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Anti Ageing Hero – Ceramides & Skin Care

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ANTI-AGEING HEROES – CERAMIDES

In this Anti-Ageing Heroes article, we turn our attention to ceramides. They’re often touted as a “wonder ingredient’ in skincare formulations, but what’s the truth that lies behind the hype?

So what are Ceramides?

Ceramides are a type of lipid (fat) and a major component of the stratum corneum. Like hyaluronic acid, they are present in the spaces between skin cells and are part of the “glue” that holds them together. Their main anti-ageing benefit is that they provide a waterproof protective barrier and prevent Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL), maintaining skin hydration levels while keeping bacteria and pollutants out – vital for clients living in urban areas.

Ceramides and hyaluronic acid are perfect companions: the former helps to maintain lipid levels while the latter attracts water and holds it in the skin. Combine them, and you’ve got an anti-ageing powerhouse.

GOING, GOING, GONE

Like hyaluronic acid – and most other beneficial skin components – ceramide levels deplete as we age. External factors such as UV radiation, pollution, poor diet and even the winter months can also sap the supply, so it’s important to replenish them.

Without adequate levels, the skin’s protective barrier becomes compromised, leaving it more susceptible to damage.

As if this wasn’t bad enough, low ceramide levels make signs of ageing more prominent – those wrinkles look so much worse when skin is dehydrated.

RENEW AND REPLENISH

Although there are many creams on the market that contain ceramides, it’s more effective to provide skin with the tools to make its own. “Vitamin A has a normalising effect and helps to create healthy keratinocyte cells which are involved in the synthesis of ceramides. When a healthy keratinocyte travels up through the layers of the skin and reaches the stratum corneum, it releases lipids as it dies, which maintain the barrier function. If this barrier is damaged it won’t do this as effectively, which is why Vitamin A – topically and orally – is essential”.

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGH

You may already know that ceramides can be applied topically, but you may not be aware of incredible results that can be achieved by consuming them in supplement form.

Oral ceramides used to be made from animal sources, but in recent years scientists turned their attention to plant-based versions, known as phyto-ceramides. A major scientific breakthrough occurred when a gluten-free, wheat-derived phyto-ceramide was discovered. Several studies showed that in hydrated skin and restored its youthful structure after the protective barrier function had been impaired, and further research showed that it reduced the levels of free radicals in the skin and inhibited elastase, an enzyme that destroys elastin. These results indicate that the ingested phyto-ceramides were transported to the lower layers of the skin via the bloodstream and then made their way up to the surface to restore barrier function, just as Mother Nature intended.

SKIN MOISTURE LOCK: A GAME-CHANGING NEW LAUNCH

The transformative power of ceramides and hyaluronic acid is the inspiration behind Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Moisture Lock, a patent pending anti-ageing supplement which launched this month and is now available at Beauty Fresh. The evidence behind the two key components of Skin Moisture Lock is extremely compelling. Clinical research on the hyaluronic acid element demonstrated a 19% improvement in wrinkle depth and 11% increase in hydration. It’s fast acting too, blood levels of hyaluronic acid were raised after just seven days of use, wrinkle depth improved by 19% and hydration improved by 11%. A study on the ceramides component of Skin Moisture Lock showed that facial hydration was significantly improved after 4 weeks, crow’s feet were reduced after 8 weeks and collagen increased by a staggering 48%. Skin roughness and radiance were also significantly improved compared to placebo group.

“THE RESULTS WE ACHIEVED WHEN WE COMBINED HYALURONIC ACID AND CERAMIDES WERE TRULY GAME CHANGING”

Lorraine Perretta, llaa head of Nutrition

“Although the efficiency of each individual ingredients is remarkable, the results we achieved when we combined them were truly game-changing” she adds. “Each new launch from the Advanced Nutrition Programme has to be rigorously tested before we release it to the market. When we tested Skin Moisture Lock in our purpose-built Skin Health Research Centre we saw that this unique combination of ceramides and hyaluronic acid achieved astonishing results”

Our pilot study has shown that Skin Moisture Lock

• Increased hydration by 64%
• Improved wrinkle depth by 28%
• Improved skin integrity by 20%
• Improved skin smoothness by 20%

PERFECT PARTNERS

You may wonder what the difference is between Skin Moisture Lock and Skin Omegas+. The answer is that they compliment each other perfectly. Skin Moisture Lock works in the spaces between the cells to protect skin, keeping it supple and hydrated, while Skin Omegas+ work on the cell itself, strengthening the lipid membrane and helping it to retain moisture. A combination of both will achieve the best anti-ageing outcome.

