Category: Beauty & Perosnal Care

With information at our fingertips, consumers are making more knowledgeable purchase decisions when it comes to what they’re putting on their skin. The demand for clean beauty products and clean ingredients are on the rise as consumers learn how to decipher labels, checking for irritating ingredients like SLSs or propylene glycol. Many companies claim to offer “clean beauty” or “organic” but what do these terms actually mean? Let’s dig deeper to find out what clean beauty is, the difference between clean beauty and organic skin care and what beauty products are safe to apply. 

What Is Clean Beauty vs Organic? 

“Clean beauty” is a phrase in the beauty industry meaning products that are free from toxic ingredients, synthetic chemicals and any ingredients that could irritate your skin. Ingredients include parabens, sodium lauryl sulphates (SLSs) or phthalates. Clean beauty can also refer to companies that take the environment’s wellbeing into consideration during the development, manufacturing and selling of their products. However, the definition can become a little complicated in that there is no governing body to regulate whether a company is allowed to put that label on their packaging. Neither does it indicate a set list of ingredients that you can and cannot use. It’s best to think of clean beauty as a movement of sorts starting from a desire to become mindful about what we put on our skin. Clean beauty consumers are also interested in their health and well-being and in supporting green and cruelty-free brands.

In comparison, if you see products with “organic” on the label, you know this is a regulated term. Of all the beauty industry terms, “organic” is the most regulated term by the FDA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. “Organic” refers to products that are made using ingredients grown using organic farming methods that refrain from using synthetic fertilizers, artificial fertilizers and pesticides. These ingredients are certified organic.

How To Choose Clean Beauty And Organic Beauty Products

By supporting brands labelled as clean or organic, you’re encouraging businesses to manufacture safe, effective products that are made with the environment in mind. When deciding which skin care to purchase, we recommend reading all the ingredients to the best of your ability. If you’d like to learn more about ingredients to avoid in skin care, read our complete guide. Also patch test new beauty products before applying them to your whole face to see if you have a reaction. 

As mentioned, Eminence Organics is a brand that sources ingredients from certified organic farms. The farmers and manufacturers we work with ensure that no harsh chemicals are added, in an effort to formulate the healthiest solutions for your skin. Products contain organic ingredients, free of animal by-products, petroleum, propylene glycol, harmful fragrances, sodium lauryl sulfates, harmful colorants and parabens. You can explore the Eminence Certified Organic Farm and see where certified organic ingredients grow. 

Organic Beauty Product Recommendations

The following products are from our Beyond Organic Collection featuring organic, pure products, crafted with Biodynamic® ingredients. All our Beyond Organic products are clinically-tested and proven to be hypoallergenic as well as certified over 95% organic, including up to 95% Biodynamic® ingredients. Biodynamic ingredients are three times more nutrient rich than regular ingredients. 

Facial Recovery Oil

This luxurious facial oil is nicknamed “liquid gold.” With a blend of organic botanicals like nourishing olive oil, clary sage oil and ylang ylang, this potent solution helps renew sensitive and aging skin, and improves hydration to reveal your healthiest glow! 

Lemon Grass Cleanser

This hypoallergenic cleanser is suited to sensitive or dehydrated skin. Sunflower, flax seed and olive oil work together to cleanse impurities from your skin. Sunflower is rich in vitamins to reduce the visible signs of aging, while eucalyptus oil tones and tightens the appearance of the complexion.

Cornflower Recovery Serum

This multi-tasking serum deeply penetrates to boost skin tone, reduce the look of redness and refresh fatigued skin. Seabuckthorn berry provides powerful antioxidants while cornflower helps refresh the complexion. 

If you would like to experience Eminence Organic Skin Care, visit our Spa Locator and find out about the Spa Partner nearest to you.

‘Cosmoss’, the lifestyle brand by Kate Moss, launched to predictable fawning from the fashion world earlier this month.

What the brand says: (strap yourselves in)

This is literally ‘The Story’ on the website. ‘Soulful, sensual, self-aware. COSMOSS draws on the extraordinary life experience of Kate Moss — someone whose career and image has touched on and influenced so many others and yet has taken her own, rich journey of transformation gradually and privately.

COSMOSS is a celebration of every day exactly as it is, with all its imperfections. Each product has been meticulously crafted with wellbeing in mind, using potent, natural substances. Each ritual opens a door to balance, restoration, and love; each fragrance and infusion recentres and completes.

COSMOSS is self-care created for life’s modern journeys to make them beautiful, mesmerising and magical.’

