Tag

anti-aging

Jun 04
3

Sez Says – Apect Gold SMC

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I’m going to keep this one short and sweet.

After a manic month of work and a cheeky trip to North Queensland my skin was well and truely under the pump.

Multiple makeup looks per day, and zero makeup free time will always have a negative impact upon your skin.

Travel often leaves my skin dehydrated, dull and lack lustre. Now with winter in full force hydration is of the upmost importance when caring for your skin. A product that single handedly got me through the past month was the Apect GOLD SMC – Super Moisturising Complex. Let me tell you they were not mucking around with this bad boy full of cell targeting ingredients it certainly packs a punch.

Aspect Gold SMC contains nutrients and cell targeting molecules leaving skin feeling and looking nourished smooth and plump. Ingredient combinations of Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium PCA for hydration. Potent antioxidants in the form of Green Tea, Grape Seed Extract and Oil Soluble Vitamin C to combat aging. Combined with fruit extracts of cucumber and Canadian Willow Herb to nourish, condition skin and braided protect against free radicals.

Applied twice a day morning and night I found I was able to maintain a hydrated complexion without looking oily.

Anyone who’s been following for a while now knows that I adore aspect as a brand but this baby may be my new favourite secret weapon. My skin just drank this up and it’s now a must have staple in my bathroom cupboard.

Follow with some clear eyes and lip balm and you’ll look refreshed, hydrated and ready to take on the work week.

5/5

#SezSays

Jan 09
16

Product Spotlight – HALO by Dermal Hub – Sez Says

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I will never forget my first visit to a Dermal Clinic. I was 20, and suffering from some pretty severe cystic and hormonal acne.

My initial consult with the team at Victorian Dermal Group was eye opening to say the least. I was so enamoured with fixing my acne that I never stopped to consider my skin health overall.

The defining moment for me was when I saw my skin photographed under the Ultra Violet light displaying all sun exposure and pigmingation. I was shocked at just how much sun damage my 20 year old skin had endured, not to mention the risks of Skin Cancer and Melanoma. Thankfully most of it had yet to reach the surface and i still had time to correct . I vowed right then and there to make a change and have been a lover of all things sun protection since.

SPF 50+ Sunscreen, Sunglasses and Baseball caps are my go-to’s all summer long keeping me SunSmart and the UV damage at bay.

I’ve never been one to settle for mediocrity so when I heard about the launch of an innovative sun shield that offers 99% UVA and UVB protection I knew I had to give it a whirl.

Ladies and gentlemen I present to you..

HALO – By Dermal Hub


So what exactly is it?

The HALO face shield is a Sun protective visor. It encompasses a UV 400 Protective film – UV 400 is considered the highest form of protection provided by lenses against Ultraviolet Radiation .


Why do you need it?

The HALO works as a defence on the most sensitive part of your skin (the face). Blocking harmful UV rays as a first defence against sunburn.

Used in conjunction with sunblock, the HALO visor can minimise the risk of skin cancers and melanoma.

As an added bonus to your skin health, it also works to lessen wrinkles, spots and discolouration bought on by direct sun exposure.

Why do I love it?

In my opinion this baby is completely changing beach culture. It’s chic and fashionable but also super practical and most importantly SunSmart. It’s completely transparent when worn so enables me to sit and read a book or scroll ‘the gram’. It decreases sun exposure to not only the face and neck but also for my eyes and I’ve even been rocking it on my daily walks (copped a few stares I’ll be honest).

Overall, I highly recommend any product that encourages SunSmart practices coupled with  anti aging benefits, all while looking fashionable AF!

A Win/Win in my book and a fantastic addition to my beach bag used in conjunction with sunscreen.


.. and for the cherry on top of this SunSmart Sundae I feel it important to add HALO by Dermal Hub is designed here in Melbourne with all materials sourced in Australia.  #SupportLocal

Sez

Xx

For more info head to :
https://www.dermalhub.com.au

Sep 18
10

Sez Says – Aspect Dr

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About two months ago, I did something a little crazy..

