Here in the UK, pumpkin seems to be something that gets used for carving up on Halloween and maybe for the occasional soup, but not much beyond that. However, pumpkins are actually full of nutrition that we should be getting more of not only in our diets but also on our skin. Today, we’re looking at what the power of pumpkins can do for our complexion and which products you should be using.
How is Pumpkin Good for Us?
According to Medical News Today, “Pumpkin has a range of fantastic health benefits, including being one of the best-known sources of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant. It also gives orange vegetables and fruits their vibrant colour. The body converts any ingested beta-carotene into vitamin A. Consuming foods rich in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, offer protection against asthma and heart disease, and delay aging and body degeneration.”
This product from Dermalogica is designed to combat hyperpigmentation and contains pumpkin fruit ferment filtrate, which helps exfoliate surface cells to enhance skin tone and eliminate dark spots. It contains critical broad spectrum protection against UV-induced hyperpigmentation and a powerful peptide helps regulate melanin production.
In this nourishing facial wash, pumpkin seed oils are combined avocado and broccoli oils, as well as a natural Pre-Biotic to help balance the skin’s precious microbiome. It’s a wash that revives and refreshes whilst deeply cleansing the skin. Formulated with nutrient-dense Superfoods offering a balanced diet of active ingredients for an outdoor-fresh glow.
This resurfacing product from Dermalogica is a potent treatment for revitalising your skin. Pumpkin fruit enzyme and rice bran extract resurface and help even out skin tone while smoothing Australian caviar lime extracts brightens skin for a more radiant complexion. Each pack contains 10 peel applications with a handy travel bag.
While we try to make sure we wear gloves and dry our hands thoroughly when they are wet, life is busy and quite often our digits just don’t get the love they deserve. The problem with skipping basic hand care is that is can lead to cracked skin, sore knuckles and weak nails, which can all be made worse by the cold.
The thing is, when the temperatures drop and the heavens open, our skin is more prone to dryness and the hydration they do have, is often sucked out of them thanks to central heating. We have had a look at some easy ways you can look after your hands, so they are soft, supple and comfortable however low the mercury drops.
Keep things plain The temptation might be to buy a soap with a powerful scent and rich lather, but both of these factors can dry out your skin even more. Have a look around and go for something which contains hydrating ingredients like Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Jojoba Oil and remember that quite often, less is more.
Go for warm water, not hot We often wash our hands in really hot water, but we would suggest you don’t do that. Turning the heat up is more likely to strip your skin of the natural oils it really needs to stay healthy, so go for lukewarm water and completely dry your hands, and in between your fingers, and we think you will start to see a difference.
Remember to moisturise Hand creams aren’t there just to be used as a treat! Each time you wash and dry your hands, use a moisturising cream too. There is a wide range of products on the market to choose from, but in the winter, a thicker, more nourishing cream or lotion is a good idea as it will offer protection as well as locking in moisture. Again, try to stay away from anything that is packed with artificial scents and go for natural options where you can.
Add an oil If you really do suffer from skin dryness, why not protect your hands from the harsh winter elements by adding oils into the mix. Shea Butter, Argan and even Olive Oil can be really soothing, but different things work for different people, so do a patch test with several options and go for what works for you. When you do use oil, make sure your hands are dry, then massage a little into your skin, paying attention to your cuticles and nails, as well as the really parched areas of skin on your hands and you may find this helps ease things and brings the softness back.
Nightime care Just as you look after your face and neck at night, you can apply the same rules to your hands. As you sleep, your skin repairs itself, so this is the perfect time to put hand cream on and as you get your rest, the ingredients can help your mitts and nails recover from whatever the day has thrown at them.
Wear gloves Whether this is when you are doing the washing up, walking the dog, or doing the school run, always try to wear gloves. Keeping your hands warm and shielded, should help protect your skin and nails and prevent them from drying out and splitting.
Talk to someone If you find your hands are still getting dry and cracked, and if they are bleeding, it is worth seeing your GP or talking to your pharmacist for some expert help and suggestions.
From spots to scratches to ingrown hairs, there are a whole bunch of different skin issues which mean that your skin needs to heal before it can repair itself. Here at Pure Beauty, we know that anything we can do to help our skin is a bonus, especially when it comes to healing, and we’ve curated a list of five products to give your skin a healing boost:
Decleor Prolagene Gel is a multi-tasking gel to rescue damaged skin by toning, firming, repairing and revitalising. Prolagène Gel supplies the deep tissue with the active ingredients necessary for the reconstruction of its natural collagen. Acting on the whole of the skin’s structure it helps speed up cell renewal to improve the look of stretch marks and scarring in addition to loose skin.
