Blog
Product Focus: ARK Skincare's Skin Essential Pre-cleanse & Make-Up Remover
May 27, 2020At ARK Skincare, we are passionate about double-cleansing. We believe that a good cleanser and a good cleansing routine are two essential ingredients for healthy-looking and feeling skin.
In this post we are focus on our Skin Essential Pre-Cleanser & Make-up Remover and why keeping your skin clean is so important.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing is a two-step process to remove any make-up and bacteria and deeply cleanse the skin.
Why do I need to double cleanse?
You might be asking yourself if you really need to cleanse twice and the answer is yes! Whether you wear make-up or not, a double cleanse is essential for healthy skin. The first cleanse will remove any traces of dirt, pollution and airborne bacteria from the surface of your skin and the second cleanse will clean deeper into your pores.
By practising this routine you will be safe in the knowledge that your skin is nice and clean. If dirt and bacteria aren’t washed away, they can linger on your skin and contribute to early ageing, pigmentation and breakouts.
In addition to removing build-up, other benefits of keeping your skin clean are that it can help to prevent blemishes and even boost hydration. It’s very important to start with a clean base before applying any other products, the actives in your serum and moisturiser will not be as effective if they sit on layer of grime and dead skin cells.
ARK Skincare's Pre-Cleanse & Make-Up Remover
Product Image: ARK Skincare's Pre-Cleanse & Make-Up Remover
This gentle and nourishing award-winning cleanser is the first step to our powerful cleansing routine. The multi-fruit lipid blend with Omegas 3, 6 & 9 dissolves every last trace of daily grime, excess sebum and make-up – even waterproof mascara – while nourishing and soothing skin with a blend of natural ingredients.
Key Ingredients:
Margosa Leaf Extract - this powerhouse ingredient offers many wonderful benefits. It is used as an antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral. It can also help to prevent acne and infection.
Vitamin E - Fantastic for skin; it protects against environmental pollution and UV radiation, quenches skin with moisture, calms and soothes, and helps with wound and scar healing.
Zi Cao - an Ayurvedic herb, which soothes sensitive skin and helps to calm inflammation.
Grapeseed, Avocado and Kiwi Oil - Help to deeply nourish skin and protect it against dryness.
How To Use:
Apply onto dry skin with dry hands and massage gently over the face. Add warm water to turn the oil into a liquid emulsion and continue to massage into the skin before rinsing off with water. Then follow up with your age intelligent cleanser and moisturiser to lock in hydration.
References:
Sharecare - Why is it important to cleanse my skin to keep it healthy?
Glamour - What is double cleansing?
Elle - How to double cleanse your skin
How To Freshen Up Your Skincare Routine
May 23, 2020Cleaning. One of those jobs that many of us often like to put off. However, while many of us have been spending more time at home, it seems to be the first thing on everybody’s to-do list - mainly just to keep busy!
When talking about cleaning, the first things that often come to mind are our houses, cars and Monica cupboards...(if you know, you know!). But when was the last time you thought to clean out your skincare and give yourself a pamper?
This week we thought we'd share our top tips on how to freshen up your skincare routine to help you achieve clear, healthy skin!
1. Double Cleanse
Image: ARK Skincare's Protect Vitality Cleanser
Whether you wear make-up or not, a double cleanse is an essential part of any good skincare routine.
Your first cleanse will help to remove any traces of airborne bacteria, pollution and build up. If these aren’t washed away properly they can lead to pigmentation, break-outs and premature aging - no thank you!
Once you’ve removed make-up and grime from the surface, it’s time to clean deeper with your second cleanse. Massage your product in for a minute or so to give your skin a thorough clean. Then follow up with your moisturiser.
Take a look at ARK Skincare's Pre-cleanse & Make-up Remover - the powerful first step to our cleansing routine. Simply apply to dry skin before adding water to form a thin liquid emulsion. Continue massaging then rinse off with warm water. We also have a range of Age intelligent cleansers, specifically designed for each age group.
2. Wash your make up brushes
Don’t just invest in cleansing your skin - clean your brushes too! Dirty makeup brushes can be responsible for the transfer of bacteria, viruses and fungi which can cause cold sores, acne flare-ups, conjunctivitis or worse.
There have been a number of studies into how much bacteria can live on makeup and makeup brushes, and one test of 35 brushes showed 58% had high recorded levels of bacteria with 34% of them having dangerously high levels of bacteria on them. Alarmingly it was found that 44% of 1000 people surveyed said that they have never cleaned their brushes!
You may want to reevaluate how hygienic your makeup and makeup brushes are. It could be one reason for your skin concerns. Remember to think about how you store your brushes too. If they’re sitting in a grotty make-up bag go and give it a wash!
