Sep 28 2016

Regaining body confidence post-pregnancy

Posted on September 28, 2016 by admin

One of the most common problems women encounter during pregnancy is fine lines and marks appearing across the stomach and abdomen; it’s your body’s natural reaction to fast growth, and during pregnancy your body undergoes a lot of change. Most women gain between 10kg and 12.5kg during pregnancy, although this certainly depends on individuals – with this, stretch marks are common as the skin is stretched around the area of growth.

Whilst stretch marks are not harmful, many women feel self-conscious by their appearance, and even though you are proud of what your body has achieved and you have a bundle of joy to take care of and be part of your family, a lot of women strive to rid their body of these marks. If you are looking to regain body confidence post-pregnancy, keep reading for some tips on how to get rid of stretch marks.
Bump

What causes stretch marks

During pregnancy, stretch marks commonly appear on the stomach, upper thighs and breasts as pregnancy progresses and your bumps starts to grow. They are narrow pink or purplish lines that appear on the surface of the skin, and can be difficult to live with, occurring when the middle layer of skin becomes stretched and broken in places.

Post-pregnancy, these stretch marks are likely to fade into a white, silver thin mark more likened to the appearance of a scar, whether you get stretch marks during pregnancy will depend on the elasticity of your skin, as this is different between people.

How to get rid of post-pregnancy stretch marks

When you are planning to have a baby, it’s a good idea to look at how this will impact on your body, and learning to accept the changes that your body will go through during pregnancy. There are a number of oils and creams that can be beneficial to both the treatment and prevention of stretch marks, throughout pregnancy using these will help the skin to strengthen preventing the impact that stretching will have on your skin.

Maintain a healthy diet

It is generally advised for pregnant women not to diet whilst they are pregnant, or post-pregnancy – if you are worried about weight gain you should speak to your GP and they can advise on your specific requirements. Maintaining a healthy diet and weight will help you ensure that the weight gained throughout your pregnancy does not exceed what it should be for your body.

Bio-oil

One of the most popular products on the market for stretch marks is Bio-oil, it is an effective treatment for scars and stretch marks on the skin. Working to minimise the appearance of the marks, and give the appearance that they have gone.

Cocoa butter

Another product that is popular amongst pregnant women is Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, for many women it is effective in making the skin more elastic to help prevent and treat the appearance of stretch marks.

Laser treatment

To effectively treat and diminish the appearance of stretch marks, laser treatment is a great procedure that will leave long-lasting results, giving many women their confidence back, at The Laser Treatment Clinic, situated on Harley Street in London, their laser treatment procedure works to rejuvenate the skin to minimise the appearance of stretch marks on the skin.

Article supplied by The Laser Treatment Clinic

Aug 26 2015

REVIEW: Salcura Bioskin Natural Skin Therapy for Adults with Skin Complaints

Posted on August 26, 2015 by admin

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This isn’t my first time featuring Salcura Bioskin. I reviewed Junior Bioskin (using an eczema-ravaged Heidi as my guinea pig) some time ago. As a result, I’m a HUGE fan of their Bioskin Junior Conditioning Shampoo which smells heavenly, is soft and gentle and leaves the kids hair beautifully fluffy for styling. Nothing compares to it and I purchased a second bottle a few months back (considering the first review was in Sept 2014, this goes some way to showing how long a bottle will last).

Well now I’ve been asked to put their adult range through its paces. Although my skin is perfectly healthy, this is only due to the sheer love and expense I put into it (…so desperate am I to be the mum my son’s mates are happy to say hi to in Tesco…), and I’m a firm believer that all skin-lovers need a variety of potions to treat problems as and when they occur. Salcura Bioskin therefore should fit nicely into my bulging skincare cabinet as a go-to product for flare-ups.

So who are Salcura Bioskin?

Bioskin is a revolutionary therapy system ideal for those prone to dry skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and urticaria. Using only naturally active ingredients, it offers a skin therapy regime that can truly transform your skin. The products are gentle on your skin whilst being incredibly effective, working with the skin to aid its own natural healing process.

Range free from: Artificial Fragrance / Paraffin / SLS / Lanolin / Steroids / Parabens

Bioskin

Salcura Bioskin Natural Skin Therapy have garnered some serious press attention, both from bloggers I respect such as Girl Up North, Beauty Best Friend & Life in a Breakdown but also in the national press. Developed in the 1990′s by German bio-scientist, Dr Martin Schiele, they were initially formulated in response to the skin problems of factory workers handling chemicals. It quickly became evident that Schiele’s unique combination of natural ingredients proved highly effective in soothing difficult-to-treat skin complaints, and thus the range was born.

They’ve recently undergone a relaunch (same formulas, same ingredients) and have become one unified therapy system. The range looks simpler and sleeker to really stamp its authority on the sensitive skincare market.

