Blogs
5 Sunscreen Myths to Stop Believing.
Summer dress season is in full swing, and with beach breaks on the horizon comes the task of selecting the right sunscreen. What SPF is necessary? And are chemical ingredients really dangerous? There are lots of rumours about sunscreen but it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Myth 1: You have to wear SPF50 or higher SPF, which stands for sun protection factor, is a measure of how long you can spend in the sun before burning. Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 allows you to be outside 30 times longer without getting a sunburn. That means that someone who burns in 20 minutes without protection would be able to spend 600 minutes, or 10 hours, in the sun before turning red. If you put on sunscreen perfectly—applying a generous layer to all exposed areas of the face & body—SPF 30 should be adequate. Try ELEMIS Dynamic Resurfacing Day Cream SPF 30. Myth 2: Sunscreen is waterproof There is no sunscreen that is truly waterproof. The best you can get is water-resistant for up to two hours, after which it needs to be reapplied. Make sure you check how long your sunscreen holds up in the water and towel off before thoroughly reapplying it. It’s also important to let it ‘set’ for 15 minutes so it doesn’t wash off when you get back into the water. Myth 3: Sunscreen is all you need to do to protect yourself from the sun Lathering up with sunscreen is not a licence to lie by the pool all weekend. Spending too much time in the sun, with or without sunscreen, can damage the skin, leading to premature ageing and skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend wearing sunglasses, a hat and protective clothing, as well as seeking shade and minimising outdoor time during the intense midday hours of 11am to 3pm. It’s important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVB and UVA radiation. All sunscreens filter the UVB rays (think B for burn), but not all sunscreens are good at protecting against UVA rays (A for ageing). Try Nimue SPF 40, a lightweight, moisturising sunscreen that provides high broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and assists to reduce and prevent visible signs of photo ageing. We also know infrared light, which very few sunscreens can screen for, can also damage the skin. Try Skin Affair’s Organic Daily SPF15 which contains natural blue light blockers. Get a free Skin Affair Organic SPF 15 with all orders over R750 until 20 October. Myth 4: The chemicals in sunscreens are harmful to humans Concern has been growing about the safety of the chemicals in sunscreens, leading to the proliferation of natural products. Chemicals can cause allergic reactions and some studies show they interact with human sex and thyroid hormones, though no risk to humans has been proven. If you’re still worried about the potential toxicity, you can opt for mineral sunscreens, which are just as effective and are often labelled as natural. Try Environ’s RAD mineral sunscreen SPF15 which is formulated with Shea Butter, the Environ RAD Shield Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15 is also very moisturising without being sticky or leaving a white cast. It also contains Vitamin E to further enhance moisture as well as provide antioxidant benefits, as well as tomato fruit extract, which absorbs UV light. Myth 5: You don’t need to wear sunscreen when it’s cloudy or you’re in the shade Harmful ultraviolet rays can pass through clouds, so it’s important to wear sunscreen daily regardless of the forecast. While UVB rays get filtered on cloudy days, UVA rays don’t vary as much. Even on a cloudy day, we’re still getting at least 80 percent of the harmful rays. When the UV index is three or higher, sunscreen is needed. And while seeking shade is smart, it can’t completely protect you from sunlight, which scatters and reflects. Try QMS ACTIVE GLOW SPF 15 Tinted Day Cream Enriched with vitamins this day cream is ideal for the active lifestyle; its UV filters protect against premature light-induced skin ageing while its clever tint is designed to work with every tone and its moisturising ingredients firm and smooth the skin.