3. Be kind to your body
This doesn’t have to be all about eating kale - we promise. Be mindful of your body by making healthier choices and going easy on sugary & high fat treats.
Drink plenty of water, aim for your five a day and choose nutrient-rich foods to aid your body's natural detoxifying system and help your skin glow. Keeping active during the day is also beneficial, (for both your body and your mind!)
4. Tidy up your skincare
Product Image: ARK Skincare's Protect Vitality cleanser, Hydration Injection Masque, Triple Action Exfoliator, Skin Perfectors & Reverse Gravity Eye Cream
It’s easy to get lured in by pretty packaging and then find yourself with multiple bottles of various different products - but which do you actually use? Most of the time less is more, so choose wisely. Opt for products that use high-quality ingredients to nourish your skin.
5. Practice good Hygiene
Product Image: ARK Skincare's Hand & Body Wash Duo
Get into good habits - store your skincare in a place that you can keep clean and tidy. Aim to wash your make-up brushes regularly to ensure they aren’t spreading bacteria around and If you apply make-up with your fingers, wash your hands before each application to make sure they’re clean before touching your face.
Try to opt for contamination-free skincare products too. These are jars that you don’t have to put your fingers into. If one of your products does come in an open jar, use a spatula to access your product rather than your hands. You don’t want to be putting any bacteria into your pot!
All ARK Skincare products are housed in contamination-free packaging to keep them hygienic. You can take a look at all of our products on our website.
References:
The Fox & She - Detoxing Your Skin
Glamour - What Is Double Cleansing?
ELLE - Everything You Need To Know About Double Cleansing
Living with Atopic Eczema: Our 10 Top Tips
May 09, 2020
What is Eczema?
Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is the most common form of eczema, a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, dry and cracked. It can affect any part of the body but is most common on hands, the insides of elbows and the back of knees.
Some may have small patches of dry skin and others may have larger areas of inflammation. People who suffer from eczema usually experience periods when symptoms are less noticeable, as well as periods when symptoms become more severe. These are called flare-ups.
Causes of Eczema
No one is entirely sure what exactly causes eczema but The National Eczema Association believes a combination of genes and triggers are involved. Those with eczema tend to have an overactive immune system and when triggered by a substance inside or outside the body, it responds by producing inflammation. This is what causes the red, itchy and painful skin symptoms associated with eczema.
Unfortunately, there isn’t one specific cure for eczema. Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and prevent flare-ups of symptoms.
Here are our top tips for managing symptoms and keeping them under control.
1. Don’t scratch
Although it can be tempting, when you scratch or even rub, you can make the itch and your eczema worse. Some people scratch so much they bleed, and that's a setup for infection. Instead, try using a cold compress to cool the skin and apply moisturiser to avoid it from drying out.
2. Keep a food diary
People with eczema can experience inflammation from eating certain foods. Common triggers are citrus fruits, dairy and gluten/wheat but each person will have unique triggers they should avoid. Keep a note of what you are eating and be mindful of how/if your skin reacts. This can help to illuminate what causes your flare-ups and which foods you should try to avoid.
3. Choose Skincare Products Carefully:
Choose products that are advertised as “safe for sensitive skin” that won't include irritants that may affect your eczema. Stay away from products that are highly scented as fragrance can be a number one cause for irritation. People with particularly sensitive skin should always introduce new products slowly over a matter of days. It may also be a good idea to perform a patch test on the neck or inside of your arm to ensure your skin reacts well before applying to a large area. If you wash your hair while standing in the shower, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner is worth considering too.
4. Choose soft fabrics.
Material that is rough, too tight, or itchy can trigger eczema. Allowing yourself to get too warm can make you sweat and cause a flare-up as well. Synthetic materials such as nylon, rayon, and polyester tend to be warmer which can cause itchiness and prolong the effects of eczema so are best avoided. Opt for soft clothes that are gentle on your skin and keep it cool.
5. Learn your allergens
Eczema may flare up when you’re around things that may cause an allergic reaction. These can be different for each person, so it’s important to be mindful of things that may cause you to react. Some of the most common allergens are: seasonal pollen, dust mites, fine fur from cats and dogs, mold and dandruff. Taking note of the appearance of your skin each day can help to identify things you should avoid.
6. Manage stress.
Stress is known to exaggerate skin concerns. Use stress management strategies and take care of yourself. Sleep, eat well, exercise, and consider including meditation or breathing exercises in your daily routine.
7. Choose the right form of exercise
Exercising can lower stress, boost the immune system and help to keep you healthy. However, the downside is that sweat can also trigger eczema to flare-up. As sweat evaporates, the skin dries and is left with a salty residue that can irritate eczema and encourage you to itch. If you are suffering from a flare-up, try low-impact exercises like walking, yoga or pilates. These can be helpful to relieve stress and give your skin a break.
