FACE | SUSTAINABLE GIFT GUIDE

As regular readers may know, we took a pledge in the past year to try as much as possible going forward to only feature products which are cruelty-free, kind to their creators and makers (at every level) and as sustainable as possible in their creation. Whilst this is a big ask and task to manage, (because really, is *any* product truly, wholly sustainable?) we do so with a genuine desire to not promote things which negatively affect people or our planet, and it is with this in mind that we have created this gift guide.  We’re creating this with Christmas in mind, (because everyone needs a little something at Christmas, right?) but we’re also trying to choose products which will work as gifts all year round. Most, if not all of our gifts are UK/Irish made. 

Have a read – and don’t forget to send us any suggestions if you have any 😊

Beauty

Proverb’s Natural Refillable Deodorant

There is definitely an increasing number of shampoo bars, metal razers, and bamboo toothbrushes popping up in bathrooms across the globe - which from an environmental perspective, can only be a good thing! However, one product that is lagging behind its counterparts in the way of sustainability is deodorant - and considering the average container only lasts around three months, that means we are throwing away countless single-use plastic deodorants every year! *sigh*

Enter, Proverb Natural Refillable Deodorant with easy-to-swap inserts that can be reused again and again. Proverb only uses natural, organic and vegan ingredients in their skincare - this means you will not find aluminium, parabens, propylene glycol, petroleums, aerosol gases, alcohol or artificial fragrances in any of their products (which is good for you and much better for the environment). In fact, all of the ingredients in Proverb’s deodorant are edible! Now that is what I call food for the skin…

Proverb skincare is available to buy at www.proverbskin.com

SEABODY Skincare

All-Irish marine-powered cosmetic and nutraceutical brand SEABODY has the perfect range for a guilt-free beauty option for 2022. This biodesigned range of skincare will supply eco-conscious skincare lovers like me with sustainable and ethical health and beauty products.

Not only are the products vegan & cruelty free but they contain proprietary marine molecules that SEABODY has isolated from 100% Irish, organic seaweed using a gentle and zero-waste process. The company makes skincare and supplements that are environmentally conscious, all-Irish and deliver exceptional results - without harming the planet!

Hydrogel Mask Cleanser -100ml €40.00

A luxurious ultra-nourishing cleansing gel, enriched with multifunctional marine glycan complexes - Phytomara™, MaraFucoidan™ and μ-Algae™, squalene, niacinamide, Vitamin E and botanical lipids, Sea Buckthorn, Blackcurrant, Chamomile Flower and Blue Tansy. Feel refreshed and rejuvenated after use.

Glycan Enrich Moisturiser - €65.00

This supercharged ultra-rich moisturiser is powered by potent multi-functional marine glycans, including time release microencapsulated MaraFucoidan™, Alginic Acid, marine antioxidant Polyphenols and vegan Omegas. Boost the skin's moisture and protect from free radicals with this super moisturiser.

AquaSurge Day Serum - €50.00

A super-hydrating daily serum that plumps the skin with the use of marine powered hydration and hyaluronic acid to quench and give the skin a healthy dewy glow. This luxurious formula will have users looking and feeling great all day long.

Overnight Elixir Serum - €70.00

The ultimate overnight tonic for the skin. This lightweight hybrid serum is enriched with microencapsulated marine actives, MaraFucoidan™ and PhytoMara™, which neutralise free radicals, support dermal cell turnover and collagen & elastin production. This formula also contains Vitamins A & E, Phytosqualane, Hyaluronic Acid and an array of vegan lipids including Algal Omegas, Jojoba, Rosehip, Grapeseed, Blackcurrant and Sea Buckthorn Oil, delivering a facial-inspired bounty of skin actives overnight. This impressive serum will have you waking up with post facial skin every morning.

Supplements: 
MOVEMENT - 30 capsules €49.00 
SEABODY Movement contains Copper which contributes to maintenance of normal connective tissues; Vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones and cartilage; and Vitamin D which contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function 

 IMMUNITY - 30 capsules €49.00 

SEABODY Immunity contains Vitamin C and Zinc which supports the function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. This boosting supplement also includes Biotin which contributes to a normal energy yielding metabolism, Manganese for the maintenance of normal bones and Copper to protect cells from oxidative stress. 

BEAUTY- €85.00

Designed to support the pathways of skin, nails and hair health, growth, and quality from within. Enriched in Sea Theory’s proprietary marine complex Maragen (obtained from algae) and key hair cell cycle micronutrients Biotin, Zinc, Selenium, L-Cysteine, Vitamin C and D to deliver a daily dose of vegan marine bioactives and nutrients to the hair follicle which support key pathways in the hair follicle involved in hair formation, growth, and quality. 

DIGESTION - €49.00 

SEABODY Digestion is biodesigned to support the digestive process while also containing Fucoidan, a powerful prebiotic. Fucoidan is associated with being the power behind seaweed’s strength, protecting it from various environmental stressors in the harsh ocean environment in which it flourishes. 

SEABODY is available to purchase from Seabody.com, Brown Thomas and Arnotts.

