Claudia Fallah : Azulene Foam Active, Calming Face Wash

Today at The Amazing Blog, we want to share one of our favourite foam cleansers - it’s always our ‘go-to’ cleanser, especially when we get any skin sensitivity; it gently cleanses, calms and soothes any irritated skin. We are talking about Claudia Fallah’s The Azulene Foam Active, Calming Face Wash which won both Best Cleanser, and Best Foam Cleanser in the 2022 Beauty Shortlist Awards.

Claudia Fallah has a strong background within the cosmetics and skincare industry; she trained as a therapist in Germany with top dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons, going on to open her first clinic in Marleybone in 1995. As a highly knowledgeable aesthetics specialist, Claudia saw firsthand how some professional skincare had harmful and damaging ingredients. In 1999, she decided to develop her exclusive skincare range for her clients. Claudia was inspired by Dr Rudolph Steiner, founder of biodynamic, and his theories; “It planted an organic seed in my mind, to create a natural and potent cosmeceutical that will address specific skin concerns gently with fast results, all without any harsh chemicals.” Biodynamics is a sustainable, organic, holistic, and ethical farming method. Crops are grown in rhythm with the powerful moon phases and ocean tides and harvested in their most potent state. Today Claudia has created a natural and organic skincare range that effectively gives her clients the results they want. All products are natural, organic, hypoallergenic, chemical-free, and made in London. Her skincare is also now widely used by dermatologists, therapists, and cosmetic surgeons. In an interview with Mayfair Silk, Claudia said, “It has been an absolute joy to revive and repair our clients’ skin, and so many have continued on their skincare treatments with us, but this time to enhance their skin health and appearance.” As an established aesthetician and skin specialist, she has a strong celebrity following and is often called one of “London’s best-kept secrets” by the press. Claudia’s mantra is, “Give me the worst skin, and I’ll deal with it.” Figures show back in 2014, sensitive skincare claims represented 25% of total skincare claims, compared to 15% in 2009, with 71% of facial skincare users saying they are interested in ultra-gentle products (Mintel). Claudia Fallah is known as one of the UK’s leading experts on sensitive skin and is an advisor for MediSpa, located in Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge.

The Azulene Foam Active, Calming Face Wash is a gentle and hydrating foaming face wash. While facial cleansers can often be harsh on the skin or even sting, this is guaranteed to soothe and leave skin feeling softer. Apart from being a hydrating product, we found the face wash reduced redness and acted as an anti-inflammatory. Perfect for all skin types and ages, we found it ideal for our sensitive skin as It decongests skin to give it a brighter and fresher look, and uses natural ingredients which soothe, protect and balance. The two key active ingredients to talk about are azulene and mango fruit (mangifera indica fruit extract).

Azulene is an organic compound dark blue in colour. It has a long history dating back to the 15th century as the azure-blue chromophore obtained by steam distillation of German chamomile. Every year the blue colour varies depending on the weather conditions, and as azulene with all its healing properties is photosensitive, Claudia uses a protective opaque bottle. Azulene is a strong antioxidant that has the ability to shield the skin from damage caused by free radicals. By neutralising free radicals, azulene helps prevent the cellular damage that causes skin discolouration from sun exposure. Although it cannot prevent the skin from ageing, azulene can help minimalise and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Most importantly for us, it helps to alleviate the redness from blemishes, allowing the complexion to clear up more quickly. It has mild antibacterial properties and is sometimes used in natural medicine as an antiseptic. Primarily it’s an ingredient that is used to help revive stressed, irritated or damaged skin due to its potent anti-inflammatory qualities. Azulene is the star ingredient here with all of its soothing and healing benefits and antimicrobial properties.

The mango extract contains superior levels of vitamins A (beta carotene) and C; mango fruit can stimulate the skin’s natural production of collagen, enhancing the elasticity of the skin and aiding in the generation of new skin cell growth and reducing inflammation and redness. Pharmacologically active flavonoid mangiferin (mango) has been increasingly explored as a possible anti-carcinogen. Studies involving mangiferin have produced results that suggest it offers anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and antiviral capabilities as well as being a powerful antioxidant. The existing results suggest that mangiferin protects the skin against the damage caused by ultraviolet rays, and will also repair existing sun damage.

