BIOEFFECT EGF SERUM REVIEW: THE SCIENCE BEHIND EGF: THE LATEST SKINCARE TECHNOLOGY

Hello lovely readers! November and December have been such busy months but I hope everyone is enjoying relaxing for Christmas hols. I was so excited to try this amazing EGF serum by Bioeffect very kindly sent to me from Philly Vass PR. I was incredibly intrigued by the Icelandic brand who use EGF technology to produce an incredibly hydrating and regenerative anti ageing serum. I absolutely loved this-it made my skin beautifully fresh and soft and I really noticed the difference in my complexion brightness.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY?

I am lucky enough to try some very innovative formulations and ingredients: and this formulation is one of them. EGF or Epidermal Growth Factor is the main active ingredient of this serum along with the best ingredient for hydration: Sodium hyaluronate, which not only increases hydration by drawing water into the tissue but also is a fantastic carrier molecule for active ingredients. Hyaluronic acid production decreases every year with ageing and so sodium hyaluronate is a must have ingredient to incorporate into your anti-ageing routine in my opinion.

The EGF used is derived from a  transgenic barley oligopeptide and is an incredibly intriguing ingredient. The idea of using plant analogs (like molecular siblings of human molecules) is not a new one, and is growing in popularity with the use of plant derived stem cells in anti ageing products and their effectiveness detailed. The barley oligopeptide is an analog of the human epidermal growth factor (EGF) Epidermal growth factor is like a molecular activator, it makes our cells grow which in turn propagates rejuvenation and cell turnover.

 I have studied cell signalling pathways extensively so far in my academic career and EGF was always a topic of interest, the way it works is incredibly complex and works like a switch in cells to activate certain genes. It is a complex pathway involving lots of cellular proteins and receptors (if you want a more in depth explanation email me and I will try my best to explain)

Our genetics are dynamic, genes can be switched on and off and EGF is a key molecule in certain pathways. As cellular processes tend to slow down due to ageing, EGF works to initiate increased rejuvenation and Bioeffect also claim the serum boosts collagen and elastin synthesis; key to maintaining skin structure. I found some incredible studies over the last 20 years boasting the benefits of topical EGF for healing.Therapeutically, injections of transgenic EGF are given to dermatological conditions which have arisen from poor wound healing such as in diabetes to accelerate healing. 

This product really worked on my skin- and I would love to see some cosmeceutical trials with this product with before and after histological (tissue). As with many actives, like retinol, it is worth consulting a dermatologist before use if you have any skin condition such as psoriasis or pre-cancerous cells as EGF works biologically by increasing cell turnover and encouraging skin growth it is important to ensure only healthy skin cell turnover is encouraged. This is enterprising science which I find incredibly fascinating; many effective ingredients in aesthetic medicine and cosmeceuticals start off in therapeutic use before they are used more widely in everyday skincare and this may be the next example and one to follow.

An innovation and a pleasure to try- Thank you so much Bioeffect xxx

LEADING COSMECEUTICAL NEOSTRATA RETINOL + NAG COMPLEX & DAILY PEEL REVIEW: THE SCIENCE BEHIND AHAS AND RETINOL

Hello lovely readers!

 I was so incredibly happy when the gorgeous Molly from Emmabwpr gave me some incredible Neostrata products to try, and after over a month of using them- I can say I am addicted. Neostrata are a leading cosmeceutical brand recommended by leading dermatologists and Aesthetic doctors. Cosmeceuticals are skincare products which are supported by clinical trials and in vitro and in vivo scientific testing and work on areas of skin concern such as ageing, acne, or hyperpigmentation.