Happy Gut = Healthy Skin

Posted: October 22, 2019

Do you want beautiful, healthy skin and to support a normal, healthy gut? What we put on our skin on the outside is massively important as the wrong creams and lotions can wreak havoc and leave the skin feeling and looking very compromised. However, rebalancing the skin from the inside is going to reach cells […]

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Anti Ageing Hero – Ceramides & Skin Care

Posted: September 9, 2019

ANTI-AGEING HEROES – CERAMIDES In this Anti-Ageing Heroes article, we turn our attention to ceramides. They’re often touted as a “wonder ingredient’ in skincare formulations, but what’s the truth that lies behind the hype? So what are Ceramides? Ceramides are a type of lipid (fat) and a major component of the stratum corneum. Like hyaluronic […]

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Welcome Spring with a fresh, balanced skin

Posted: March 11, 2019

Spring is finally around the corner so it’s time to prepare our skin for these first rays of sunshine. Matis Reponse Pureté is a line of 6 products created to help combined to oily skin-types regain their radiance and purity. The active ingredients present in the line treat large pores, improve dull complexion and correct […]

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Summer & Dry Skin… Intense Climate Changes

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Matis Reponse Jeunesse Climatis is a climatic protective balm suitable for all skin types exposed regularly or seasonally to cold climates and/or intense climate variations. A shield of protection, Climatis helps restore a skin protection barrier to deal with environmental conditions (cold, wind, dryness, bad weather, etc.).

Climatis is a fantastic moisturising cream to shield and protect my skin that is regularly exposed to the outdoors – be it dog walking, running, skiing, farming, this product is for you!

I suffer with dry skin, so this protection cream is perfect for me. It’s a virtual bodyguard for my skin!!!

Main Active Ingredients:

-Matisurvie Triple Protection: this active is composed of a lipid extract of golden algae (Laminaria ochroleuca) which allows dry skin to rehydrate under severe winter conditions. It also helps prevent dehydration during environmental stress (heat or osmotic shock, biological effects of sunrays on the skin).

-Kokum Butter: from the Garcinia Indica almond, this tree from India is rich in unsaturated fatty acids which give nourishing, protective, soothing, softening and regenerating actions to the skin.

-Shea Butter: rich in triglycerides, vitamins and unsaponifiables, it has regenerating and softening properties.

Application: I apply Climatic every morning and evening to my face and neck.

Summer 2019 Holiday & Travel ‘Mini’ Essentials

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So who’s excited that summer is FINALLY here? We know there were a few lovely days in May, but now it’s July, it’s actually summer!

Which of course means our skin goes into meltdown at the change of seasons, sun, heat, make-up getting sticky, sweating more, air conditioning, chlorine filled swimming pools and effects of lots of late evenings spent drinking a cold beer or G&T in a warm garden or at a festival.

And when we travel, we don’t always think about what our skin needs, as much as what our weight allowance is, or what’s nearly empty, so may as well come with us to be finished and binned while we’re on holiday. You know you’ve done it!

So, to help with skin meltdowns, luggage allowance dilemmas and general summer skincare issues, Beauty Fresh has got some mini skincare products to suit every skin type. Containing products small enough to fit into hand luggage, but mighty enough to keep your skin happy and glowing all summer long.

Take a look here for all your holiday needs>>>

Summer Hydration: Crystal Clear Revitalising Tonic

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You cannot underestimate how important it is to keep skin hydrated on a daily basis. The effects of anything else we use on our skin will be dramatically reduced if the skin isn’t hydrated in the first place.

Crystal Clear Revitalising Tonic

The products you use won’t penetrate correctly and therefore you won’t see the impressive results you’re after or maybe other people boast. Worse, you won’t notice much change to your skin.”

