In this article, we'll explore what endocrine disruptors are, why they are considered harmful, and provide a list of common examples found in skincare. Additionally, we'll delve into the realm of natural alternatives, ensuring that you can make informed decisions for your skincare routine.
Understanding Endocrine Disruptors:
Endocrine disruptors are chemical compounds that can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system. The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood. Endocrine disruptors can mimic or block the actions of hormones in our bodies, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential long-term health issues.
The Relaity of Endocrine Disruptors:
1. Hormonal Imbalance
Endocrine disruptors can disturb the delicate balance of hormones in our bodies. This disruption may lead to reproductive issues, fertility problems, irregular menstrual cycles, and even developmental abnormalities in children.
2. Cancer Risk
Certain endocrine disruptors have been linked to an increased risk of hormone-related cancers, including breast, prostate, and testicular cancer. Prolonged exposure to these substances may contribute to the development of such diseases.
3. Developmental Disorders
Exposure to endocrine disruptors during critical periods of development, such as during pregnancy or childhood, may result in long-lasting effects on neurological development, behaviour, and cognitive function.
Common Endocrine Disruptors in Skincare:
1. Parabens
Commonly used as preservatives, parabens (such as methylparaben and propylparaben) can mimic oestrogen in the body. They have been detected in breast tumours and have raised concerns about their potential contribution to breast cancer. *see references below
2. Phthalates
Often found in fragrances, phthalates are associated with hormone disruption and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues, including reduced sperm count and genital abnormalities.
3. Triclosan
An antimicrobial agent, triclosan, has been linked to hormonal imbalances and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
4. Synthetic Fragrances
Fragrances are often composed of numerous chemicals, some of which can be endocrine disruptors. Manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific components of their fragrance mixtures, making it challenging to identify potential risks.
Natural Alternatives for Safer Skincare:
1. Essential Oils
Essential oils derived from plants offer natural fragrance and skincare benefits. Look for products scented with essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances.
2. Natural Ingredients
Opt for skincare products that use natural ingredients, as they are less likely to contain synthetic chemicals and endocrine disruptors.
3. Plant-Based Preservatives & antioxidants
Look for skincare products that use naturally derived preservatives and antioxidants like grapefruit seed extract, radish root, vitamin E, or rosemary extract, which can help extend the product's shelf life without resorting to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
The presence of endocrine disruptors in skincare products is a concerning reality. Understanding the potential risks associated with these chemicals empowers us to make informed choices about the products we use. By opting for natural alternatives and scrutinizing ingredient lists, we can prioritize our health and well-being without compromising our skincare routines. Let's embrace safer, more natural options and embark on a journey towards healthier, radiant skin.
Lèkura skincare is free from endocrine disruptors. We carefully research each ingredient thoroughly before they are considered for use in our formulations. When we select an ingredient, we check its origin, functionality, effectiveness and safety. We ensure that each ingredient is naturally renewable and free-from any toxic or synthetic matter. All of our ingredients are derived from fruits, plants, minerals, seeds and nuts. We never use synthetic chemicals, or animal derivatives.
If you have questions feel free to dig deeper into the below references or send us an email contact@lekura.com.au
References:
Darbre, P. D. (2006). Metalloestrogens: an emerging class of inorganic xenoestrogens with potential to add to the oestrogenic burden of the human breast. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 26(3), 191-197.
Rochester, J. R. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: a review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology, 42, 132-155.
Diamanti-Kandarakis, E., Bourguignon, J. P., Giudice, L. C., Hauser, R., Prins, G. S., Soto, A. M., ... & Gore, A. C. (2009). Endocrine-disrupting chemicals: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. Endocrine Reviews, 30(4), 293-342.
Sathyanarayana, S., Barrett, E., Butts, S., Wang, C., & Swan, S. H. (2017). Phthalate exposure and reproductive outcomes in humans: a review of the literature. Environment International, 99, 41-59.
