Pure Beauty - The Lichfield Beauty Salon

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Our Top Five Nighttime Products for Oily Skin

Our Top Five Nighttime Products for Oily SkinPhoto by Remy_Loz on Unsplash

Getting to grips with skincare for oily skin isn’t always straightforward and there are a huge number of misconceptions out there. One such myth is that oily skin doesn’t need moisturising, but this is simply false as oily skin can suffer just as easily from dehydration as other skin types. One of the best ways to keep your moisture levels balanced is by using a night cream, although many people with oily skin find the consistency of common night creams to be too heavy. With this in mind, we’ve curated a list of moisturisers which can be used at night and will help you to wake up looking glowy, not greasy!

Aromatherapy Associates Mattifying Refining Face Oil 

We’re well aware that it might sound a little bonkers, suggesting a face oil for oily skin, but this one is formulated for exactly that. Aromatherapy Associates Mattifying Refining Face Oil counters over-oiliness and brings the skin back into balance without stripping it. It’s created using a blend of high-altitude grown lavender and madagascan ylang ylang essential oils which combine with rich jojoba to soothe overstimulated skin, leaving it beautifully conditioned.

SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture

This lightweight moisturiser from SkinCeuticals replenishes and hydrates the skin while minimising the appearance of pores. It’s designed to be used morning and night after cleansing and toning and contains an exclusive combination of vitamin E, three nutrient-rich algae extracts, and a blend of seven botanical extracts. It leaves a non-greasy finish while deeply nourishing the skin and will also reduce the appearance of pore size.

Murad Clarifying Oil Free Water Gel

Water-based products are a delight for oily skin as they feel refreshing, while still giving your skin the nourishment it needs.  This water gel from Murad is an oil-free, non-comedogenic, water-light hydrator that purifies and refines. It contains innovative technology that interrupts communication so bacteria can’t form a group and cause an imbalance, which helps to prevent spots from forming and keeping your skin clean and clear.

Dermalogica Aqua Jelly

This moisturiser from Dermalogica is another water-based gel which is designed specifically for oily skin and leaves you with a dewy, non-greasy complexion. It contains hyaluronic acid which locks in moisture to deeply hydrate skin, as well as blue tansy flower oil and brightening blueberry extract, which help calm and soothe skin while providing antioxidant benefits. It can be used both day and night and won’t feel heavy on oil-prone skin.

Elemis Clarifying Serum

This serum from Elemis is a seriously hard-working little product, giving you major skincare benefits in one bottle. It’s intended for oily skin as it helps to balance the production of sebum, leaving your skin looking and feeling less oily. It also visibly reduces the look of blackheads and post-blemish discolouration, while a polysaccharide shield helps limit adhesion of bacteria on the skin’s surface which can cause blemishes. Skin is left looking calmer, clearer, more even with improved texture and smoothness.

Which Facial SPF is Right for Me?

Which Facial SPF is Right for Me?Photo by Allef Vinicius on Unsplash

While it might be wishful thinking to expect to see any sun any time soon, with the horrible weather currently bombarding the UK, here at Pure Beauty we believe that SPF should be an all-year thing. Obviously, it’s more important than even to wear sun protection once Spring and Summer finally start to emerge, but if you want to keep the skin on your face looking its best for as long as possible then a daily SPF is a must. Here are some of the best formulas for each skin type:

Dull Skin – Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 

Finding an SPF with skincare benefits is a great way to minimise the amount of things you have to layer onto your skin each day. This broad spectrum, brightening SPF from Murad is a fantastic example of that. As well as offering SPF30 protection, it’s packed with vitamin C, which improves skin clarity, firmness and elasticity. Additionally, potent antioxidant ginkgo biloba leaf extract helps shield skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution for a glowing, healthy-looking complexion.