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Skincare 101: Peptides, uses and benefits for skin
This superstar skin ingredient is the perfect thing to mix into any anti-ageing skincare routine. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, but they're also the building blocks of peptides. Collagen itself is made of polypeptide chains. Collagen is a large molecule, so it's difficult to penetrate the skin's surface when applied topically in a collagen cream alone. Peptides are smaller, so they can penetrate skin more easily. Peptides also make up elastin and keratin, two proteins that are essential for the health of your skin and hair. More benefits of peptides for skincare: Peptides can stimulate skin to make more collagen and help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles Peptides have anti-inflammatory properties that could soothe irritation or redness. While peptides can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, they also can help make skin feel more taut, and increase firmness in the skin. We’ve narrowed down some of our favourite skincare with peptides from Deluxe Shop. Environ Peptide Enriched Frown Serum Enriched with a super-concentrated combination of peptides, this non-invasive serum helps to soften and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine expression lines such as forehead furrows, frown lines and crow’s feet. ELEMIS Peptide 4 Night Recovery Oil This skin synchronising night cream-oil combines the hydration of a moisturising cream with the protection of an oil. Skin feels rebalanced and appears restored and replenished. GRANDEL Renew III rich A regenerating cream protecting collagen fibres and improving elasticity contains anti-age peptides, which enhance the dermatological repair processes and reduce the appearance of ageing. QMS Advanced Collagen Eye Lift Sheet Masks This triple action collagen eye sheet mask features the most advanced technology that combines native collagen fibers, peptides and pure collagen molecules, with hyaluronic acid to help renew the skin in only 20 minutes. Nimue Night Fader A multi-functional night moisturiser with syntheisised peptides in a light base for uneven skin colouring. Helps to brighten the skin and regulate pigment formation. Dr Grandel Collagran Ampoules Smoothing, stimulating and moisturising ampoules with a combination of active ingredients with properties similar to those of collagen as well as carrot extract and biopeptides, for the intensive care of demanding skin. Get a free pack of Collagran ampoules with all orders over R750 until 13 October.
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What Vitamins actually do for your skin
Antioxidants are naturally occurring vitamins and minerals—like vitamins A, C, E, and green tea—that protect your skin against free radicals. Free radicals are pesky little molecules in the environment that damage your skin by clinging to your collagen and weakening elasticity. They come from air pollutants, chemicals and cigarette smoke. Antioxidants neutralise those free radicals to protect your skin from damage. Some antioxidants also brighten your skin, calm irritation, and even smooth fine lines. We've rounded up the best ones and where to find them. Best for Soothing: Green Tea Green tea is filled with polyphenols that not only scavenge free radicals, but also work as an anti-inflammatory to accelerate wound healing. Try Environ Vita Enriched Colostrum Gel or Elemis Superfood CICA Calm Booster Serum, a bi-phase formula loaded, antioxidant-rich formula, to help leave the skin feeling soft and smooth. Best for Anti-Ageing: VITAMIN A Vitamin A or Retinol is a miracle worker because it does so much for your skin: smooths fine lines, fills in wrinkles, improves skin texture, brightens skin, fades scars and dark marks, and drastically reduces acne. Try Dr Grandel Retinol Ampoules or Environ Retinol Concentrated Serum 1. Best for Moisturising: VITAMIN E Vitamin E is a natural anti-inflammatory, a strong shield against free radicals and premature ageing, and keeps skin soft and supple, which is the key to preventing scar formation. Try Skin Affair Organic Illuminating Hydrating Serum with Acmella (natural botox) and Vitamin E, Dr Grandel Elements of Nature Nutralifting Moisturiser or Environ Vita-Enriched Antioxidant Gel. Best for Brightening: VITAMIN C Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is pretty much the ultimate antioxidant for perking up dull, tired-looking skin. Just like green tea, it can calm and hydrate your skin, and similar to retinol, it boosts your collagen production to tighten fine lines and improve skin texture. Try Dr Grandel Vitamin Infusion Serum with Vitamin C, Pomegranate Flower and Mango Complex or Skin Affair Organic Glow Serum with rich antioxidants to protect against free radical damage. Get a free Skin Affair Glow serum valued at R399 with all orders over R750 until Monday 27 September 2021.