 I trialed the Neostrata NAG+ Retinol complex and the Neostrata 10 AHA daily resurfacing pads. Firstly, the daily resurfacing AHA peels are incredible. After applying the fluid to the pads, you apply the pads to the face and exfoliate. After a few days my skin tightened and then there was a light peel. At this stage I applied anti-oxidant rich serums to assist the skin turnover. After a few days my skin was so silky and smooth. The really interesting quality I noticed is I felt like break out areas which would usually take a while to settle down, were gone within a day or two. Although I don't have extensive acne I know this system is recommended to those who are prone to acne or with excess sebum production. As I have normal oil production I use these in key areas and T zones weekly to bi-monthly depending on my hormones/stress levels and other personal acne triggers.

Also, after a month, my hyper pigmentation was massively reduced. I've noticed I am wearing significantly less foundation, and no concealer at all, as I feel my skin is more even and my skin looks brighter and more vibrant (which is so nice as my skin doesn't look as good in the Autumn/Winter months) 

    The Retinol serum has a luxurious texture, and I noticed over time areas of fine lines around the eye and forehead (the key ageing areas to target in the twenties and thirties) were definitely improved. In Aesthetic medicine, Retinol is one of the most well documented  ingredients for anti-ageing and reducing fine lines. (NB its best to avoid using AHAs and retinol together at the same time as this can cause sensitivity reactions, and both need daily high SPF use)

The amazing part of this Retinol serum is due the fact it is suitable for those with sensitive skin; which is a true innovation as retinol can sometimes be too harsh for some skin types If you want to transform your skin and start a highly effective anti-ageing routine that noticeably works; these products are for you. 

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY: 

NEOSTRATA RESURFACE: SMOOTH SURFACE DAILY PEEL

There's a reason why the Neostrata range is award winning and is the perfect at home peel, as there is no downtime and are so highly effective at resurfacing the skin and working on multiple skin complaints simultaneously. AHAS or Alpha-hydroxy-acids such as Glycolic acid are naturally derived acids, usually from the fermentation of sugar cane or certain fruits and they have some transformative effects on the skin. AHAS work by dissolving cohesion  between old keratinised skin cells, thus assisting cell turnover; and are a must have addition to anyone who wants to gently resurface their skin.

This AHA system improves the appearance of hyper-pigmentation from sun damage or acne scarring,  fine lines and uneven skin texture. I have a few areas of hyper-pigmentation; I have very pale skin which makes hyper pigmentation more noticeable and noticed the daily peels completely resurfaced and evened out my complexion. 

The most  amazing quality of this formulation is the addition of their patented Aminofil; this increases both hyaluronic acid and collagen production which helps to restore the intrinsic skin matrix and structural support of the skin. I love how Neostrata have formulated a peel that not only refines and resurfaces, but also restores. An amazing example of a beautifully devised and formulated cosmeceutical. 

NEOSTRATA SKIN ACTIVE RETINOL + NAG COMPLEX

Retinol in my opinion is one of the best ingredients to incorporate into your anti-ageing routine.

The NAG + Retinol Serum has some very impressive in vitro clinical trials and in vivo evidence supporting the synergistic benefits of this formulation. Researchers put keratinocytes (skin cells) for 24 hours in three conditions; in Retinol, in NAG and in NAG and Retinol. Hyaluronic acid was significantly increased in the third condition; showing a Retinol and NAG complex to be instrumental in boosting hyaluronic acid production in as little as just 24 hours.

As hyaluronic acid production decreases every year due to ageing and contributes to retaining moisture and structure of the skin this is the perfect anti ageing addition to keep skin plump and full of volume as well as maintaining hydration. The 2.5% Retinol encapsulate delivers 0.5% Retinol and because of this, it is highly tolerable and reduces blemishes and hyper-pigmentation. The  amazing NAG complex containing Glucosamine has been shown in clinical trials to boost hyaluronic acid production, increase hydration, accelerate healing and reduce hyperpigmentation via inhibition of melanin. These combined ingredients establishes the Neostrata Retinol + NAG complex as a powerful anti-ageing system. The formulation is also paraben, fragrance and oil free. 

Absolutely outstanding cosmeceutical formulations from Neostrata and I am so thankful to have tried these!