So what have I got my mitts on…

Bioskin DermaSpray £16.99 (100mls)

Main (active) Ingredient: Sea Buckthorn (rich in nourishing Omegas)

DermaSpray

The Bioskin DermaSpray Skin Nourishment Spray is one of the most popular products in the series with a bottle sold every 5 mins here in the UK. Developed specifically for adults with tricky to manage conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea and dry, itchy skin, it combines a naturally effective, nutrient rich formulation with no harsh ingredients.

A fine liquid spray, it quickly sinks deep into the skin to nourish skin cells earlier on in their life cycle - making them healthier when they are at the surface and less likely to display any frustrating symptoms. It also contains almond oil to boost moisture levels leaving skin super-hydrated.

What do I think?

Unlike some of Bioskin’s other products, this smells really pleasant (to me, it’s a mix of menthol and chamomile) and is very subtle and unobtrusive if you are spraying throughout the day. It rubs in in seconds (although you don’t have to if you’re spraying directly into the hairline / scalp) and dries to a matt finish with zero greasiness. It’s also cooling and refreshing so would make an ideal sptriz for sufferers who conditions worsen in the heat.

I have a conveniently sized 100ml bottle which sits comfortably at the bottom of my handbag. To maintain healthy skin you’re directed to use this daily, so I’ll apply when I’m out and about or I’ll likely forget. My skin is left supremely soft and more healthy-looking so I’m really chuffed to have discovered it. During periods of extreme dryness and itchiness, you can apply more frequently (one of the many advantages to a natural product over steroid-based creams). Toss in the fact that a spray is more economical than a cream, and this will last you a good 3-6 months depending on how liberal you are with application. It also makes for an even coverage over the skin.

Bioskin Zeoderm £19.99 (150ml)

Main (active) Ingredient: Natural Volcanic Zeolite (rich in rejuvenating minerals)

Zeoderm

Bioskin Zeoderm Repair Moisturiser is also a natural alternative to steroid-based creams and highly effective in the treatment of severely dry skin. It’s 99% natural with Linseed to reduce redness and inflammation, Borage to help the skin retain moisture, and Zeolite for its ability to eliminate free radicals. It quickly relieves skin itching, and the patented ZeomaZ ingredient restores and rejuvenates the skin. Unlike steroid creams, there is no limit to the number of times it can be applied, and it can be used on the face.

What do I think?

As I’m lucky enough to have naturally healthy skin, I have used this less frequently than the DermaSpray. I have however used it as a handcream throughout my trial, which are often very dry. The smell, or lack thereof, is typical of unfragranced products - very bland yet strangely still there. Although this rubs in beautifully there is a slightly greasy residue left on your skin that takes a good half hour to sink in. Far from being a deterrent, I can imagine this being incredibly reassuring for people with mild to severe skin conditions.

I did notice a difference in my hands after a few days use. Visibly, they looked smoother and the patternation of cells far less prominent. My hands look younger and my cuticles are softer with zero cracks. I’ve since donated my bottle to Craig whose hands need more love and attention than my own - he too has noticed the difference so I’m heralding this as a bit of a miracle anti-aging cream for the body.

Bioskin Face Cleanser £12.99 (200mls)

Main (active) Ingredient: Sea Buckthorn (rich in nourishing Omegas)

Cleanser

Bioskin Face Cleanser is ideal for those with dry and sensitive skin, with nourishing Sea Buckthorn, vital for skin healing and skin repair, Jojoba Oil for nourishment, and Rosemary to help improve cell renewal. It’s low-foaming and suitable for all skin types.

What do I think?

I have to admit, I’m not a fan of cleansing washes - foaming or not. That said, this does smell really good. Although the active ingredient is the same as the DermaSpray - this is more citrusy and very revitalising of a morning. Although my skin was left really soft and it did prevent a particularly frightening-looking spot in its tracks, I still prefer wipe off cleansers that I can use them at my dressing table rather than in the bathroom. It did shift my eye make-up on its own though which scores additional brownie points.

To find out more, or to buy, head to SalcuraSkinCare.com

Instagram: @Salcura / Twitter: @Salcura / Pinterest: @SalcuraSkinCare / Facebook: @SalcuraNaturalSkinTherapy / G+: @SalcuraSkinCare

Nov 14 2014

Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

Posted on November 14, 2014 by admin

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The onset of colder weather can play havoc with your skin. Central heating, wet and cold air, and switching your make-up from summer to winter products, can leave it dry, flaky, and feeling itchy. There are a whole host of products out there that claim to combat these problems, but none (in my opinion) are better than these revolutionary products from MyChelle Dermaceuticals.

Who are MyChelle Dermaceuticals?