Other actives include bergamot helping unclog pores, aloe vera extract for further antioxidants and soothing properties, camphor to relieve skin irritation, and mandarin essential oil to help even out the skin tone.

To date, this is one of the best foaming cleansers that we’ve used. We cannot recommend it highly enough for its gentle, soothing and calming properties. It’s another of our #amazingfinds with the added bonus of effectively removing eye makeup residue - without any stinging. It’s also a natural, light and simple cleanser guaranteed to leave skin glowing and feeling refreshed. To purchase the 100ml Azulene Foam Active, Calming Face Wash for £38 see here. 

Methode Physiodermie : Shot C15 Anti-Aging Serum

We’ve recently written about a variety of award-winning serums, and today Methode Physiodermie is the next of our #amazingfinds on The Amazing Blog. This brand made a great impression at the 2022 Beauty Shortlist Awards, winning not one, but six awards on its debut entries. And we can see why - with its researched and scientifically proven ingredients in this innovative Shot C15 Anti-Ageing Serum, which includes 20% from organic farming and 99% from natural origin.

Methode Physiodermie is the flagship concept skincare range of the Swiss company Laboratoire Sintyl. The company was founded in 1974 by Swiss biologist Dr Calato, who dedicated much of his life to researching and developing the formulation of effective skincare, with a complete range of anti-ageing solutions, backed by 40 years of research on skin rejuvenation. Today their CEO, Alexandre Vacher, has had extensive experience in the biotechnology and cosmetics industries; in an interview with South China Morning Post Country Reports, he said, “The fact that all our products are proudly Swiss- made in our Geneva facility ensures that they only get the highest quality ingredients and, therefore, with the highest effectiveness.” The company creates skincare through science at its headquarters in Geneva and dedicates vast amounts of time and resources to research and development before launching its products. Their skincare is scientifically formulated with a range that includes organic ingredients that uses the latest revolutionary and cutting-edge technology called microencapsulation (MEIMA). Through this process, active ingredients are acquired into a liposome capsule and are then protected and delivered to the layer of skin where the cells need them most; it’s a skincare concept that specifically adapts to every type of skin and allows the achievement of visible and lasting results. Methode Physiodermie’s products are available to both consumers and professionals. 20% of the company’s sales go towards further research and development innovation methods, and in another interview conducted by I Feel Good Event, CEO Alexandre Vacher stated, “We are also leading Research and Development activities in the field of functional ingredients, plant extracts and formulation techniques to offer consumers ever more efficient products.” And as a cosmeceutical brand, they only rely on scientifically proven ingredients. Although all their products are produced as professional skincare and distributed in medi-spas and beauty salons - they are also available from the website for consumer use.

With Edwina as one of the judges at The Beauty Shortlist Awards, The Shot C15 Anti-Ageing Serum, certainly got her vote as the Best Serum (age 50+). It is part of Methode Physiodermie’s Clinical Swiss Organics collection, where the range is certified by Ecocert Greenlife according to the COSMOS-standard and is free from fragrance, silicones, parabens, mineral oils, EDTA/BHA/BH; it also went on to win the Best Skincare Brand (age 60+).

The Shot C15 Anti-Ageing Serum is their first certified organic serum with 15% pure vitamin C. The product has an ultra-concentrated formula, which has given the product a very effective anti-ageing effect. It is scientifically proven to firm the skin, visibly reduce brown spots, stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, and protect cells from free radicals. The Shot C15 Anti-Ageing Serum separately includes Pure Vitamin C sachet which needs to be mixed in and when combined must used within one month, as it is only stable within that time frame. If exposed to heat, light, or air, it can also become unstable. Something to note is that stabilised vitamin C is the only effective way to use vitamin C, as when it becomes unstable and oxidises, there is no longer a benefit to its use. 