Velez-Montoya, R., & Oliver, S. C. (2014). Endocrine disruptors: A review for ophthalmologists. Survey of Ophthalmology, 59(5), 512-519.
Environmental Working Group (EWG). (n.d.). Skin Deep® Database: Parabens. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/703937-PROPYLPARABEN/
European Commission. (2012). Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety: Opinion on Parabens. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_041.pdf
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). (n.d.). Fragrance in skincare products. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/your-products/fragrance
EWG. (n.d.). Skin Deep® Database: Triclosan. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706623-TRICLOSAN/
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). (2022). Endocrine Disruptors. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/endocrine/index.cfm
It's important to note that not everyone will experience skin purging when introducing new actives, and the occurrence and duration of purging can vary from person to person.
Understanding Skin Purging:
Skin purging is a temporary process that occurs when you introduce new skincare products that accelerate your skin's natural exfoliation process or the introduction of new active ingredients that your skin isn't used too.
During this phase, your skin may experience a temporary increase in breakouts, congestion, or blemishes. Although it can be disheartening, it's important to remember that skin purging is a sign that the products are working to improve your skin's health in the long run.
Differentiating Skin Purging from Breakouts:
It's crucial to differentiate between skin purging and regular breakouts. Skin purging typically occurs when you incorporate active ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), or exfoliating agents into your routine. These ingredients work to increase cell turnover, unclog pores, and reveal fresher skin. As a result, any existing clogs or impurities beneath the surface are brought to the forefront, leading to temporary breakouts.
Purging can also happen when you introduce new actives such as vitamins, antioxidants, new hydrators, lipids, peptides or probiotics. These are all greatly beneficial ingredients, your skin just needs time to adjust and re-set.
Tips for Navigating Skin Purging:
Start Slow: When introducing new products, start with a gradual and phased approach. Begin by using the product once or twice a week and gradually increase the frequency over time. This allows your skin to adjust gradually and minimizes the intensity of purging.
Patience is Key: Skin purging is a temporary phase that typically lasts anywhere from a few weeks to a few of months. It's important to be patient and give your skin time to adapt and renew itself. Resist the temptation to switch products immediately as it may disrupt the process and delay the potential benefits.
Stick to the Essentials: Simplify your skincare routine during the purging phase. Focus on gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen to provide your skin with the necessary nourishment and protection without overwhelming it with additional active ingredients.
Avoid Picking or Squeezing: It can be tempting to try and speed up the purging process by squeezing or picking at breakouts. However, this can lead to scarring, inflammation, and prolonged healing. Practice patience and allow your skin to naturally heal.
Consult with a skincare professional: If you're unsure whether your skin is experiencing purging or an adverse reaction, it's always advisable to consult a skincare professional. They can assess your skin's condition, provide personalised advice, and determine whether adjustments are needed in your skincare routine.
Remember that this phase is temporary and signifies that your skin is adjusting to the new products. By understanding the process, being patient, and providing gentle care, you can navigate the purging phase with confidence and look forward to the potential long-term benefits of your new skincare routine.
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While many associate sunscreen solely with summer beach days, it's importance extends far beyond preventing sunburn. In this article, we'll shed light on the reasons behind celebrating National Sunscreen Day, highlighting the importance of physical sunscreens, discussing the necessity of sunscreen on cloudy days, and exploring the role of sunscreen indoors to combat blue light damage.
What Is National Sunscreen Day:
National Sunscreen Day serves as a reminder of the crucial role sunscreen plays in protecting our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. It's an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of integrating sunscreen into our daily skincare routines, regardless of the season or weather.