Dry Skin – Decleor Aloe Vera Sun Bi-Phase Oil SPF30

Dry skin can often look cakey when you use a high strength SPF, so finding a formula which is intended for a dehydrated complexion is the key to getting a good finish. Decleor Aloe Vera Sun Bi-Phase Oil SPF30 is a non-sticky bi-phase sun oil enriched with aloe vera, sesame, argan and coconut oils that leave the skin feeling nourished and hydrated. The formula has UVA and UVB filters that work instantly to protect the skin, providing SPF30 protection from the harmful effects of the sun.

Oily/Spot Prone Skin – Dermalogica Clearing Defence SPF30

Perhaps the trickiest skin to find a suitable SPF for, oily and spot prone skin rarely plays nicely with a non-specific facial suncream. This moisturising sun lotion from Dermalogica is designed to protect breakout-prone skin from environmental stress while providing a long-lasting matte finish without clogging pores. It offers a broad spectrum sunscreen that defends against UV rays, which may lead to the appearance of uneven skin tone, as this is something that many people with acne deal with, due to scarring.

Ageing Skin – Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50

Ageing skin is one of the best skin types when searching for an SPF as our skin loses natural moisture as we age, and sun creams usually offer this in spades! This factor 50 formula from Dermalogica will help you achieve absolute hydration and help defend against the internal and external causes of skin ageing.It contains a huge number of ingredients which help to hydrate the skin, target the signs of ageing and protect you from further damage.

Busy Skin – This Works In Transit Skin Defence SPF30

Okay, so “busy skin” isn’t really a skin type, but if you’re someone who lives or works in a town or city with a lot of pollution, then using targeted skincare could make a huge difference to your complexion. This moisturising SPF from This Works is a protective SPF30 moisturiser with antioxidants and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB for skin protection against the elements.  The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula is a perfect protective base underneath makeup, that won’t leave a white tint on the skin.

What You Should Know Before Having Laser Hair Removal

What You Should Know Before Having Laser Hair Removal

Image Source

While many people don’t want to admit it, women having facial hair is 100% normal. For some it’s a layer of peach fuzz that you can only see in bright sunlight, for others it’s a stray hair here and there. Some women suffer from a condition called ‘hirsutism’, wherein the hair on a woman’s face, arms, chest, stomach, back, or chest is usually coarse and dark. Laser hair removal is a great tool for helping to reduce facial hair and regain your confidence (should the hair bother you), and we wanted to give you a guide to some things you should know so that your expectations meet the reality:

You Might Not Have the Right Type of Hair

Laser hair removal isn’t suitable for every hair type and if the technician who is performing your procedure is worth their salt, they’ll give you an honest assessment in any pre-booking consultation. If the hair you want to remove is coarse and dark, you’ll get the best results, but fine, fuzzy hair, as well as light blonde or red hair is usually not affected by lasers. If you are lucky enough to have the right type of skin, Medik8 Ultimate Recovery will help to heal your face after treatment.

You’ll Need to Avoid the Sun for a Few Days

Your skin will be irritated and need time to heal after your laser hair removal treatment. At this time, excessive exposure to UV rays poses a risk of skin damage, so avoiding sunbathing and tanning beds is absolutely essential. It’s also wise to use a high-strength, broad-spectrum SPF in the days after your treatment, such as Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 to ensure that your skin is protected at all times. It’s also wise to make sure you don’t plan any holidays in far-off, tropical climes for a few weeks afterwards!

Hot Environments Aren’t a Good Idea Either

While the main worry with sun exposure is the damage that UV rays can do, hot environments are also best avoided in the days after your treatment, so it’s best to plan it at a time when you can stay indoors in a temperature controlled environment. For an added helping hand in the healing process, SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque is designed specifically to be used post-procedure as it delivers intense cooling and calming comfort to skin sensitivity.

It Doesn’t Always Work

It’s important to manage your expectations when you have any type of cosmetic procedure and it’s worth bearing in mind that not everyone who has laser hair removal ends up with a face like a baby’s bottom. In some rare cases, laser hair removal may even encourage thicker, darker hair to grow or regrow in an area next to the one being treated! If this happens to you, don’t fret; Lycon Hair On Strike is a scientifically advanced formula with papaya and chaparral extract, proven to visibly diminish the appearance of unwanted hair growth after waxing, shaving, laser, electrolysis and depilatory creams.