Dermalogica Emergency Spot Fix is a potent, topical formula that kills breakout-causing bacteria deep within pores to clear breakouts fast. It’s perfect for teenage skin which needs a little help in dealing with spots and breakouts and stops breakout-causing bacteria in the follicle and helps clear skin.
The skin around the eyes is some of the most delicate on the whole body, which means that it gets damaged easily and needs special products to help it to heal. Jan Marini Transformation Eye Cream will help visibly improve the texture and restores hydration around eyes while helping to prevent future damage.
This handy spray from Elemis contains Tea Tree oil, which is nature’s own antiseptic, having powerful anti-bacterial and antiviral properties. It’s useful in SO many situations – it can be used for treating fungal infections on the feet, spraying directly onto cuts and spots, protecting against insect bites, using after waxing and it can even be used on congested back or chest area.
Part of the healing process is about killing bacteria to prevent infection and ensure your skin is healthy. This timer from Dermalogica is a purifying mist that controls excess oil and helps eliminate breakouts on the face and body with salicylic acid. Twelve gentle botanicals refresh, energise and revive skin while tea tree kills bacteria.
With more and more people turning to a plant-based diet and lifestyle, we have had a look at some easy swaps that you can make which will make you feel good and help the environment too.
Nut butter not real butter Nut butters are full of much-needed fibre and protein and while they have the same texture and spread-ability, they are way better for you. Packed full of the healthy fats that promote good heart health these are a must have for your shopping basket. Don’t just go for the peanut butter, try almond and cashew too, and experiment until you find the one that is right for you.
Lentils for meat If you want to find a meat substitute, you can’t go wrong with lentils. Soak first to soften them up, then added to them soups, curries, casseroles and tacos, and as well as giving you a protein burst, they are filling and taste good too!
Hummus not mayonnaise While you can find vegan mayonnaise in some shops, why not add hummus to your sandwiches and salads instead? Made from mashed chickpeas, a dollop of hummus gives good fat, fibre and protein as well as folate, which helps to turn carbs into energy and keeps your ticker healthy. Make it fresh at home, eat as a snack with carrot and cucumber sticks, add to a wrap along with beef tomato and rocket, or spread thickly on rye toast and enjoy!
Tofu not eggs Many people miss eggs when they follow a plant-based diet, but when you can replace them with tofu, you don’t need to. Tofu is made from condensed soy milk and the resulting solid white blocks are packed with protein, magnesium, copper, zinc and amino acids too. Chop your tofu into small cubes, then gently fry over a medium heat in a little oil and serve with mushrooms, tomatoes and rye bread and you will have an Instagram worthy breakfast in a flash.
Courgette spaghetti This is a treat for anyone who wants to up their veg intakes. Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to slice two or three courgettes into fine strips, then pan fry for a minute or two before adding a little water to the pan and letting the veg simmer for another five minutes. Pour over a lentil chilli or vegetable curry, toss in peanut butter, or add garlic and ginger plus a little soy sauce, and you have a super healthy supper in seconds.
Bean burgers not beef burgers If you are craving comfort food, why not make burgers from black beans and you really won’t feel like you are missing out. Not only do black beans come with a serious serving of fibre and protein, they can also help keep your gut and heart healthy and boost your bones too. Create patties, cook them and serve in a bun with sweet potato wedges, avocado and a side of tomato salsa and you will be full in no time.
Agave rather than honey If you are looking for an alternative to honey, why not give agave a go. The sweetness in this easy to use, and eat, syrup comes from inulin, a fructose derived from fruit and vegetables. Thanks to a low-GI, agave can help to keep blood sugars level, so add it to your cakes and cookies as well as smoothies and yogurts, but like honey, it is still sweet, so you don’t need a lot.
We’re never happier than when one of our brands launches a new product and we’re able to offer it to our customers, and that’s exactly what we’re doing today! One of the newest products from Decleor is their Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist, so we thought we’d give you an overview of the product so you can be totally in the know before you buy:
What is it?
Decleor Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist is a tonic specially created to refresh skin. It gives an instant moisture boost to skin in need of support.
What does it do?