Have you tried any Neostrata products? I  would love to know your thoughts

LM xxx

EXPERT INTERVIEW No. 2 RENOWNED NUTRITIONIST DR VIDHI PATEL

I was lucky enough to first interview the lovely Dr Vidhi Patel last year for The Aesthetics Journal on Holistic approaches to skin treatments and we instantly got on so well and had so much to talk about! I couldn't wait to interview Vidhi again so I went to her Mayfair based clinic at Minerva Labs to talk about Vidhi's incredible approaches and every day recommendations for those wishing to improve their  health.

Vidhi has an extensive career in Nutrition and well being after completing her Homeopathic medical degree in India, and has featured in Vogue Italia, as well as working as a consultant for Minerva Labs (Gold Collagen supplement HQ) and Organic Pharmacy. Vidhi's energy is so positive, and incredibly motivating- if anyone can get a chance to consult Vidhi as their Nutritionist- I couldn't recommend a better person. 

LM: I would love to know more about your Nutrition practice

VP: I see people when they have any health concerns at all; Just imagine, someone going to their GP, and they may have vague symptoms, aches and pain which might not have manifested as a disease yet; they may get bloated or acne, or irregular cycles. There are so many symptoms that we now just get used to living with. You just run with the time- so what happens is we ignore these small signs- and these are called signs of toxicity. It means if the body is going through a crisis, it will try to speak for itself. These are symptoms that you might not necessarily see your GP about, until it becomes too big a problem.

I help people through looking at these symptoms and find out, through the technology here, if their condition is going to be something to worry about. If I find something more that a symptom of toxicity or a lifestyle/ stress induced change, I will try to treat it, and if I find it is beyond the reach of the holistic approach it needs to be addressed through a GP, e.g hypothyroidism symptoms need investigating through blood tests. Not everyone is going to undergo my treatment from day 1, sometimes I say people don't need this- everyone just needs to know their body. 

DR VIDHI's EXPERT ADVICE AND INSIGHTS:

SUPPLEMENTS. EVERYDAY HEALTH, STRESS AND BEAUTY RITUALS

VP: What we tend to do is take a multivitamin, and think psychologically, for those ten vitamins that are in the supplement, we are sorted. That is not quite the case, I always promote practical healthy living and not something that is too fancy or too expensive to follow- you have to find what exactly your body needs and just give that. Always rest, and practice simple lifestyle modifications like having a glass of lemon water in the morning first thing to make the body alkaline. Having a cup of coffee on an empty stomach first thing in the morning and running on stimulants is not the best- you will biologically accelerate your metabolism and ageing to make a 40 year old's body equivalent to that of a 60 year old individual. This is your body running on the adrenals, and some people may complain of adrenal fatigue and also chronic fatigue syndrome. They will crash lower than their start point of energy levels after the effect of  caffeine is over. Caffeine is not bad if its controlled- but have coffee as you like, not as you need. 

SKINCARE

My skincare routine always begins with carrot butter, I massage my face with this and while it is still on, I use a hot muslin cloth, and then I will pat my face. This is a deep cleanse, like oil pulling without drying the face. This can be done even with people who have oily skin. The most important part of the process is a hot towel, or muslin, to work to clean the skin, and it will not cause clogged pores. Then follow by a splash of cold water. For a toner, I use herbal toner from The Organic Pharmacy which is a blend of herbs and a base of aloe vera.

I try to use a serum which is activated with Vitamin C or fruit acids, Frankincense and diluted lavender used at nighttime which is a time for repair and I never use products with parabens. Organic walnut oil and almond oil I also use. Sometimes I mix a little fresh lemon juice with manuka honey (or agave for vegans) and that is my serum. Make fresh to avoid oxidation, the citrus acids and the sugar combination both soften the skin.