You Need to Let the Hair Grow Before Your Appointment

Just as with other types of hair removal, your laser technician needs to be able to see the unwanted hairs in order to get rid of them. This means that you need to be prepared to allow your facial hair to grow naturally for at least a couple of weeks in the lead up to your appointment. If this is something that’s a deal-breaker for you, it might be worth assessing other hair removal options – of which there are thankfully plenty.

Azelaic Acid – The Ingredient Your Acne-Prone Skin Needs

Azelaic Acid - The Ingredient Your Acne-Prone Skin Needs

Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

Acids are more popular than ever in skincare and if asked, we’re sure that most people could name a few, such as salicylic, glycolic or lactic acids. Azelaic acid is probably less well-known, but it’s equally as useful for our skin. Here’s a rundown of the facts you need to know about this naturally-occuring acid:

What is Azelaic Acid?

According to WebMD: “Azelaic acid is a chemical compound found naturally in some grains as well as in a fungus called Malassezia furfur that grows on your skin. It’s also a skin care ingredient. It comes in prescription strength, but you can also find it in some over-the-counter products. It treats common skin conditions like acne and rosacea.”

Azelaic acid is made from grains like rye, wheat, and barley. However, when used in skincare products, it is typically chemically engineered in a laboratory to ensure maximum stability and efficacy.

Who is it Good For?

Azelaic acid is a good option for dry or sensitive skin because it is milder than other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. It’s also an ally when acne or rosacea flares up because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and leaves skin looking smooth. It is one of the few topicals that can be safely used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, allowing women to treat their acne or rosacea, which can get worse during this time.

Can it be Used With Other Active Ingredients?

Skincare routines rarely consist of just one or two steps these days and it’s important to know what’s in the products you’re using and whether they work nicely together. Failing to check can cause redness, irritation and even peeling skin.

Azelaic acid works well with many other ingredients, but because it exfoliates, be particularly careful if you use other acids. Limit your use to a single resurfacing ingredient and increase it gradually to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Additionally, it is beneficial to combine azelaic acid with other ingredients that are soothing and brightening, such as antioxidants or niacinamide, which is especially useful for individuals who have patches of uneven skin tone.

Which Products Contain Azelaic Acid?

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Liquid Peel

This product from Dermalogica is a powerful peel formulated for breakout-prone skin. With 10% AHAs and 2% BHAs, it exfoliates deep under the skin to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. As well as azelaic acid, it contains lactic and mandelic acids which even and brighten the skin, and salicylic acid which exfoliates surface skin cells, reduces inflammation and even helps to combat blackheads and breakouts.

Medik8 Blemish SOS

This rapid action treatment gel works quickly to diminish blemishes while remaining completely invisible on the skin. With its potent antibacterial properties, azelaic acid targets blemish-causing bacteria such as P. acnes, while niacinamide (otherwise known as vitamin B3) offers soothing anti-inflammatory properties which quickly reduce redness and irritation surrounding the blemish, as well as regulating sebum production to prevent blocked pores.

REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

This tonic is one of REN Clean Skincare’s most popular products and has achieved almost cult-status since it was released. As well as azelaic acid, which helps boost radiance and even out skin tone, the gentle-yet-powerful formula contains lactic acid (AHA) and salicin (BHA). It’s perfect for daily use, brightening skin and bringing energy back to skin which has been affected by pollution, city living or just tired looking skin.

