Beauty spots: midsummer instant-gratification edition

There are more beauty products than ever hitting the market, and with them, lots of hype. That said, there are always a few that stand out as they address a certain, very timely need. At the height of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, we’re interested in sun protection, mitigation of sun damage and anything else that allows one to keep her cool.
      Here are some interesting products that heated up our inboxes since the summer solstice.

Gleamin Vitamin C Clay Mask (US$39·99, 2·1 oz, gleamin.com, amazon.com)

What it is
      A soothing superfoods face mask made with certified organic alœ vera and native Australian plants that helps even out skin tone to reveal dewy, refreshed skin. It was created by Christchurch, New Zealand native Jordan Smyth, who suffered from childhood rosacea and sensitive skin triggered by exposure to the sun. His goal was to create a mask for at-home use that was formulated for users of all ages over 12 and various skin types.

What’s in it
      • Australian clay, turmeric extract, kale extract, desert lime extract, finger lime extract, kakadu plum extract, aloe vera leaf juice, castor oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil, essential oils of bergamot, jasmine and ylang ylang and vitamins E and B5.
      • Comes with a small applicator brush for a more sanitary application.

What it does
      Alœ vera calms flush and irritation, while turmeric and the various native Australian plants infuse the skin with vitamin C and antioxidants to fade dark spots and other blemishes while improving facial skin’s texture. A secondary benefit of the mask is increasing collagen synthesis. It dries in ten minutes and will not stain, unlike home-made turmeric masks.

Medik8 Liquid Peptides (US$59, 1 fl oz, skinstore.com, amazon.com)

What it is
      This UK brand’s Liquid Peptides is intended to enhance the results of one’s summer skin care routine, making the results of sunscreen and vitamin C in the morning and vitamin A at night more quantifiable.

What’s in it
      • Martixyl 3000: a combination of peptides that stimulate collagen production.
      • Argirelox: works to fight expression wrinkles by minimizing contractions.
      • Drone-targeted copper peptide: amulti-step peptide penetration system delivering the peptide-packed 30 per cent serum deep into the epidermis to target exactly where needed for optimum results.

What it does
      The serum helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, mitigating the signs of skin ageing. The hydrating, crystal-clear serum sinks effortlessly and rapidly into the skin, leaving it visibly smooth with an improved look of firmness.

The Facelift by Joyce Bonelli Cosmetiques (US$25, JoyceBonelliCosmetiques.com)

What it is
      Temporary face tightening and lifting treatment serum for those not ready for fillers or maintaining a youthful appearance between fillers.

What’s in it
      The serum contains proprietary blend of argan oil (which has omega fatty acids), vitamin E, and linoleic acid) to create the ultimate filler effect.

What it does
      The Facelift instantly resurfaces skin to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially in areas where one would consider getting Botox or another filler. Inventor Joyce Bonelli recommends adding it as a step between moisturizer and foundation in one’s morning routine and notes it can replace a primer for a ‘more natural look’.

KB Shimmer Fillin’ Groovy and Creme Nail Colour (US$6·50–11·50, kbshimmer.com, amazon.com)

What it is
      A nail filler offering a more “polished” home manicure.

What’s in it
      Butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, nitrocellulose, adipic acid–neopentyl glycol–trimellitic anhydride copolymer, acetyl tributyl citrate, isopropyl alcohol, talc, stearalkonium bentonite, acrylates copolymer, hydrogenated castor oil–sebacic acid copolymer, styrene–acrylates copolymer.

What it does
      The Fillin’ Groovy base coat acts like double-sided sticky tape to create a long-lasting bond between the nail and coloured polish by filling ridges for smooth application and preventing staining for a more professional manicure appearance. It also helps prevent staining. KB Shimmer’s crème pastel neon colours echo this summer’s colour story. To get the best results, take your time applying shades like Papaya Don’t Preach by brushing on three thin layers, letting each layer dry between coats, and topping with a base coat.

QMS Medicosmetic (US$260, collagen system kits, qmsmedicosmetics.com)

What it is
      A line of luxury clinical skin care founded by a top European cosmetic surgeon. The results-driven formulas are engineered to recharge skin vitality and tissue renewal with medical-grade formulations based on scientific research.

What’s in it
      Collagen is the focus of the brand as it is the most abundant protein in the human body. It makes up more than half of the total volume of protein found in the skin and what makes it strong, thick, supple, and smooth. It also gives skin its structure and contributes to 60 per cent of the skin’s moisturizing processes. Other proprietary ingredients include niaminicide, Biometric Placenta 5 Growth Factor, and luxurious silk proteins.

What it does
      QMS utilizes high-grade skin-identical collagen originating from German bovine for ultimate results. This type of collagen absorbs into the skin creating longer lasting results and does not deteriorate. QMS uses a patented and exclusive delivery system and Neotech A15, a proprietary collagen–hyaluronic acid complex to reintroduce collagen to protect the skin’s barrier function.

MixX Laboratory (US$14·99–$29·99, mixxlab.com)

What it is
      A line of mix and match concentrated serums and essences to create a uniquely personal and precise beauty regimen for a variety of skin care concern.

What’s in it
      MixX products are free of irritants such as alcohol, fragrances, artificial pigments, parabens, essential oils, or unrefined petroleum.
      Best sellers include: the Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Essence with 0·6 per cent hyaluronic acid; Pro-Xylane Facial Light-Stripe Anti-Aging Essence with 10 per cent pro-xylane, and Idebenone Tightening Essence.
      The shining star of the line is the Idebenone 1% Antioxidant Tightening Essence which features a proprietary liposomal technology which not only nourishes the skin, but corrects long-term damage.

What it does
      Tightens, brightens, hydrates, and nourishes all skin types and conditions. Each serum or essence can be used alone or in combination with another serum, or add a drop or two to your daily moisturizer, or foundation to enhance product performance.

Botanics Pure Botanicals (US$9·99–11·99, ulta.com, walgreens.com)

What it is
      Enriched with their heritage of plant-powered skin care, Botanics has designed three new serums to deliver potent, targeted benefits using plant-based alternatives to your beauty cabinet favorites designed to mimic chemical results.

What’s in it
      Snow Mushroom is nature’s alternative to hyaluronic acid, while Bakuchiol is the irritant-free substitute for retinal. The eye serum is formulated is enriched with 3 per cent caffeine to de-puff, firm and fade dark circles. Essential oils relax and energize the senses for a spa experience at home.

What it does
      Caffeine triggers initiates tissue repair, while Bakuchiol triggers collagen production and cell turnover. Aromatherapy oils provide an overall sense of well-being and harmony.