What you need to know:
This did not make my journey feel mesmerising or magical.

Who is it for?
People who worship at the altar of Kate Moss, have no problems with their skin, and have money.

You need this if..
You do not need this. By all means, buy it if you want it, but you do not need it.

You don’t need this if..
You are serious about skincare.

Face Cleanser, 100ml – £52.00
They say:
‘Rich and luxurious, our Cleanser gently removes impurities and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural protective barrier. Moss extract hydrates and enhances the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Mildly scented for a complete sensorial experience, the formula rinses off easily, leaving skin soft, refreshed and nourished.’

CH says:
Firstly, this is not ‘mildly scented’. It is one of the most highly fragranced products to be released in recent times. A cleanser is obviously limited in what it can do, and there is nothing in this ingredient list to suggest that this cleanser will ‘enhance the firmness and elasticity’ of your skin.

Key Ingredients
Moss extract
Cannabidiol
Bakuchiol
Rosehip Oil
Nettle Extract

INCI
Aqua/Water/Eau, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Glyceryl Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium Chloride, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Metabisulfite, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil, Polypodium Vulgare Rhizome (Common Polypody) Extract, Dehydroacetic Acid, Cetraria Islandica (Iceland Moss) Thallus Extract, Sphagnum Magellanicum (Peat Moss) Extract, Rosa Moschata (Musk Rose) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Bakuchiol, Glycerin, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters, Citric Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Cannabidiol, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Magnolol, Honokiol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene.

Face Cream, 50ml – £95.00
They say:
‘Rich, nourishing, moisturising: introducing the revolutionary Face Cream, which rejuvenates the skin and stimulates natural collagen production. It absorbs quickly and deeply into the skin, dramatically decreasing the dulling effects of oxidative stress for a healthy glow. High in antioxidants, this anti-ageing moisturiser reduces wrinkles and fine lines to help achieve plump, well-rested skin.’

CH says:
There is nothing revolutionary about this moisturiser. And the claims are designed to give the impression that it will do far more for your skin that it is scientifically capable of, and it is fragranced to the max.
‘Moss extract complex combines three wild Icelandic plants (lichen, moss and fern) that nourish and hydrate the skin, restoring smoothness, firmness and elasticity. It is an effective anti-ageing moisturiser designed to soothe irritated, sensitive skin. Studies have shown the extract can rejuvenate the skin by 20 years in four weeks.’
Studies on an extract have no bearing on the final formula used as the product. In fairness to Cosmoss, a lot of brands make these claims. Doesn’t make it ok. However, if you do find that you look 20 years younger after using this cream for four weeks, be sure to let me know. Love that for you.
‘Cannabidiol interacts with receptors in the nervous system to help you regain balance. Used on the skin, it is known for its soothing and sebum-regulating properties.’
This is intentionally worded to put the CBD association in your mind, but used topically, CBD will not interact with your nervous system in any way, and it is totally irresponsible to speak of it in this fashion.

Key Ingredients
Moss Extract Complex
Cannabidiol
Bakuchiol
Hemp Oil, Rosehip Oil, Shea Butter and Avocado Oil
Nettle Extract
Niacinamide
Vitamin E
Burdock Root Extract

INCI
Aqua/Water/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Behenyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Parfum (Fragrance), Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Stearyl Alcohol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Phytosterols, Carbomer, Squalane, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Gluconate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hydroxide, Niacinamide, Rosa Moschata (Musk Rose) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Bakuchiol, Polypodium Vulgare (Common Polypody) Rhizome Extract, Polysorbate 60, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Metabisulfite, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sorbitan Stearate, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters, Cetraria Islandica (Iceland Moss) Thallus Extract, Sphagnum Magellanicum (Peat Moss) Extract, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Tocopherol, Cannabidiol, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Magnolol, Honokiol, Citric Acid, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Phosphoric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool.

Golden Nectar CBD & Collagen Oil, 30ml – £105.00
They say:
The Golden Nectar is the ultimate antioxidant oil, bringing a holistic approach to your everyday skin care. It kickstarts the natural process of skin rejuvenation, supporting deep regeneration to soothe irritated skin and leave it softer and plumper to the touch. It is an everyday indulgence that takes care of your skin, body, mind and soul.’

CH says:
The oil is the better sku in the range. Mainly because it’s unscented, doesn’t give me a headache, and feels calming on the skin. It does give a glow, but that’s to be expected of any oil. Alas, yet again with the claims..