Beyond Sunburn Prevention: Cloudy Day Protection:
Contrary to popular belief, clouds do not block out UV rays entirely. Up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate through cloud cover, which means our skin is still susceptible to damage even on overcast days. Therefore, it is crucial to apply sunscreen in your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather conditions, to safeguard our skin from the long-term effects of UV exposure, such as premature ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Shielding Against Indoor Threats: Blue Light Damage:
In today's digital age, spending long hours in front of screens has become the norm. However, many are unaware of the potential harm posed by blue light emitted by electronic devices. Prolonged exposure to blue light can lead to skin cell damage, resulting in premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and an uneven skin tone. By incorporating a sunscreen with blue light protection into our skincare regimen, we can shield our skin from these harmful effects while going about our daily activities.
Why You Should Use Physical (Zinc) Sunscreen:
Broad-spectrum protection: Physical sunscreens, such as zinc oxide, provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. They act as a physical barrier, reflecting and scattering the sun's rays away from the skin. This helps to prevent sunburns, premature ageing, and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Immediate effectiveness: Physical sunscreens start working as soon as they are applied to the skin. There is no need to wait for them to absorb or activate, making them a convenient choice for immediate protection.
Gentler on sensitive skin: Physical sunscreens are generally well-tolerated by individuals with sensitive or reactive skin. Zinc is naturally healing, calming and a fantastic anti-inflammatory mineral. Physical sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to chemical sunscreens (Ensure you check all the ingredients on the back of the label to ensure the sunscreen is free from chemical filters and common irritants)
Stability in sunlight: Physical sunscreens are photostable, meaning they do not degrade or break down when exposed to sunlight. They provide consistent protection throughout sun exposure, maintaining their effectiveness for longer periods.
Environmentally friendly: Unlike some chemical sunscreens, physical sunscreens do not contain ingredients that are harmful to coral reefs and marine life. Therefore, using physical sunscreens can contribute to the preservation of our oceans and ecosystems.
Why You Should Avoid Chemical Sunscreen:
Skin sensitivity: Many people have sensitivities or allergies to chemical UV filters and the synthetic ingredients they are formulated with. They are more likely to cause skin irritation, redness, or trigger allergic reactions.
Absorption into the skin: Chemical sunscreens are designed to be absorbed into the skin to provide protection. This absorption can be a concern for individuals who prefer to minimize the presence of certain chemicals in their body or have specific medical conditions.
Heat sensitivity: Certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone, can become less effective when exposed to high temperatures or sunlight, potentially reducing their protective abilities.
Endocrine disruption: Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, which have been shown to have the potential to disrupt the endocrine system. These substances can mimic or interfere with the body's natural hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential health risks.
Hormonal effects: Some studies suggest that certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, particularly oxybenzone, may have estrogenic effects in the body. This means they can act like the hormone estrogen and potentially disrupt normal hormonal function, which can have implications for reproductive health and hormone-related conditions.
Environmental impact: Chemical sunscreen ingredients can also have adverse effects on the environment. When washed off in oceans, rivers, or lakes, they can accumulate and contribute to coral bleaching, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and harm marine life. This environmental impact has led to the banning or restrictions of certain chemical sunscreen ingredients in some regions to protect sensitive marine environments.
What's the best natural face sunscreen?
Find more information on our new, all natural physical zinc sunscreen especially formulated for the face, neck, chest and hands. All ingredients have been carefully selected to support sensitive and breakout prone skin.
Your most important anti-ageing & protective face care product.
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Why we love natural vitamin C
1. Natural vitamin C is extracted from fruits, berries & vegetables via processing methods that don't introduce any chemical additives.
2. Natural vitamin C is more easily absorbed by the body and often more potent than synthetic vitamin C.
3. Natural vitamin C contains additional beneficial components such as antioxidants, minerals, and enzymes that are not found in synthetic versions.
Why we want to avoid synthetic vitamin C in skincare?
1. Synthetic vitamin C products often contain additives left behind during chemical processing that can accumulate in the liver or cause sensitivity in the skin.