Tame Your Mane with Curl Wow’s New Products

Tame Your Mane with Curl Wow’s New ProductsImage Source

There’s never been a better time to have curly hair than right now – more people than ever are embracing their curls, which in turn means that more companies than ever are creating products which are specifically made for curly locks. Since the Curly Girl method came around, there’s even been a upsurge in people who didn’t even know that they had curly hair in the first place, who are now sporting their natural coils with pride! Just recently, we added some of the newest Curl Wow products to our ranges, and we thought we’d give you a look at what each of them can do:

Curl Wow Snag-Free Pre-Shampoo Detangler

Before you shampoo your curly hair, it’s important to make sure you’ve taken care of the tangles as you’ll want to do as little combing as possible later on in the haircare process. This pre-shampoo detangler adds slip to curls before you shampoo for tangle-free washing and a deeper, fresher clean. It contains vitamin-rich pracaxi oil which defrizzes and lubricates the curl surface, while coconut oil helps moisturise to maximise slip and minimise breakage. Best for curly, coily hair (type 3a – 4b curls).

Curl Wow Hooked 100% Clean Shampoo with Root-Locking Technology

Once you’ve pre-treated and detangled your hair, it’s time for washing, but it’s important to make sure you’re using a shampoo which is right for your hair. Curl Wow Hooked 100% Clean Shampoo is a residue-free, sulphate-free formula which helps to anchor hair to prevent shedding and reduce breakage. As well as leaving your curls film-free, it makes them more receptive to leave-in hydrators and moisturising stylers, giving you bouncier, weightless curls.

Curl Wow Coco-Motion Lubricating Conditioner 

As you’re probably well aware, curly hair is more prone to dryness, which is why using a targeted conditioner for curls is important. This conditioner from Curl Wow instantly gives dry, dehydrated, brittle, “static” curls fluid motion, silky texture, bounce and elasticity. It uses Curl Wow’s Profaxil-18 Complex™, which breaks up marula oil and coconut oil particles, enabling them to penetrate hair and lubricate hair’s internal protein chains, giving you deep nourishment without the heavy feel.

Curl Wow Flo-etry Vital Natural Serum

If your hair still feels dry and brittle, even after a conditioning treatment then adding this serum to your haircare routine could be hugely beneficial. The rich-oil blend contains jojoba, pequi, and coconut oils, which are broken down into smaller molecules so that your hair gains maximum hydration without feeling oily or weighted down. The serum is best for curly, coily hair (type 3a – 4b curls) and instantly delivers super-hydrated, juicy, healthy-looking curls which are defrizzed and glossy, but never greasy!

Curl Wow Shook Mix and Fix Bundling Spray

Finally on this list of curl-heroes is this bundling spray. It’s specifically formulated to bundle curls without crunch, weight or stickiness for full, beautifully-defined styles and contains large oil particles of jojoba, rice bran, passion flower, and grape seed oils to micro-disperse rich moisture that smooths, silkens and defrizzes curls without weight or greasy feel.

Want Super Clean Skin? Try Double Cleansing

Want Super Clean Skin? Try Double CleansingPhoto by Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels

There are so many beauty fads which have done the rounds in the last few years, not least of all when we all suddenly had more time for self-care than ever, during lockdown. Skincare routines from far-flung countries became the flavour of the month and there aren’t many people who can say that they didn’t try at least one TikTok “beauty hack” during this time! One such trend, which we’re glad actually did stick around, is the concept of “double cleansing”, so we thought we’d give you a little guide to what it is and how you can do it.

What is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing involves first using an oil-based cleanser or serum to remove makeup, SPF, and sebum – the skin’s natural oils. A deeper water-based cleanse is used after the first stage to clean the pores more thoroughly and get rid of bacteria, sweat, and old skin cells.

Is it Suitable For All Skin Types?

The short answer is yes.

The longer answer is yes, BUT, you may need to adapt it, depending on your skin type. People with dry or sensitive skin will want to stay away from cleansers with alcohols and other harsh ingredients, while people with spot-prone skin will need to be careful to stay away from oils which can block your pores, causing further breakouts. As long as you’re sensible and use products which are suitable for your specific skin type, double cleansing is great for all skin.

How Often Should I Double Cleanse?

This is another answer which depends on a lot of things. The first thing to consider is whether you need to double cleanse every day. If you wear make up on the daily or have particularly oily skin, then daily double cleansing is fine. If you have sensitive skin, stick to double cleansing only on days where you’ve used cosmetics, SPF or have been to a place with lots of pollution.