‘Cannabidiol (1000 mg) interacts with receptors in the nervous system to help you regain balance. Used on the skin, it is known for its soothing and sebum-regulating properties.’ Repeat ad nauseam..
As previously mentioned, what it does when you ingest it has nothing to do with how it reacts on your face. With that said, Kate Moss ingests this in this video: Vogue/Cosmoss

Her website says this: ‘The product is not medicinal device.’ – That’s no typo. That’s what it says. I’m none the wiser.

‘Mythical Tears of Chios is a resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), native to the Greek island of Chios which stimulates natural collagen production. It reactivates cells and detoxifies the skin, so it appears younger, plumper and firmer.’

‘Reactivates cells’. Does it perform CPR? Depending on where you read about this product, it either detoxifies, reactivates your cells, stimulates your collagen, works as an antioxidant, controls your sebum and/or makes you a brew.

Key Ingredients
Cannabidiol (1000mg)
Mythical tears of chios (also known as mastic gum)
Rosemary extract
Chia seed

INCI
Caprylic/Capric (Coconut) Triglyceride, Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Seed Oil, Cannabidiol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Extract, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum.

*Also: the website inci list (as listed above) omits the word ‘alcohol’ from the oil description. The actual inci of the product is below.

 

Sacred Mist, 100ml – £120.00
Just to be clear, this is a perfume, not a facial mist. It is very masculine, and very strong. The packaging is beautiful.

And the teas are rank.

 

Final thoughts:

I will always defend anyone’s rights to make whatever they like, and charge whatever they like for it. Making a range is not the problem. And skincare is clearly in fashion with celebs. It’s this year’s tequila. The cost is not the problem. Fill your boots.

The claims, marketing and apparent complete lack of a regulatory and compliance officer overseeing these projects is what I find perplexing/annoying/irritating. The frivolous ‘not taking our industry seriously’ is where my problem really lies. We are an industry full of trained, qualified and quantified experts with proven track records that already have to fight against the misogyny clearly displayed not only in our government, but the media. Feel free to join us, by all means. But you need to meet us high up at our level, not invent your own ‘whimsical’ one that fuels the distrust and disregard for something that we all love so dearly.

And I repeat: Just because you can make a skincare line, doesn’t always mean you should.

 

It’s in Harrods. Knock yourself out.

Harrods/KateMisses

 

 

After the sell-out success of the original Skin Rocks Menopause Box, we have just released a 2.0!

The Menopause Box 2.0 is worth £221 and is yours for £95, saving you 57%.

You need this if…
You are menopausal or perimenopausal and your skin feels reactive, parched and as tired as you.

You don’t need this if…
Your skin feels calm, comfortable and hydrated (or you are not menopausal).

Created with menopausal and perimenopausal skin in mind, this Box features a routine of products to calm, cool and support skin that is impacted by the hormonal changes which occur during menopause.

All the products in this Box can be used as a full morning and evening routine and are suitable for all skin tones. The cleanser can be used as both a first and second cleanse at night or as a single cleanse in the morning. Please remember to wear your SPF (not included) every day.

Kelo-Cote is a brand that specialises in scar treatment. Kelo-Cote gel is recommended by plastic surgeons, and the clinicals and results speak for themselves. Last month, one of my lovely team, Charlie, spilt a fresh brew down her front (ouch) resulting in a trip to A&E. when she had the all-clear from her Doctor, I gave her a tube of Kelo Cote to use. Charlie said the scar has since visibly reduced, is lighter in colour and more comfortable.

Their range includes:

Scar Gel

This is clinically proven to improve the appearance of hypertrophic and keloid scars in 82% of users*. It can also help to prevent raised scarring in up to 67% of surgery patients after just four months.**

It is also proven to help reduce redness, itching and discomfort.

You can use this before you go to bed, as part of your PM routine.

* Clinical study of 1522 patients, twice daily use for 2-6 months

** Clinical study of 148 patients, twice daily use for 4 months

Scar Gel UV

This targeted treatment is a silicone gel texture, containing SPF 30, developed to help protect scars against the sun. If scars are exposed to the sun, they can become more pronounced or even disfigured. This formula works to reduce redness, improve the appearance of raised scars and helps to protect from UV exposure.

Think of this as your daily treatment.

It is recommended to start using Kelo-Cote on new scars, immediately after the wound has healed, stiches removed, and scabs have fallen away. Apply a thin layer onto the scar, twice a day. Use Scar Gel UV in the daytime and Scar Gel before bed.