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Protect your skin from Photoageing at different ages
Get the lowdown on photoageing and a free retinol serum valued at R399 when you spend R750 until 16/09. Overexposure to the sun is the main cause of premature skin ageing - also known as photoageing. UVA rays from the sun are primarily responsible, but high-energy visible (HEVIS) light can also cause oxidative stress that damages cellular DNA. As a result, skin starts to form wrinkles, sag and develop pigmentation issues prematurely. Ensuring skin is properly protected year-round, using superior sun care products and the correct skincare products, at different ages, can help to prevent and tackle photoageing. In your 20-30s Early signs of photoageing start to show in your mid to late 20s, such as fine lines and mild blemishes. It’s important to start applying sun protection on a daily basis at a young age, to prevent long-term damage. We also recommend that you look out for suncare products that include protection from blue light such as Skin Affair’s Organic SPF15 Moisturiser which provides the ultimate prevention against sun damage and UV rays whilst moisturising the skin. Also look for skincare containing vitamin B3 to get ahead of sunspots. Skin Affair’s Brightening Serum visibly brightens, helps revive dull skin and targets dark spots caused by pollution & harmful UV rays. In your 30-40s Mild photoageing, smile lines, prominent pores and early age spots are common in your 30s. Protect skin against further photoaging with Dr Grandel’s UV LSF 30 Serum. Without having to forget the usual care products. This product comes into action when UV protection is needed and contains Vitamin E which protects the skin against free radicals. Look at skincare that contains Hyaluronic Acid which plumps up the skin and visibly reduces signs of ageing such as Skin Affair’s Hydra-Boost Serum. This serum consists of hyaluronic compounds for multi-depth hydration while plumping and smoothing the appearance of wrinkles. 50s and over Advanced photoaging, deeper wrinkles, visible age spots and dilated capillaries are some of the skin concerns we can expect in our 50s and onward. Products containing peptides and retinol are amazing for skin of this age. GRANDEL Renew III rich is a regenerating cream protecting collagen fibres and improving elasticity. The cream contains peptides and nourishes and rejuvenates tired skin. Skin Affair’s Anti-Aging Serum contains retinol and stimulates collagen synthesis for plumper looking skin. Get a free Anti-Aging serum valued at R399 with all orders over R750 until 16 September 2021.
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Prep your skin for Spring with Masks & Moisturisers
Winter might signal cosy knits, eating soup and Netflix shows on repeat, but the change in seasons is also a chance to reboot and practice and little self-care. What keeps your skin happy during summer can make it sad during winter. Your skincare should shift with the seasons: recognise when your skin needs hydrating, learn how to use hyaluronic acid and when to switch to an occlusive moisturiser. And most of all, invest in a super hydrating mask! We’ve lined up our favourites, to invest in for glowing skin. Dr Grandel Vitamin Infusion Mask The encapsulated form of 'Vitamin C Microcaps' in the Vitamin Infusion Mask smoothes the skin and enables the Vitamin C to take full effect. The 'Defense Balancer' has a soothing and harmonising effect.Vitamin Infusion keeps the skin looking younger for longer. Skin Affair Organic Moisturising Cream Contains Acmella Flower extract. "Natural Botox". Nourishes dehydrated skin for instant radiance and glow. Contains a natural pre-biotic that balances the skin's micro-organisms to keep skin healthy. Skin Affair products are certified organic, vegan and cruelty-free. FREE WITH ALL ONLINE ORDERS FROM 19-26 AUG 2021 Environ Vita Complex Super Moisturiser 50ml Super Moisturiser locks in moisture to improve the appearance of dehydrated skin, it is easily absorbed, leaving the skin feeling comfortable, hydrated and smooth. Super Moisturiser assists with repairing your barrier function whilst topping up the natural moisturising factors in your skin. Enhanced with vitamins and antioxidants giving shelter against free-radical damage, results – skin feels relaxed and refreshed. Nimue Day Cream A multi-functional, light-textured Day moisturiser that hydrates and smoothes skin texture. Recommended for environmentally damage skin. GRANDEL Hyaluron Refill Cream A deep-moisturising skin cream in a special hyaluronic version that replenishes the skin's moisture, reserves and plumps up wrinkles from the inside. With a highly effective combination of algae and seawater which deeply moisturises and restructures the natural moisture factors of the skin. The innovative texture melts smoothly onto the skin and absorbs quickly giving the skin a moisture boost that restores its fresh and vibrant appearance. ELEMIS Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask This nourishing cream mask delivers an intense hydration boost, and is ideal for dull, dry and dehydrated skin.