2. Synthetic vitamin C in skincare is not as easily absorbed & if not formulated correctly won’t absorb at all.
3. Synthetic vitamin C is less potent and less stable than natural vitamin C.
Checking a label
When it comes to vitamin C we can't simply search for names and know if they are natural or synthetic as many ingredients share the same name. Check that the product specifies natural vitamins have been used and if in doubt, ask!
Vitamin C that could be natural or synthetic
1. Ascorbic acid
2. L-Ascorbic acid
3. Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
Vitamin C Ingredients that are always synthetic
1. Ascorbyl Palmitate
2. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
3. D-Isoascorbic acid
Other ingredients high in Vitamin C that are natural
1. Kakadu Plum
2. Rosehip Seed Oil
3. Goji Berry
4. Sea Buckthorn
5. Citrus fruits
Here's our top picks for all-natural vitamin C skincare for anti-ageing & skin brightening.
Natural vitamin C assist in stimulating collagen production and reduce the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Used in a complete skin care regime your natural cell turnover is boosted, fading away superficial sun damage and revealing a brighter and smoother complexion. Combined with an infusion of nourishing active ingredients to restore moisture levels your skin is revitalised and renewed.
To find your nearest Lèkura® Skincare Specialist visit www.lekura.com.au or send us a message on Instagram www.instagram.com/lekura_australia
]]>Endocrine disrupting ingredients in skincare products are wreaking havoc on our health and well-being. These ingredients, while they may make our skin look good, can actually be extremely harmful to our bodies. Endocrine disrupting ingredients are known to cause hormone imbalances and some are known carcinogens.
So, what are the endocrine disrupting ingredients in skincare products?
Here’s a list of 10 of the more common ones to look out for:
These endocrine disrupting ingredients can be found in many skincare products, but why are they so bad for us? Endocrine disrupting ingredients have been linked to numerous health problems, including infertility, cancer, reproductive issues, and hormone disruption.
They can also lead to skin irritation and allergies. The good news is that there are safe alternatives to these endocrine disrupting ingredients. Natural plant derived skincare products are a great way to keep your skin healthy and free from harmful toxins.
Plant-based ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil, and kakadu plum are all safe and effective options that nourish and protect the skin without any of the toxic chemicals.
So, next time you’re shopping for skincare products, be sure to read the labels and look out for endocrine disrupting ingredients. Switch to natural plant-derived skincare products and you’ll be doing your skin and your health a huge favour.
Want more? Follow us
Shop plant-based skincareThousands of Australians have lost their homes and business to flood waters and extreme weather conditions across the east coast. As pictured you can see entire towns are underwater.
We have done our research and found emergency and relief support teams actively on the ground in Queensland (QLD) and New South Wales (NSW) helping the community from this devastation.
The Salvation Army has estimated 18,000 homes to be impacted during the floods, their emergency services currently have 10 teams assisting evacuation centres across QLD and NSW. This includes providing meals, care packages, bedding, financial assistance, emotional and practical support.
Here's some ways to help:
1. Make a direct donation to the Salvation Army Flood Appeal here https://disaster.salvationarmy.org.au/lekura
2. Share this post by copying the link to your Facebook wall or share the link with family, friends and colleagues via email or text.
3. If you are on our website because you are looking to purchase skincare, click here https://bit.ly/3sKXEJRWe are donating 10% of all skin kit sales to the flood appeal, and to say thank you we will also apply a 5% discount to your order.
See images below:
What is happening under the mask:
OIL & BACTERIA
When you wear a fabric face mask, oil & dead skin becomes trapped, blocking your pores and increasing the rate in which bacteria multiplies. This often leads to congestion & breakouts in the area.
HUMIDITY
A mask over your mouth & nose also traps your breath & sweat creating a humid pocket of recycled air. Bacteria thrive in this environment and increase the rate of breakouts forming.
FRICTION
Consistent movement & rubbing across the skin can lead to irritation, red and broken skin which can leave the skin feeling sore and looking raw.