Which Products Should I Use?

For Dry or Sensitive Skin 

For the first cleanse, we recommend  Dermalogica Precleanse. For the second part of the double-cleansing routine, we recommend Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser.

For Oily, Teenage or Acne-Prone Skin

For the first cleanse, we recommend Dermalogica Foaming Wash. For the second part of the double-cleansing routine, we recommend REN Clean Skincare Clearcalm Clarifying Clay Cleanser.

For Ageing Skin

For the first cleanse, we recommend Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. For the second part of the double-cleansing routine, we recommend Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Cleanser.

AHAs and BHAs – Skincare Acids and How to Use Them

Skincare Acids and How to Use ThemImage Source

When we think about the word “acid”, something quite abrasive and potentially damaging might spring to mind, such as sulfuric acid, which is highly corrosive and dangerous to human skin. There are, however, acids which are millions of times milder, which can be a hugely beneficial addition to your skincare routine. Many of these acids fall under two categories; AHAs and BHAs, also known as alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids.

AHAs and BHAs help to exfoliate the skin, but do so in different ways, and while you could be forgiven for thinking that you need to choose between the two and only use one type of acid, AHAs and BHAs actually make the perfect pairing and work together to make your skin glow. One AHA you’ve probably heard of is glycolic acid, whilst salicylic acid – another hugely popular skincare ingredient – is a BHA.

As we mentioned above, it is indeed safe to use AHAs and BHAs together. They target different actions so they have different benefits. In essence, BHAs disrupt the connections between dead cells whilst AHAs cause dead cells to detach and slough away. With this in mind, we’ve curated a collection of products which contain both BHAs and AHAs to help you to give your skin a boost:

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Offering all the benefits of exfoliation in the convenience of a cleanser, this multi-tasking, cleansing exfoliant is an ideal addition to your cleansing regimen. Chemical and physical exfoliation helps clear dull, dry skin from the surface for a fresher appearance and to improve penetration of treatment ingredients that follow. Exfoliating also helps open hydration pathways, as sodium PCA optimises skin’s ability to attract and hold moisture. As the name suggests, it contains both AHAs and BHAs from salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defence Serum

There are many products out there which deal with oily, blemish prone skin and many more for ageing skin, but not that many deal with both. This high potency serum targets imperfections whilst improving the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone and is suitable for oily, blemish-prone, or ageing skin. It contains glycolic and salicylic acids, but also contains a much rarer AHA in the form of octadecenedioic acid, which has the ability to lighten the skin, fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Murad AHA/BHA/Retinoid Daily Clarifying Peel

This daily clarifying peel from Murad contains a trio of powerhouse ingredients which will powerfully, yet gently, resurface your skin. In there, you’ll find glycolic acid, an AHA that removes dull surface cells to smooth and clarify, salicylic acid, a BHA which exfoliates to minimise the look of pores as well as retinoid, which resurfaces and helps improve surface cell turnover to refine and smooth skin’s texture.

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Liquid Peel

This product from Dermalogica is a powerful peel formulated for breakout-prone skin. With 10% AHAs and 2% BHAs, it exfoliates deep under the skin to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. It helps to banish rough texture, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation, and leaves you with clearer, brighter skin. It’s perfect for use on teen skin, helping to get rid of pimples and leaving your skin soothed and smooth.

Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse

Cleansing products which contain both AHAs and BHAs are notorious for giving your skin a thorough, deep cleansing and this one from Medik8 is no different. This refreshing cleanser  includes an exfoliating AHA/BHA complex of mandelic, lactic and salicylic acid as well as glycerin for a pore refining, deep cleanse. It’s further infused with mangosteen and raspberry extracts to provide natural antioxidant protection and increase skin barrier function.