The formula self-dries within 5 minutes, forming a waterproof, protective layer. Once dried, you can apply SPF or makeup over the top, so it slots easily into your routine.

The scar should improve within 60-90 days, but if improvement still occurs after 90 days, continued use is recommended.

You can shop Kelo-Cote at Boots, and it is currently 20% off until 31^st October 2022.

If you’re a skin care aficionado, facial essences are probably already on your radar. A K-beauty staple, these lightweight elixirs are the backbone of every multi-step skin care routine – and for good reason. They’re a game-changer for any and every complexion. Read on to learn about the skin care step you didn’t know you needed.

What Is An Essence & What Does It Do?

As Eminence Organics International Trainer Brian Goodwin says, “The easiest way to think of an essence is as a primer that helps all of your other leave-on treatments work better.” Essences are often described as a cross between a toner and serum. These fast-absorbing liquids are slightly more viscous than a toner and contain a high concentration of actives like a serum. 

The easiest way to think of an essence is as a primer that helps all of your other leave-on treatments work better.

In a skin care routine, essences help maximize hydration and improve absorption of subsequent skin care products. Plus, they’re chock-full of beneficial ingredients that plump the skin and protect it against the drying effects of environmental stressors. Here is a closer look at the benefits of facial essences for the skin.

Add Hydration & Moisture

The key to a healthy complexion is a strong skin barrier. When the skin’s moisture barrier is protected and functioning optimally, it works to keep in beneficial hydration and keep out harmful environmental irritants that cause dryness and premature aging. Essences support healthy barrier function by replenishing the skin’s moisture levels and providing long-lasting hydration. 

K-beauty expert Alicia Yoon likens the skin to a sponge. When wet, it becomes more absorbent; when dry, it becomes cracked and brittle. She says: “When your skin is well-hydrated, it is healthier, stronger and functions better. Essences help your sponge-like skin fill up with necessary moisture for better skin health.” 

Plump Skin

With age, the skin begins to lose volume and fullness. As stores of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid decline (by up to 50% by age 40), once-plump skin can appear to deflate and sag. When the skin is hydrated and moisturized, it is stronger, more supple and — as Alicia says — has “happier, bouncier cells.” Essences contain humectants and emollients that draw in water, replenish moisture and in turn, give skin a plump and youthful appearance.

Protect Skin

Essences also contain antioxidant-rich ingredients that fight free radicals and protect skin from the harmful effects of the environment. Exposure to pollution, blue light and UV rays can cause damage to skin cells that presents as dryness, inflammation and the visible signs of aging. 

Prep Skin

By enhancing skin health and hydration, essences prime the skin to better absorb subsequent skin care products. When your skin is hydrated, it can more easily soak up the active ingredients in your serums, oils and concentrates. As The Zoe Report describes, “The water basically chauffeurs substances like glycerin and hyaluronic acid (humectants) or shea butter and squalane oil (emollients) down to the inner layer of the dermis. Then it evaporates, leaving the good stuff behind to do its job.” 

Watch this video to learn more about the benefits of using a facial essence:

Does A Facial Essence Replace A Toner?

You may wonder if an essence can simply replace your favorite toner. Really, it is a separate step and your skin will benefit from both a toner and essence in your routine. Toning provides a base layer of hydration that refreshes and balances your skin, while applying an essence delivers additional moisture and preps your complexion for the skin care steps that follow. A facial essence typically feels more robust than a toner and contains active ingredients that protect the skin and minimize the visible signs of aging.

Do I Still Need A Serum?

So, if an essence is more viscous and contains a higher concentration of actives than a toner, can it replace a serum? Again, the answer is: not quite. An essence is a delivery mechanism for even more concentrated serums, oils and concentrates. With its lightweight texture, an essence can deeply penetrate the skin and deliver beneficial ingredients where they are needed most. Additionally, serums, oils and concentrates are typically developed to target specific concerns and conditions and therefore deserve their own special place in a skin care routine.

When And How To Use An Essence

Now that you know that an essence is an additional step in your skin care routine, where does it fit? In general, we advise applying your skin care products in order of weight, starting with the lightest (your toner) and ending with the richest (your serum, oil or concentrate). Essences fit directly in the middle: They should be applied after toner and before your facial serums, moisturizer and SPF. 