SENSITIVITY
If you have become more sensitive and noticed redness with flaking skin you may have developed an allergy or dermatitis from the chemicals used to fabricate the mask.
Due to the combination of chemicals and moisture under the mask it often develops into fungal dermatitis which is also itchy & sore. If this is you, it is best to immediately stop wearing a face mask until your skin has completely healed and visit your doctor for an exemption. If you continue to wear a mask your skin is unable to heal.
COLD SORES
We have seen a large increase in cold sores spreading due to face masks being worn over outbreaks. A face mask is not recommended over a cold sore when it is active. Mask movement can transfer the virus around the mouth and nose. Once spread that area is likely to have re-occurring outbreaks. Do not touch your face with your hands or any covering during an outbreak. If you have no other option than to wear a mask for work reasons apply a cold sore patch over the entire outbreak and use disposable masks only. *The humid environment can still be a concern so limit use where possible.
WHAT TO DO
Whenever possible take your mask off to release humidity and allow the skin to breathe.
Change your mask every 1-2 hours as a minimum. The more often you change it the healthier your skin will be.
If your mask is reusable, soak in an antibacterial soak for at least 15 minutes before washing.
Choose a face shield over a mask (if you can) to avoid friction over irritated skin.
If your skin is breaking out look at purifying skin products and use them thoroughly morning and night.
If your skin is becoming irritated and sensitive use sensitive skincare and keep the skin well hydrated and nourished.
Regular facials with your skincare specialist are a huge help in correcting the environment of your skin and speed up the clearing of breakouts and repair of redness from sensitivity.
If you need more assistance in how to prevent breakouts and stop sensitive skin issues you can talk to a qualified skincare specialist by emailing us at contact@lekura.com.au.
TOP IMAGE - Acne caused by daily wear of a fabric face mask.
BOTTOM IMAGE - 3 weeks of using Purity Essential 5 and frequent changing of face mask.
Purity Essential 5 https://bit.ly/3sMMbsd
TOP IMAGE - Sensitivity caused by daily wear of a fabric face mask.
BOTTOM IMAGE - 8 weeks of using Redness Relief Serum, Superfood Basic Starter Kit and very minimal use of face mask. ( Also swapped medical mask for a chemical-free fabric mask when required )
Basic Starter Kit For Sensitive Skin https://bit.ly/3JAnWEj
Redness Relief PhytoGel https://bit.ly/3s02rXq
]]>However, did you know some particles used in face scrubs are detrimental to our skin’s health and the environment?
Face scrubs that contain particles with large uneven edges or sharp textures can cause damage to the skin, if the product also contains fragrance, colour or harsh preservatives this can increases the irritancy level.
Scrubbing your face with the incorrect exfoliant causes micro-tears, weakening the skins natural barrier functions. This can lead to inflammation (redness), sensitive skin flare ups such as eczema and dermatitis, visibly larger pores, or rough flaky textures. If you are prone to breakouts, you will likely experience an increase in papules as p-acne bacteria is spread from one pore to another.
There are also companies still using synthetic micro-beads as their scrub particles in their products (GASP!). Made of polyethylene (plastic) they are a major environmental hazard, washed down the bathroom sink or shower they end up in our oceans where they are consumed by aquatic life.
THE GOOD - There are many natural, biodegradable particles that are small, smooth and soft on the skin, rolling around to gently lift dead skin cells without irritation or micro-tears. Being derived from living plant sources they have additional benefits on our skin such as increasing moisture levels, calming sensitivity and delivering free-radicle fighting antioxidants.
Here’s a quick guide to the scrub particles most commonly found and what ones are good for us, bad for us and ugly for our environment.
THE GOOD - Biodegradable, no micro-tears and added benefits for the skin.
THE BAD - Scrubs that cause micro-tearing, irritation & sensitivity.
THE UGLY - Pollute our environment.