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The Best Father’s Day Gifts for Every Kind of Dad
In case it's fallen off of your radar, Father’s Day is fast approaching — Sunday, 20 June. Whether or not you're spending the day together or apart, the father figure in your life deserves to be celebrated, so mark your calendars and get ready to shop. Shopping for your husband on behalf of your kids, your brother who recently had his first child or even your guy-bestie? We have a great range of products for all kinds of men in one easy place, online at Deluxe Shop, so you can knock them all off in one shot while earning loyalty points to spend on yourself! We’ve rounded up some great products that all dads really need, below. Because we’re sure they have enough pairs of socks. Dr Grandel Elements of Nature Hyaluron GRANDEL Elements Of Nature Hyaluron Fluid is an intensive moisturising fluid formulated with hyaluronic acid and arginine. The formulation replenishes the skin and ensures a smooth, plump, and fresh complexion. The acid hyaluronic used in this fluid has a depot. Redken Water Wax 50ml Water Wax will separate and define your hair, creating natural volume and movement. Boasting a water-based formula, it will stay looking moist throughout the day, whilst providing flexible control and a glossy, lustrous shine. It will also shampoo out easily without leaving behind any residue. Jack Black All Over Wash 88ml This multi-purpose, sulfate-free wash provides a rich lather to eliminate dirt and sweat without stripping the skin and hair of essential moisture that keeps them looking healthy. Botanicals leave a fresh scent without being too fragranced or heavy. Environ Ultra Day Cream 60ML Environ Ultra features maximum concentrations of vitamins A, C and antioxidants and is the fourth and final step in your Original step-up regime. The Ultra Creams are specially designed for sun-damaged, mature and hyper-pigmented skin. It should only be used once the skin has become accustomed to the lower levels of vitamin A found in the preceding products. Dr GRANDEL Hydroactive Moisturizer The ideal care for skin lacking in moisture. This high performance moisture formula reduces dryness lines and protects skin from further moisture loss, making skin feel wonderfully plump and hydrated. Kerastase Homme Bain Vita Energetique Kerastase Homme Bain Vita Energetique is a shampoo specifically formulated for men that nourishes and stimulates the hair and scalp. Containing amino acids that help to enhance hair growth, the shampoo works to leave hair feeling cool and cleansed. Elemis Daily Moisture Boost This lightweight, daily moisturiser is formulated to immediately nourish and hydrate skin after shaving. Hydrates, soothes, and nourishes all types of skin. Not able to decide between all the amazing skin and hair care items we have available for men on Deluxe Shop? We also have laser hair removal sessions to purchase online as well as gift cards for last minute shoppers.