Here is how to apply one properly:

1. Use after cleansing and toning your skin.
2. Shake a few drops of essence into your palm.
3. Warm the product between your hands. 
4. Gently press the essence into your skin (this minimizes friction and aids absorption).
5. Follow the remaining steps in your skin care routine

Kombucha Microbiome Balancing Essence

You can easily add an essence to your routine with the Kombucha Microbiome Balancing Essence. This essence gently primes your skin and restores its natural balance. A blend of pre, pro* and postbiotics work in tandem to enhance luminosity, while key ingredients like white tea and jasmine flower improve the look of dry, dull skin for a healthy-looking glow.

Birch Water Purifying Essence

Our Birch Water Purifying Essence is a lightweight essence that contains purifying birch water, snow mushroom and reishi mushroom. These ingredients restore moisture levels, increase elasticity and improve barrier function. Skin is left replenished, rejuvenated and prepped to absorb the benefits of skin care treatments that follow.

Ready to add this step to your skin care routine? Experience our facial essences at an Eminence Organics Spa Partner near you.  

*Does not contain live probiotic cultures.

This article was originally written in September 2019.

Not only does pumpkin pack a delicious and nutritious punch in your favorite recipes, it’s also a beauty-boosting superstar. Once you discover the benefits of pumpkin skin care products, they may quickly become your next favorite treatment. Read on to learn why a pumpkin face mask or peel is exactly what your skin needs, as well as which Eminence Organic Skin Care pumpkin products complement your skin care routines.

Benefits Of Pumpkin Skin Care | Benefits Of Pumpkin Face Masks | Top Pumpkin Picks | Holiday Skin Care Ritual Ideas 

Benefits Of Pumpkin In Skin Care

Often evoking memories of a tasty coffee, cake or pie, a luscious layer of pumpkin on the face not only smells heavenly, it also leaves your skin baby soft and silky smooth. Benefits range from adding nutrition and hydration to the skin and brightening the appearance of the skin. Pumpkin pulp and seed oil contain a wide array of beneficial nutrients including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). These acids are key to a glowing and radiant complexion, helping with exfoliation, moisture retention and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Adding to this glowy goodness, pumpkin is also rich in antioxidants, specifically Vitamins A and C. As our Product Support Team explains, “Vitamins A and C help to defend against oxidative damage. Vitamin C is especially fabulous for treating and reducing the look of dark spots.”

5 Benefits Of Pumpkin Face Masks According To An Expert

You’re probably wondering why pumpkin is a sought-after ingredient and why estheticians might choose a pumpkin face mask in the treatment room. This humble orange squash has five key benefits:

• Infuses the skin with bioflavonoids that aid in the absorption of skin-friendly vitamins
• Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin
• Stimulates collagen production to reduce appearance of fine lines
• Provides antioxidant benefits, including protection from environmental stressors
• Delivers beta carotene, amino acids and fruit enzymes to the skin

The benefits of pumpkin leave you with the complexion of your dreams year round, but this fall-favorite ingredient is especially helpful as the seasons change. Using this ingredient helps alleviate skin care woes such as dehydration and redness caused by dryness. 

Our Product Support Team sums this up perfectly, saying: “As the seasons change, our skin tends to suffer moisture loss and can use a boost in exfoliation. Whether it’s fine lines and wrinkles, post summer UV exposure, or the change in environment from central heating or air conditioning, the skin can usually use a little TLC, and pumpkin is here to help.”

With so many benefits, this multitasking ingredient is the perfect choice to incorporate into your daily routine for fall or any season. 

Top Pumpkin Picks

Adding the pumpkin ingredient into your skin care ritual is easy. Our options that feature this delightful ingredient range from at-home to in-spa treatments, ensuring your skin stays smooth and supple regardless of the treatment you choose.

Our Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque is one favorite that leaves the skin looking smooth and vibrant. This pumpkin-infused face mask helps restore natural moisture balance at home, with Vitamin E and omega 9 fatty acids. Additionally, this dreamy pumpkin puree reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For a real seasonal treat, we recommend blending a mixology of the Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque followed by the Stone Crop Masque. This combination is easy for you to mix at home.

Our award-winning Yam & Pumpkin Enzyme Peel 5% is an at-home exfoliating peel containing lactic and glycolic acids. This treatment refines and evens skin tone, including the look of dark spots, and provides gentle exfoliation without any irritation. This peel needs to be rinsed thoroughly after applying and neutralized with our Soothing Chamomile Tonique.

For those seeking a deeper exfoliation, you can visit your nearest Eminence Organic Spa where an esthetician can apply our concentrated Yam & Pumpkin Pro Enzyme Peel 20%. This peel accelerates the exfoliation process and removes dead skin cells to reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Holiday Skin Care Ritual Ideas

Now that you’re familiar with some of the most effective and divine-smelling pumpkin products on offer, we’ve gathered some routine ideas. 