Pietro's Simone 'clean & ethical' skincare range FIERCE.

Fierce, by definition, refers to power, bravery, intensity, and measured results - and that is exactly what Pietro Simone’s new skincare range Fierce is!

We all know our skin can be problematic at times, and no matter what we do to it, it doesn’t seem to get re-hydrated, or glow, or quite rejuvenate like the way we envision or want it to. The Fierce collection looks at the skin as an individual, delivering astonishing results for a range of skin issues. It’s also sustainable and traceable which as you know are two big ticks for me!

Dewy Reboot

Pietro Simone knows skin and pushes skin’s REBOOT button with Dewy Reboot, in his new FIERCE collection. This multi-skilled serum has an advanced anti-pollutant skin shield technology that gives an intense epidermal reboot & renewal. With its 4 dimensional hyaluronic moisturising system, an ultra innovative VIT C structure with Gluthathione molecule and Collilda Gold- for a 100% stable and penetrable form of powerful stable vitamin C, and Gluthathione complex and skin barrier drone delivery system- it will wipe all your skin woes and give you radiant skin just as you want it. It is simply, where your skin’s needs are met with results!

Fierce Rescue Recover & Repair

Irritated, stressed, red skin needs a rescue formula that is quick enough to act as dialling 9-9-9-. Pietro Simone’s FIERCE-Rescue Recover & Repair aids skin instantly and is an extraordinary ally. This bio-gel recovery complex gives intense healing and comfort while balancing out an over-stressed and compromised epidermis.

Fierce Infusion

Pietro Simone’s FIERCE INFUSION targets redness and rosacea is a visionary, groundbreaking moisturising formula that contains a Skin Delivery System Technology, which delivers powerful bio-compatible ingredients to the skin barrier to rebuild and give skin microbiome optimisation.

Pure Kalahari Melon Facial Oil

Nêô Sephiri is a very exciting newcomer to the beauty scene. Founded following 10 years of extensive research, Nêô Sephiri means ‘a secret gift’ in Tswana, the language spoken on the organic-certified, South African farm where this oil is made.
Their first product launched was the Pure Kalahari Melon Facial Oil, a naturally powerful, ethical and traceable skincare that only contains one ingredient: Kalahari Melon oil.
Not only does this unique ingredient have remarkable skincare benefits but it also has extraordinary social impact potential to restore a community devastated by climate change. In fact, the brand was actually founded as a climate change intervention, meaning that sustainability really is at the foundation of their DNA.

Sugar Coated Waxing Pack

Wanting a salon-at-home vibe this year? For beauty lovers who like to remove hair, Sugar Coated's Waxing Pack is an easy-to-use solution made from just sugar syrup and water! 100% vegan, your choice of Wax, Pure Fine Talc & Soothing Mist offers a complete kit for beginners and experts alike.

SOS Serum Skincare Range

My skin always feels a little dry following winter which is no surprise with the constantly changing temperatures and harsh weather - so anything that promises to quench thirsty skin certainly merits my consideration! The award-winning range of SOS skincare, including the SOS Serum, H20 Day Cream and SPF 50 sun cream is full of soothing, healing, and moisturising properties making it the perfect choice for combatting the dull skin left by winter. It is also made in the UK, vegan and with ingredients so good, they are suitable for anyone aged over 1 month.

Solidamie

Solidamie products are highly concentrated, pH-balanced cleansing bars that are activated by water.
For those of you that have previously been skeptical of shampoo bars because of the perception that they don’t lather the same way as traditional shampoos - then this one is for you! I am obsessed with the beautifully-rich lather from these bars - which rivals any of the bottle shampoos that I have long been used to (whilst also being much more environmentally friendly!).
The bars contain salon-quality formulations and have zero soap content - meaning they won’t strip any natural oils from the hair strands.
Having products in a solid, concentrated bar form, enables the brand to reduce its water usage and carbon footprint.
And as if I couldn’t love this brand anymore - their commitment to protecting the planet and minimising the waste that ends up in our oceans means that all products are created are completely biodegradable and have no plastic in them.

Let’s Sanitise

The Covid-19 pandemic hit hard and fast and brought with it a whole new way of normal - including mask-wearing and hand sanitising - All. Of. The. Time.
If you’re like me and don’t particularly like the strong alcohol scent of most hand sanitisers, then the new ready-to-wear ‘Scent's’ range by Let’s Sanitise is for you.
With scents such as oud, watermelon, and citrus, the range comes in gel, mist, or lotion form - promising a whole sensory experience that suddenly makes the whole thing seem like less of a chore (or perhaps a more pleasurable one).
Also, with each bottle sold, Let’s Sanitise donate a bottle to community organisations, care homes, schools and charities.

Each bottle contains 75% alcohol (complying with WHO standards), is vegan friendly, and has been clinically proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. It also contains hydrating glycerol and soothing aloe vera, giving your hands a little extra luxury protection with each clean - what’s not to love?!