Hydrate all year round

A lot of people understand this but make the mistake of only applying it when it’s hot or when they’re travelling but Beauty Fresh is certain,

“You need to look after your hydration every single day, all year round – it’s not just a summer thing. If you know any keen runners or you are one yourself, you’ll know they talk about hydrating the day before big races. If you are hydrated, your body feels better and can perform better. The same is true for your skin. If you’ve got an important day ahead or glamorous night out – hydrate well the day before and you’ll notice a sparkle. Your skin will feel lighter and brighter to you. And people will notice!”

What is your secret to keeping your skin hydrated?

Liquid intake is key…

Cerys from Crystal Clear: “Obviously liquid intake is the most important thing. I drink a lot of cold water, love smoothies and protein shakes but people worry a lot about caffeine. Everyone has a contradicting theory but coffee or tea are still fine for hydration, as long as they’re not the main part of your liquid intake. As always, it’s about moderation.

Tonics & spritz will add to hydration

But if you want to go a little further – Crystal Clear Revitalising Tonic is a daily must throughout the year for me. It’s permanently on my desk, in my car, in my handbag! In the summer or on holidays I keep it in the fridge and use it as a hydrating spritz. It reduces any risk of suffering with dehydrated skin.”

So there you have it. Drink lots, and perhaps invest in a hydration tonic or spritz if you want to go a little further. We hope you’ve liked this skincare tip from the top.

Top 5 Best Hydrating Face Primers – 2019

Posted: August 7, 2019

A face primer has longed become a staple in our make-up bags. And for good reason! Skincare and makeup work together to create a flawless canvas. Primers have the power to transform your skin whilst keeping your makeup in place and looking perfect all day long. What Does A Primer Do? A face primer goes […]

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Summer & Dry Skin… Intense Climate Changes

Posted: July 10, 2019

Matis Reponse Jeunesse Climatis is a climatic protective balm suitable for all skin types exposed regularly or seasonally to cold climates and/or intense climate variations. A shield of protection, Climatis helps restore a skin protection barrier to deal with environmental conditions (cold, wind, dryness, bad weather, etc.). Climatis is a fantastic moisturising cream to shield […]

0 comments

Summer 2019 Holiday & Travel ‘Mini’ Essentials

Posted: July 5, 2019

So who’s excited that summer is FINALLY here? We know there were a few lovely days in May, but now it’s July, it’s actually summer! Which of course means our skin goes into meltdown at the change of seasons, sun, heat, make-up getting sticky, sweating more, air conditioning, chlorine filled swimming pools and effects of […]

0 comments

Summer Hydration: Crystal Clear Revitalising Tonic

Posted: July 2, 2019

You cannot underestimate how important it is to keep skin hydrated on a daily basis. The effects of anything else we use on our skin will be dramatically reduced if the skin isn’t hydrated in the first place. Crystal Clear Revitalising Tonic The products you use won’t penetrate correctly and therefore you won’t see the […]

0 comments

Vitamin C. The Skincare Super-Ingredient

Posted: June 27, 2019

Doctors recommend maintaining a healthy balanced diet in order to get our daily dose of Vitamin C (65 to 90 mg per day) that will help support our immune system and overall health. But recently, the spotlight has been on the increasing popularity of the use of Vitamin C in skincare products. What makes Vitamin […]

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Menopause, Moisturising & Matis – Wrinkles & Sensitive Skin

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Menopause is a natural part of ageing that usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as women’s oestrogen levels decline. In the UK, the average age for women to reach menopause is 51. However, around 1 in 100 women experience menopause before the age of 40.


Reduced levels of oestrogen and changing levels of hormones mean that your body stops producing as much collagen as well as losing its ability to retain moisture. This means thinner, dryer skin that is much more wrinkle prone and sensitive and can even break out in the kind of acne you thought you’d waved goodbye to in your teens. While this all sounds like just another practical joke from Mother Nature, there are lots of things you can do to combat these skin problems.

