Blogs
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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6 ESSENTIAL AUTUMN SKINCARE TIPS
With autumn approaching our skin is exposed to fewer UV rays, resulting in the ageing process being reduced. Transitioning your skincare for the Autumn season is not as complicated as you may think! The priority should be on repairing the damage the summer months have caused and preparing your skin for the winter season. March is a transition month that can still have warm days leading to cooler nights. Breakouts may occur as the oil flow in the skin is still occurring while the cooler air is creating layers of build-up on the surface of the skin. Skin can glow with or without summer sunshine and glowing skin is a sign of healthy skin. With the right autumn skincare routine, you can make that glow last way past autumn and long into winter! Below are some tips to make that happen. KEEP MOISTURISED: The hot and humid summer months can dehydrate your skin making fine lines and wrinkles more visible. Changing your summer facial moisturiser to a more hydrating formula will lock in moisture and protect your skin from the crisp autumn air. A moisturiser packed with Hyaluronic Acid like Dr Grandel Hydro Soft, provides the skin with rich, long-lasting moisture making it feel less tight and smoothes rough, flaky areas of skin. DON’T FORGET SPF EVERYDAY: Skincare routines change with the seasons—while winter calls for rich body butters and moisturising masks, summer is a time for lightweight lotions and humidity-taming hair products. One thing that has a perpetual place in routines, however, is sunscreen. Sunscreen remains the best skincare product you could use on a daily basis, if you only had the option to choose one! Although there is a slight seasonal decrease in UVB rays, UVA rays which cause skin ageing and dark spots are still apparent and can be a real danger to your skin if not protected. Prevention is always better than cure, and luckily SPF does not have to be heavy, sticky or leave you looking like a ghost, thanks to the various options available these days. For all day protection you can try Skin Affair Daily SPF 15 Moisturiser or Environ RAD Sun Protection Cream SPF15 containing sun filters and reflectors to provide SPF 15 sun protection, along with antioxidants, titanium dioxide, beta-carotene and vitamin C and E which help to fight free radicals. INCORPORATE A SERUM WITH HYALURONIC ACID: A thicker moisturiser is a must—but do not let serums become an afterthought. While serums are an excellent booster for your routine, they should also be refreshed with changing seasons. Serums are great in autumn and winter since they are an easy and effective way to layer skin actives before moisturisers and SPF. They are light enough to sink directly into the pores after cleansing and able to penetrate deeply into the skin to work their magic. Try adding a booster such as Skin Affair Hydra-Boost Serum consisting of hyaluronic compounds for multi-depth hydration while plumping and smoothing the appearance of wrinkles. REPAIR AT NIGHT: Your night-time skincare should not be neglected. While sleeping, your skin is at work repairing the damage done throughout the day. During the Autumn months there is less humidity in the air, so it is important to incorporate a hydrating night cream into your routine to replenish and retain moisture. For the best results try Dr Grandel Nutrisensations Night Repair as a highly effective concentrate is especially attuned to the natural regenerative processes that the skin undergoes overnight. The innovative LipoPeptid complex stimulates cell regeneration and supports the skin’s own defences in order to protect it against external stimuli. CHECK YOUR CLEANSER: It is essential to keep skin clean and free of accumulated dirt, cleansing morning and night is one element of your routine that doesn’t need to be reinvented. Skin’s natural cell turnover process creates debris on the upper layers which need to be removed before applying any other products, as this can affect the efficacy of future key ingredients penetrating the skin. Plus, the mechanical action of cleansing also increases the blood flow and aids elimination of toxins so don’t rush it. Milk or cream cleansers such as Dr Grandel CL Cleansing Milk and Skin Affair Organic Milky Cleanser are gentle enough to be used all year round so don’t need to be switched out for other formulas. EXFOLIATION: Post-summer, your skin may need a peel - a treatment that utilises a combination of exfoliating acids to keep it looking fresh and radiant. Now that the natural bronze tan is fading away much like those long warm summer evenings, it is time to kick off with exfoliation. Oil based scrubs are perfect for autumn because you do get the extra benefit of hydration. Exfoliation can be easily implemented into your morning routine. Natural scrubs are simple to use and are full of nurturing ingredients. The Skin Affair Organic Enzyme Exfoliant can be a refreshing option with its revitalising and fresh Papaya aroma. For something a little stronger, try the Dr Grandel AHA Peeling Effect with fruit acids that gently peel away fine lines and pigmentation as well as unclog pores to ged rid of black heads.
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How to rebuild collagen in your skin this season!