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The benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for winter skin
The benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Winter Skin If you’re tuned into the non stop buzz of the beauty world, you’ve heard of hyaluronic acid, the adored elixir that offers mega hydration and glowing skin that’s always in. But if you are looking to find out what the actual benefits are for your skin? It turns out there are a lot. Firstly, what is hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance already found in the body — particularly in the skin, joints, eyes, and tissues. It provides moisture in areas you probably weren’t even aware of, but, like collagen, hyaluronic acid doesn’t always stick around in the amounts needed, especially as you age. This is where hyaluronic acid skincare products step in! The benefits of hyaluronic acid for skin Lotions, creams, and moisturisers containing HA can help reduce wrinkles, firm up skin, improve texture and combat dryness. When applied or injected, hyaluronic acid can reduce the appearance of acne and acne scarring. HA serums, creams, and lotions add moisture to the skin, which in turn gives your skin a more dewy look. Those with “mild to moderate” redness and eczema could see a reduction in symptoms through the use of an HA based foam. Be sure to speak with a medical professional before trying this option. Conditioning for the scalp. While hyaluronic acid won’t do much when applied to your hair, it can condition the scalp. Hair follicles are embedded in the dermal layer, and hyaluronic acid can help encourage growth at that level. We’ve borrowed down some of the best HA containing products available at super affordable prices on Deluxe Shop below: Skin Affair Hydra-Boost Serum HYDRA-BOOST SERUM with Hyaluronic Acid Moisturising 15ml Skin Affair Aesthetic Serums are designed for effective, non-invasive skin rejuvenation. Serums can be used with LED phototherapy to deliver high concentrate, active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin. GRANDEL Elements Of Nature Hyaluron Fluid An intensive moisturising fluid formulated with hyaluronic acid and arginine. The formulation replenishes the skin and ensures a smooth, plump, and fresh complexion. . PCO Hyaluron at Night Ampoules Overnight moisture depot. Active concentrate with depot hyaluronic acid. Restores moisture overnight and boosts the skin's regeneration system. Looking for an intensive overnight moisturising treatment? Hyaluron at Night replenishes moisture and reserves the skin for fresh, plump and youthful-looking skin. ENVIRON HA Intensive Hydrating Serum 30ml Environ Focus Care Moisture+ HA Intensive Hydrating Serum is a revolutionary treatment that intensely hydrates and adds volume to target skin areas, visibly reducing fine lines and treating dry, photodamaged skin Kerastase Blond Absolu Cicaplasme Hair Primer 150ml This opalescent lavender-coloured leave-in cream fortifies sensitised faux-blonde, lightened, highlighted and grey hair. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Edelweiss flower, assists split ends and smoothes the hair fibre for a uniform touch and long-lasting frizz control. Dr Grandel Hydro Active Moisture Depot The Dr Grandel Hydroactive Moisture depot with depot HA and Algae Sea Water Complex is a highly active moisture concentrate with a long-lasting effect. A "depot system" provides maximum moisture immediately and maintains the effect over a long time. For a smooth and fresh looking skin. A real thirst quencher for the skin! Get a free Hydro Active Moisture Depot with orders over R750. Hurry, while stocks last! SHOP ALL HA PRODUCTS ON DELUXE SHOP
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The one skincare product you can't live without!
While many of you wear it during the summer months, here’s the reality: you’ve got to wear sunscreen every day of the year, come rain or shine. With COVID-19 on our minds, it may be easy to forget about another potential danger: the sun. Though summer is coming to an end, outdoor activities abound as we enter Autumn that may include more time in the sun. It is important to note that, even in cooler months, it takes just 15 minutes for the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays to damage your skin, increasing your chances of wrinkles and age spots. The solution—wear sunscreen and protective clothing and seek shade—is something everyone has likely heard before. Still, it never hurts to be reminded of its importance, or to know a little more about it. Not sure exactly what to look out for when selecting a sunscreen? We’ve got you covered. Broad spectrum: Sunscreens should be labeled as broad spectrum, which means the product will shield the skin against UVA and UVB rays. Water resistant: This indicates that the product will protect the skin in water for a specified duration of time. Sun protection factor (SPF): This numerical factor provides information on the level of protection provided. A minimum of SPF 15 or 30 is recommended for everyday wear. When in the sun, it’s important to reapply sunscreen to exposed areas every 90 to 120 minutes, or as the product label indicates. Active ingredients: Note whether the active ingredients are chemical or physical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens most commonly contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which provide a physical barrier on the skin that reflect dangerous UV rays. Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals, which protect the skin by interacting with and absorbing ultraviolet energy. Both are effective, but chemical sunscreens may have a higher chance of producing skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Now that you know what to look for, below are 4 terrific sunscreen products available on Deluxe Shop which suit a range of skin types! Dr Grandel SP UV Perfection 50 Intelligent Sun Protection SPF 50 (high). Sun protection SPF 50 as a light serum. Protects against UVA and UVB radiation. RAD Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15 Environ RAD Shield Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15 is a lightweight, cosmetically elegant formulation that works hard with powerful physical sun reflectors, Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. QMS CELLULAR SUN SHIELD SPF 50+ PA++++ Sunscreen Lotion 30ml A powerful formulation with balanced UVA/UVB sun protection and an innovative DNA-repair complex. The lightweight texture of Cellular Sun Shield SPF50+ is designed to ensure easy absorption and protect against premature signs of skin aging caused by sun exposure. Skin Affair Organic Daily SPF 15 with Blue Light Blocker Antioxidant, SPF and light filter formula that protects the skin from blue light damage. Deeply hydrates and protects, fragrance-free, organic and cruelty-free. GET THIS PRODUCT FREE WITH ORDERS OVER R600 UNTIL 28 APRIL!