CARTIER DÉCLARATION
A luxuriously elegant scent, Déclaration is a true trail of passion led by an overdose of cardamom and locked up in a gorgeous streamlined bottle - a declaration of love.
After an electric and intoxicating burst of cardamom, cedarwood emerges with its unrivalled balance and plenitude. A beautiful addition to any bathroom shelf…

Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue
Inspired by the blue hues found in nature, this rich scent has notes of bergamot, Marine Accord, and Patchouli. The perfect gift for any special man in your life (or a gift to yourself -this is definitely not male-exclusive and I love to wear this scent myself!)

GOUTAL PARIS UNE FORÊT D’OR CANDLE
This limited-edition candle conjures up the moments spent walking in the forest, surrounded by nature. I had this lit all through the festive season and am still enjoying it now. A beautiful luxurious scent that feels like taking a trip down memory lane.
Notes: Pine Branches, Orange Rind. Also, the 100% cotton wick guarantees optimal burning of around 43 to 50 hours.

ONAIE
This female-powered brand was created by two sisters and offers a wide range of stylish handmade sheepskin slippers, including a vegan range. Paying homage to the sister’s heritage, ONAIE'S products are made by a team of highly skilled craftswomen in the Polish Highlands. With sustainability at the heart of the brand, the team continually work with its suppliers to ensure ongoing ethical, social and environmental compliance.

Dolores & Rose

Finding the perfect gift can be hard and it can be even harder if you’re looking for something sustainable, ethical, vegan and luxury!
Thankfully, ethical haircare brand, Dolores & Rose make buying the perfect gift much easier. As well as being vegan and cruelty-free, their products are handmade in Yorkshire and don’t contain any nasties such as sulphates and parabens.
Their shampoo bars make the perfect start on your plastic-free hair care journey with four different types to choose from:
Purify High combines the cleansing power of nettles with peppermint’s antimicrobial properties together to reduce scalp irritation and inflammation for energised, fabulously fresh hair.
Colour Lock nourishes colour treated hair, with rooibos tea which is rich in antioxidants known to promote hair growth and rosemary to revitalise, soften and condition the hair whilst lavender helps to improve shine and resilience.
Soothe and Shine is a refreshing and zesty shampoo bar with a wonderful citrus aroma, suitable for most hair types. Turmeric, lemon and lemongrass provide antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Give your hair some sparkle and shine this spring.
Moisture Hit is an intensely nourishing shampoo bar for hair that is thirsty! Geranium for strength, chamomile to soothe and calm and olive oil esters for that hit of moisture!  A rich, nutritious shampoo bar for healthy hair.
Blonde Brilliance for beautiful blondes, all year long. Featuring lavender essential oil and ultra-violet pigments to banish brassiness and maintain beautiful blonde tones in between salon visits.

FACE | YON-KA NUDE PERFECT IS THE PERFECT NUDE

I’ve been using Yon-Ka’s Nude Perfect since last year and I can honestly say it is my in-person and on-zoom secret weapon to fantastic-looking skin. I mean, who needs an on-screen filter when you have one in a bottle?!

Yon-Ka’s Nude Perfect is a champion of illusion which creates a ‘blur’ effect that conceals any skin imperfections, minimises pores, evens out skin texture, and smooths fine lines using a simple optical effect. And the bonus? It’s made with 96% natural ingredients!. Now it really is possible to enjoy a perfectly even, natural complexion that is instantly Instagrammable.

The almost entirely plant formula is guaranteed not to contain silicones, a well known polymer found in many soft-focus products. It also features an additional two COSMOS-certified organic ingredients: ashwagandha to protect the epidermis from the harmful effects of light emitted by screens (blue light), and prickly pear cactus, for comfort.  

THE SCIENCE BIT

Thanks to a deep knowledge of the skin, how it works, and what it needs, Yon-Ka uses the latest advances in scientific research and plant biology to create in NUDE PERFECT Fluide both:

1: Instant Action

A STUNNING SURFACE EFFECT: The instant soft-focus effect visibly improves skin quality, smoothing wrinkles and fine lines while revealing a naturally brighter and more even complexion from the moment of application.

2. Long Term Action

Deeply Perfecting Treatment: Its long-lasting multi-perfecting action minimizes imperfections and irregularities, refines the skin’s surface, and tightens pores.    

 The end result is a naturally improved complexion and smoother skin that grows more beautiful with each passing day, even without makeup.

Ultra-light and comfortable, NUDE PERFECT Fluide blends into the skin to the point that you forget you’re wearing it. No greasy film or caked-on feel, but instead mattifying, purifying, antioxidant effects and total anti-pollution action to protect against fine particulate matter and blue light.

Integrated into your morning and evening beauty routine, this fluid, with its matte, velvety finish, enhanced with Yon-Ka Quintessence and a delicate all-natural scent combining ylang-ylang and magnolia, is applied after cleansing the skin and spraying on Yon-Ka Lotion.

YON-KA TIP: Apply a Yon-Ka serum for your skin type before the NUDE PERFECT fluide for optimum comfort for your skin. And to perfect your regime, add a Yon-Ka soft exfoliant and mask twice per week. 

