Presented partnership with Alkira, which is offering 20% off with the code Primer20.
There are many upsides to being a beauty editor (let’s just say I haven’t bought many beauty products over the years). But there are downsides, too, such as the skin sensitivity that I developed after testing too many products early in my career.
Thankfully, I’ve learned that gentle, natural skincare products are best for me. And here’s the excellent news: natural beauty has come a long way since I started out.
The crunchy creams of old have become highly sophisticated. These days, there’s no need to compromise on performance when it comes to cleaner beauty alternatives. (In fact, it’s where many of the big beauty companies are spending their R&D budgets.) At the same time, Australian botanical ingredients are becoming increasingly sought-after thanks to their efficacy and the allure of Australia’s carefree outdoor lifestyle.
These days, there’s no need to compromise on performance when it comes to cleaner beauty alternatives
So, when Alkira – a simple, natural, Australian range – came on my radar, I was keen to test it out. Created by the founders of Sukin, Simon O’Connor and Alison Goodger, Alkira features an array of active Australian botanical ingredients – all aimed at delivering glowing skin, the natural way.
Each of the products features ingredients that have been selected “for their own unique skin-loving profile,” says Goodger. “Some are rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, vitamins and other nutrients.”
Look For Brightening Ingredients
When it comes to brightening up dull skin, and reducing dark spots and pigmentation, vitamin C is your secret weapon. Alkira’s Vitamin C + Facial Oil not only features naturally occurring Vitamin C (thanks to Kakadu Plum) but also contains a cocktail of Vitamin A (from Rose Hip Oil), which helps deeply hydrate and strengthen your skin’s barrier so it’s ready for the chilly winter days ahead.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Upping the ante in the moisture department is one of the most obvious – and overlooked – ways to boost your skin’s glow-factor. Look for creams packed full of hydrating ingredients, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and nourishing butters (like Alkira’s Nourishing Facial Moisturiser) and if you are spending the day outdoors be sure to add an extra layer (and don’t forget SPF).
Oils are another great way to top up your moisture levels and they also help seal in the goodness. Alkira’s Hydrating Facial Oil has 14 plant and nut oils purposefully picked for their antioxidant, essential fatty acid and nourishing profiles. Simply layer it underneath your moisturiser for an instant hydration pick-me-up.
In winter, it’s especially important to use an ultra-hydrating night moisturiser to allow your skin to regenerate overnight. We like Alkira Moisture Repairing Night Cream with Kangaroo Paw and Desert Lime, which offer potent natural antioxidants that fight free radical damage and strengthen your skin’s barrier.
Mask It
To really get glowing, consider a face mask that’s specifically aimed at hydration and radiance. Look for ingredients that are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and the signs of visible ageing, such as Kakadu Plum, Quandong, Davidson Plum and Finger Lime Caviar, as well as those that are super-hydrating, such as Avocado and Aloe Vera. Alkira’s Mineral Radiance Facial Masque features all these ingredients and more. Just add a good book and a candle, and you’re set.
Next-gen skincare products like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), used to remove dead skin cells, are often derived from natural ingredients that come from fruit sugars. (In Alkira’s case, from Vitamin-C-rich fruit like Finger Lime Caviar).
So, if – like me – your skin is starting to feel the effects of winter (tightness, dry patches and irritation) try these five tips for getting your glow back:
Forget harsh cleansers
Glowing skin is well-hydrated skin, so forget harsh cleansers that leave your face feeling tight. Instead, try a natural, calming alternative, which will help protect your skin’s barrier and ensure moisture is locked into the skin. Try Alkira Hydrating Cleanser, featuring active Australian botanicals like Lilly Pilly, Kangaroo Paw and Desert Lime which deliver a hydrating and gentle cleanse.
Exfoliate Your Skin
Like dust on a polished surface, old, dead skin cells can make even the dewiest skin look dull and lacklustre.There are two kinds of exfoliants: chemical and physical.
Physical exfoliants are also known as scrubs, such as Alkira Pore Refining Facial Scrub, which sloughs away old cells with fine granules of volcanic scrub and pairs them with Aniseed Myrtle, Emu Apple and Lemon Myrtle extracts. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand,use acids to melt away dead skin cells. Alkira’s Vitamin C + Tonic includes naturally occurring citric acid to provide a gentle exfoliation. For the best results keep it to only 1-2 times per week.
This content is presented in partnership with Alkira, which is offering PRIMER readers 20% off all products on their website and free shipping with the code: primer20
BY Lucy Adams
Lucy is a beauty editor who lives in Sydney
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