Everything You Need To Know About Fermented Skincare

Everything You Need To Know About Fermented SkincarePhoto by Peter Nguyen on Unsplash

It is well known that eating foods that have undergone fermentation, such as yoghurt, kombucha, and kimchi, can improve gut health and increase the immune system. In recent years, the beauty world has started to add fermented extracts to specific products to improve their ability to carry out their intended function while promoting the health of the skin’s microbiome, and the results have been phenomenal. With this in mind, we thought we’d put together a beginners guide to fermented beauty:

What does “fermented” actually mean?

Fermentation is a natural process through which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbs, such as starch and sugar, into alcohol or acids. The alcohol or acids act as a natural preservative and give fermented foods a distinct zest and tartness.

How long have humans been fermenting things?

According to LHF, “Humans have been controlling the fermentation process for thousands of years, primarily in the form of fermented beverages in the earliest days. Evidence of a fermented alcoholic beverage made from fruit, honey, and rice found in Neolithic China dates back to 7000-6600 BCE”

What does using fermented ingredients do for my skin?

There are numerous benefits to using fermented ingredients in skincare, and although it’s a relatively recent thing here in the West, believe us, this trend isn’t new! People have been using fermented products on their skin for centuries; its said that to maintain soft, tender skin, Japanese geishas traditionally used a fermented rice solution for lotions and toners.

Fermented ingredients are loaded with natural antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids, which help to increase skin cell turnover rate. They also have better “bio availability” which means they’re easier for the skin to absorb and they also offer natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Which products contain fermented ingredients?

Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift contains fermented yeast which is manufactured in a lab using fermentation biotechnology in which yeast are fed a nutrient media essential for the yeast’s development. This ingredient is helpful for firming and hydrating skin to help generate a lifting effect, as well as protecting the skin’s barrier integrity. In-vitro studies have confirmed that fermented yeast is effective at protecting skin lipids, which are critical for proper functioning of the skin’s lipid structure.

Elemis Superfood Glow Priming Moisturiser contains kombucha, an ingredient which is created when black tea undergoes a fermentation process to release compounds which are beneficial to the skin. Rich in vitamins and organic acids, it has been shown to reveal a more glowing complexion.

Aromatherapy Associates Eye Zone Concentrate contains powerful, high-tech bio-fermented actives, advanced amino acids and an effective pure essential oil blend to lift, tighten and contour the area around the eyes. The triple firming action of hydroxyproline works to restore the elasticity of the skin, while edelweiss stem cells help minimise the appearance of fine lines

Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Body Oil contains calming fermented red ginseng, inspired by Korean skin care rituals, calms and nourishes to deliver glowing skin, as well as bergamot, neroli, orange, patchouli and sandalwood which leave skin soft and delicately scented.

Elemis Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter contains both fermented pumpkin which is packed with AHAs and natural enzymes capable of enhancing the skin’s natural cellular renewal process to gently smooth away dull skin for a fresh glowing complexion and fermented acerola cherry, a natural source of AHAs and vitamin C, which helps to boost the appearance of healthy skin and promote a beautifully bright, hydrated complexion.

Ingredient Focus – Centella Asiatica

Ingredient Focus - Centella AsiaticaPhoto by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Here at Pure Beauty, we don’t just sell skincare products – we make it our business to really get to know the products we sell, and that means acquainting ourselves with all sorts of exotic-sounding extracts! One such ingredient is centella asiatica, commonly known as gotu kola and Asiatic pennywort. It’s an herbaceous flowering plant in the family Apiaceae, native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and islands in the western Pacific Ocean. Centella asiatica contains a range of active substances, such as triterpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can even help with scarring. Here are five of the best products which contain centella asiatica:

Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides

Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides is a plant-based, anti-ageing alternative for vitamin A. Ideal for those who can’t use retinol – e.g. when pregnant or nursing. It contains centella asiatica a naturally-derived anti-inflammatory with incredible wound healing benefits on the skin, as well as inka omega oil, one of the highest, organic sources of omegas among natural seeds. The natural oil can slip into the gaps between skin cells in the stratum corneum to restore the skin’s natural barrier and block moisture loss.