Yon-Ka products are made in France, are not tested on animals, and comply with strict formulation guidelines. Yon-ka Paris skincare is available from professional salons nationwide. For local stockist information visit www.renaissance-skincare.com/Yon-Ka/

RRP: €65 / £57

FACE | MARIE REYNOLDS LONDON IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPLMENTS

TREATING OUR IMMUNE SYSTEMS IS IMPORTANT NOW MORE THAN EVER

Marie Reynolds is one of the UK’s most sought-after skin and wellness experts. Marie’s expert understanding of holistic health is available to all through her exceptional range of skin care, internal supplement products and her unique system for skin and internal wellbeing. Her unparalleled understanding of the skin’s composition has led her to build one of the world’s only genuinely incorporated skincare regimes, covering supplements, topical products, and even specially designed tools to create her modern vision of healthy skin. Marie Reynolds’ holistic view of skin incorporates several pillars which she believes are essential to creating magnificent skin. Not only that but Marie Reynolds London’s range of impressive supplements target many different areas of concern ranging from gut health, immunity, fatigue, and perimenopausal symptoms.

Now more than ever people across the globe want to build a strong immune system to ward off viral infections, to help with that the team at Marie Reynolds London have compiled the best in immunity to assist you in doing just that!

DEFEND - €35.00/£31.45

We are bombarded with external and internal pathogens that constantly place strain on the immune system. In today’s current climate the need to boost immunity and fight infection is ever more in need. Marie Reynolds London Defend is a tailored combination of both immunity ingredients and highly potent herbal anti-virals and anti-bacterials based on protocols Traditional Chinese Medicine. It contains high dose vitamin C (512mg) from multiple sources, i.e. herbs, berries, plants, and ascorbic acid PLUS 19 additional ingredients from herbs, berries, fruits, leaves, roots, mushroom, bulbs, vitamins, and minerals, as well as probiotics to boost gut immunity. This supplement is an exciting immune boosting and anti-viral formula to help give your body the support it needs against attack.

OCEAN EFA - €36.00/ £32.50

This 500mg supplement contains omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and good fats that are required for a healthy body and mind. Ocean EFA also contains the powerful antioxidant, astaxanthin. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage by harmful free radicals - unstable substances that are thought to contribute to certain chronic diseases. Unlike many other antioxidants, astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it can protect the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage. Unlike fish oil, krill oil does not cause a fishy aftertaste, a common side effect of fish oil. Krill oil is also more easily absorbed by the body and contains higher amounts of astaxanthin than fish oil.

Benefits:

Circulation, Skin health, Liver function, Blood sugar health, Brain function, Blood lipid health, Vision, Premenstrual syndrome, Low mood, Immune function, Healthy joints, Inflammation, Memory, and concentration, Fighting the signs of ageing, Protection for cell membranes, Nervous system function.

VEGAN C - €32.00/ £28.95

The human body struggles to recognise synthetic substances, and this includes vitamins. Food form supplements offer a convenient and effective means of topping up on vitamin and mineral intake, because they present nutrients in a form that is as close as possible to the foods where those micro-nutrients naturally occur. As well as providing vitamin C, it is packed with a multitude of other natural vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, bioflavonoids, pectin’s, essential oils, lycopene, carotenoids, plant sterols, catechins, polyphenolics and other Phyto-nutrients. This vitamin C combination is made up of natural food ingredients, as recognised and required by the body for maximum digestion, absorption, and utilisation. This natural combination is also one of the few vitamin C supplements that: is not rapidly excreted from the body; is easily absorbed (a lower intake is required); is not acidic - many people are unable to tolerate citrus-based supplements, which can aggravate certain medical conditions.

Benefits:

Immunity Collagen formation, Blood vessels, Bones and cartilage, Gums, skin and teeth, Energy levels, Nervous system, Oxidative, stress, Iron absorption.

YVE - €32.00/ £28.95

This gentle and completely natural helper is a favourite amongst women, not least because it does not contain hormones, such as those found in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) drugs. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity, normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal functioning of the nervous system, normal homocysteine metabolism, normal protein and glycogen metabolism, normal psychological function, normal red blood cell formation, normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction, as well as the maintenance of normal bones, hair, nails, skin, vision, immune system, and normal cognitive function.

3-SET – €35.00 / £31.45

3-Set Is a dynamic apoptogenic Botanical Complex with EFSA approved health claims, a synergistic combination of herbs, roots, and vitamins, formulated to combat stress physically, chemically, or biologically while also supporting the immune system, energy levels, mental performance, and a general sense of calm, focus and vitality. These clever herbs help the body adapt to what it needs and regulate the system up or down, as required in the moment. The nature of adaptogenic herbs is to help a person “adapt” to their environment, as well as to normalise, regulate the body’s functioning and support the adrenals. It combines important nutrients and nutraceuticals that support hormonal and adrenal health.

Marie Reynolds London is available to purchase from SkinandBeauty.ie and MarieReynoldsLondon.ie

FACE | DISCOVER THE TROPICS WITH GUAVA AND GOLD

‘Barrister’ seems like such an important job and a pretty grand title. You’re a Queen’s counsel after all, aren’t you?  So to give that all up and, quite literally follow your nose and the scents of the tropics to do something entirely different seems quite radical doesn’t it? This is exactly what Claire Price did just over a year ago, in founding Guava and Gold – and we couldn’t love her more for it.