1. Cleansing

Start off with the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser, a versatile product suitable for all skin types. This milky gel lightly lathers to slough off dead skin without manual exfoliation or over-stripping moisture from the skin. The Lactic Acid Complex and mangosteen in this cleanser work together to restore a smooth, radiant complexion. 

If your skin type is normal to dry skin, the Firm Skin Acai Cleanser is another great option. This cream cleanser blends hyaluronic acid and seabuckthorn oil to restore the appearance of elasticity to the skin and present a more youthful look.

2. Toning

For all skin types including dry and dehydrated, a spritz of the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist refreshes the skin. Once you cleanse the skin, apply one to two sprays onto the face and neck or apply with a cotton pad, avoiding the eye area.

For combination to normal skin types, the Mangosteen Revitalizing Mist is designed to balance the skin. It contains a refreshing combination of antioxidant-packed mangosteen, energizing ribose and pore-refining red clover.

3. Exfoliation

For at home, you can apply the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant with a few drops of water. Apply this to the face using gentle circular movements covering the face and neck, while avoiding the eye area. Then remove with a warm, wet towel. The dermafoliant will help to restore a smooth, radiant complexion. Please avoid this product if you have sensitive skin.

You can also apply the Yam & Pumpkin Enzyme Peel 5% for a fall treat. This peel is ideal for those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as brighten the complexion by removing dead skin cells.

Another at-home exfoliating option is the Arctic Berry Peel & Peptide Illuminating System. This three-step peel and peptide system contains the Arctic Berry Enzyme Exfoliant, the Arctic Berry Advanced Peel Activator MA10 and the Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream. You’ll notice your skin appearing more refined and smoothed over time.  

4. Facial Masks

Embrace the changing seasons with two masks inspired by fall ingredients. For all skin types, replenish the skin’s moisture and fight the visible signs of aging with Vitamin E, omega 9 nutrients and antioxidant-rich pumpkin in our Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque. Another popular option is the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque which combines citrus, leafy greens and avocado oil to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

After the mask step, you can peform some additional add-on neck, hand, foot and eye treatments. For example:

5. Body Care

Apply the Stone Crop Body Lotion. Massage it in and leave on.

6. Eye Care

Use the Snow Mushroom Moisture Cloud Eye Cream. Snow Mushroom is an ultra-hydrating super-humectant that pulls moisture into the skin so that it appears supple and plump. Apply to the entire eye area twice daily, patting gently with fingertips until it is fully absorbed. Leave on.

7. Essence

Gently press a few drops of the Birch Water Purifying Essence into the skin until fully absorbed. This is a beautiful, lightweight essence that helps restore moisture levels.

8. Serum And Facial Oil

Treat your skin with the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum (for all skin types) to target the visible signs of aging. Follow with the Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil to deeply hydrate the skin and deliver a firm, plump and lifted appearance. This oil is suited for normal to dry skin types.

9. Moisturizer

For combination to normal skin types, finish with our Firm Skin Acai Moisturizer as a moisturizing step. The deeply hydrating botanical hyaluronic acid and acai berry juice in this antioxidant-rich moisturizer give your skin the plumping it needs to look younger and wrinkle-free. Another great option for all skin types is the Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream.

10. Sun Defense

For all skin types, you can apply an SPF sunscreen to finish and protect your skin. After the application of a peel treatment, skin will be more sensitive to the sun. A high SPF product is mandatory after treatment to help the skin heal. Wear protective clothing, stay indoors and limit sun exposure after each treatment and for a week afterwards.

11. Lip Care

Use the Lip Comfort Plumping Masque. This antioxidant, vitamin-rich and age-defying mask deeply hydrates and replenishes. Make sure to extend the application to the fine vertical lines around the mouth area as well as the marionette expression lines. 

12. Massage

For all skin types, apply the Linden Calendula Treatment (for the face) or apply a body lotion or body oil for body massage options. 

13. Finishing Eye Care

Apply a thin layer of the Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum to the eye area with light blending movements until absorbed. Leave on.

14. The Final Lip Care/Add-On Lip Treatment

Use our Citrus Lip Balm or the Rosehip & Lemongrass Lip Balm SPF 15 to protect and finish your lips. The Citrus Lip Balm is a petroleum-free citrus treat for the lips with shea butter and sunflower seed oil, and the Rosehip & Lemongrass Lip Balm moisturizes and protects dry lips with an SPF factor of 15.