Let’s look at the ingredients and what they do. Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) fruit water comes from (organically grown) red cranberries. It is rich in antioxidants with vitamin C, to combat free radicals and slow the appearance of the effects of premature ageing. Ascorbic acid is pure vitamin C, again as the primary antioxidant here it’s known to brighten the skin, improve wrinkles, and help fade any skin discolourations. Sodium citrate also has antioxidant properties and helps maintain the pH level in skincare products. Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid and a potent skin humectant that helps the skin retain water. Salicylic acid is an exfoliating ingredient that helps the skin feel smoother. Glycerin is naturally occurring in the skin and is an ingredient that protects the skin from dryness by helping the skin retain moisture. Xanthan Gum is produced from the fermentation of simple sugars and acts as a thickening ingredient and stabiliser in skincare products. Benzyl alcohol is a preservative and pH adjuster used in skincare. Sorbic acid is another preservative and form of vitamin C; it encourages new collagen to grow and maintains the existing collagen, and is deemed to be a very safe ingredient used in skincare and also prevents the growth of bacteria.

We used this serum morning and night; only a few drops were needed. All you do is add the contents of the Pure Vitamin C sachet into the serum bottle. Then screw the dropper back on and shake vigorously for approx. 10 seconds. Then they recommend letting it stand for a few minutes before use. It’s for the face, neck and décolleté; gently massage to let it absorb and then apply any regular moisturiser or SPF (if applied in the morning). This is another of our #amazingfinds, and we love how it has proven scientific ingredients from the natural origin combined with the organic cranberry fruit water. Don’t be put off by the high percentage of vitamin C. We initially had our reservations, as we thought this serum might be too potent for our sensitive skin type. However, we were very pleasantly surprised at how gentle it was! It has given our complexion back its glow and helped fade some of our more visible pigmentation patches. As an anti-ageing serum, what more could we ask for? To purchase the 27ml Shot C15 Anti-Ageing Serum see here for £64.

Skin Virtue : Future Advanced Eye Serum & Pure Eye Radiance Cream

And when it comes to eye care, we’re battling dark circles, dehydration and fine lines together with our skin reacting badly to the cold. It’s an area that some of us need a little added extra help, which is why at The Amazing Blog, we were delighted to return to the nature meets science-based Australian skincare Skin Virtue  (which we previously reviewed here), but this time it’s with their hydrating and age-defying Future Advanced Eye Serum and the Pure Eye Radiance Cream. 

Skin Virtue is an evidence-based skincare, with premium products that have been developed to address a multitude of skin issues. Founded in 2008, skincare expert Nina Gajic with a mission, “To bring beauty to life by crafting skincare regimes that are proven by science and enhanced by nature, for clients who demand results and value.” The inspiration for the brand began with Nina herself, who had been struggling with sensitive and easily irritated skin, and was determined to understand why. In order to help resolve her own skin issues, she began researching formulation science and teaming up with certified dermatologists and Italian biochemists to create targeted skincare. Nina was already running a clinic working with clients who also had skin sensitivity which is when Skin Virtue came to life during this journey. The principal goal was to create effective products that incorporated the most effective botanical aspects of both science and nature. The brand has developed highly-effective formulas using advanced ingredients and technologies using natural multi-functional actives, potent vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and calming marine and botanical extracts. The Skin Virtue range harnesses the power of these ingredients to help slow down skin ageing and restore the skin's health. This is done by strengthening the skin barrier, promoting skin cell longevity, and targeting skin-related concerns through specific treatments. Skin Virtue has three targeted skincare collections: Super Clear Collection (for oilier skin types) to help with skin issues like breakouts, redness, clogged pores, and inflammation, the Pure Anti-Aging Collection (for drier skin types) to hydrate and protect the skin from premature ageing, and the Future Advanced Treatment Collection (for all skin types) which can be used with the other two collections to target skin-ageing issues like discolouration, wrinkles, or volume loss. Skin Virtue dedicates itself to providing skincare that is also suitable for sensitive skin, as all their products are fragrance-free, noncomedogenic, anti-irritating, anti-allergen, paraben-free, and made without mineral oil. For skincare suggestions or to check out the founder’s own skincare routine, see here. They also have a questionnaire on their website to personalise your skincare experience here to help you determine the best products to add to your personalised skincare routine. 