Reponse Intensive by Matis offers a global anti-ageing range dedicated to fighting against the first signs of ageing and hormonal imbalances. It will restructure, redensify and remodel the skin’s texture, we call this ‘the scaffolding of the skin.’ As we mature so does our skin, so we need to be preserving our youthfullness and aiding in supporting our skin’s primal functions. This range is dedicated to smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, enhancing the natural contours of the face and providing the skin with hero ingredients to combat common issues caused by menopause. It is the answer to skin needs for ages 45 years +

DRY SKIN

As you stop producing as much collagen and your natural cellular turn over slows down, the skin on your face can become much dryer. A gentle but rich face cream is essential to keep your skin supple. Intensive Remodelling Care is a dermal architect, it will encapsulate vitamins and minerals within the skin and gradually release throughout the day to preserve the DNA of the cells. This velvety texture will bring a sense of well-being to the skin which is dedicated to improving the skins barrier functions of improving firmness, tonicity and density. Remember to always apply your moisturiser to thoroughly cleansed skin to ensure maximum efficiency and always drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated from the inside. (50ml RRP £124.40).

SENSITIVE SKIN

With dryness comes an increased risk of sensitivity and redness on the face. Intensive Resourcing Cream will fortify and nourish to restore the skins deficiencies caused by hormonal imbalances. Extracts of black pearl of Tahiti is particularly rich in calcium, copper, magnesium and zinc. These are prime minerals and elements which promotes the epidermis’ ionic balance to repair and restore the skin’s vital functions. A rich texture which brings comfort and suppleness to even the most sensitive of skins. (50ml RRP £126.20).

AGEING HANDS

Your hands are exposed to the sun more than any other part of your body so it’s only natural that they will show their age sooner than other parts of your body but add in reduced levels of elasticity and collagen and a depleted layer of fat under your skin – another side effect of the menopause – and your hands may well be much dryer and any veins are likely to show through more easily. Give your hands some extra TLC with the Re-sculpting Mask, not only to be used as a face mask but this mask can be used on the back of your hands to treat brown spots, lack of skin density and dryness. With extracts of nanocitrus, this can slow down melanin production which is the cause of brown spots, by decreasing this and infusing the skin with Inca Inchi oil rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 the skin will be a lot brighter, plumped and hydrated. (50ml RRP £60.80).

HORMONAL ACNE

As hormones fluctuate, the skin can become congested and acne prone. Menopausal acne is typically deep under the skin rather than superficial and usually appears on the jaw line and around the chin and mouth. Revitalising Omega 3 Cream is a targeted treatment used on the whole face to help fragile skin, because of hormonal imbalances. This silky comfortable texture strengthens and repairs the skin’s surface, fights against collagen and elastin degradation and maintains a healthy skin environment by creating a feeling of well-being. Wild Yam extract is renowned as natural remedy for menopause. This cream which is infused with wild yam offers relief from hormonal imbalances which can cause discolouration of the skin such as brown spots, hot flushes and a fragile skin structure. This cream will act as a topical hormone rebalancer. (50ml RRP £103.20).

AGE SPOTS AND SUN DAMAGE

Melanin production is controlled by our Oestrogen levels so as they deplete during the menopause we become more susceptible to sun damage, pigmentation and age spots. Wearing a high SPF (don’t forget your hands) will help prevent age spots but if you already have brown spots that you’d like to reduce then Restructuring Evening Care will help to revitalise cell renewal and act on the complexion with radiance and uniformity. This intense evening treatment will mildly exfoliate with encapsulated glycolic for a delicate approach on the skin, slow down the production of melanin which will reduce the appearance of brown spots and improve firmness, tonicity and density. (50ml RRP £124.40).

*all products stated do not contain SPF however, Matis do offer City Protect SPF 50 from their Reponse Jeunesse Range (30ml £40.20).

Tips to make the menopause a little easier;

• Wear light clothing
• Keep your bedroom cool at night
• Take a cool shower
• Sip chilled water
• Try to reduce stress levels
• Avoid spicy foods
• Use a fan

Gatineau Defilift 3D Body Oil 200ml & Body Brush

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Gatineau Defilift 3D Body Oil 200ml & Body Brush

A beauty go-to for centuries, the properties of ‘oils’ have been used as both healing ailments as well as to nourish and condition the hair, skin and nails. And if this summer you are feeling that you constantly pile on the body lotion but your skin never quite feels properly hydrated then perhaps it’s time to embrace a body oil.

