness Minty Green Smoothie with: The Uncomplicated Cleanser - a gentle cleanser that removes all traces of foundation and impurities with a double cleanse while calming and protecting skin with aloe vera and camilla leaf extract. Fresh Sea and Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant - an ever-so-gentle exfoliation of exotic Polynesian sand and tropical papaya enzymes that help fight congestion and keep oily skin clear, fresh, and bright. Probiotic Skin Mylck plus Anti-Redness - say goodbye to red, inflamed skin. This lightweight moisturising lotion is formulated with 100% Australian-made probiotics and anti-inflammatories to help cool flushing flare-ups and strengthen hypersensitive skin. So next time you reach for that delicious green smoothie, don’t forget to grab one for your skin too! Want to chat about your current skin concerns and find out what products will suit your skin type? Get in touch with our skin service team for your FREE skin consultation and find the perfect products for your skin!
The Best Face Mask for Your Skin Type
We help you choose the best face mask for your skin type and concerns from the esmi Booster Mask range. From reducing shine and tackling pimples, to brightening, plumping, hydrating and protecting there’s a mask in our luxurious range for you! What is the best face mask for oily skin? Oily skin is characterised by a shiny or greasy appearance, enlarged pores, and thick skin prone to congestion and breakouts. The best face mask for oily skin does a few key things: absorbs excess oil, detoxifies by removing toxins and clears pores to prevent them from becoming clogged. This is why clay and activated charcoal face masks are an excellent choice for oily skin. Clay works to absorb excess oil from the skin’s surface to reduce shine and prevent blocked pores. It absorbs impurities, including acne-forming bacteria from deep within the pores too. Charcoal also works to detoxify the skin by drawing out toxins and impurities. esmi Skin Minerals best mask for oily skin: Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask This mask's powerful detoxifying properties aid in regulating oil production while deeply cleansing to remove impurities. Key ingredients: Kaolin clay: Absorbs excessive oil to regulate sebum production. Activated charcoal: Aids in oil regulation and removes dirt and bacteria from pores. This mask for oily skin will leave your skin fresh and shine free but not tight and dried out! This is also the best face mask for combination skin from the esmi range. What is the best face mask for dry skin? Dry skin needs extra TLC to restore moisture and nourish a fragile complexion. The best face mask for dry skin? A cream formulation rich in skin-restoring oils and active ingredients to saturate your skin and deeply replenish dry cells. esmi Skin Minerals best face mask for dry skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask Ideal for dry skin types in need of nourishment to reduce fine lines, inflammation, uneven skin tone, and heal damaged skin. Key ingredients: Shea Butter: Contains skin softening, anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps strengthen and heal the skin barrier while improving skin texture. Evening primrose oil: Improves skin elasticity and addresses dryness, irritation, roughness and fine lines. This mask can be left on overnight so your skin can soak up all the active ingredients while you sleep. What is the best face mask for dehydrated skin? Dehydrated skin benefits from a cream based face mask, too. Thicker, creamy maks are great for deeply hydrating skin when they are formulated with ingredients that deliver moisture to the cells and help lock it in. esmi Skin Minerals best moisturising face mask for dehydration: Hyaluronic Hydrating Booster Mask Key ingredients Hyaluronic acid: Holding 1000 x its weight in water, hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to the skin to increase hydration and plumpness. Allantoin: Moisturises, soothes, and heals. Chondrus crispus (Irish Moss): Antioxidant-rich to defend against environmental stress while fatty acids helps lock in moisture. What is the best face mask for sensitive skin? Love of cream masks continues for sensitive skin! Creamy formulas make the best face mask for sensitive skin types as they wrap skin in a rich, soothing layer of hydration and nourishment without irritation. esmi Skin Minerals best face mask for sensitive skin: Ultra Nourishing Booster Mask We recommend this mask for sensitive skin too. Key ingredients that make this mask ideal for sensitive, reactive skin include; Green tea extract: Helps calm irritation, soothes redness and repairs damage. Vitamin E: An anti-inflammatory that calms and promotes hydration. Almond oil: Non-irritating and light, this oil provides moisturising and smoothing benefits. Is your skin sensitive and oily? We suggest choosing the Soft Skin Refining Charcoal Clay Booster Mask which is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, to help control oil. What is the best face mask for acne and breakout prone skin? If you’re dealing with active, red, inflamed breakouts, you’ll find a gel mask is a great choice to soothe inflammation while targeting breakout forming bacteria. esmi Skin Minerals best face mask for acne prone skin: Anti-inflammation Mint Gel Booster Mask Calms the discomfort of red, irritated skin while shutting down inflammation and breakouts with powerful natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Key ingredients: Maclura Cochinchinensis Leaf: Aids in oil regulation and helps regulate cell turnover. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Works to reduce inflammation and redness, improve hydration, and minimises the appearance of enlarged pores. Wild Mint: Natural antiseptic properties help target acne forming bacteria. This gel mask is cool on the skin. You can double down on this cooling relief by popping your gel mask in the fridge before applying! What is the best face mask for pigmentation? Want to brighten dull complexion and target brown spots and discoloration? Face masks containing Vitamin C are a great choice brightening skin and lightening pigmentation. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and superior skin lightener! It helps fade dark spots by restricting production of melanin - a dark pigment in your skin. It’s the overproduction of melanin that causes pigmentation to form. esmi Skin Minerals best face mask to brighten skin: Bouncy Brightening Silky Booster Mask. Suited to most skin types, this mask helps lighten pigmentation and evens out skin tone for a smoother, brighter complexion. Key ingredients: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Fades pigmentation, brightens skin also protects the skin from environmental stress like UV rays and pollution. Kakadu Plum: A native Australian fruit, Kakadu Plum contains the highest recorded levels of Vitamin C of any fruit in the world. What is the best face mask for mature skin? Mature skin loves face masks rich in antioxidants and peptides. Peptides are the building blocks of new collagen and elastin fibres in the skin while antioxidants (like Vitamin A, C and E) work to repair damage and slow signs of ageing. esmi Skin Minerals best face anti-ageing face mask: Anti-Ageing Repair Gel Booster Mask An all-in-one anti ageing gel mask to combat signs of ageing and fatigue by boosting skin elasticity, conditioning and defending against free radical damage. Suitable for most skin types! Key ingredients Peptides: Encourage collagen and elastin production. Kakadu Plum: Brimming with skin hero antioxidant Vitamin C for protecting, brightening and regenerating skin. Hyaluronic acid: Boosts moisture and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. View our entire Booster Mask range for all skin types and concerns. You Might Also Like To Read: The Different Skin Types Oily Skin Care Routine What Is Face Serum And Why You Should Have One
Myths About Certain Ingredients
Confused about the best skincare ingredients for your routine? There are plenty of myths out there about skincare and beauty ingredients! We clear them up and point you towards the best ones for targeting different skin concerns. Skincare Ingredient Myths Natural skincare ingredients are always safe Just because an ingredient is natural or a product is classified as organic skincare doesn’t mean it won’t ever cause an adverse side effect. It’s possible to have an allergic reaction or increased sensitivity to a natural ingredient. Essential oils, in particular, can be extremely strong and are known to cause adverse reactions for some skin types. Whether you’re using a natural ingredient or not, always patch test a new product on a small area of your neck before applying it to your face or body. Preservatives are bad for your skin and health Skincare products which contain water or water-based ingredients must have a preservative (natural or synthetic) for the formulation to remain stable and be safe for use. While it’s true many ‘traditional’ preservatives have been found to pose adverse health effects, not all preservative ingredients are harmful. Benzyl alcohol, Phenoxyethanol (PE), and Caprylyl glycol are a few examples of safer alternatives to traditional preservatives. Read our article Preservatives In Skincare to understand more about harmful vs healthy preservative ingredients. The more Vitamin C you apply, the better! Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the best skincare ingredients out there to simultaneously target a range of skin concerns. However, it’s advisable to take a ‘less is more’ approach to including it in your skincare routine. If the product you’re using has a high concentration of L-Ascorbic Acid you’ll likely experience irritating side effects. The percentage of LAA in a product can range anywhere from 3% - 20%. We recommend easing into using Vitamin C at a percentage of 3% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a highly stable, derivative of Vitamin C) which is also a pregnancy safe percentage. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is another common form of Vitamin C you’ll find in topical formulations. Face oils make oily skin worse Not true. Using the right face oils for your skin type can help improve the appearance of an oily, shiny face and regulate sebum production. Using a facial oil creates an occlusive layer to seal in moisture for all skin types, even oily ones. Without moisture, the sebaceous glands are prompted to produce more oil in an attempt to correct the dryness. In addition to helping skin stay hydrated and plump, certain face oils can also offer anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits to target redness and sensitivity. Jojoba, acai, rosehip, and almond oil are some of the most beneficial for oily skin. Mineral sunscreen ingredients aren’t as effective as chemical sunscreen ingredients Chemical sunscreen ingredients work by absorbing UVA and UVB rays to prevent them from damaging the skin. Natural mineral sunscreen ingredients - titanium dioxide and zinc oxide - reflect the rays, rather than absorb them, to prevent damage. Both of these natural active ingredients provide excellent broad-spectrum protection and offer the same protective benefits as chemical ingredients. Natural makeup ingredients aren’t long-wearing Natural ingredient makeup has come a long way since the days you only found it on the bottom shelves of ‘alternative health’ stores! Now, many makeup brands formulated with natural cosmetic ingredients are just as long lasting as ‘traditional’ formulations. Mineral makeup, in particular, not only offers your skin long last wear but a range of additional benefits to actually improve your complexion while you wear it. The texture of mineral makeup allows skin to breathe and be nourished with minerals including silica, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for skin conditioning and natural broad spectrum sun protection. Explore our range of vegan mineral foundation, powder, and BB cream. Best Skincare Ingredients For Common Concerns Our handy list below outlines some of the most effective ingredients to target common skin concerns. Let’s clear up any confusion about what ingredients you need in your routine! Best skincare ingredients for acne-prone and oily skin These ingredients are helpful in the treatment of different types of acne, from blackheads and pimples to cysts and nodules. Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that assists in helping regulate oil flow and delivers exfoliating activity for clearer pores. Bentonite and kaolin clay: Bentonite and Kaolin clay help soak up extra oil. Bentonite is known for its ability to draw out toxins and impurities from the skin while kaolin clay has more mild absorption properties. Kaolin is well suited to more sensitive skin. Retinoids (Vitamin A): Retinoids are naturally occurring forms of Vitamin A and can help prevent pores from clogging to target breakouts. Read our Guide To Getting Rid Of Acne Best skincare ingredients for hyperpigmentation and dull skin Hyperpigmentation can be a tricky skin concern to treat. A few of ingredients you’ll want to use in your routine to help target dark patches include: Vitamin C: Helps to lighten hyperpigmentation and brown spots by inhibiting melanin production. Encourages a more even, radiant complexion. Kakadu Plum: Kakadu Plum is believed to be the world’s most potent source of natural Vitamin C making it an excellent ingredient to help diminish the appearance of dark spots. Bearberry Leaf extract: Works by reducing melanin production making it an excellent plant-based skin lightening agent. Liquorice: Used for brightening, liquorice is also high in anti-inflammatories – making it great for post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness/scarring after breakouts. Learn more about dealing with hyperpigmentation and reviving dull skin. Best skincare ingredients for ageing skin Dealing with fine lines, sagging skin, and a dull complexion? The best ingredients to target ageing concerns include: Hyaluronic acid: Deeply hydrates, keeping skin plump and minimises fine lines. Vitamin A: Revered for its anti-ageing benefits, Vitamin A can cause the dermis to thicken for firmer skin and brighten skin. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids: Can remove dead skin cells and are effective in minimising fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C: Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brightens and smooths for an even skin tone. Omega Fatty Acids: Assist in delivering positive changes in skin hydration, scaling, and roughness. Peptides: Can improve collagen levels, smooth fine lines, and minimise the appearance of pores. Learn more about how to care for ageing skin Best skincare ingredients for dry skin Ingredients with occlusive, emollient, and humectant properties play vital roles in treating the causes of dry skin. Occlusives: Occlusive ingredients help trap moisture by forming a seal over the skin. Examples of occlusive ingredients include jojoba oil, lanolin, olive oil, and argan oil. Emollients: These ingredients smooth and soften dry, rough skin. A few examples include shea butter, cocoa butter, essential fatty acids like those found in rosehip oil, and squalene. Humectants - Can pull moisture to the skin’s surface from the air and the deeper layers of skin. Hyaluronic acid boasts superior humectant properties. Learn more about what causes dry skin and how to treat it.