MyChelle Hero Products

Admittedly MyChelle were new to me when I contacted them. I make a point of following skincare brands on Twitter (especially those with organic and natural claims) and decided to contact them after checking out their range online. I must have been hiding under a rock as these guy have built quite the reputation with beauty journos and insiders.

It’s worth saying I’ve never visited a website that has got me quite as excited as this one. Their stance on the environment and cruelty-free promise is one thing, their commitment to non-toxic 100% natural ingredients is another, but their ground-breaking products are on a whole new level altogether. Here is a range of skin care products designed to deliver visible results, target specific complaints as well as offering hero products that promise to boost your best bits. The premise just sat really well with me and I couldn’t wait to try them out.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Advanced Argan Oil

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Argan Oil isn’t a new phenomenon. It’s a plant oil produced from the kernels of the argan tree endemic to the semi-desert area of south western Morocco. It’s been used in the beauty rituals of Moroccan women since antiquity, and has been harnessed in a variety of high-end beauty and skincare products for some time now.

Made up of unsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin E/tocopherols, squalene and sterols, it offers a whole host of benefits. Advocated as a moisturising oil it also boasts antioxidant properties and helps with chronic inflammation, acne and sun damaged skin. It is also believed to boost the conditioning properties of hair care treatments.

MyChelle’s advanced argan oil is USDA Certified Organic. It’s also Baobab enhanced ( > a 100% natural, nutrient-dense raw wholefood rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium and thiamin) bolstering the antioxidant properties of the argan oil.

My thoughts?

Natural sunlight / No foundation / No BB Creme

I LOVE IT. It is fabulous for my sensitive skin and has significantly improved the luminosity of my face. I actually have really great skin anyway but am knocking on for 35 and do have a few pigmentation marks, this has evened out my skin tone immeasurably. My skin also feels firmer, softer and less itchy. I’ve added drops of it into my BB Creme, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner and it’s boosted the performance of every single one. I’m now regularly going out without make-up as I’m so confident my skin is looking so perfect.

In terms of application, it’s completely non-greasy, sinks in well without leaving a high sheen, and delivers results after just one day’s use. The bottle dropper is great quality and allows you to use the oil sparingly, as well as helping you mix it into other beauty & skin care products easily. It’s largely scentless but there is a slightly nutty aroma (note: this doesn’t contain nuts so is completely fine to use if you have allergies).

Best bit, this is £16.95 for 30mls. If you’re just using this on your face, I’d estimate this being a good 3 month supply. I couldn’t live without this now and can honestly say it’s the best thing I’ve ever used on my face.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

MyChelle Lash and Brow Serum

As if the argan oil hadn’t gone down well enough, I was also sent this. With “unique, clinically proven breakthrough peptides and nourishing botanical conditioners“, Ultimate Lash and Brow Serum claims to naturally improve lash length, darkness and volume to make them noticeably longer and lusher. But it wasn’t this that got me excited. Nope, I was a teenager in the 90s where over-plucking eyebrows was the ‘done thing’. I now absolutely hate mine as they’re too sparse to thread and are somehow two shades lighter than my hair colour. I was hopeful this would thicken my brows and prepare them for treatment.

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The serum contains MyChelle’s proprietary Myracle Peptide Complex, which is a culmination of peptide technology designed to stimulate the production of keratin. It also claims to have restorative, protective and moisturising properties. The idea is to promote healthy lash and brow formation, protect hair follicles and banish brittleness.

My thoughts?

Although I can appreciate that the peptide mix above does boast several of the properties naturally found within lashes and brows, whether simply applying a small layer to this area would actually enhance lashes and brows is another thing entirely. I was naturally dubious but absolutely hopeful. My brows are a cause of major anxiety for me as I think it makes my nose look bigger.

Application was simple. The brush is like a thin paint brush, you simply brush it over your eyebrows and where your eyelid meet your lashes (top only) as though you would liquid eyeliner. There’s no sticky or greasy residue, and you can simply carry out with your normal make-up routine afterwards if you so choose (Note: I apply mine before bed so my face is free of make-up). There was no irritation or itchiness.

Results-wise… well amazingly it works. I’ve applied this daily for some 3 weeks and my eye lashes are definitely fuller than before. I don’t believe I have new hairs forming, rather each lash is fatter and plumper. It’s not enough of a difference to prompt comments from others, or something that could replace any lash cosmetics, but there’s no denying they are thicker.

As for my eyebrows, the same applies. As they’ve plumped, they’ve gone slightly darker and look much better. It’s definitely boosted my confidence and I’m hopeful I can get myself down a beautician’s soon for a thread and tint; I’m chuffed to bits with it.

This costs £39 so isn’t cheap, but if you have genuine anxieties or are approaching skincare from an anti-aging perspective, I would definitely recommend it.