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Beauty Tips

All The Highlights From Mooi’s 2020 Christmas Parties

Posted by Haley Asbridge on

Our two festive events saw our VIPs and trusted clients join us for cocktails and chats to celebrate the year that was

Christmas Party

Last week we charged our glasses to another year of skin success at Mooi, with not one but two events to celebrate all the good things that have come from 2020, and to thank our community for all their support this year.

On Monday night, the Mooi Skin team were joined in-store by more than 30 Mooi & Me members for an exclusive panel discussion, luxurious pampering treatments, makeovers, zinc testing and one-night-only offers.

After picking up a refreshing cocktail by Clean Collective and nibbling on delicious antipasto created by the talented Esther Cunningham of Es+Her, our guests wandered inside to listen to four incredible women share their tips on how to achieve glowing skin this summer.

This included Haley Asbridge, who has spent the last 17 years in the beauty industry and founded Mooi Skin in 2018; Nicola Wood, Mooi’s resident naturopath, who also specialises in IPL to treat hyperpigmentation; Tania Mackenzie, a trained cosmetic nurse and brand representative for Aspect Dr and Cosmedix; and finally Emma Winitana, one of Mooi’s first ambassadors and one half of online community Human As.

The quad chatted with Ashleigh Cometti about the best ways to stimulate collagen production in the skin, using in-clinic treatments, topical skincare and supplementation, shared why zinc is so incremental to skin health, and provided inspiration on how to build the perfect at-home skincare routine.

On Thursday night, guests could spin our winning wheel and walk away with a voucher or product to make their festive season that little bit more merry.

The team from Platter & Palm were on hand to ensure tummies were full, while the Clean Collective team gave clients a first peek at their tasty new flavour – Pear & Elderflower with Vodka.

The pampering continued with complimentary treatments, makeovers, zinc testing and one-night-only offers, with many clients walking away with a gift for their loved ones (and themselves).

Photos / Jonny Scott

Wreath / Petal & Leaf

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The A, B, C’s Of Skincare: Everything You Need To Know About Vitamin B

Posted by Haley Asbridge on

It’s time to B proactive with your skin – here’s why using vitamin B internally and externally could be the key to better skin

How well do you know your A, B, C’s?

Our new blog series will take you through the need-to-knows of three key skin-loving vitamins – vitamin A, vitamin B and vitamin C.

This week, we’re talking about all things vitamin B. The myriad benefits of vitamin B include everything from combatting hyperpigmentation and busting breakouts, to softening skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, minus the irritation that often comes with using high dose retinol (vitamin A) or unstable vitamin C (but more on those later).

There are eight different classes of vitamin B, all of which are derived from different sources and offer a multitude of skincare benefits.

This includes vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9(folate or folic acid), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin).

Chances are you’ve heard of a handful of those forms of vitamin B, many of which are readily available from wholefood sources, such as dairy, meat, fish, vegetables, seeds and nuts.

When taken internally, a vitamin B complex can help maintain energy levels, support brain function and cell metabolism, as well as promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

Symptoms of a vitamin B deficiency include heightened sun sensitivity, acne, rashes, dry and flaking skin, cracked lips and wrinkles.

Typically, a vitamin B complex is water soluble, meaning it isn’t able to be stored by the body, which is why it’s essential to include vitamin B-rich foods in your daily diet or supplement accordingly.

In skincare, vitamin B is a powerful antioxidant that works to nourish skin and treat signs of ageing. The forms of vitamin B most commonly found in topical skincare include vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and vitamin B12 (cobalamin).

Vitamin B3 and vitamin B5 are suitable for all skin types and can be used both day and night. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, look out for products containing vitamin B3, or if you have normal to dry skin consider vitamin B5 as your new go-to.

So what do each of these skin-saving vitamins actually do?

Vitamin B3 reduces inflammation, signs of ageing, blemishes, and supports the function of the skin’s barrier, vitamin B5 helps to hydrate and nourish, while vitamin B12 works on a cellular level to increase cell regeneration and promote wound healing.

And where should you include them in your skincare regime?

Vitamin B3 is commonly found in acid-based toners or exfoliants, and pairs well with anti-acne or anti-ageing ingredients like retinol to help reduce the irritation it may cause.