Storing Your Skincare Products: The Complete Guide
Are you ruining your skincare products by storing them the wrong way? Follow our complete guide on how to store your skincare products to maximise results, avoid contamination, and help them last as long as possible! How temperature & light affect your skincare Temperature and sunlight have a bigger impact on your skincare products than you might think. Extreme temperature and sunlight can result in the breakdown, oxidisation, curdling, or melting of formulations. If the product contains active ingredients, those actives become less effective - a good example is Vitamin C. This skincare superstar quickly becomes unstable in heat which reduces its potency. Let it get too hot and your vitamin C serum can’t do the job it’s truly capable of! Typically, benzoyl peroxide and retinol based formulations can also become easily compromised if exposed to heat or light. As sunlight can speed up the breakdown of active ingredients, keeping your stash on a window sill or leaving them in the car isn’t a good idea. As a general rule, the best way to store your skincare is at room temperature and out of direct sunlight - in a cabinet, drawer, or lidded box. Should you store skincare products in the fridge? We can all agree a mini-fridge stocked with skincare makes for a great Insta #shelfie. But is refrigeration actually necessary? Products that benefit from refrigeration It's not a must, but products like retinol and vitamin C serums can benefit from being refrigerated. The cooler temperature prevents active ingredients from breaking down and oxidizing so they stay effective as long as possible. Some benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments require refrigeration to remain stable, so always check storage directions. In general though, as long as a product contains preservatives, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Keeping it at room temperature, out of direct sunlight is fine. The cooling effect of the fridge is a nice pick me up though - especially on hot summer days. You can let your moisturiser, face mist, or mask chill in the fridge for 30 - 60 minutes before applying it. If you’re using products to target red, angry blemishes, cooling them first can help soothe the skin instantly when applied. The benefits of an eye gel can also be boosted with an extra cooling and de-puffing effect. What needs to be stored in the fridge? If you’ve whipped up your own food-based DIY natural skincare treatments at home without a preservative, these definitely need to be stored in the fridge. Leave them on your bathroom counter and they’ll be mouldy and unusable in no time. Some organic skincare or natural skincare has a shorter shelf life and will benefit from being stored in the fridge. The formulation won’t break down as quickly which means it lasts longer. Skincare you shouldn’t put in the fridge Balms and oil based products should be kept at room temperature. Extremely low temperatures can cause them to split, become cloudy and even solidify. If your cleanser or masks are clay formulas, keep them at room temperature - they will solidify in the fridge. Steam spells bad news for skincare You’ll want to keep your beauty stash away from the effects of steam in your bathroom. Keeping your face cleanser in the shower to use might seem like a great time saving hack but steam can break down the active ingredients in skincare formulations. Then there’s the issue of mould. When products aren’t sealed properly, condensation can seep and they become the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Plus, washing your face in a hot shower isn’t the best move for your skin. Hot water strips the skin of the natural oils it needs and the result is often dry skin and a damaged skin barrier. Limit the amount of steam products are exposed to by storing them in the cabinet or drawer that can be closed. Stick to cleansing your face with lukewarm water before you shower. These habits will contaminate your products Even the best skin care products can quickly become contaminated with a few bad habits. Not sealing the container Tightly close containers and jars after use. A damp bathroom environment is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow causing contamination and potential infections, breakouts, and irritation. Using dirty fingers If you need to dip your fingers into a product to apply it, make sure they’re clean! Unwashed hands harbour all kinds of bacteria that can happily make themselves at home in the product. Make sure you clean off the pumps of your products to remove any old build up too. Diluting products with water Adding water could allow potentially harmful microorganisms to contaminate the formulation. It will also reduce the product’s effectiveness. When does skincare expire? No matter how on point your product storage is, all skincare products eventually pass their prime. Using old products can actually be dangerous for skin if they trigger bacterial growth or infections. How do you know exactly when a product expires? Only some skincare products, like prescription anti-acne creams, have actual expiration dates displayed on their packaging. Other types of skincare products have what is known as a PAO (Period After Opening) time frame. Somewhere on the packaging you’ll see the number of months the product is good for after opening. For example, 12M is 12 months. This PAO is usually listed on the packaging the product comes in - although it can be listed somewhere on the product container, bottle, or jar itself. If the PAO is only listed on the package, once you throw it out it can be easy to forget. A tip here is to use a marker to indicate the date opened on the bottom or back of the product. If skincare products aren’t stored properly, the formulation can easily go bad or become ineffective before the recommended PAO time frame. How to tell if a product has gone bad A few clues that one of your top skincare products should no longer be anywhere near your skin include: A funny smell / change in odour since you opened it. The texture has changed - it’s runny, separated, lumpy, etc. Feeling grainy or streaky on your skin. You’ve started to notice redness and irritation flare up after application. If any of the above rings true, it’s time to say goodbye. Your skin will thank you. We want you to get the most out of your skincare products and hope this guide helps with all things skincare storage!