The Quick Scrub Test Checking the ingredient list is just part of selecting a good quality exfoliant. Pop a pea sized amount of the product on the back of your hand and massage in a circular motion. If you feel even the slightest pull or scratch on your skin it's going to be too harsh for your face.
Follow The Directions Even with a gentle exfoliant is it easy to overdo it. Always follow the directions on physical exfoliants, most recommending use 1-2 times per week, if in doubt ask your skincare specialist or send us a message.
Our Exfoliant Recommendations Based on Skin Type
Vitamin C Exfoliating Cream , Best for dry, mature and sun damaged skins. Contains biodegradable bamboo beads for a strong physical exfoliant without the micro-tearing.
Superfood Microfoliant, Best for sensitive and great for congested & breakout prone skin. Contains natural rice bran and oat flour for an ultra-gentle exfoliation.
Skin Renewal Beta-H Pads, Best for heavy congestion & active acne. Contains no scrub particles at all. If you have active acne its best to avoid scrubs all together until the papules have cleared.
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Greenwashing is an advertising trick with the very intent to mislead consumers who are looking for natural and environmentally friendly products into purchasing from them. It’s a tactic found across many industries such as fashion, food, home décor, skincare and more.
So how do we know who's being honest when it comes to skincare?
Don't assume. Dig deeper.
If you see an image of fruit in an advert, shop window, website, or flyer it does not mean that product is made of strawberries. If you see big bold words, do not just focus on that word, read the small print. You will often see brightly coloured plants, oceans, sunsets, fruits and more which grab your attention, but they don’t necessarily mean anything. You will also see bold key words on the front of products that are selected carefully to draw you in, that key ingredient may only be 0.001% of the product and the rest could be made from non-renewable, non-biodegradable synthetic materials.
FLIP IT OVER, read the back of labels and read the small print, still not sure of something? Ask. Labels are not always clear, although they should be if there's nothing to hide.
Naturally derived ingredients from plants, fruits, seeds, nuts and minerals all come from renewable sources, they are also easily taken back into the environment via our waterways when washed down the drain and have no negative impact on our environment. Example: Avocado oil
Most synthetic ingredients come from non-renewable sources, this means once we have used them all up they are gone for good! They may be of harm to aquatic life or our oceans when washed down the drain. Example: Micro-beads
If you have questions about ingredients feel free to message directly on Instagram, Facebook or the contact page on our website and one of our skincare specialists will get back to you as soon as we can.
www.facebook.com/lekuraofficial/
www.instagram.com/lekura_australia/
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Many people suffer with multiple skin concerns at any given time. For example, acne is often accompanied with excess oil, redness and dehydration. Wrinkles and sunspots are often forming at the same time as our skin starts to dry out and feel rough.
Things start to get tricky when we start googling for additional products to try and combat other skin conditions not covered by a basic 3 step routine. More importantly many brands or products don’t work together in harmony, or may be harmful when combined. (You can always check this by messaging the company before you purchase something new)
So how many steps should there be?
That all depends! A complete skincare routine should have 7 - 8 steps; however, we don’t recommend jumping into a large routine from soap & water. It’s best to start with your key basics and work up from there, talking to a skincare specialist as you go.
The 4 Key Basics for new skincare users
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Now this is just a starting point, if you want to keep it simple. It's a very basic routine and won’t correct all your skin concerns, however it will improve the overall health, cleanliness and feel of your skin. Ensure you can follow these 4 simple steps as directed before moving on to a full routine.
If you aren’t new to skincare and know the basic 4, let’s jump straight into a full skincare routine and discuss what happens in each step.
How to select the right products for you
A deep cleansing gel or foam is best for problematic skin including oily, breakout prone or acne skin types. A deep cleansing gel is also recommended for normal skin types who: Get dirty at work, do intense workouts often, wear makeup, wear heavy sunscreens.
A rich cleansing cream is best for dry, dull or mature skin types, richer cleansing creams replenish moisture in the skin during cleansing to ensure the skin stays well hydrated.