ADVICE FOR TWENTY SOMETHINGS, WHO ARE BUSY, ACTIVE AND LIVING IN THE CITY

V.P: The first thing I would recommend is have a big outlook on drinking water; its very easy to forget. If your body shows any signs of dryness such as dry lips, dry eyes, dry palms- you have already lost the battle and dehydrated yourself; so you have to drink water, even when you are not  thirsty. Its important to sip water, just as a habit, a habit to cultivate. In the morning, avoid coffee or cigarettes-any stimulants on an empty stomach. Your body has already produced a lot of acid, and if you pour in some stimulant which is also acidic like coffee or tea are, they will increase the acidic medium of the body which is not good and may end up giving you lifestyle disorders in the future. Instead; have a smoothie, juice or water

The third most important thing is find time to exercise, if you are dedicated to thirty minutes a day- and shopping doesn't involve exercise because you end up having a muffin on the way home because you're so tired- You have to find time to move the body, on a cross trainer, or bike or walking your dog if you have one. Taking long walks in parks and scheduling this into your daily routine is very beneficial. Its all about what suits us and doing it every day. 

You feel activated, and charged up- like charging your laptop. I always give the analogy of I phone batteries- their batteries go flat so you have to charge them every day- we are the same; like high maintenance iphones that need to be recharged daily. We don't even have time to replenish the needs of our body, and it is an absolute must to recharge daily. You can do this very first thing in the morning or at the end of the day if you struggle to fit it into your routine.

The next ritual is to look at what you are putting in your body, how and when. Avoid eating when you are really hungry or waiting until you are really hungry to eat. People stay hungry for too long, and they will put anything in the body and easy comfort food comes into the body far too easily. Always know your body, and plan your meals, so even if it is a takeaway, or a meal from home- it needs thought. Don't restrict yourself with strict lunch breaks and schedules- listen to the body and eat the right food at the right time, because everyone has a different right time. 

EVERY DAY NUTRITION STAPLES 

          In terms of foods and meals; what you will always find in my fridge is tofu, lemon, ginger and some sort of greens. This is so I can always easily make a meal such as grilled tofu, or a tofu stir fry. Chickpeas are also a favourite, and I will have these once or twice a week as well as kidney beans and a lot of vegetables such as soups. I make homemade Indian bread with no yeast or wheat preservatives-easy and filling. Wheat products are too polished- all the good qualities have been taken out, I always find the combination of the three white foods; salt, sugar and white flour are hazardous I would recommend to never have all of these three together. Simple every day swaps like these and you don't need to go on a rigorous detox.

ADVICE FOR ACNE SYMPTOMS

VP: For hormonal acne, there are a lot of permutations and combinations in the body; for example,  is it high oestrogen, low progesterone or a combination, or is it around the time of the menopause, pregnancy or post pregnancy- all of this has to be assessed.

 (I asked Dr Vidhi about a friend who is peri-menopausal has hormonal acne around the lower half of the face) VP: For your friend, she may benefit from herbs such as Saw palmetto (10 drops in half a glass of water at the end of the day) and Agnus Castus (10 drops in half a glass of water at the beginning of the day) With herbs I recommend liquids, because they are more effective, easy to take, and bioavailable in terms of absorption and there are less binding agents. 

With hormones, I can definitely suggest some good herbs and before you start any herbal routine you should consult a Herbalist or a Nutritionist who knows how to deal with hormones- a specialist in this area and managing hormones- it is a huge responsibility. It is a process and at the end of each month, you can work out if your treatment is working or not. 

  

I really hope you've enjoyed this post, You can find more about Vidhi on her website and also information on Gold collagen here. I was also lucky enough to review The Gold collagen Hydrogel acid masks review to follow!