Now that Spring has Sprung, the changing season means a change in your skincare routine. Temperature changes, the difference in sun exposure levels and other environmental stressors that change seasonally, all have an impact on the skin and with tailoring your skincare routine seasonally gives the skin the tools it needs to perform at its optimum level. There are many ways to effectively help rebuild collagen or maintain its current production of collagen and retain a youthful look. Massage your face Massaging the face promotes oxygen and blood flow in the skin. Not only does this result in reducing puffiness, but it also creates a brighter skin tone and appearance. The massage will also increase collagen production, which prevents the formation of wrinkles. Using a device such as the Environ Face Roller This is effective when applying moisturisers or serums such as the Dr Grandel Pro Collagen Concentrate or Dr Grandel Collagran Ampoules that helps the skin find its way back to new elasticity and firmness. Eat and apply Vitamin C Adequate Vitamin C levels in the skin help stimulate the production of more collagen and help prevent its breakdown when the skin is exposed to UV rays. While eating adequate amounts of Vitamin C through diet daily is necessary and not to be skipped, adding on a cream or serum containing Vitamin C such as Environ Bosy Essentia Vitamin A,C,E Body Oil or Dr Grandel Protect Vita A.C.E Day Cream may enhance the amount of Vitamin C found in your skin cells to optimise collagen production. Too much of Vitamin D is harmful UV rays from the sun can damage skin, and that includes the breakdown of collagen. It is essential to choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum UV of at least SPF 30 as this protects from both UVB and UVA rays. Use the Dr Grandel Protection UV 30 as well as limit your exposure to sunlight. Environ RAD SPF15 is a sun protection cream containing sun filters and reflectors to provide SPF 15 sun protection, along with antioxidants, titanium dioxide, beta-carotene and vitamin C and E which help to fight free radicals. Stop smoking Smoking may lead to less overall collagen production in the skin. Many of the more than 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke also damage collagen and elastin, which are fibres that give the skin its strength and elasticity. As a result, the skin begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely because of smoking. Try a collagen supplement Taking collagen supplements for several months can improve skin elasticity as well as signs of ageing. Consuming collagen can increase density in bones weakened with age and can improve joint, back and knee pain. Collagen supplements such as Gold Collagen Pure have many benefits far beyond its beauty-boosting abilities. Gold Collagen Pure is a liquid supplement designed for women that helps boost natural collagen, elastin and hydration levels that decline over time causing the appearance of wrinkles, dryness and loss of firmness. It is 20x more effective than pills and powders. Drink more water Water is a cornerstone of the human body’s composition. The whole body is made up of 60% water keeping every organ in your body going by performing a variety of functions. Experiments that remove water from collagen have shown that it dramatically impacts the tensile force of the protein, which has serious implications for skin health. Drinking more water will keep your collagen hydrated, and wrinkles at bay!
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5 Facts you should know about Pigmentation!
Your skin is a very delicate organ and hyperpigmentation is often a result of environmental or internal factors which damage it. Higher production of Melanin causes several skin problems, such as dark spots, dark patches, uneven skin tone, and dark circles. It is, therefore, best to learn the causes and how to prevent hyperpigmentation from occurring or work to reduce the appearance of it. Melanin defines your skin tone Melanocytes produce a pigment called Melanin that is responsible for the tone of the skin. If melanocyte cells are damaged in any way or if they go through any unhealthy change, the production of melanin increases, causing dark patches on certain parts or the entire body. The problem may aggravate if left untreated. Too much of Vitamin D is harmful Moderate exposure to sunlight is healthy as it helps in the synthesis of vitamin D, but overexposure can lead to several skin problems. Vitamin D acts as a catalyst in the Melanin production process. Sunscreen is hugely important in preventing hyperpigmentation. It prevents the accumulation of photodamage that leads to brown spots and PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), which is the hyperpigmentation that develops after acne. Look for one that contains at least SPF 30 and is broadspectrum so that you are protecting yourself from both UVB and UVA rays. Use the Dr Grandel Protection UV 30 or Skin Affair SPF 15 Moisturising Cream as well as limit your exposure to sunlight. Pigmentation is a treatable condition Although a stubborn condition, pigmentation is treatable. Whether one has pigmentation on the face or any other part of the body. Melasma is a chronic condition and tends to relapse when treatment is interrupted. Treatment should therefore be continuous until the condition lessens, usually only after menopause. Home remedies may not be effective Home remedies for pigmentation may deliver short-lived results, but such measures provide a permanent solution. Although you may come across various blogs that advocate home remedies for pigmentation, the truth is that most vegetables and fruits contain specific enzymes and acids that may aggravate the problem. We suggest using products dedicated to pigmentation or spa treatments that offer real results! There is no instant remedy Stay away from any anti-pigmentation product or procedure that claims to deliver instant results. Pigmentation can be treated with ongoing use of a dedicated product such as the Dr Grandel UV Protection, Anti-Pigment formula or The Dr Grandel Perfection White Whitening Cream that offers a skin-friendly treatment for several skin problems, including dark spots and blemishes. LED Light Therapy can be a wonderful tool for treating age spots, pigmentation and blemishes. Most see results after 4-8 weeks of continued use this can be achieved with the Azure Orion LED Handheld device & Dr Grandel Retinol Ampoules. Chemical peels are also beneficial in treating the issue, which you can achieve at home with a product such as Dr Grandel AHA Peeling Index and the Nimue Purifier.