Elemis S.O.S. Emergency Cream

This cream from Elemis is designed to soothe skin which is feeling sensitive, dry, parched and weathered. It’s packed with natural extracts from lavender, willow, centella asiatica and myrrh, which helps shield skin from the harmful effects of environmental stresses, whilst replenishing moisture levels.

Decleor Cica Botanic Face Mask

This 99% natural-origin face mask enriched with centella asiatica extract provides instant nourishment to help restore and soothe dry, delicate skin that is prone to redness. The mask intensely hydrates and promotes skin barrier repair when your skin needs it the most from changing weather, pollution or sun exposure, times that may weaken the skin barrier and cause skin sensitivity. It will leave skin looking healthy and hydrated.

Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance

This intense moisturiser from Dermalogica contains botanical extracts and vitamins that help repair prematurely ageing skin. Echinacea, centella asiatica and aloe bolster hydration levels, while the unique BioReplenish Complex delivers a combination of key barrier lipids that enhance skin’s natural resilience and supports barrier recovery.

Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment

Having blemish-prone skin can be demoralising enough, without even factoring in the potential for scarring once the blemish itself has healed. Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment helps to minimise the look of post-blemish scar size, depth and discolouration in 8 weeks. BHA exfoliates, while a unique blend of highly purified centella asiatica and vitamin C encourages natural radiance and a healthier-looking complexion.

Olive Oil – It’s Not Just for Cooking!

Olive Oil - It’s Not Just for Cooking!

Photo by Pixabay

From Emma Stone to Julia Roberts, celebs are apparently all about the olive oil! Olive oil is an incredibly ingredient and offers benefits to the body, both inside and out. Many people, including the aforementioned Hollywood stars, advocate for putting it directly on the skin, and although it might work wonders for them, putting a thick oil on the skin can clog the pores and encourage bacterial growth. This is why we’ve curated a list of five of our favourite products containing olive oil, so that you know you’re getting all of the benefits and none of the downsides.

UpCircle Soothing Body Cream with Date Seeds

This body cream from UpCircle  contains skin-calming date seeds to soothe irritated skin, whilst shea butter, linseed and olive oil work together to hydrate and protect the skin. As with all UpCircle products, the date seeds are upcycled from the leftovers of the fruit industry, and it’s made here in the UK. The body cream is also suitable for all skin types, vegan friendly, cruelty-free and palm oil free.

Nine Yards Never Dull Repair Treatment

Olive oil is a potent ingredient to use on your hair, an area which often needs more moisture. Nine Yards Never Dull Repair Treatment is an intense treatment designed to provide a reconstructing and strengthening effect for damaged hair. As well as olive oil, it contains natural extracts of shea butter, coconut oil, green tea and aloe vera, keratin and wheat protein, all of which combine to make your hair stronger, more shiny and more manageable than ever.

Medik8 Micellar Mousse

Many mouse cleansers can feel drying on the skin, but this mouse from Medik8 uses micellar particles infused with nourishing olive oil to gently refresh the skin, while anti-pollution technology purifies the complexion by helping to combat environmental damage. The cleanser leaves the skin perfectly clean while the added olive oil ensures that it is also hydrated and protected.

Dermalogica Precleanse

If you want to get your skin not just clean, but professional-level clean, then this is one product you should definitely add to your routine. It will help achieve an ultra clean and healthy skin, working with your daily cleanser. This plant-based cleansing oil, fortified with olive and kukui oils, thoroughly melts layers of excess sebum, sunscreen, waterproof make-up, environmental pollutants and residual skin products that build-up during the day and is suitable for all skin types.

Decleor Micellar Oil

Micellar products are huge right now, combining oil and water to give a superior cleansing effect. Decleor Micellar Oil is a revolutionary cleanser that is a world-first in micellar technology and uses the powerful combination of oil and water to work deep into the pores, dissolving and dispersing dirt and impurities and removing all traces of make-up. It contains sweet almond oil, which helps to strengthen and soothe the skin, as well as vegetal squalene (derived from olive oil), which maintains optimal hydration levels for deep moisturisation and suppleness.