LM xxx

EXPERT INTERVIEW No.1: ELIJAH CHOO, FOUNDER OF ECO-LUXE BRAND BODHI&BIRCH

Elijah Choo is the founder behind the incredible Eco-luxe brand Bodhi & Birch; a brand which uses the fusion of Eastern and Western botanicals to produce some of the most beautiful and uniquely scented formulations I have ever tried. I was lucky enough to interview Elijah on his brand ethos, his personal recommendations and his views on the future of natural health and the concept of slow beauty for well being. I really hope you love this first expert interview and I would love to know what you think :) 

L.M xxx

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND BODHI & BIRCH AND HOW DID IT BEGIN?

E.C:  Bodhi & Birch was inspired by my background interest in botany, travel and home remedies. Growing up I used to concoct my own products, mixing ingredients like a mad scientist. Nowadays the ingredients are carefully sourced from around the world and not just from the kitchen.

I created the first product, Pep Noir, shortly after moving into Bittell Farm. I was restoring our new house and was constantly washing my hands, eventually causing my skin to become severely dry. The ingredient SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulphate) was the problem; it compromises skin’s defense layers and causes it to weaken. In getting rid of this ingredient in my skincare routine, my skin became healthier and stronger. 

YOUR ECO-LUXE BLENDS ARE BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE; DO YOU HAVE A HISTORY IN AROMATHERAPY?  

E.C: I am not an aromatherapist nor a perfumier. I realised I have a unique sense for smell. I love an evocative fragrance and at the time natural skincare downplayed the scent in their products. I thought; there must be some way to combine natural, (mineral oil, SLS and paraben free) with a luxury aroma-therapeutic scent experience. When creating blends, I set out to weave an aromatic journey that transports the senses away of the ordinary and across boundaries. Bodhi & Birch look into the history of skincare and beauty to source our active ingredients. These are often legendary botanicals that have been used by humans for hundreds of years.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE INGREDIENTS AND SKINCARE RECOMMENDATIONS? 

DRY SKIN

E.C: Before you start thinking about dry skin, start with a product that doesn't strip away skin’s moisture in the first place. If you go down that line first it’s half the battle won. Then, use a good facial oil. I prefer drier oils; there are many different types of nut and seed oils and natural botanicals, they range from those that are very fine, to butter like textures. They have different molecular structures, and the finer the oil; the more it can penetrate your skin, which means it will also be absorbed into the skin deeper and faster, leaving your skin less greasy. 

Plum kernel oil is one of my favourites and olive squalane, a lipid derived from olive oil (whereas squalene is found in mammals and fish). We naturally produce squalene in our body but the production level drops off when we are in our 20s - squalane is the botanical version.

What is often beneficial for those with dry skin is that you want to deal with two issues, first for the skin to be hydrated and restored, and then protected. (Double moisturisation) 

First, apply a layer that helps to hydrate and nourish such as a quality face oil and then follow with a facial moisturiser to offer another layer of occlusive protection. Generally, I'm a believer that you use the product that's the finest first for the best absorption. Face oil can act as a serum and is a potent restorative product, and then you can layer other products on top.

ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

EC: With anti- ageing products, this is a slightly tricky problem because it comes down to keeping your skin healthy and eating healthily, and a lot is due to your genetics- unfortunately.  However, nutrition does a lot, so I would recommend looking into your diet, what you eat, how you eat. Keep healthy and happy – if you're stressed out, or if you don't sleep well, that’s not going to help.

Topical skincare comes in to maintain and preserve- and it needs to be pleasurable. As you get older your body doesn’t regenerate as fast and your skin gets drier, so choose products that do not aggravate and do not inflame your skin and will then nourish your skin- Aim to use a treatment mask; once or  twice a week in addition to your skincare routine.

ACNE PRONE/ COMBINATION SKIN

With acne prone skin, the underlying cause should always be investigated first. That being said, one of the things that I always find is a lot of people who have oily skin tend to over cleanse their skin to such a point that your skin overcompensates- because you’ve just stripped the skin of all the oils,  your skin behaves like anything in nature and tries to restore balance, by overproducing sebum.