Her goal was to create an elegant, capsule collection of products with ethical credentials, inspired by heady reflections of the tropics and a desire to capture unforgettable, exotic holiday memories in a bottle - and then ultimately on skin and hair.

There’s really nothing like a smell to truly capture the essence of a memory and transport you off to a moment of sheer bliss; so drawing on the expertise, flair and imagination of an international fine fragrance house, Claire’s team used the distinctive scents of a delicious array of tropical fruits and flowers to create her products -  including delicious guava and cherimoya, fragrant pink magnolia, white floral facets of tuberose (‘the carnal flower’), sweet vanilla orchid and enchanting orange and plum blossom.

 To complement the fragrances, natural oils have been blended with botanical ingredients, specially selected for the health of the user’s skin and hair – these are all to enhance personal wellbeing and no fragrance used is to mask a chemical ingredient, because there are none!

Manuka oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, while sweet almond oil boosts collagen production and keeps skin hydrated. Grapeseed oil, found in most products in the range, is a natural moisturiser which helps to maintain soft, radiant skin and hair, while rich shea butter and vitamins feature across many products in her ranges.

But while what’s *in* the product is natural, we have to applaud Claire and her team for their sustainability efforts in packaging also. All products are currently packaged in fully recyclable bottles and packaging; but the work doesn’t stop there, as there are plans to move to bio-polymer bottles made from sugar cane extract, and to incorporate water-free products into the collection so as to further limit Guava & Gold’s impact on the environment, so you can feel good about the products you use while enjoying a momentary memory – or a daydream trip – to the far-flung shores of the tropics.

You can purchase the full Guava & Gold range at Orlagh Maye salon via BODYCARE Archives - Orlagh Maye

FACE | THE C WORD: VITAMIN C!

If there is one skincare step almost guaranteed to elicit a wowser compliment-cum-question like: ‘What are you doing to your skin, you look different/you’re glowing!?’, it’s topical Vitamin C. Used when it’s at its most potent, Vitamin C brightens, firms, smooths, and nourishes skin, no matter what your skin type - whether it’s breakout-prone, very dry, or anything in between.

Vitamin C is one of those truly multi-use beauty products, and aside from giving your skin a radiance boost, it can also help to fade fine lines, reduce the look of dark spots and tighten loose skin. Perhaps most importantly, it also protects your skin from environmental pollutants. 

 At face value though, (and this is what generates those compliments), Vitamin C makes you positively glow. Use it once and see instant results; but keep at it and your skin’s clarity and radiance will continue to improve.

We’ve put together a list of our favourite Vitamin C products to Celebrate National Vitamin C Day, which is on 04 April (who knew, right?) and I suppose that’s as good a day as any, 4 x 4 is a good numerical descriptor because this super Vitamin is such a fab all rounder…

Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum Deluxe 100ML RRP: €127.00 /£109.22 

Today, the VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum remains IMAGE Skincare’s #1 bestselling product for 17 years and counting. Seeing the need for more VITAL C, IMAGE Skincare are introducing the deluxe sized serum for those who can’t live without this hydrating, anti-aging and brightening vitamin c experience. This deluxe size is a first for IMAGE Skincare and there is no better product to honour in this unique way than everyone’s favourite VITAL C HYDRATING ANTI-AGING SERUM. 

This high-potency serum softens the appearance of wrinkles, supports skin elasticity and fights environmental damage. Hyaluronic acid helps to lock in hydration and supports the look of plump, bouncy skin. It contains multiple forms of vitamin C to help brighten the skin and fight visible signs of dullness and fatigue.

This Works Morning Expert CBD Booster + Vitamin C RRP: € 43
This Works Morning Expert CBD Booster + Vitamin C is a wakeup call for your skin. Reinvigorate your skin with this expertly blended serum which helps protect your skin against environmental stressors in the day ahead. Add it to your morning routine to fight skin fatigue and brighten the appearance of dullness on waking. 

This facial serum is 98% naturally-derived and contains 1% CBD from Hemp and 20% Vitamin C. They work together promote a more even skin tone, reducing pigmentation and dark spots while calm and soothe away redness to restore your morning glow. Use it alone or add a few drops to your moisturiser.

Nimue Vitamin C Moisture Mist (RRP: €33.50) 

A hydrating antioxidant spray for the face that stimulates endorphins, resulting in an uplifted and invigorated feeling. Can be used throughout the day as required and perfect for spritzing over foundation.

Skingredients Skin Protein €45, 30ml 

Your vitamin A anti-ageing serum, the skincare game changer. An active formula of vitamin A, C + Eantioxidants + a pro-collagen peptide + tea extracts for smoother, tighter, brighter skin.