As the skin around the eyes is thinner and more active than the rest of the face, particularly with all our squinting, frowning and laughing, these ingredients help slow down the signs of ageing. Also, as the eye area doesn’t create hydration or replace moisture, it’s more prone to dryness, or worse – wrinkles. Therefore including an eye serum and/or eye cream in a daily skincare routine is, in our view, essential!

The Future Advanced Eye Serum is featured in the Future Advanced Treatment Collection, aims to correct signs of skin-ageing and revive skin complexion. This anti-ageing serum is ultra-light and developed to lift, firm, and plump the eye area so that your skin doesn't sag or suffer from hollowness and deep-set wrinkles. The serum’s super-concentrated formula and targets age-related volume loss through molecular lifting technologies. It has 11 active ingredients that work together to improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines.

Let’s start with the two patented ingredients, malus domestica cell culture extract, and adipofill’in™ (in ionosomes). Malus domestic is a liposomal preparation sourced from apple stem cells - specifically from a rare Swiss variety. These stem cells have a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect and help to protect skin against sun damage and fine lines. As for the adipofill’in™ (in ionosomes), its main purpose is to increase fatty tissue for facial rejuvenation, it has a ‘lipofilling-like" action and is designed to lift and plump.

There is acetyl hexapeptide-8 argireline, a peptide that restores the skin's natural water barrier by binding water to the skin which in turn helps improve elasticity. Next, there is hydrolysed pearl, which is easily absorbed by the skin offering plentiful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and energising benefits. It’s also known to boost collagen production to strengthen the skin and help prevent the onset of dark patches. There is also glycine soja protein from the soya bean. It has several fatty acids such as, palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic, that have anti-ageing and soothing properties, which leaves the skin feeling rejuvenated. Another key ingredient is one that we all know well is sodium hyaluronate. Sodium hyaluronate has a lower molecular weight than its cousin hyaluronic acid. It is synthesised small enough to penetrate deep into the skin, leaving a smoother, fuller, nourished, and more moisturised eye area. Finally, caffeine is present to reduce any puffiness and allay any hyperpigmentation or dark circles. 

We were excited to try this serum for its volumising properties, which for us, worked perfectly in tandem with the Pure Eye Radiance Cream.  As we have sensitive eyes that water, the fact that this is fragrance-free is a huge asset. We found that we needed only a tiny amount of this light serum, which we applied to the contour of the eye area, gently tapping it in with fingertips. It absorbed fast leaving skin feeling cool and hydrated. As Nina says about this Future Advanced Eye Serum, “it provides that lipofilling-like effect to sunken eyes, helping to plump up hollowing under the eye area and maintain firmness.” We found it effective to use independently, and together with the Pure Eye Radiance Cream (below).

Next, we tried the Pure Eye Radiance Cream, which is designed primarily to combat the look of puffy and aged skin. This eye cream is a part of the Pure Anti-Ageing Collection, which offers a range of products that use anti-ageing and pH strengthening active ingredients to help improve dry skin and prevent premature skin ageing. This age-defying rich cream leverages the power of biotechnological ingredients to smooth wrinkles and fine lines, reduce dark circles, target eye puffiness, and build skin health. Again this cream echoes some of the above serum’s ingredients with acetyl hexapeptide-8 argireline peptide and malus domestica stem cell liposomal formulas - both of these improve elasticity and support skin stem cell longevity around the eye. This eye cream certainly helps to revive the eye area with its 13 active ingredients, and wrinkle-smoothing peptides.

A few of the key ingredients worth mentioning are ginkgo extract, olea europaea (olive oil) unsaponifiables, vitamin A and E. These botanical extracts have soothing, toning, and antioxidant properties. The olea europaea oil unsaponifiables are a composition similar to sebum, with squalene and phytosterols that act as an intensive emollient. The hydrolysed elastin, marine collagen, has humectant properties for moisture retention, supporting cell growth and improving skin elasticity. Rich in vitamin A and E, both potent antioxidant that effectively fights free radicals - a major cause of wrinkles and dark spots. 