To balance oil production I recommend using a balancing oil blend that regulates your sebum so in doing so you're essentially tricking your skin. Jojoba oil is a very good base oil for normal, combination and oily skin and if the oils in the blend have antimicrobial properties than even better- some carrier oils and most essential oils do.

WHICH BOTANICAL INGREDIENTS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT? 

EC: I'm very excited about Cacay oil. Prickly pear oil is also gorgeous- and plum kernel oil because it smells like bakewell tart- it is highly emollient, sinks into your skin and your skin smells delicious too.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FUTURE OF NATURAL HEALTH IS?

EC: It’s a tough one, but it’s becoming more recognised and most people, even if you were to buy a shampoo or a facial cleanser, would want to be more eco-conscious about their choices; there is a sense of appeal to it. In terms of nutrition and organic food, you can grow your own. Even if you live in a city- you can grow microsalads, microherbs and plant window boxes; they are seriously easy to grow.

More consumers are clued up as there is more coverage about natural health and wellbeing. It started with food, and where the food comes from, then it extended into skincare, the house and clothing; all of theses products have an effect on wellbeing. Taking that into consideration, It seems that there is a shift to the route of Slow Beauty and a demand for products that are more artisanal or even bespoke. Slow beauty is about using a product that enhances the health of your skin over time, improves your wellbeing and most importantly, makes you happy in the process.

www.bodhiandbirch.com

xxx

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY- HYALURONIC ACID; FILLERINA REVIEW FROM LAST YEAR WITH READER PROMOTION

              

I was so lucky to recieve the incredible Fillerina from the lovely Emma at ebwpr. I couldn't wait to trial the product's 14 day system, and look into the science behind this swiss patented, Italian made formulation (you know its really, really good when a product has a swiss patent and is also made in Italy!)

Fillerina is a 14 day topical hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment, with targeted precision applicators that you can draw up through the applicator in 1ml intervals to target specific lines, wrinkles, or areas that need a volume boost i.e. cheeks and lips where volume decreases with age.  (You can watch the demonstration video here)  The way the product is formulated uses different structural forms/densities of HA, meaning that the topical application is absorbed deep into the layers of the skin; with each different density targeting a different aesthetic outcome.

Some forms of hyaluronic acid are commonly used as carrier molecules to make other skincare ingredients penetrate the skin tissue, and I know the Fillerina system definitely had a near immediate effect on my skin. I noticed a tightening, moisturising effect after around ten minutes, and then during the trial (by about a week in) my skin looked healthier, dewy, and several people even remarked that my complexion looked really healthy and glowing ( this made me very happy)

The nourishing film which is applied after the Hyaluronic acid topical filler has a gorgeous mix of skin nourishing ingredients such as skin nourishing shea butter, and rejuvenating salicylic acid, and I felt like my skin was having a nourishing treat; not dissimilar to a treatment mask. I personally prefer using this at night, as I love the excitement of waking up and seeing fresher skin, and I feel this gives the formulation maximum time to benefit the skin.

Fillerina is everything you want in an at home anti-ageing treatment: a patented technology and formulation with beautiful high end ingredients. It is highly innovative, and a really exciting system to try. I especially targeted fine lines, cheeks, and my lips. Fillerina has helped my skin in a variety of ways; its completely softened fine lines, (mainly expression lines)  boosted hydration, and even the volume of my lips!  My skin in general feels rejuvenated and more youthful, and any dry skin that was there before has disappeared.       

    The system comes in 3 different Grades, where Grade 1 is formulated for light lines and wrinkles (earliest signs of skin ageing) Grade 2 which is slightly more noticeable lines, and Grade 3 is for deeper ageing and more substantial loss of facial volume. I used Grade 2, which was perfect for my skin, ( I am in my twenties, with a few fine lines but sometimes dry and sensitive skin, for  a point of reference about which grade to potentially use) You're recommended to drink two glasses of water before the treatment, as hyaluronic acid works by drawing water into tissues, so optimal hydration is paramount for plump dewy skin.

 THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY?

Fillerina works by utilising the innovation of Hyaluronic acid at different densities. I've been writing a lot in the aesthetic medicine field recently and have learnt about the key changes that take place in the ageing process; typically our skin can lose its plumpness, radiance and volume from certain key areas such as cheeks, the jawline, and lips. Loss of hyaluronic acid as we age is a key contributor in the decrease of skin volume, plumpness and hydration.  The biophysical properties of HA make it a vital beauty molecule: it is an intrinsically hydrophilic "water loving" molecule and draws water in from its surroundings, which is key to retaining moisture in our skin. 

 Fillerina works by replenishing  hyaluronic acid deep in to the dermal layers on application so the skin draws in more water; replenishing lost volume, increasing hydration and helping fill  lines and wrinkles. This is also therefore a fantastic system for improving dull or dry skin. Similarly, an important study has shown hyaluronic acid to increase collagen production, another fantastic way in which HA is intrinsically linked to healthy skin physiology. 

The formulation of Fillerina is absolutely genius; Labo (the luxe dermo-cosmetic manufacturer of Fillerina) have used several different densities and cross-linked forms of Hyaluronic acid, from Hyaluronic acid 1K Da, to sodium hyaluronate 2000K Da. (sodium hyaluronate is the form in many high end anti ageing creams/cosmeceuticals) The beauty of this formulation is that different densities target different areas and skin rejuvenating purposes; one density may be great for hydration, while one may be better for boosting volume. It is fantastic that Labo have formulated Fillerina this way; you are utilising the full power of hyaluronic acid topically and Fillerina has even shown a visibly measurable lifting effect (which has even been clinically proven)

Fillerina is beautifully formulated, and I would recommend to anyone who wants to boost their skin- for hydration, a dewy glow and plumper cheeks and lips.  

I really hope you've enjoyed this post- I would love to know, have you used Fillerina?  

Fillerina also sent me an amazing promotion for readers who can receive 20% off for a 14 day kit :)

The promotion code is: Magic 1

http://www.fillerina.co.uk/

Just Launched: Exuviance Bionic Body Polish review- The best body care for sensitive skin

 Hello lovely readers! I have just moved to London and I was so lucky to meet the gorgeous Molly from Emmabwpr last week; we had a lovely breakfast and talked science and skincare all morning- absolutely perfect :) Molly was so kind and gave me some incredible cosmeceutical products to try. 

Cosmeceuticals are skincare products which are supported by clinical trials, are usually developed by Dermatologists and are usually only available in Aesthetic or Dermatology clinics. Ingredients are devised to be at a clinically effective concentration and are formulated to penetrate the skin deeply, assist skin cell turnover, condition the skin and protect the skin from further environmental and intrinsic damage. These properties combined all produce measurable results, often documented with before and after photos and clinical trial results.

One of the cosmeceutical products I was given was the Exuviance Bionic Body Polishing Masque from Neostrata (The UK's leading cosmeceutical brand) which has just launched this September. It is beautifully formulated; a clinically proven at home professional range but with natural botanicals to give a luxe feel. 

I have always said that Autumn is the ideal time to repair post holiday-post summer skin. This is the time for a more luxurious, restorative skincare routine and I absolutely love this body polishing Masque. My skin has actually never been silkier. I have just moved into an apartment and we have a swimming pool on site; which can be very drying for the skin. I use the Exuviance polish after swimming and my skin is left so soft!  I apply all over the body and then leave on for a few minutes for exfoliation and hydration. Some of the properties I absolutely love is that it isn't formulated with sea salt or course exfoliating materials (which I find very drying and irritating for my skin) and it doesn't use parabens. The formulation is also oil free, which is also great for those with acne prone skin. For those with sensitive skin; this is the body exfoliation masque for you. It will completely transform your skin, and there will be no redness, dryness, tightness or irritation which I have experienced in the past with the wrong exfoliation routine.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY? 