Vitamin B5 is often found in hydrating serums, and works well with just about any skincare ingredient. Apply a vitamin B5-based serum after a toner and before any cream-based lotions for maximum absorption.

Vitamin B12 can be applied topically to combat inflammation, dryness and acne, as well as more severe skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

You’ll find these powerhouse vitamins and more contained within Aspect Dr Multi-B, $140, a high-performance serum that works to clarify and fortify the overall appearance of skin.

Suitable for all skin types, Aspect Dr Multi-B contains:

  • Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) to nurture stressed-out skin and boost skin recovery
  • Antioxidant Tocopherol Acetate for hydration
  • Homeo-Shield (also known as fucus serratus extract) an oceanic brown algae derivative that supports the function of the skin barrier for optimal protection against environmental aggressors and prevents trans-epidermal water loss
  • Vitazymes B Complex, a polypeptide blend of B vitamins, including niacinamide, panthenol and folic acid
  • Homeo-Soothe (ascophyllum nodosum extract from seaweed origin), revered for its calming and soothing properties
  • Canadian Willowherb Extract, an antioxidant that soothes and comforts
  • Aspect Signature Blend, a certified organic Australian superfood complex

For best results, dispense one pump into hands and apply to skin twice daily after cleansing. Layer with any other Aspect Dr serum to fast track results.

Note: Aspect Dr Multi B may contain traces of gluten; also contains marine extracts.

This season, purchase any two skincare products at Mooi and receive a free Aspect Dr Multi B. Terms and conditions apply. This offer is valid on any full-sized product from Aspect Dr, PCA and Cosmedix. The products purchased must be different. Offer available while stocks last.

For more information, visit Mooiskin.co.nz.

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Team Talks: Skin Specialist And Relaxation Expert Charlotte Sinclair

Posted by Haley Asbridge on

Our Team Talks series introduces you to the Mooi experts who will help transform your skin

MEET CHARLOTTE:

Following her graduation with a Diploma in Beauty and Spa Therapies from the Elite International Beauty School in 2014, Charlotte packed up her life and jetted off overseas to travel through the United States and Canada.

Her return home was timely, with Mooi Skin advertising for a part-time therapist to join the team. Haley and Charlotte had worked together in previous years, so Charlotte slotted into the Mooi team perfectly. Down the track, Charlotte moved into a full-time role after falling in love with the clinic and its team.

SKINCARE SECRET:

“My biggest skincare secret would be understanding how important the balance of oil and water levels in your skin are and absolutely essential for healthy, clear and glowy skin,” Charlotte says.

“For years (before my beauty training) I couldn’t understand why I was so oily yet so dry at the same time. I had congestion and oiliness on my T-Zone and desert dry cheeks – a very unbalanced combination skin type. Then I came to understand that your skin needs both oil and water hydration to be in a state of balance.”

“If you feel your skin is over-producing oil or gets shiny throughout the day, you may find that your water hydration levels in your skin are depleted and your skin can’t produce its own water to hydrate itself. So it overproduces oil to compensate,  leading to breakouts and congestion. The reverse is also true, if your skin is feeling dry yet you’re getting enough hydration from your skincare and diet, you may need to try incorporating some essential fatty acids into your lifestyle to balance your oil levels,” she advises.

DAILY ROUTINE:

Charlotte says she keeps her daily skincare routine simple, and doesn’t like to overcomplicate things. In the morning she’ll use the Cosmedix Purity solution cleanser, then Environ Eye Gel, PCA B Brightening Serum, PCA Clear Skin Moisturiser and PCA SPF, followed by Curtis Collection Mineral Makeup.

At night, Charlotte removes her makeup using Cosmedix Purity Solution Oil Cleanser, and double cleanses with Cosmedix Purity Clean Exfoliating Cleanser. Next is her Environ Eye Gel, Cosmedix Serum 24 and Cosmedix Remedy Oil. A few times per week Charlotte uses the Environ Revival Mask to exfoliate dead skin cells away, and tighten and plump skin.

SKIN PHILOSOPHY:

Charlotte shares her ‘keep it simple’ approach to skincare with her loyal clients. “Your skincare routine and treatment plan doesn’t need to be complicated. As long as you are using good quality products with active ingredients which are suited to your skin type and concerns, you will get amazing results and maintain happy, healthy skin,” she says.