I ditched my entire day to day skincare routine and replaced it with a brand I’d never used before.

I’m a creature of habit when it comes to skincare. While I’m always up for trying a new serum, mask or treatment here and there my go to basics pretty much stay the same. An advocate for routine and consistency some are shocked to know I havent changed my daily products in nearly 4 years.  If it ain’t broke don’t fix it… right? 

Previously I’ve battled some pretty tough skin issues #hormonalacnelyf which I’ve worked hard to correct overtime. As a result I’ve become quite vigilant in my day to day practices never steering too far from routine. 

So, when I decided to throw caution to the wind and replace my ENTIRE routine with the Aspect Dr range I did so with gritted teeth. 

But for the sake of research and TBH blog content I took the plunge and changed every product in my skin routine. Having seen and heard so many positive reviews about Aspect Dr I was excited to take my skin on a new little journey. I believe it’s important to trial any new routine for a minimum of one month before passing judgement but I opted to double that to two months just to make sure 😉


When I first shared this range via Instagram story a few months back and my intention to trial I was undated with messages from ladies who either:

A. Had used the range before and were ‘saaah’ confident I’d love it

Or

B. Ladies who had also heard amazing things about Aspect Dr and were dying to know how it was. 

Well buckle up because you’re going to want to read this..

Having no major skin concerns or issues I opted for the ABC Essentials Kit which as a bonus is compact, easy to pack and air travel approved #winning. The Essential Kit is a skin management system containing 5 key products designed to work together to treat common skin conditions and concerns. Utilising key skin essential vitamins to treat aging skin. 


It contains:

  • Deep Clean – Exfoliating Cleanser – 30ml
  • Exfol A Plus Serum – Vitaman A Serum – 15ml
  • Multi B Plus Serum – Vitaman B Serum – 15ml
  • Active C Serum – Vitaman C Serum – 15ml
  • Resveratrol Cream – Hydrating Moisturiser – 15g

Deep Clean – Exfoliating Cleanse


Starting with 2-3 metered pumps dispensed into palms and massaged on to skin for 30 seconds. I found this cleanser to have amazing exfoliating properties and thoroughly cleansed my face. It left my skin feeling fresh and worked well over the congested areas on my skin.

If removing making I always suggest using a pre cleanse prior as I prefer to keep exfoliating cleansers away from the delicate eye area. 

Multi B Plus Serum –  This baby promises to virtually turbocharge your current AspectDR products by infusing your skin with Multi B Vitamins and a patented blend of skin fortifying sea plants.

Active C Serum –  works by lightening and brightening an uneven complexion utilising a non-irritant, ph neutral form of Vitamin C. Containing high concentrates of natural derived botanicals and high octane cosmeceuticals providing firming and tightening benefits. 


I LOVED these guys. Seriously they are worth their weight in gold. Both serums are used post cleanse and followed with moisturiser. I noticed a change in my skin immediately from the first use, my skin looked firmer brighter and more hydrated. I had become accustomed to the same products for so long I was shocked to see my skin physically glow in appearance. I think a huge change for me was the improvement texturally aswell, it felt smoother and more plump which can be attributed to the anti-aging properties. 

Finally the

Resveratrol Cream


My favourite product of the entire range. The moisturing cream is applied post serum. It contains resveratrol an advanced anti-aging ingredient coupled with calming agents and peptides. I noticed immediately how nourishing an hydrating the cream was and how it left my skin soft and supple. It sealed in the serums perfectly and worked well to hydrate and moisturise my skin especially over night.

Note: I used the Exfol A Plus Serum on an off for the 2 month trial period but was careful to stop use for 7 days post in clinic dermal treatments.

Therefore wasn’t able to gage an clear view on how it worked for my Skin as my use wasn’t consistent . I did find it gentle and non irritating which is a lovely bonus for those beginning to use rentiol as apart of their night routine. 