Which product is your Fall favorite? Let us know in the comments below or on social media!

This article was originally written in October 2021.

What the brand says…
“Rooted in nature, effective and responsible, another way to care for your skin and planet.”
“Skincare with a clear conscience by Stella McCartney.”

What you need to know
Her second attempt at breaking into the skincare world, Stella by Stella McCartney launched earlier this month, to the predictable fanfare and celebration from those areas of our industry where beauty crosses with fashion. The range has however, received a more considered response from those of us in the beauty industry who don’t have to appease the fashion world and their advertisers.
The range currently includes a cleanser, serum and moisturiser, plus refills and a set of minis (more of which later).

Who is it for?
Anyone who totally buys into the ‘clean’/’green’/’natural’ messaging that can afford it. The range isn’t active enough to target one particular skin type or concern. If you have good skin, want to maintain it, can afford it, knock yourself out.

You need this if…
You are obsessed with ‘clean’/’green’/’natural’, can afford it and are a fan of Stella.

You don’t need this if…
You have particular skin concerns you want to treat or you can’t afford it.

Reset Cleanser 150ml – £50.00
Refill 150ml – £38.00
This is a cream-to-foam formula that claims to leave your skin ‘oxygenated’. It is sold as a first and second cleanse.

Key Ingredients
Sunflower oil
Marine spring water
Organic birch sap

INCI
Aqua, helianthus annuus, glycerin, decyl glucoside, propanediol, disodium cocoyl glutamate, pentylene glycol, maris aqua, betula alba juice, tocopherol, xanthan gum, citric acid, sclerotium gum, sodium cocoyl glutamate, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate.

Alter Care Serum 50ml – £110
Refill 50ml – coming soon
This is said to ‘hydrate, revitalise, regenerate and protect’. It is essentially a hydrating serum with your usual hydrating ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid (the basic salt version) and squalane.

Key Ingredients
‘Natural organic hyaluronic acid’
Organic rock samphire extract
Biotechnical lingonberry extract
Olive squalane
Marine spring water
Wild harvested dulse algae extract

INCI
Aqua, Glycerin, Propanediol, Squalane, Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride, Pentylene Glycol, Polyglycerin-3, Maris Aqua, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea Fruit Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Palmaria Palmata Extract, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Jojoba Esters, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Hydroxyacetophenone, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Alcaligenes Polysaccharides, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Gluconolactone, Glucose, Calcium Gluconate, Caprylic/​Capric/​Succinic Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum.

Restore Cream 50ml – £85
Refill 50ml – £70
This is a nourishing moisturiser that is lightweight but not greasy. Clinicals say that “wrinkles will be smoothed out and skin elasticity and vitality appear restored”.

Key Ingredients
Organic birch sap
Natural origin hyaluronic acid
Cherry blossom extract

INCI
Aqua, Glycerin, Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Tribehenin, Betula Alba Juice, Coco-Caprylate/​Caprate, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, C10-18 Triglycerides, Prunus Cerasus, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyacetophenone, Betaine, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Glucose, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum

Final thoughts:

I really wanted to like this line. Instead I’m disappointed. I’m amused at the patronising ‘I’m here to save the industry from itself’ tone, and justifiably annoyed on behalf of my industry.
Why the disappointment?

• The products are nothing special, they’re ok, but to my mind, they do not match the price.
• They shouldn’t do you any harm, but they equally cannot be expected to help any skin conditions except perhaps dehydration.
• The claims are designed to allow the consumer to misunderstand the information presented to them, and are hidden under the guise of educating you on things that Stella is apparently much more clued up on than the rest of us, having been ‘born to a family of creators’ and ‘raised to see things from a different perspective’. www.stellamccartneybeauty.com
• Claiming that the ingredients are ‘99% natural origin’ using the ISO 16128 standard is generally seen as a good thing, but the claim itself on the packaging is clearly made to lead the consumer to believe that the product is basically still in its ‘natural’ state, which it obviously is not, having gone through numerous chemical processes to get to the point of being used in a product.
  Example: at some point the cardboard packaging was a tree. It’s not now is it?
• Highlighting the length of ingredients lists per product implies that it elevates the product above others that use more ingredients. It doesn’t.
• Claiming that you have banned ‘almost 2000 ingredients, exceeding the EU regulations’ is absolutely fine, you go for it. But the EU are seen as the Gold standard to the industry as a whole, and the insinuation that the EU are not doing enough is incorrect, and should not be implied.
• And finally, my personal favourite, and the reason my BS detector was initially triggered, ‘it has also been decided to ship, rather than fly, products to the US, meaning the carbon footprint has been slashed by more than a third’. No-one in this (or any) industry, and I mean no-one, chooses to fly their products to their retailers/distributors, unless they are on a deadline, have had a production disaster, or some similar potential interruption to their business. Why? Because it is far more expensive to put pallets of skincare onto an airplane than onto a train, lorry or cargo liner. It saves money, not the planet.