This is a truly multi-functional product which moisturises, refreshes the skin, gently exfoliates and refine skin’s texture. It can also be used over the top of make-up as a setting spray and freshening hydrator.
Who is it for?
This mist is suitable for all skin types, so can be used by absolutely everyone.
What’s in it?
As well as containing salicylic acid, the mist also contains mint flower water to rejuvenate and a cocktail of essential oils such as lemongrass, thyme and rosemary for a fragrant aromatic sensation.
How do you use it?
Decleor Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist can be applied after cleansing, to set make-up or whenever skin needs an invigorating burst of hydration.
What are people saying about it?
“Fantastic! I have been using this product since it was first launched, I use it to set my make-up. I wouldn’t be without it!”
“I don’t use it as a mist/spray, but spray it onto a cotton pad and use as a toner. I have found that it seems to have a positive effect on my acne prone skin. It feels and smells refreshing and seems to control oiliness when applied in that way.”
“I am using this mist for a couple of weeks now and it’s been very nice on my skin. I have a very sensitive and dry skin so that product really helps to bring back the freshness and softness to my skin. I use it mainly in the morning before applying my day cream.”
“I bought this after purchasing this after my holiday to see if this would hydrate my skin. It’s a great refreshing mist, and leaves your skin soft, its non-greasy. And a great pick me up in the afternoon when you think your skin needs a boost.”
From luscious lavender, to restorative rosehip, there’s a whole world of skin loving botanicals out there, which could change your beauty routine forever. While we always recommend using the essential cleanse, tone and moisturise regime, adding a smoothing, plumping, healing extra from the hedgerows, could be a total game changer for you.
We have had a look at some of the options out there, and have a feeling you are going to like what you read.
Argan Oil Argan Oil comes from the kernels of the Argan tree in Morocco and has seen a rise in popularity in the beauty world in recent years, and for good reason. This gorgeous, golden oil has many benefits for both skin and hair, thanks to its soothing, conditioning, hydrating powers. Rich in Vitamin E, this oil is great when it comes to caring for delicate, sensitive skin which is prone to redness and it really is wonderful in the winter. Top Tip – apply this lightweight oil directly to the skin, massage it in gently, and over time you will be surprised at the difference it will make, especially to areas which are exposed to the elements.
Calendula Oil Calendula Oil is perfect for treating all manner of skin conditions and we think no beauty cabinet, or first aid kit, should be without it. This oil is extracted from marigold flowers and comes with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that help to heal wounds, sooth eczema, and can even relieve nappy rash. Top tip – add a drop of Calendula Oil to your day cream and not only will it nourish your skin, but it will give you a pollution protecting boost at the same time!
Lavender Oil Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils and we can’t get enough of it. Most commonly known for its relaxing effects on the body and mind, it can also be used for massage, and is used in many beauty products. The heady, floral, relaxing aroma will encourage you to unwind and when added to bath water, it will help to relieve tired, aching muscles and allow you to leave the stress and worries of the day behind. Top Tip – carrying a small bottle of Lavender Oil around with you is like having your own personal first aid kit, perfume and pick-me-up with you at all times, so pop one in your bag and you know help is always on hand.
Rosehip Oil When your skin needs a dose of nourishment, why not turn to the luxurious properties of Rosehip Oil. Non-greasy and fast absorbing, this oil is rich in omegas and essential fatty acids, which help achieve a healthy-looking complexion. Massaging just one or two drops into your skin morning and night, will help lock in moisture for hours, and ongoing use will ensure you have a radiant glow all year round. Top tip – while you can add this oil to your moisturiser, and foundation, for a dewy finish, it can also be used as a luxurious hydrating treatment for your hands and lips.
Very few of us are blessed with perfect nails which grow through strong and even, and many of us have issues with our nails which need extra help. Today, we’re looking at four common nail problems which a lot of people have to deal with, and try to find ways to help:
Splitting Nails
Nails which split are usually caused by dryness and the body’s natural oils being stripped away. This can be caused by constant application and removal of nail polish, use of strong chemicals without gloves (hairdressers, we’re looking at you!) or even just spending a lot of time with your hands in water doing washing up. Give your nails a boost with Elemis Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend and make sure you wear gloves before doing anything harsh with your hands.
Ridged Nails
Ridged nails can look unsightly and you can buff and polish them as much as you like, if you don’t identify the underlying cause they’ll keep growing back. There can be many causes for ridges in your nails, such as eczema, rheumatoid arthritis or even just age, but one of the most common causes is damage to your cuticles by being a little overzealous with removing them. We recommend using something to soften your cuticles, such as Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream and trying to cut back on the amount of trimming you do.