My verdict:

I BLOODY loved it! 

I’m actually kicking myself for not switching things up sooner. I guess now I can see clearly that I was stuck in a bit of a skincare rut. I was constantly using products designed for acne concerns that I no longer had and never opened myself up to products that could improve and enhance my skin quality. But let me tell you the hype is real, I’m officially converted! My day to day routine has been shook and I’m excited to trial more from the Aspect Dr range. 

I’m now finding myself switching back and forth between my old routine and Aspect Dr purely as breakouts occur as I know by old favourites will keep them at bay.

Ignorance is no longer bliss and it’s comforting to know I’ve got the power of choice. 

Ladies, if you’re in a similar situation to me and looking to shake up your skincare game I cannot recommend the Aspect Dr range more highly. The proof is in the pudding and the fact they are now a permanent fixture for me says it all.


Sez Says 5/5

The Aspect Dr ABC Essential Kit– Retails for $195 and it’s a fantastic way to trial the range without committing to full size products.
Sarah

Xx

Aug 27
12

Shiseido Sunday – Face Mask Edition

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I have never been overly experimental with the whole ‘Face Mask’ game. I tend to keep things quite vanilla and have only ever used one or two brands before. My preference is usually something hydrating which absorbs straight into the skin requiring no wait time or need to wash off. I know boring right?

So with the release of Shiseido’s new WASO Purifying Peel Off Mask + Beauty Sleeping Mask I was ready to broaden my horizons.


Both masks are designed to combat the strain and stress of modern living, remove pollution leaving your skin revived and refresh.

Given it was a Sunday, I’m a Melbourne city gal AND I had a big work week ahead of me I was ready to Reset & Recharge.

First I tried The Purifying Peel Off Mask. It’s a pearl red mask designed to remove impurities and pollutants combating breakouts. Unclogging pores and leaving skin hydrated and smooth. It contains Red Shiso a Japanese herb renowned for its antioxidant benefits, which is a huge plus for me.


It appealed to me purely because of the vibrant red colour and the fact is was a ‘peel off mask’ the type I’d seen many ‘Insta gals’ rave about but had never actually tried myself.

I applied the mask, waited the designated 20 minutes then proceeded to find an edge to begin peeling it off. However I struggled to find an edge at first and began to freak out a little about how I would remove it. I was pacing back and forth,then began imagining what my life would be like with this mask permanently stuck to my face. Would people stare? Would I ever find a man to accept me face mask and all?

Then before I could get too ahead of myself it dried a little more and I found an edge, meltdown over #CrisisAdverted. Ive since realised upon review that I’d applied too much, so needed to wait a little longer for it to dry completely before removal. Once dry the mask peeled off seemlesly from my face and my skin felt noticeably clearer and less congested.

The second of the two The Beauty Sleeping Mask is an intensive moisturing mask infused with GreenYuzu, which nourishes skin while premoting production of hylauronic acid.


The Beauty Sleeping Mask was much more up my alley in terms of hydration, it’s less invasive and absorbs straight into the skin. I love the inclusion of Botanical Plankton Extract, an ingredient which aids the production of ATP reducing the effects of fatigue and lack of sleep. Because some days all the coffee in the world ain’t gonna brighten my eyes, so I welcome a little extra help.

The beauty sleeping mask is used at night before bed. Taking a small almond size amount applying it to skin, the gel is not removed and left on skin to allow it to work it’s magic benefits while you sleep. I woke up feeling hydrated and less puffy particularly around the eye area.

So after trialling both Shiseido masks yesterday if I had to choose, I think My pick would be the Beauty Sleeping Mask. I loved the cooling affect of the gel prior to sleep and really benefited from waking up without puffy eyes. I think it would be perfect prior to early morning starts or event to apply just before flying. However, that’s purely a personal preference, if you like something more unvaisive and active then the Purifying Peel Off Mask is perfect for that. While it’s not something I see myself routinely using, I find that it works well for spot targeting specific areas which are prone to congestion . For me that it usually the chin area, so it’s handy to know I have a mask which will work to help unclog my pores.