“Regular monthly facials tailored to suit you will keep your skin in great condition and for more intense collagen-boosting and resurfacing benefits, a needling or IPL rejuvenation bootcamp once or twice a year will boost results at a deeper level,” Charlotte explains.

TREATMENT TO TRY:

Mooi Skin’s signature Trio is Charlotte’s favourite treatment for its tailored approach to treating all three layers of skin.

“The treatment starts with a peel to dissolve and break down the dead skin on the surface, followed by a deep cleanse to rid pores of debris, even out skin tone and hydrate. This is followed by an LED light treatment to boost collagen production, generate hyaluronic acid in the skin for hydration and repair, and deliver fresh nutrients to the skin. The finishing touch is a vitamin infusion which is tailored to suit your specific skin concerns, whether you’re in need of anti-ageing peptides, retinol, barrier strengthening or hydration,” she says.

CURRENTLY:

  1. Watching? YouTube videos normally, a few of my faves are Anna Jaffrey, Valeria Lipovetsky and Naomi Smart.
  2. Reading? The Low FodMap Diet. I’m learning about which food groups are harder or easier to digest for sensitive stomachs.
  3. Coveting?  Nothing! I try to live as minimally as possible
  4. Listening to? The Balanced Blonde and The Goop podcasts on Spotify
  5. Loving? Yoga, Pilates, meditation and gratefulness journalling.

 

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How To Tweak Your Skincare Regime With The Changing Seasons

Posted by Haley Asbridge on

These simple product swaps will have your skin ready for spring

 

In the same way that we change out our wardrobe depending on the season, so too, should we switch up our skincare.

Spring is synonymous with new beginnings, which makes it timely to also extend this mantra to the appearance of your skin.

In addition, the transition from winter to spring is easily the most substantial seasonal switch – as we move from the harsh winter cold to balmier, sunnier days.

Ready to climate-control your skincare? Spend the last remaining days of level 3 productively by following our easy tips to make your skincare switch a snap.

  1. Swap your moisturiser for a lighter formulation

    Moisturising in winter calls for richer, creamier products that work to lock in moisture and protect the skin’s barrier function. In spring and summer, the skin holds more water, meaning lighter, water- or gel-based products are excellent options to ensure skin remains hydrated. Focus on smoothing on light, hydrating layers over thick, moisturising ones.

    Mooi Loves: Aspect Dr Ultra Lightweight, $99 or our favourite PCA Hyaluronic Boosting Serum, $199.

     

  2. Level up your SPF

    If you’re a skincare buff, you’ll understand how crucial it is to apply SPF daily. While slathering on SPF15 is fine during the winter months, consider switching to SPF30-50 for extra protection against UVA and UVB rays from spring onwards. Look out for products that are both physical and chemical sunscreens, as they work in tandem to block out harmful rays. Even if you’re not planning on heading outdoors, SPF protects against the blue light emitted from screens and devices which can wreak havoc on skin, and cause hyperpigmentation and melasma.

    Mooi Loves: Aspect Sun Envirostat Face, $69 and PCA Sheer Tint $90

     

  3. Start scrubbing

    If an exfoliant isn’t already part of your weekly skincare regime, now’s the time to add one in. It’s a common misconception that you shouldn’t exfoliate dry skin – in fact, sloughing off dead skin with a gentle, exfoliating cleanser is the best way to reveal a brighter and more glowing complexion. Alternatively, opt for a cleanser with a minimal amount of glycolic acid to gently remove impurities and unblock pores.

    Mooi Loves: Cosmedix Purity Cleanser with Lactic Acid $81.50

     

  4. Try something new

    If you’ve been eyeing up a new mask, face peel or retinol to try, then add it into your regime now. Be careful to add it in slowly (every 3rd day to begin with or as your skin expert recommends) so your skin can tolerate the new active ingredients.

    The skin loves something new and a bit of a change to keep it working hard so a seasonal change Is perfect to bring back the glow.

    Mooi Loves: PCA Intensive Brightening Treatment, $175 and Refine Plus $126.50

     

  5. Forget full coverage

    The same ‘go lighter’ rule applies to makeup also, with the warmer months calling for tinted moisturisers over full coverage foundations. Products that are non-comedogenic are best, as sweat can clog pores and cause congestion.