 

Body oils are also incredibly versatile. Not only are they the perfect formula for that ‘sensory’ spa-like treat, they’re also great for targeting particularly dry, flaky or problematic areas.   Whilst body moisturisers often do the job, body oil feels super luxurious and can deeply nourish in a way lotions sometimes can’t.

 

In summer, dry itchy skin can be caused by temperature change where skin is exposed more to the sun which can compromise our skin’s protective barrier and suck vital moisture out.   Our skin barrier is composed of natural oils and water and is designed to help keep moisture in and impurities and toxins out as well as help your skin’s natural repair process so when it becomes compromised so do we!

 

Enter Gatineau’s Defilift 3D Body Oil and body brush collection EXCLUSIVE to BEAUTY FRESH which certainly does not disappoint and is a firm favourite duo with both salon professionals and customers.

 

The Defilift 3D Body Oil is SO much more than just nourishing body oil and is formulated with a potent blend of active ingredients to target multiple skin issues and problem areas. Whether you have dry, flaky and itchy skin, uneven skin tone, ‘lumpy bumpy areas’ or if you are just looking for that all important anti-ageing boost, Defilift 3D Body Oil certainly ticks all the boxes.

Aside from the lingering bloom of Lotus scent, the formula is power-packed with a potent blend of botanicals.  With highly restorative Grapeseed Oil, to draining and circulation boosting Ivy Extract, to skin smoothing and anti-oxidant rich Green Tea, this really is the ‘Rolls Royce’ of body oils.

 

Use Defilift 3D Body Oil once a day after showering and apply to slightly damp skin massaging in until absorbed. And to really elevate its benefits, team it with a twice weekly ‘skin body brush’. Dry brushing really helps to effectively remove the build-up of dead skin cells whilst boosting the blood circulation and stimulating the release of unwanted toxins.

 

Trust me your skin will feel deeply nourished, supple and silky soft.  Skin will appear ageless and all those lumpy bumpy areas will look and feel smooth.

 

The art of Body Brushing:

Body brushing is easy and no pressure is required.

Body Brush twice a week before showering

Start at the ankles in upward movements towards the heart. This is because the lymphatic fluid flows through the body towards the heart so it’s more beneficial to brush in the same direction.  Just work the brush in upward stroking movements working towards the heart in light strokes.

Give particularly dry areas and cellulite special attention, but don’t scrub

Work in clockwise circular rotations over the abdomen in the direction of the digestive system

A vitamin-rich super smoothie for glowing skin

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Use the power of vitamins to revitalise the skin and give it back its natural glow. Matis Reponse Vitalite was designed to do exactly that, with a complex of vitamins A, C and E present in the formula of every product in this line.

Vitamin A is recognised in dermatology for its repairing power on skin damage. In skincare, it stimulates collagen production and helps improve skin texture and elasticity. Additionally, it helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines as well as pigmentation spots. Boosting skin cell renewal, vitamin A improves mature skin conditions, in which cell renewal is slowed down.

Vitamin C is another skincare super star. It offers great antioxidant action that helps to production of free radicals responsible for premature skin aging. It also contributes to the production of collagen and regulates the production of melanin. Gives energy and radiance to the skin.

Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that protects cell membranes from free radicals’ destructive actions. It slows down skin aging whilst also strengthening skin barrier function and therefore protecting the skin’s hydration reserves.

Start with the cleansing of your skin with the Vitalite Energising Cleansing Emulsion. This cleanser awakens the skin by gently removing all make-up and other impurities leaving the complexion luminous and revived. Complete the cleansing with the Vitalite Energising Lotion, a tonic spray which refreshes and stimulates the skin whilst boosting its radiance. You can take advantage of our amazing Reponse Vitalite Duo offer which gives both of the above products in a 400ml packaging at a great price!

For an intense revitalising action, apply the Vitalite Energising Serum or the Regenerating Serum.  The Energising Serum boosts in depth dull and stressed skin. It helps protect the skin from urban stress and regain its energy. For an extra energising boost, pair this serum with the Vitalite Energising Cream. It contains Peph-Active, an innovative plankton-based skin energiser that promotes cell renewal and improves the skin’s appearance.