Ultraceuticals Ultra C Firming Eye Cream €73, 15ml 

This advanced age defying eye cream contains pure Vitamin C in a CSIRO* developed delivery system for Asorbic Acid, plus Ultraceuticals peptides Microelastin® and MicroCollagen. It visibly improves elasticity, firmness and smooths the delicate eye area. This Pro Collagen formula has also been enhanced with a potent cocktail of calming and moisturising ingredients to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Dermalogica Bio Lumin C Eye Serum €76 

Supercharged Vitamin C eye serum outsmarts visible premature skin ageing caused by daily eye movements and environmental stress. Lightweight serum delivers a highly-bioavailable Vitamin C complex to the skin around the eyes to dramatically brighten and visibly firm

Yonka Beauty Box Vitality, €53.00/£46.50 

Give your skin a boost! Let yourself be transported by the freshness of citrus fruits … a true shot of energy! 

This set includes: 

·         Yon-Ka Pamplemousse cream PS, 50ml  

·         Créme Mains hand cream, 50ml 

Pamplemousse cream lights up the complexion. The ultra-comforting Crème Mains (hand cream) nourishes and repairs the driest, roughest skin. This duo gives your skin an instant boost. 

Yon-Ka Pamplemousse Creme is a vibrant energising cocktail. A real shot of energy, this light, luscious cream with an invigorating citrus scent lights up the complexion and vitalises the epidermis. The version for dry skin is enriched with fine oils for enhanced comfort. Your complexion is radiant. YOUR skin and spirit revitalised, thanks to citrus aromas. 

Rich in hydrating and nourishing comforting agents, Yon-Ka Créme Mains repairs and protects the driest and roughest skins thanks to its formula which combines Shea butter, vegetal glycerine, grape seed oil, Bisabolol and vitamins A, C and E.

And that’s it - the best of the C word, on the F Words! As always, I’ve tried all products here so ping me a message or a comment if you’d like to know anything else besides the info given here.

FACE | CODEX BEAUTY - AN IRISH SKINCARE BRAND THAT'S CHANTING ALL MY SKINCARE MANTRAS

Quarantine has made us rethink not only our skincare, but also our lifestyles. Makeup can help give you a temporary glow, but nothing can really replace the beauty of naturally glowing skin. And as my fave, age-old expression goes, “Beauty comes from within”…. and from a scientific perspective, it does!

Exfoliating regularly, a simple daily skin care routine, and leading a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to keep your skin smooth and radiant.

When it comes to skincare, despite trying and reviewing everything(!) I have always advocated the less is more mantra. A simple, regular skincare routine avoiding too many products and layering is key. Too many actives can irritate your skin and even cancel out each other’s benefit.

A basic routine including only three steps is more than enough:

• Gentle exfoliation and cleansing (used at most twice daily), reduces the build-up of dead cells and doesn’t irritate your skin.

• Toning to help provide anti-oxidants and promote cell turnover

• Hydration using a nourishing moisturizer that helps soothe irritated skin and potentially an oil that locks in the moisture and helps control oiliness.

And find products that support the microbiome – the last thing you want to do is strip your microbiome as then your skin will become red and irritated.

The Codex Bia Hydration line is ideal for the exfoliation and moisturization functions as it is MyMicrobiome certified and is designed to maximize hydration. Specifically, the exfoliating wash (€50) does not strip the skin of moisture but gently removes dead cells. The Bia Skin Superfood (€55) has been scientifically proven in efficacy trials to moisturize, soothe and protect the skin with the patented Biacomplex. The Bia Facial Oil (€100) locks in moisture to increase it up to +168% while controlling sebum production.

About Codex Beauty

Codex Beauty is a collective of global skin care lines built on science, natural ingredients, plant-based preservatives, pharmaceutical-grade processes, safety and efficacy trials, sustainability, and consumer transparency. Its offering is entirely organic, free of harmful chemical compounds, and rigorously tested according to biotechnology practices.

SSSSHHHH! THE HUSH AND HUSH SECRET IS OUT!

Regular readers will know that I have tried and tested (and loved!) a few Hush and Hush luxury beauty supplements before (The Mind Your Mind pre-bedtime supplement and the Deeply Rooted hair product to name a few). But in January of this year the brand announced its first line extension, SkinCapsule which I’ve been trialling here at home since. Comprised of clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients, this trio of skin-perfecting supplements hones in on three of the most common age-related skin issues: discoloration and uneven skin tone, dryness, and breakouts.

 SkinCapsule is backed by the same clinical research that Hush & Hush is widely known for—scientifically-sound data that supports results-oriented products. The three-piece skin-centric line can be used as part of a long-term treatment plan or as needed. Formulated with only clean ingredients, each supplement addresses a specific skin-related concern to tackle problematic issues once and for all.

Deep-rooted in real regenerative science, Hush & Hush is the culmination of more than 15 years of cellular and nutritional research and is dedicated to delaying the inevitable aging process. All of the formulations are designed to support the body’s natural defence and regenerative powers with a unique blend of scientifically proven vitamins, herbs, and botanicals coupled with modern-day technology.

 The vegan, NON-GMO, gluten-free SkinCapsule line is created without gelatin, artificial colorants, flavourings, or additives. Designed to be used in tandem with traditional topical skincare products, SkinCapsule works internally to feed the cells with the necessary nutrients it needs to mitigate skin-related issues.