If you have sensitive, fragile, dehydrated or reactive skin you should look for a cleanser designed especially for sensitive skin types. These cleansers are often mylks or balms and maintain the skin pH and barrier functions during cleansing. These are also excellent for morning cleansing as they are extra gentle.
CLEANSERS Purity Cleansing Gel, All skin types, especially problematic, oily, people who get dirty at work. Superfood Cleansing Mylk, All skin types, especially sensitive and dehydrated. Vitamin C Cleansing Cream, Dry, mature and dull / pigmented skin. |
There are 3 types of exfoliating methods: Physical, Enzymatic or Chemical. Physical simply means a skin scrub. You manually work this product over the skin and buff away the dead skin cells from the surface. Depending on what ingredient makes the scrub component it can determine the skin condition they are best for, ultimately they aren’t designed for sensitive skins and great for dull and dry skins.
If you have sensitive, reactive or dehydrated skin we only recommend enzymatic exfoliation. However, enzymes are amazing and recommended for all skin types. The beauty of enzymes is they only remove the dead skin cells and leave your healthy cells in-tact, making them extra gentle.
Chemical exfoliation isn’t as scary as it sounds, we aren’t talking about lathering your face with burning chemical acids (although it sounds this way). “Chemical” is referring to the type of reaction seen when the product interacts with your skin cells. AHA’s is a common ingredient we hear about; this stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acids. We derive this from fruit and formulate it to be very gentle when blended into topical skincare, this form of exfoliation depends strongly on the Ingredient.
Here's a list to make it simple:
AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and Lactic acid are best for anyone serious about anti-ageing. Known to be excellent for fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration and sunspots.
BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are best for acne and congestion as it’s attracted to oil blockages in the skin.
WHEN TO USE Changes with each exfoliant, follow the directions but usually 2x per week
HOW MUCH TO USE Creams & gels squeeze out the size of a 10c piece Powders & microfoliants, 1 teaspoon mixed with water to form a workable paste Pads, 1 pad per use.
EXFOLIANTS Vitamin C Exfoliating Cream , Chemical(AHA’s) and physical scrub, best for dry, mature and sun damaged skins Superfood Microfoliant, Enzymatic (Fruits) best for sensitive and great for congested & breakout prone skin Skin Renewal Beta-H Pads, Chemical only (BHAs), best for congestion & acne |
The beauty of a face mask is you can target different areas of your face easily. We call this multi-masking. It’s good to have a few different face masks on hand so you can alternate each week or multi-mask when required. For most people the T-zone (across the nose, middle of chin and middle of the forehead) a purifying mask is best to help eliminate blackheads. If you have oily skin or acne you may do this all over. Everyone needs a hydration mask, especially around the eye area and others may need a moisture or skin brightening mask on the cheeks or all over.
WHEN TO USE Once a week
HOW MUCH TO USE An even coat that covers your skin, a full face is usually comparable to the size of a 50c piece
MASKS Purity Charcoal Mask , Removes oil, pollution and dirt from the pores Superfood Hydration Mask, Boost water content and calms irritated skin Vitamin C Brightening Mask, Adds moisture, plumps and brightens |
This step is often missed but so unbelievably important. Soon as you start to use a serum you should be using a hydration mist or tonic. They are designed to balance your skin's pH after cleansing or exfoliating and also boost the water content in your corneocytes (the skin cells you can see). Taking them from flat dehydrated cells to plump soft cells. This increases delivery of your active ingredients when applying your serums, oils and moisturisers.
Hydration mists (unlike tonics) can be used all day long to boost hydration levels.
WHEN TO USE Every morning & night before applying your serum or oil and throughout the day to boost hydration. They can also be used over the top of mineral and organic make up.