Pitted Nails
If your nails have become pitted, showing signs of what looks like tiny craters in the nail, there could be more to this than meets the eye. Pitting is most often caused by a fungal infection under the nail, and a trip to your doctor or chemist will be needed to get a specialised anti-fungal treatment to get rid of it. Once the infection has gone, the pits will eventually grow out, but you can keep your hands looking great in the meantime by using Jan Marini Bioglycolic Hand and Body Lotion daily.
Yellowing Nails
There are a couple of things which can cause yellowing nails and if you’re a heavy smoker, this is obviously going to be the main one. The tar in cigarettes is notorious for staining your hands (among other horrible health damaging things), and quitting is the only way to prevent this. However, if you’re a non-smoker and still have yellow nails, your nail polish could be the culprit. Reds and pinks often cause yellowing of the nail and if you opt for these colours on a regular basis, this is likely what’s making your nails discolour. Try to use a protective base coat before painting your nails and opt for something other than red or pink to let your nails recover.
If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off somewhere for a post-summer break, you may be worried about the effect that flying will have on our skin. There’s nothing worse than getting off of the plane in your exotic destination only to be plagued by dry skin and pimples from sitting in a tube full of recycled air! We’ve curated a list of products which we consider our ‘in-flight saviours’ so that you disembark looking glam and glowing:
A moisturising spritz can be a real skin-saver on a flight, especially if you’re flying long haul. Keeping this in your hand luggage and using it throughout the flight for a wash of moisture will eliminate dryness and dehydration and arnica and cucumber extracts help keep skin smooth and refreshed. It’s also great for male skin after shaving.
If you’re brave enough to sit on a plane in a face mask, this product will do absolute wonders for your skin as you fly! This mask from Decleor takes just three minutes to work, but will leave the skin smooth and even. It contains elemi and saro essential oils to help promote microcirculation and to purify and cleanse.
This cream from Elemis is designed to give skin a constant dose of moisture whilst actively helping to protect against environmental toxins. It’s a perfect base for make-up and utilises adaptive technology which adjusts to skin’s individual needs. Using this during your flight means you skin won’t ever have the opportunity to become dehydrated.
The delicate eye area can often really suffer during a flight, as the skin needs a little extra help to stay hydrated and healthy. This eye gel from Jan Marini encourages a dramatically smoother more hydrated eye area and helps reduce under-eye circles and discolouration while firming crepey skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This spritz from Dermalogica provides critical hydration while helping to relieve and defend against inflammation, whilst relieving inflammation and discomfort, helping skin recover from damage and lipid barrier breakdown. It’s perfect for use during a flight as it will deeply hydrate your skin and stop any redness which may develop as a result of dryness.
Children going to school, divorce, teenagers leaving for university, a house move or new job can all be stressful, and while they are a part of everyday life, each one can lead to loneliness.
While feeling lonely isn’t a mental health problem itself, the two things are linked, and if you are feeling that way it can have a negative impact on your mental health, which isn’t what anyone wants, or needs.
We have had a look at some of the things you can do to ease those feelings, so you start to feel happier, and more connected, once again.
Join a class Whether it’s an art class, yoga class, or photography class at your local community centre, being part of a class gives you access to a new group of people with whom you can share an interest as well as a regular date in your diary. Being part of a group, can give you a feeling of belonging, and doing something new gives you a new direction and something to look forward to, both in terms of the activity and the friends you can make.
Get a pet A cat, dog, rabbit, or even a tortoise can help prevent loneliness. A pet can be good company if you are alone a lot of the time and of course, if you do have a dog, not only will they offer you companionship, but you will meet other people on your walks. It is also worth noting, that cute dogs are real attention magnets and can help start-up conversations, and you never know where those can lead. It is worth checking out local rescue centres and seeing where rehoming options are available and you never know, you might become a volunteer there, which can give you a whole new sense of purpose, gratitude and belonging, all of which can help with feelings of loneliness.
Expand your social network This might seem daunting but the internet has opened up a whole new world when it comes to connecting with people, both online and face to face. While spending a lot of time on social media, can actually make you feel more isolated as you look as those so-called ‘perfect lives’, it can actually be a wealth of information and inspiration. MeetUp.com is a great place to meet people and to find hobbies, interests and groups in your local area, and beyond if you are feeling brave. Remember, if you do meet up with a new group or person, tell someone you know where you are going and let them know you are home, and maybe you will be able to fill them in on the fun you had while you were out too!