Meet the lineup for the skin you desire:

SkinCapsule™ BRIGHTEN+ - RRP €65.00/ £60.50 

This naturally derived dark spot and discoloration reducing supplement relies on clean, clinical ingredients to brighten dull-looking skin. It also helps to diminish the appearance of age-related skin tone changes, sunspots, redness, and age spots for brighter, healthier-looking skin. Vitamin C plus proprietary ingredients like SkinAx2, Lutemax, and Saberry® regulate melanin synthesis.

SkinCapsule™ HYDRATE+ - RRP €65.00/ £60.50 

This super hydrating supplement harnesses the power of clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients, including vitamin C, vegan fermented hyaluronic acid, Korean red ginseng, Cococin™, and Ceramosides, to create optimally hydrated, perfectly balanced, glowy skin for that ‘lit-from-within’ look. Ideal for those with dry, dehydrated, rough, and weathered skin that craves moisture, a bevy of skin hydrating ingredients work from the inside out to reduce dryness and increase skin hydration in just 15 days.

This is the one I’ve been trialling and I have to say, I LOVE IT. I’ve been raving about skin from within for years now and I’m delighted the experts Janna & Marc Ronert (of IMAGE Skincare fame) have yet again taken an industry lead in creating a formula which blends the very best of science and nature to the benefit of our skin.

SkinCapsule™ CLEAR+ - RRP €50.00/ £46.50

This skin balancing, anti-blemish supplement is formulated with clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients and botanicals to help reduce pore-clogging oil, soothe reddened skin, and help to diminish the severity and number of breakouts on the face, chest, and back. It helps to alleviate blemishes and breakouts, redness, and excess oil without drying out the skin thanks to a unique blend of ingredients including selenium, zinc, turmeric, vitamin A, and pantothenic acid.

Dr. Marc Ronert, MD, Ph.D., founder of Hush & Hush says, “We had so much success with the initial Hush & Hush products, and our customers wanted more. They were asking for us to develop a specialty line that focuses just on the skin,”

Janna Ronert, founder of Hush & Hush says, “We wanted to feed the needs of our customers and that need was a line of professional, science-based supplements that works on these often hard-to-tackle skin problems from an internal approach.”

FACE | LET ME TELL YOU ABOUT PAYOT….

Let me tell you a little bit about Payot, a brilliant beauty and skincare brand created by a formidable woman 100 years ago in my second home, France. Nadia Payot was the inventor of the ‘facial gymnastics’ concept, a pre-curser to all modern facial techniques, and, later that year, in 1920, she developed the 42-step facial massage which revolutionised skin treatments forever. 

Later, as her business developed, she worked on creating take-home products for everyday skin types which women could use themselves. In 1947 she developed the Pâté Grise, a brilliantly simple grey paste made from natural ingredients which continues to soar in popularity today. In fact, one pot of Pate Grise is sold every five minutes around the world – and there are quite a few fans here and across our network of online customers too.

What’s the secret sauce?; I hear you ask! Well, Nadia Payot’s Pâte Grise contains an optimum formula to bring small blemishes to a maturation phase. It works while you sleep to accelerate the maturation of minor sub-cutaneous spots and make them disappear, almost overnight. This cult beauty, anti-blemish secret has been passed from generation to generation of French women and across the world.

Payot Masque Charbon - Ultra-absorbent Mattifying Care - Orlagh Maye

FOOD | FIVE FOODS TO FEED YOUR FACE (AND GIVE GOOD GLOW)

Who doesn’t want naturally glowy skin, with no highlight in sight?! If you’re a regular reader of the blog you will know that although I love my beauty products, I am a big advocate of feeding the body from within to gain visible and long-lasting results.

As a busy mum, I don’t have half an hour to spare each morning on a six step skin care routine, so I love products which are efficient and straight to the point as well as being as natural as possible. If you’re time-poor like me, one way that you can manage your skin all day long is through your diet.

Before I list my fave face foods, I have some pre-cursors though.

1.       ALLERGIES: I’ve mentioned before about going to get allergies and intolerances tested (I got mine done at Framar Health in Belfast), and intolerance testing is a great place to start when it comes to eating for health. You could be suffering from acne or rosacea and spend time and money trying to treat it topically when actually the skin’s acne, eczema or other issue is a manifestation of an allergy. For example, if you get acne, your dairy intake may be to blame – one study shows that milk releases IGF-I, a hormone similar to insulin, which interact with our own hormones confusing our body’s endocrine system causing breakouts.

2.       JUNK IN YOUR TRUNK – AND ELSEWHERE: Cutting out (or minimising) processed foods is the next important step in clearing up skin (and gut) health, as there are so many toxic nasties in processed foods which wreak havoc with our bodies when built up over years – decades, even – of bad eating.

3.       WATER, BABY!: And the third pre-courser to food for your face is hydration, and you all know how much I preach about water intake for skin health. (See my HYDRATION blog here:)

But back to the task in hand. Your skin health is often a mirror reflection of what you eat, and while avoiding processed and junk foods, trans fats and sugars as well as drinking plenty of pure water can have a beneficial effect on your skin, there are certain foods which you can add to your diet to see a real effect on your skin. Here are my best beauty foods.