The Bionic complex uses Polyhydroxyacids (PHAS) which are the best ingredients for sensitive skin at gently dissolving skin comedogenic factors and removing dry skin. PHAs are extremely gentle and will not cause dryness or redness; also making this ideal for daily use. In true blogger testing, I used this on my face to see how gentle the formulation is, and I was left with a very silky face with no irritation at all :)  PHAs are so gentle that they can be used for clinically sensitive skin conditions such as rosacea and atopic dermatitis; although they should never be used on broken or inflamed skin, and a dermatologist should be consulted prior to use if you have any skin conditions. PHAs offer moisturisation benefits; clinically shown to enhance stratum corneum barrier function; giving a protective benefit from environmental chemical factors. PHAs have also been shown to be effective at reversing the signs of photo-ageing caused by sun damage in multiple skin types; again making this an ideal post-holiday product. 

The formulation includes Antioxidants vitamin A, C and E which are in my opinion the best trio of anti-ageing antioxidants. Vitamin C and E work in synergy with each other to limit UV initiated free radical damage.  I was writing the other day about how pollution affects the skin, and how important it is to incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine; and this combination is powerful. The addition of shea butter is deeply nourishing and helps strengthen the lipid skin barrier and prevent trans epidermal water loss. Shea butter has also been shown to boost collagen production. 

A beautiful product with all of the cosmeceutical benefits and a luxurious, professional result at home. 

www.exuviance.co.uk 

I really hope you've enjoyed this post and Thankyou so much for reading 

L.M xxx

BEAUTY FOOD: VEGAN Sauteed Smoked almond, Kale, avocado and sweet potato

Hello lovely readers! I have been working really hard on my book and I can't wait to share my progress with you soon.  Last week I went over to one of my lovely friends house for dinner, we usually cook together, and her inspiration was for something involving sweet potato and kale. We instantly had an ingredient combination in mind. It was so delicious I thought I would share with you. 

Sweet potatoes are high in the Beta carotene form of Vitamin A. Vitamin A has numerous benefits for the skin, including acne and anti ageing benefits (I plan to do a whole blog post on Vitamin A and Retinol soon) Almonds contain a high amount of Vitamin E and nutrients such as biotin and copper thought to offer skin fortifying and anti-ageing benefits. Kale is rich in a plethora of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds (this is good news because antioxidants and phytonutrients often work in synergy with each other) My absolute favourite, avocado, is high in healthy fats and potassium; potassium is good for regulating fluid balance in cells. This could improve dry skin and I definitely notice the difference in my skin when I have a large avocado consumption.

SERVES 2

INGREDIENTS

2 SWEET POTATOES

1 BAG OF KALE 

A PACKET OF BLUE DIAMOND SMOKED ALMONDS

5 CLOVES OF GARLIC (WHOLE)

GROUNDNUT/SESAME/OLIVE OIL

SMOKED PAPRIKA 

1 RIPE AVOCADO

 SOY SAUCE 

METHOD 

1. PEEL THE SWEET POTATOES, CHOPPED INTO SMALL SEGMENTS AND ROAST at 180 FOR 30- 40 MINUTES WITH WHOLE CLOVES OF GARLIC, AND A GENEROUS AMOUNT OF OIL UNTIL SOFT .

2. TRANSFER SOFT SWEET POTATO WITH THE OIL FROM THE ROASTING INTO FRYING PAN AND ADD THE KALE; SAUTEE UNTIL VIBRANT GREEN AND SOFT, STIRRING REGULARLY

3. ADD IN WHOLE PACKET OF SMOKED ALMONDS, A SPLASH OF SOY SAUCE and SMOKED PAPRIKA 

4. CHOP AVOCADO, MIX TOGETHER AND SERVE

I really hope you've enjoyed this post; I would love to know if you try this recipe 

L.M 

xxx