HOW MUCH TO USE 2 to 3 sprays over the face & neck
HYDRAMISTS Superfood HydraMist, Best for sensitive, combination and problematic skin Vitamin C HydraMist, Best for dry, mature and dull skin |
Eye serums and creams are the only product that should be used inside the orbital bone. If you feel the bone under your eyebrows you will be able to feel it all the way round. The skin inside this area is much finer than the skin on the rest of your face and can become clogged or react if you use a product not designed to penetrate this skin. We recommend applying these before your facial serums, oils and moisturisers. Serums go first followed by creams.
WHEN TO USE - Every morning & night
HOW MUCH TO USE - The size of a pea for both eyes
EYE PRODUCTS Collagen Eye Serum, Serum All skin types, including sensitive Eye Q Cream, All skin types, including sensitive |
These are the workhorse of any skincare routine. Serums, treatment oils and boosters contain the highest concentration of active ingredients. Used correctly these are the products that bring you those results you can see and feel! They require all of the above steps to effectively work. Cleansing and exfoliation increases the penetration of these active’s, hydramists improve the delivery and moisturisers lock them in!
WHEN TO USE Follow product directions, some are designed for use at night and others can be used morning and night.
HOW MUCH TO USE The size of a 5c piece for the face or a 10c piece for face, neck & décolletage (chest area)
SERUMS & OILS HydraBoost Serum, Boosts water content for dehydration Multi-Active Pigment Control, Brightening serum for uneven & pigmented skin Vitamin C SkinBoost, Anti-ageing serum with 20%Vitamin C Superfood DermaOil, Nourishing, repairing, soothing, moisture boosting & anti-ageing Redness Relief PhytoGel, Reduces redness and hydrates |
Moisturisers contain a blend of lipids and water with an emulsifier to bind the two together and deliver actives to the skin. The molecular weight is larger than serums and treatment oils targeting the upper layers of the epidermis. They deliver and lock in vital skin nutrients, vitamins and minerals. They protect the skin from environmental factors and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL).
WHEN TO USE Morning and Night after applying your treatment serum or oil. Following with a sun protection product in the mornings.
HOW MUCH TO USE The size of a 10c piece for the face or a 20c piece for face, neck & décolletage (chest area) .
MOISTURISERS Superfood Moisturiser, Normal, sensitive, dehydrated and combination-dry skins. Young skins and people new to professional skincare. Probiotic Balance, Breakout prone, oily, combination-oily and sensitive with papules or pimple like bumps present. Vitamin C Moisturiser, Anyone who wants to manage skin ageing, brightens skin tone, hydrates, smooths fine lines and wrinkles. Q10 Moisture Rich, Mature and dry skins who want an intensive moisturiser for anti-ageing and boost moisture levels. |
Last but not least, protecting your skin from the sun!
UVA (ageing) & UVB (Burning) rays are a huge contributing factor to premature ageing, not to mention the risk of skin cancer from overexposure. Luckily you have options for protecting you skin from UV damage, many mineral makeups both liquid and powders contain an SPF (sun protection factor) and if you are only in the sun for short periods this may be all you need. If you are in the sun for over 15 minutes a day or the UV index is over 3 you should be applying a sunscreen daily. This includes time in the car & sitting next to windows.
There are 2 categories for sun protection, physical or chemical. To keep it simple chemical sunscreens react with the UV to expel it from your skin, and physically work as a shield to reflect and block absorption. We recommend a physical sunscreen as we aren't big fans of the ingredients found in chemical sunscreens and what they do to our environment.
WHEN TO USE Every Morning!
HOW MUCH TO USE Ensure even coverage over your face, neck, chest and the back of your hands for daily use.
SUN PROTECTION Zinc Daily,(previously UV Daily Protect Moisturiser) All skin types, hydrating natural zinc base sun protectant for daily wear. |
Want to give Lèkura a try? Use this code to receive 15% off your first order TRYME.
Questions? Send us a message to talk with one of our qualified Skincare Specialist
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