Just because you can make a skincare line, doesn’t always mean you should.

If Clients are asking for treatments that rejuvenate their skin, it may be time to add microdermabrasion to your list of skin care treatments. Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive manual skin exfoliation treatment that is far lower risk than laser resurfacing or chemical peels. Recovery is much faster too. Read on to learn about the benefits of microdermabrasion and why you might consider including it into your spa menu. 

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Our skin is made up of the dermis (inner layer) and the epidermis (outer layer). The outer layer of the skin contains our concerns, like wrinkles, dark spots or dull texture. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the outer layer of the skin to reduce these skin issues and give us a brighter-looking complexion.

The two types of microdermabrasion include crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion. As Verywellhealth.com explains, crystal microdermabrasion is when microcrystals are used to remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin. Crystals are shot from a small tube onto the skin and then vacuumed back up. In comparison, diamond microdermabrasion uses a device with a diamond-coated wand to exfoliate before suctioning away dead cells from the surface of the skin. 

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) estimates that the procedure takes 20 minutes for the neck and 30–40 minutes for the face. Some even offer this treatment for the body, so the treatment times can vary. Microdermabrasion is usually performed in a series of six treatments, two to three weeks apart.

Either method of microdermabrasion should improve a Client’s skin so that it is smoother, with fewer acne scars and reduced wrinkles. Let’s dive deeper into the benefits.

Benefits Of Microdermabrasion

This quick and painless resurfacing treatment exfoliates dead skin cells and stimulates blood flow and collagen growth. The increased blood flow carries more oxygen to the skin, creating a youthful-looking complexion. This treatment also helps to fade spots, fine lines and acne scars, with the effects lasting for a month. However, the results depend on the age of the Client and how well their skin reacts to the treatment.

Because microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment, there is no down-time needed for recovery. It’s considered very safe for the skin, face and body.

You can offer microdermabrasion to Clients that are concerned with:

• Dark spots
• Melasma
• Scars
• Uneven skin texture
• Dull complexion
• Fine lines
• Stretch marks

Who Should Not Get This Treatment?

Avoid microdermabrasion if the Client has irritated skin, acne or active breakouts. If the Client has had recent invasive procedures or cosmetic injectable treatments, it’s best to avoid this treatment.

How Much Should You Charge For Microdermabrasion?

How much should you charge from microdermabrasion? According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of microdermabrasion is $167 per treatment. Prices should be based on the expertise and qualifications of the person performing the treatment and the type of microdermabrasion procedure performed.

What Is The Process Of A Microdermabrasion Treatment?

Step 1: Consultation

The first step in the process is to have a consultation with your Client to discuss their skin issues, previous skin treatments and the products they are using.

Step 2: Cleaning

The treatment must be performed on clean skin. Even if the Client has said they have cleansed, you can perform a cleanse when they arrive on their face to ensure all the dirt, grime and makeup have been removed properly.

Step 3: Eye Covering

Provide the Client with sunglasses to protect their eyes from bright lights during the process.

Step 4: Perform The Treatment 

The microdermabrasion hand-held device will remove the top layer of the skin and get rid of dead skin cells. Work in sections of the entire face, neck or other area being treated. This should help establish a health-looking complexion.

Step 5: Moisturizer

After treatment, the skin can appear red and irradiated. Apply a moisturizer to the Client’s skin to calm and protect the area. You can tailor this to their individual skin type too. 

Aftercare Instructions For Clients

• Avoid waxing 48 hours before or seven days following a treatment. 
• No laser hair removal/IPL treatments can be performed on the face or treated area.
• After the treatment, do not use sun beds or swim in heavily chlorinated water for at least two weeks.
• After the procedure, refrain from using irritating facial products like alpha hydroxy acids, retinoid products or fragranced creams and lotions.
• Avoid chemical peel treatments a few weeks before and after treatment.
• Common side effects include slight swelling, redness or sunburn-like symptoms that may last a few days. 

Are you adding microdermabrasion to your list of spa treatments? Let us know in the comments below or on social media.