If you’re in need of some extra TLC on your next #SelfCareSunday, I suggestion popping into Myer or David Jones where each of these babies are now stocked.


Sez

Xx

Jul 04
22

Sarah’s Staples – My daily skin care routine 

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Skincare loyalty isn’t something I’ve always adhered to.

In fact, I believe that with the plethora of skin care products readily available and the ongoing changes in our skin it’s impossible to meet all your needs using just one brand.

A gals gotta have options right?

I’ve always had the approach that if you have your skin care basics locked down, following the same routine day and night your skin will benefit from the consistency. This then gives you the freedom to cycle in and out products on a trial basis dependent on changes or arising skin concerns.

With that in mind allow me to introduce you to my Go-To basics which without fail I use everyday morning and night and just so happen to be all the same brand.

MEDIK8

I was first introduced to the Medik8 range 4 years ago by the lovely ladies at Victorian Dermal Group.

Their entire range of cosmeceuticals is developed by biochemists and pharmacologists and has been beneficial for my skin in terms of hydration and addressing the early signs of aging #preventioniskey

I’m not going to bombard you with too much information on the Medik8 range but as a girl who battled early 20’s cystic acne and is now working towards slowing down the aging process these products have got you covered.

First cab of the rank is…

MEDIK8 SURFACE RADIANCE CLEANSE

(formerly Pore Cleanse Gel)

This puppy is infused with AHA + BHA making it perfect for gentle exfoliation and removing dead skin cells leaving skin more radiant. From personal experience this cleanser is fantastic when it comes to removing makeup and foundation with no double cleanse required.

The added inclusion of glycerine helps to hydrate skin and doesn’t leave me with that tight feeling most cleansers do.

I’ll then go in with my serums.

First is the…

MEDIK8 HYDR8 B5

This serum is an absolute GODSEND I tell you! This time of the year particularly over winter my skin needs an added boost of hydration so I use this serum both morning and night. It contains Vitamin B5 which helps diminish dehydration and leaves my skin feeling plump and smooth. The presence of hyaluronic acid is an important one to not only boost moisture retention but to also soften the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid is fast becoming my new BFF and is a key ingredient I always lookout for when testing new products #TeamAntiAge

I’ll then follow up with my second favourite serum…

MEDIK8 C-TETRA SERUM

Before we go any further I have to say this serum smells AH-MAZING in fact the whole MEDIK8 range has a vibrant citrusy aroma about it.  It contains Vitamin C (if the product name wasn’t already a give away) the power house or ‘Mac Daddy’ of the anti-aging game. Aimed to stimulate collagen production and repair free radical damage. Along with anti-aging benefits I’ve found this serum leaves my skin with a nice radiance and glow.

Final step moisturise!

As this is my #BASIC routine I wanted to keep things #BASIC and finish with my fourth and final step.

If I’m heading out in the AM ill opt for a moisturiser/ sunscreen combo as we all know sun damage is one of the leading causes in premature aging.

MEDIK8 HYDRATE 360 DAY

…is perfect for this and acts as a great makeup primer for daytime use.

At night time when my skin requires something more nourishing I’ll opt for the…

MEDIK8 HYDR8 NIGHT

It’s very rich, and contains botanical antioxidants to help reverse the signs of skin aging. Applying this at night helps to redensify the upper layers of my skin and works to repair damage while you sleep.

So there you have it,

My little basics which I can credit for helping my skin look the little brighter every day.

These are just the tip of the iceberg for me in terms of my beauty routine and recommendations.

So keep your eyes peeled for blog updates highlighting of all the products and treatments I use and the different brands I recommend.

While I don’t consider myself an expert I LOVE trying new products and exploring the benefits they can have on addressing certain concerns and improving your skin overall.

Watch this space…

Sez xx

Xx