    Mooi Loves: Curtis Collection CC Cream, $76

There’s a reason they call it “spring cleaning”, so after you’ve made your spring skincare switches, go through your products and discard anything that’s past its best. Flaky mascara, melted lipstick or discoloured moisturiser are among the worst offenders when it comes to causing breakouts and dull skin if used past their expiry date. Not sure how to check the expiry date of your products? The open cream jar symbol on the back of the bottle indicates the number of months a product is safe to use for (e.g. 6M, 12M, 24M).

Ditto with makeup brushes, use this extra time to give your brushes a good wash if you haven’t for a while. Moving forward, try washing your brushes once per week with hand soap or brush solution, before drying them with a blowdryer. A dirty brush can host unwanted germs, viruses and bacteria. Eye brushes and beauty sponges should be cleaned after each use.

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Need To Know: Microneedling

Posted by Haley Asbridge on

Don’t let the ‘needle’ bit scare you – this minimally invasive treatment treats everything from acne scarring to fine lines and wrinkles

 

Our new ‘Need To Know’ series shines a light on skin treatments, demystifies common misconceptions and helps you make an informed choice when it comes to achieving your skin goals. .

First up, we explore everything you need to know about microneedling.

WHAT IS IT?

Microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that uses tiny needles to penetrate the skin and triggers the skin’s own wound healing response, thereby boosting collagen production.

The practice itself dates back to 1995, but significant developments in technology over the last two decades have seen it’s popularity skyrocket. Other names for microneedling today include collagen induction therapy.

If your primary skin concerns include acne scarring or pock marks, stretch marks, wrinkles and enlarged pores, then microneedling could be the right treatment for you.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The concept behind microneedling is that these microscopic pin pricks encourage the skin to respond to wounding by forming new collagen-rich skin tissue. This new skin is firmer, and more even in tone and texture.

A pen-like tool (We use the Medical Grade Skin Pen) dotted with tiny needles is used to make small punctures in the surface of the skin. These very short, micro-fine needles range in diameter from 0.5 to 2.5mm. The tool is moved evenly across the skin to ensure the distribution of new collagen-rich skin is even, too.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Each microneedling appointment takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour..

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

This is largely dependent on your skin condition and skin goals. Between 3 and 6 6 treatments is ideal however book in for a comprehensive skin consultation with one of Mooi Skin’s qualified skin therapists who will prescribe the best course of treatment based on your individual skin goals.

BEFORE YOUR TREATMENT
The Mooi Skin team will be able to advise how best to prep your skin for microneedling. Some things you may need to do beforehand include avoiding taking certain medications like ibuprofen or acne medication. You may also be asked to ensure you are using medical grade topical retinoids on your skin leading up to your treatment to ensure the skin is in the best condition to get you the best results from your course of treatments.

WHAT CAN IT TREAT?

  •  Acne scars
  • Age spots
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Enlarged pores
  • Facial scarring
  • Slackened skin
  • Uneven skin tone or texture
  • Stretch marks (on other areas of the body)

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Like any skin procedure, there are certain contraindications to undergoing treatment. If you any of the following applies, you are not an ideal candidate for microneedling:

  • You are currently pregnant
  • You have psoriasis or eczema
  • You have open wounds on your skin
  • You have recently undergone radiation therapy
  • You have a history of hypertrophic or keloid scars

AFTER YOUR TREATMENT

Unlike more invasive resurfacing procedures, microneedling requires no downtime. The only immediate side effects in surface redness and minor irritation for two days following your treatment. This is your skin’s natural response to the small ‘wounds’ the needles have inflicted on skin.

You may experience heightened skin sensitivity afterwards, so wearing SPF during the day is vital.

RESULTS

For long-term results, we recommend a course of treatments as part of a Mooi & Me membership plan to maintain the appearance of your skin.

After a course of treatments, expect to see an improvement in skin texture, increased tightness and elasticity, a reduction in the appearance of scarring and the softening of fine lines and wrinkles.

Talk to your trusted Mooi Skin expert today to find out if microneedling is the right treatment for you.

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