FACE FOOD 1 – FATTY ACIDS

Aside from improved eye health and reduced inflammation, good fats in your diet are essential for healthy skin, Omega-3 in particular.  Omega-3 fatty acids maintain healthy skin cell membranes. An insufficiency of these can actually reduce the skin’s ability to absorb and retain water, which will lead to dry and dehydrated skin, so a good intake of Omega-3 fatty acids may help increase hydration by improving the skin’s natural barrier.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in a variety of fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, anchovies, kipper and trout. Just two portions of oily fish per week (one portion = 140g when cooked) would provide a sufficient amount of Omega-3 fatty acids.

If you are vegan, you can still get your intake of Omgea-3 in walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed and hemp seed oil - or through supplementation with algal oil, made from algae which is what omega 3 rich fish feed on.

FACE FOOD 2 – EAT YOUR GREENS

Leafy green vegetables are vital in a balanced diet - and their skin benefits are an added bonus. They contain a variety of essential nutrients, antioxidants and age-fighting phytochemicals as well as plenty of fibre to help gut health and peristalsis.

The Vitamin E found in greens protects your skin cells from free radical damage, such as UV damage and air pollution. Leafy green vegetables also contain folate, a vital nutrient for DNA repair, which helps produce and maintain new cells.

Vitamin C is a co-factor for collagen production in your skin and connective tissues. Found in abundance in leafy greens, Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the most important antioxidant nutrients. It is not naturally synthesized inside the human body and so an adequate dietary intake of Vitamin C is essential. *NB* We know you can get Vitamin C in oranges and bell peppers too, but kale & spinach are brilliant sources, with the added benefit of iron and chlorophyll. Read on!

Green vegetables are also loaded with disease-fighting phytochemicals, like chlorophyll which provides protection against free radicals that can cause your skin to age. The darker the green, the more chlorophyll the vegetable will contain.

Greens are also rich in lutein, a powerful antioxidant which boosts hydration levels, helps to improve elasticity and protects against sun damage, so try to make it a rule to include at least two portions (160g) of greens each day. Go for watercress, rocket, spinach, romaine lettuce, mixed leaves, baby leaf salad, microgreens and kale. It is easy to get half of that through a daily green salad and another half through a cooked vegetable side for dinner - or you could always whip up a green smoothie with spinach or kale plus avocado, pistachios (see below) and add kiwis apples or green grapes if you’d like a bit of fruit sweetness in there.

FACE FOOD 3 – ORANGE IS THE NEW EVERYTHING!

Orange coloured fruit and vegetables contain high amounts of beta-carotene which is essential to give your skin healthy colour. A study by the University of Nottingham found that eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables gives you a more healthy golden glow than the sun. These include carrots, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, papaya, orange peppers, courgettes/marrow, mango and orange.

The high Vitamin A content in these fruit and vegetables helps repair skin tissue and protects against the sun’s harsh rays . As vitamin A is an antioxidant, it also protects from free radicals to help prevent the signs of ageing like wrinkles, pigmentation and an uneven skin tone.
It is best to eat foods such as carrots, squash and sweet potatoes cooked (but NOT overcooked!) as opposed to raw because Vitamin A becomes more bioavailable in cooked food. It’s also helpful to consume these vegetables with oil as this can improve the absorption of Vitamin A.

FACE FOOD 4 PISTACHIOS BABY!

Pistachios are known as the queen of nuts for a reason.  They are a fantastic source of healthy fats, fibre, protein, antioxidants, and various nutrients, including Vitamin B6 and Thiamine. They’re also rich in the amino acid L-Arginine, which is a precursor of nitric oxide, a molecule that dilates our blood vessels and increases circulation of blood.

Good blood flow = more oxygen and essential nutrients getting to our skin cells. It also means waste products are taken away from skin cells more efficiently too. Nitric Oxide also supports tissue repair, including collagen formation.

Pop a tablespoon of pistachios into your morning smoothie, have 30g as a snack or make a delicious pistachio-based pesto sauce for pasta, fish or some delicious roasted vegetables.

FACE FOOD 5 – ASTAXANTHIN
Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants which has been shown in clinical studies to increase skin moisture, elasticity, lighten dark spots, and promote skin smoothness to decrease fine lines.

This amazing, but little talked about, antioxidant has incredible UV-blocking properties, which helps to assist the skin in protecting itself against sun-related damage.  

Great natural sources of astaxanthin are algae, wild salmon, trout, krill, lobster, shrimp and crayfish, BUT you can also take it as a supplement because it’s high doses that have been shown to benefit skin. These have been researched and proven safe in doses of up to 40 milligrams daily for 12 weeks. If you’re getting it from whole food sources, try incorporating a few servings of astaxanthin-rich foods into your diet per week.

This article was inspired by a fab piece on Healthista.com, one of my go-to websites for all things health. You can catch the Healthista article yourself here:

 https://www.healthista.com/beauty-diet-how-to-eat-for-glowing-skin