See a therapist It is good to talk, and if you really are struggling with your feelings of loneliness, it might be worth finding a therapist who can help you deal with your issues. Your GP is probably a good starting point for finding a professional, and while some options are available on the NHS, there are private therapists out there too. Find someone who you trust, who you feel gets you and once you have done that, you may find that one-to-one time will help you get to grips with your loneliness and a strategy for change can be put in place.
Have a massage OK, hear us out on this one. Touch is a really powerful way to connect with someone, and for those who believe in Chinese traditional medicine, it can help prevent disease too. While we aren’t saying massage is a replacement for all that family and friends can offer, but when a treatment is carried out with care and compassion, by an expert therapist, it can really lift the spirit and you will hopefully be able to relax in a warm, safe space where you feel happy too.
Read a book Take your latest crime thriller or chic lit novel to your local coffee shop, sit down and as you devour the words on the pages, take in the world around you. We really think that doing something like this could help you stop feeling lonely, even just for an hour or two. You could also join a book club and find like-minded people with whom to share your passion for books and reading, and that could offer you a whole new opportunity to make friends and plan other events.
Connect with those around you Even if it’s just chatting with staff at the corner shop or in the library, when you say hello and even just talk about the weather, over time this can lead to so much more, from a job offer to friendship. Give it a go, you might be surprised at what happens.
Learn to be OK on your own Yes, too much time alone isn’t good for you, but learning to enjoy your own company is an important life skill. Being able to enjoy a cup of tea while reading the newspaper, watching the TV, walking by the sea or just being at home cooking a meal or doing chores, are all things you can do with someone else, but try doing them alone too, and you might be surprised at just how much you like you, after all.
Are you tired of having fine, limp looking hair that drops even before your straighteners have gone cold?
Sick of frizz that sucks the life out of your locks?
Wish your ponytail bounced on your shoulders, but instead are stuck with a messy bun that really does you no favours at all?
Fear not, we are here to help.
While we can’t wave a magic wand and change the fundamental make-up of your hair, we have some helpful hacks that we think might just give you the boost you have been looking for.
Get it cut Yes, that’s right. If you want your hair to look thicker and fuller, the best place to start isby having a few centimetres taken from the bottom to stop the dead ends dulling your look. If you have long, thin hair, this often weighs itself down and makes your roots look flat and super curcly hair can be all over the place, not where you always want it. When you go for your appointment, make sure your hairdresser looks at how your hair naturally sits, where your parting is and if you get them to add some choppy, volume adding layers they will hopefully give the illusion of celebrity style and natural thickness.
Swap your products We know people stick to what they love and know, but when it comes to hair products, this isn’t always the best approach. Using the right products for your hair will make an instant difference, so spend a bit of time in the chemist looking at what will work best for you. Whether it is thin hair, dry scalp issues or over bleaching that you want to deal with, you can be sure there will be a shampoo and conditioner that is right for you, and if you add in a serum and mask, you will be shining bright in no time at all.
Where is your parting Just like fingerprints and DNA, your parting is totally yours, so own it. Going with your natural parting can help make your hair look fuller and give it a natural swing, because that is where it is meant to be. Side partings can add volume, middle ones are elegant with a little bit of edge, and if you are feeling brave, go with your natural sweep and have a fringe cut, to really bring out the best in your hair.
Keep the heat down It is amazing how people think that the only way you can get an enviable mane, is to blast it with heat, but this isn’t true. Air drying your hair can add natural bounce, and if you gently towel dry your hair when you get out of the shower, add some volumising product and then leave it to dry, you will be surprised at the results. If you really can’t bear not to turn the temperature up when you are getting ready, go for the lowest settings on your appliances and use a protecting treatment to get the tresses you love but not at the cost of dry, brittle ends.
Add colour Adding a few high or lowlights can make the world of difference to how you look and feel. Caramel, honey and toffee tones expertly weaved through your hair can really lift your look, add depth and bring out the colour of your eyes and brighten you skin tone.
Added extras If you want something different, but don’t have the patience to wait for natural growth, why not think about extensions? Natural looking, subtle extensions which are well placed underneath your own hair will make the world of difference and once you add a little bit of lippy and a smile, you will be ready to go.