The Pure Eye Radiance Cream is super hydrating, rich in texture, but not thick or heavy, and again only a small amount is needed. It feels ‘protective’, particularly when used in cold winter weather. As mentioned, this can be used independently, and together with the Future Advanced Eye Serum, if intense hydration is required. We noticed with regular use, the skin around our eye area looked smoother and felt more hydrated, but to see longer-lasting and more defined results, we think it is probably best to use them both morning and night for an extended period of time. They are both this week’s #amazingfinds and we love that they are great value for money, priced at around only £40 each. The 15ml Future Advanced Eye Serum can be purchased here or £40 and the 15ml Pure Eye Radiance Cream can be purchased for £39 here.

Skin Virtue: Future Advanced Serumist®

In the heat of the summer, there is nothing nicer than using cooling face mist to spritz from the beginning to the end of the day, keeping skin fresh and hydrated. Today at The Amazing Blog, we wanted to introduce a hydrating and anti-ageing mist, with this Future Advanced Serumist®, which is suitable for all skin types with a potent blend of highly concentrated actives from Skin Virtue.

Skin Virtue is an Australian result-driven premium cosmeceutical skincare range, which is also available to the consumer. Created in 2008 by skincare expert Nina Gajic, with a mission, “To bring beauty to life by crafting skincare regimes that are proven by science and enhanced by nature for clients who demand results and value. Our continuous research, development, and testing enable us to provide the most clinically advanced skincare technology available on the market today.” Gajic had been suffering from sensitive and problem-prone skin, which lead her onto several years of study for formulation science and clinical research. This enabled her to understand the skin layers and its complexity, including her own sensitive skin. Skin Virtue was formulated in association with an experienced team of biochemists and dermatologists in an Italian laboratory, using a synergy of clean beauty with cutting-edge skin science. The brand combines advanced science with high-quality ingredients with complex natural actives along with potent vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and soothing marine and botanical extracts in three multifunctional and targeted skincare collections: The Super Clear Collection is for skin concerns like breakouts, redness, clogged pores and inflammation. The Pure Anti-Ageing Collection is for dry skin. And the specialist Future Advanced Treatment Collection which is designed to work with the other two collections where it helps to address age-related concerns such as the appearance of discolouration, wrinkles, volume loss and sagging skin. Skin Virtue is committed to making all its products non-comedogenic, anti-irritating, anti-allergen, and free from any parabens and mineral oils, making it suitable for even sensitive skin types.

We’d heard so much about the Skin Virtue renowned Future Advanced Serumist® and we couldn’t wait to try it!  Hailed as a revolutionary potent anti-ageing serum which delivers as a mist - it has sixteen active ingredients to help nourish, rehydrate, tighten and tone. This serum is part of a six product collection in the Future Advanced range.  Quick and easy to use, it addresses numerous concerns such as ageing skin, moisture loss, dehydration, brightening, loss of luminosity, environmental damage, pigmentation, uneven skin tone and texture, blotchiness, fine lines and skin barrier function - what a list! It also promotes elasticity and suppleness to make the skin look younger, all thanks to its active ingredients. Among these top ingredients are glycine soja protein derived from the soya bean; this has numerous fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic, that have anti-ageing and soothing properties. There is also rose water to tone and refresh and niacinamide (B3), ideal for increasing the skins resiliency and improving texture by making pores look smaller. The sodium hyaluronate is hydrophilic, meaning it easily mixes with water; this reduces dryness and flaking by increasing skin hydration and attracts moisture to the skin cells. Another of these key ingredients is methylsilanol mennuronate, a seaweed derivative that binds moisture in the epidermis helping skin regenerate by increasing collagen production, therefore, preventing fine lines. And finally, worth mentioning is another of our firm favourites found here is the aloe vera extract, a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that have shown to neutralise the effects of UV rays, repair skin from existing UV damage. The Serumist® has a mild floral fragrance that won’t conflict with any other skincare used. We applied first thing in the morning after cleansing, and followed it with our regular serum or face cream. We found it energising and uplifting and also great for spritzing on face and décolletage during the day to keep skin feeling fresh and hydrated. We noticed skin looked dewier and plumper after use, and yes, it made a great addition to our skincare routine; although with this hefty price tag, it does make it a considered purchase. We think to see excellent results; it probably needs to be used in conjunction with the rest of the range as they make a formidable team when tackling volume loss, dehydration and skin discolouration. See here to buy the Future Advanced Serumist® 150ml for £73.00.