The Regenerating Serum contains White Lupine which reinforces the natural restructuring systems of the skin and restores its barrier function. It helps strengthen the skin, whilst protecting and revitalising it. Enhance the serum’s action with the Vitalite Regenerating Cream which rebuilds the skin whilst bringing comfort.

To ensure a better penetration of the line’s active ingredients, it’s beneficial to exfoliate your skin once or twice a week with the Vitalite Energising Scrub. This is a gentle face exfoliator which removes dead cells as a result of a micro-pearls mechanical action.

In order to amplify the benefits of the vitaminic complex, you can apply once or twice a week the popular Vitalite Energising Mask. This fabulous product has a silky, pearlescent gel texture, a beautiful fragrance and is enriched with the MATIS Captozone complex which neutralises ozone molecules to preserve the vitality of the skin and revive the radiance of the complexion.

A super-food for your skin in a complete skincare ritual!

 

Matis – Fundamental Beautifying Creams…

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Fundamental Beautifying Cream; Matis Paris oldest formulation and a staple for your skincare routine

Reponse Jeunesse Fundamental Beautifying Cream, Matis Paris oldest formulation, remains one of the brand’s most iconic products of the last 80 years.

Suitable for all skins, it is a great product for people that have just started using skincare and they haven’t identified their skin’s specific needs just yet.

Fundamental Hydrating Cream has a luxurious, creamy texture, a fragrance of old school glamour and revitalising properties. It helps repair, stimulate, hydrate and protect the skin limiting imperfections thanks to its anti-bacterial action.

One of its main active ingredients, the mimosa Tenuiflora extract, has several properties including soothing, anti-bacterial, reparative and anti-oxidant actions.

The cream hydration action is thanks to its consistency in Hyaluronic Acid, a “sponge” molecule capable to retain up to one thousand times its weight in water. It helps hydrate the superficial layers of the skin and has a plumping effect on it.

Other active ingredients present in this formula are Silicium derivative which moisturises and limits the skin dehydration, Vitamin E which is a great anti-oxidant and palmitate of Vitamin A which stimulates skin renewal preventing cellular ageing.

Fundamental Beautifying Cream is particularly good to use after laser treatments and to apply on scars (6 weeks after the scar was created).

Check out more Matis creams here on the official Beauty Fresh website or be sure to read more reviews below…

Summer & Dry Skin… Intense Climate Changes

Posted: July 10, 2019

Matis Reponse Jeunesse Climatis is a climatic protective balm suitable for all skin types exposed regularly or seasonally to cold climates and/or intense climate variations. A shield of protection, Climatis helps restore a skin protection barrier to deal with environmental conditions (cold, wind, dryness, bad weather, etc.). Climatis is a fantastic moisturising cream to shield […]

0 comments

Vitamin C. The Skincare Super-Ingredient

Posted: June 27, 2019

Doctors recommend maintaining a healthy balanced diet in order to get our daily dose of Vitamin C (65 to 90 mg per day) that will help support our immune system and overall health. But recently, the spotlight has been on the increasing popularity of the use of Vitamin C in skincare products. What makes Vitamin […]

0 comments

Menopause, Moisturising & Matis – Wrinkles & Sensitive Skin

Posted: May 30, 2019

Menopause is a natural part of ageing that usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as women’s oestrogen levels decline. In the UK, the average age for women to reach menopause is 51. However, around 1 in 100 women experience menopause before the age of 40. Reduced levels of oestrogen and changing levels […]

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Matis Paris launches Hyalu Liss, new make-up primer with a cosmetic filling effect

Posted: May 29, 2019

There is bigger and bigger demand for multi-purpose make up products that also offer the benefits of skincare. Hyalu Liss is the new Matis Paris primer that was created to address this exact requirement as well as the requirement for a flawless make up base with anti-ageing action on two levels: filling wrinkles and smoothing […]

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Matis – Fundamental Beautifying Creams…

Posted: April 18, 2019

Fundamental Beautifying Cream; Matis Paris oldest formulation and a staple for your skincare routine Reponse Jeunesse Fundamental Beautifying Cream, Matis Paris oldest formulation, remains one of the brand’s most iconic products of the last 80 years. Suitable for all skins, it is a great product for people that have just started using skincare and they […]

0 comments