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Achieve Younger Looking Skin with the Dr Grandel Pro Collagen Range
Now you can have younger, fresher looking skin with the Dr Grandel Pro Collagen range. The range consists of the Dr Grandel Pro Collagen Concentrate and Dr Grandel Pro Collagen Cream. This miracle duo stimulates elasticity and promotes firmness of the skin. The Dr Grandel Pro Collagen range of products contain an amino silicon complex which restructures the collagen network and stimulates the skin's own collagen production. GRANDEL Pro Collagen Concentrate smoothes the skin and immediately reduces lines and expression lines. Experience impressive results with the delicate Pro Collagen face cream which firms and smoothes the skin’s complexion. The 'Pro Collagen Code' - a combination of selected active ingredients contained in these products - independently supports the elasticity of the skin and encourages firmness. What’s more, Dr Grandel Pro Collagen concentrate does not contain animal collagen. 20 test subjects evaluated the effectiveness of the products over 4 weeks and the results are in. PRO COLLAGEN Concentrate: 95% confirmed that the elasticity of their skin improved 95% confirmed that their skin gained firmness 100% of the subjects were convinced of the tolerance 70% noticed that fine lines and wrinkles were immediately reduced. PRO COLLAGEN Cream: 90% confirmed an increase in skin smoothness 90% confirmed the elasticity of their skin improved 90% confirmed that their skin gained firmness 100% of the subjects were convinced of tolerance. Shop both now & save 15% until 17/09.
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Top Tips For Clearing & Preventing Maskne
Wearing a mask for long periods of time can cause oils to become trapped in the skin, clogging the pores and resulting in increased congestion. It might also cause skin irritation from continuous rubbing and friction. To help prevent this, there are several steps you can take, starting with proper mask care and hygiene! It’s all in the mask When using a reusable mask, it is recommended that you wash it after each use. Not only is this good hygiene but it prevents the build-up of oils and dirt from spreading onto your skin. Ensure your re-usable mask is made of breathable fabric, is correctly fitted and used according to the guidelines provided by your local health authorities. When it comes to makeup, less is more! Wearing a heavy face of makeup underneath your mask can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts, so it is recommended to go makeup-free under your mask. If you absolutely must apply makeup before leaving home, try using a light tinted moisturiser such as the Nimue Tinted SPF and ensure you use quality skincare products as a base. We recommend using an organic range such as Skin Affair. Don’t forget to apply a hydrating lip balm prior to wearing your mask to prevent your lips from drying out and cracking. Try the Greenland range of natural lip balms. Use the quality skincare products Help support healthy skin by applying good skincare underneath your mask. The first step is choosing an appropriate moisturiser for your skin type. After you have moisturised, products that protect the skin are essential. If you’re experiencing irritation, we recommend trying Dr Grandel’s SOS Ampoules to reduce redness, irritation and inflammation while boosting moisture levels. Finally, a broad spectrum SPF 30+ should be applied for additional barrier and sun protection. We recommend Dr Grandel’s UV Perfection 50+. Keep skin clean When returning home, immediately cleanse your skin with a gentle and calming cleanser to ensure you keep it clear and calm. Try Skin Affair’s organic foaming cleanser, which contains hydrating and anti-redness properties to efficiently cleanse dirt, debris and environmental pollutants from the skin. In the evening, apply Skin Affair’s organic cooling mask to gently exfoliate, boost hydration and reduce skin redness. Try LED Light Therapy If you are following all the steps within this article and still experiencing breakouts, irritation or redness, then a series of LED Light Therapy treatments can help you to recover and strengthen the skin. Purchase your own handheld LED device to use at home or book a treatment with your nearest Deluxe Laser & Spa.
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The Ultimate Women's Month Giveaway worth R15,000!
R15000 in amazing prizes to be won! Ashleigh Herman is one of our favourite female influencers so we have teamed up to give away some her favourite things worth R15,000 this Women's Month. Prizes include: R2000 worth of products from Skin Affair. R5000 treatment voucher from your nearest Deluxe Laser. An overnight stay with breakfast and bubbles for you and your bestie at Cloud9 Boutique Hotel worth R5000. A R3000 voucher to spend on luxury skincare from Deluxe Shop. To be entered into the draw, you must complete all the below steps: Follow all accounts on Instagram: @skinaffairsa, @deluxelaser, @cloud9hotel, @deluxeshopsa, @ashhser_ Tag your besties in the comments on the competition post Share to your stories and tag all brands Follow all accounts on Facebook: @skinaffairsa, @deluxelaser, @cloud9boutiquehotel, @deluxeshopsa Share the competition post to your stories Tag your besties in the comments Sign up to the newsletter on www.deluxeshop.co.za. Make sure to confirm your subscription. Competition dates: 7-28 August 2020 Terms & Conditions This competition is open to SA residents only and closes at 12:00 on 28 August 2020. By entering the competition, you agree to sign up to our newsletter. The winners will be drawn from all the correct entrants and notified via email. This prize cannot be exchanged for cash. DeluxeShop’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. We will not share your information with any third parties. If winners do not respond to email notification within three days, another winner will be drawn. DeluxeShop will supply all hampers to the delivery company in good order, but will not be held liable for the condition of hampers arriving at the winners’ chosen delivery address. Please allow up to 1 week for delivery of vouchers and products. Cloud9 stay is valid for when they reopen.
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