SHIR CBD+ Premium Sleeping Mask

As CBD fans at The Amazing Blog, today we’re reviewing a new skincare range that offers a combination of the best of CBD and advanced pharmaceutical skincare united in one product.  InnoCan Pharma has created a new range of skincare, with one of their hero’s the super hydrating SHIR CBD+ Premium Sleeping Mask.

SHIR is a premium beauty brand designed to bring the best of both worlds – combining both nature and science; this is for those looking for an effective anti-ageing skincare routine.This line has been created by the Israeli pharmaceutical tech company InnoCan Pharma whose strong suit is having delivery platforms combining cannabidiol (CBD) with other pharmaceutical ingredients, together with the development and sale of CBD-integrated pharmaceuticals. There are three segments within the company combining cannabidiol and the development and sale of CBD-integrated pharmaceuticals. This is where they specialise in cutting-edge research and development with CBD in wellness, pain relief and topicals and are high-end innovators within the world of CBD formulation. Seeing the potential of CBD’s restorative function in skincare, InnoCan Pharma decided to develop two lines of CBD infused derma-cosmetics products, which are now being sold in Europe: SHIR CBD Must a 100mg CBD infused products line which is aimed at a younger market in need to help with acne breakouts, oily skin and offers anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and hypoallergenic benefits. Whereas the  SHIR CBD+  has 300mg, a triple-dose of CBD isolate, for premium anti-ageing results and hydration. All CBD test reports are available on InnoCan Pharma’s website here which shows all products are GMO-free and dermatologically tested.

The SHIR CBD+ Premium Sleeping Mask is with 300mg CBD isolate (no THC, or added terpenes only pure CBD), it focuses on the fine lines and restoring the skin’s elasticity. We read on InnoCan’s blog: “CBD topicals are the easiest way to introduce the benefits of CBD into your daily skincare routine. Easy application and great results are two of the major reasons why CBD has become such a force to reckon with in the beauty and skincare industry.” Indeed, packed with natural anti-oxidant properties and its fatty acids boost the skin’s collagen production, CBD alone is one of the most effective ways to preserve the skin from ageing. CBD’s other USP is that it interacts directly with our endocannabinoid receptors to help maintain the moisture levels. This ensures that the sebum production is regulated correctly, to avoid overly dry or oily skin. In this formula, the CBD isolate is mixed with a blend of ingredients which are high in efficiency for fighting off first signs of ageing and have been clinically proven. These are inca inchi, which like CBD, is extra rich in fatty acids (omega 3, 6, and 9). Another key ingredient named is matrixyl 3000 which is a two-protein anti-ageing peptide. It is almost as effective as retinol but much gentler and is known to reduce the appearance of fine lines through sub-layer collagen and elastin boost. The formula also includes bakuchiol in its key ingredients, which is another alternative to the famous retinol. It also has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties and helps to fight acne, inflammation and hyperpigmentation. The last two key ingredients of this super anti-ageing hybrid formula are vitamins A and E which also help keep the skin’s firmness, hydration and elasticity. They also protect it against free radicals and treat hyperpigmentation. This ultra hydrating and plumping night mask they recommend to be use 2-3 times a week and as the last step before bedtime. We followed instructions and massaged in a generous layer of the mask, then cleansed away any residue in the morning. Easy to apply it absorbed swiftly leaving no excess, only a slight floral fragrance. It felt cooling, hydrating and we think this Sleeping Mask makes an excellent addition to a nighttime skincare routine for tired, dull or stressed skin. The 50ml SHIR CBD+ Premium Sleeping Mask is available here for €98.