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Look the age you feel with Retinol
Most of us have heard of retinol, a hot topic in the skincare world right now. It's on every dermatologist's top shelf and has even made its way into every skincare serum on the shelves being that it’s widely regarded as one of the most effective topical treatments available. What is retinol? There are a number of different types of retinoids and they are available in different strengths. All of the different types are derived from Vitamin A - the difference between them lies in the concentration. Retinoic acid (also known as Retin-A or Tretinoin) is the strongest, prescription-level retinoid that's used for acne and ageing. In general, if you're using a retinol, you want to start off at between 0.1 and 0.2% strength and build up to 1%. How do you use it? You can't use a retinoid product like any other skin serum or moisturiser, you first have to build up a tolerance and gradually add it into your skincare regime in order to avoid unwanted side effects. Always read the packaging to see the best directions for use but keep in mind that It's always best to introduce a retinoid slowly but surely. Limit your initial use to once or twice a week, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin acclimatises. At night-time only, apply a pea-sized amount of retinol to clean and dry skin, avoiding the eye area. For optimal results, wait at least 30 minutes before applying other skincare products. Always apply loads of sunscreen the following day. Retinoids increase cell turnover, so can make skin temporarily thinner and therefore more fragile. What are the benefits? Among the many benefits of retinol, it can increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen and elastin production. It can increase the appearance of firmness by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles. It can improve uneven skin tone, treat pigmentation and smooth the surface of skin. It can even help with cystic acne and blemishes. When should I start using it? While there is no set time to use retinoids, most dermatologists advise introducing the ingredient into your skincare routine in your mid-twenties, particularly if you suffer from breakouts or pigmentation. It's best to start with a retinyl palmitate or retinol, and to try it for 3 months and then have a 3 month break. This is due to research that suggests cell turnover is no longer increased after 3 months of use. Is retinol for every skin? Retinoids don’t work equally well for every skin type. If you suffer from skin sensitivity, rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, it's probably best to avoid retinol since it can be too powerful on sensitive skin and can increase inflammation or dryness in already delicate complexions. Are there side effects? Redness, dryness and flaking are some of the side effects that come with retinol use. Normally, the side effects only last for a couple of weeks while the skin adjusts to the ingredient. If you're using a retinoid, you can skip other exfoliators like AHA’s & BHA’s as you will have already done the work. Doubling up can compromise the skin, because combining acids and retinol can cause irritation. So stick to one or the other. Also avoid all of these products if you are pregnant. Some studies have shown that taking high doses of vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to an unborn child. We've rounded up some of the best retinol products below… Dr Grandel Timeless Retinol Balm, R995. Shop now. Skin Affair LAB Series Ani-Aging Serum with Retinol, R399. Shop now. Dr Grandel Retinol Ampoules, R225. Shop now. Environ Focus Care Youth+ Retinol Serum 1, R435. Shop now.
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