8. Be aware of your environment
Many people with eczema become itchy if they get too hot. This can happen if you get too sweaty or layer up too many clothes. During the cold winter months, it’s important not to allow your skin to dry out from harsh winds, so always make sure to keep skin hydrated with gentle moisturising creams.
9. Avoid Hot Water
When your skin is irritated, a hot shower can often feel like a great way to temporarily relieve itching. However, dermatologists warn that this can actually make eczema worse. Hot water dries out the skin and causes it to crack and become sore. Turn the heat down and soak in luke-warm water instead as this will absorb into the skin. Moisturise straight after bathing to lock in hydration.
10. Look after your hands
It is important that we wash our hands throughout the day to get rid of any nasty germs and bugs. With the current pandemic, we are all being encouraged to do this as often as possible to reduce the risk of infection. However, it’s important to take care of our skin too. Make sure to pat your hands dry as opposed to rubbing them as this can make them sore. Always follow up with hand cream. You can read more about how to treat sore hands here.
All of ARK Skincare’s products contain a high percentage of natural ingredients and are made without any known irritants, made with sensitive skin in mind. Find out more about our products on our website
References:
Patient - How To Wash Your Hands If You Have Eczema or Dry Skin
National Eczema Association: How To Exercise Safely With Eczema
Product Focus: ARK Skincare’s Hero Collection
May 03, 2020
In this post we're focusing on our popular Hero Collection. What does it contains and what makes these product so special?
This popular award-winning product is the first step in our powerful cleansing routine.
How To Use: To achieve clean, fresh feeling skin, use this gentle cleanser to remove any make-up or simply ‘rinse the day away'. Massage in gently all over your face before adding water to form a thin liquid emulsion. Continue massaging then rinse off with warm water. Then follow up with your age intelligent cleanser.
Active ingredients: Grape seed, avocado and kiwi oil deeply nourish skin and protect against dryness, while margosa leaf extract destroys bacteria and inhibits its growth on the skin. Another ingredient called Zi Cao is a herb that helps to calm and soothe sensitive skin.
An intensively refreshing, multi-use beauty mist.
How To Use: Use our Hydrating Beauty Mist as a toner before your serum or as a liquid moisturiser to give the skin an extra layer of hydration. Or use after make-up application to achieve a dewy finish. This is the perfect product to keep in your bag for freshening up throughout the day or in your gym kit for a cooling spritz after exercise.
Active Ingredients: Optimum skin hydration is achieved by Hyaluronic Acid which reduces roughness, relieves dry skin, increases firmness, and allows flexibility.
Amino acids that mimic the skin’s natural moisturising function to soften and soothe.
Our top-selling hero product which consistently wins industry awards and achieves rave reviews. Our SPF 30 Primer is the ultimate multi-tasker - Award winning make up primer; sunscreen; and moisturiser all in one.
How To Use: Use as your daily moisturiser in the knowledge it is protecting your skin from damaging UV rays; or use on top of your daily moisturiser for added hydration and protection.
Active Ingredients: Our primer includes ingredients such as Shea Butter that has high concentrations of fatty acids which to keep skin soft and smooth. Vitamin E helps protect against environmental pollution and UV radiation, whilst quenching the skin with moisture.
Our SPF 30 Primer is also a broad-spectrum sunscreen which means it protects the skin from both UVA & UVB rays. You can read more about the science of sunlight rays and the importance of SPF here.
"These three products were selected for the Hero Collection as individually they are powerhouse formulas, each delivering exceptional results. Plus, used together in a regime they provide three essential steps that any good skincare routine needs - cleanse, hydrate & protect. Making the Hero Collection perfect for long term lovers of ARK and first time customers alike."
Katie Sangers, ARK Skincare Director
Which other products would you recommend to a first-time buyer?
If you are new to ARK, then the Hero Collection is definitely a great introduction to our brand. We would then recommend your age intelligent cleanser and moisturiser. If you have any specific skin concerns you'd like to tackle we also have a range of six Skin Perfectors you can choose from.
You can find out more about all of our products on our homepage.
The facts about SPF, UVA & UVB - get sun protection savvy
May 01, 2020From a young age, we’re all told to ‘remember your sunscreen!’ - but what does it do and why is protecting ourselves so important?
What types of sunlight rays are there and how can they affect my skin?
UVA Rays
UVA rays are associated with skin ageing. 95% of these rays reach the earth's surface, causing short-term effects such as immediate tanning and possible sunburn. They affect the inner cells in the top layer of skin and are responsible for causing premature ageing, pigmentation, and are even linked to some types of skin cancer.
UVA rays present themselves all day long, all year round. They can penetrate through clouds and windows too, so even on the cloudy days that you spend indoors, you’re still exposed and should always remember your SPF!
UVB Rays
UVB rays have shorter wavelengths, so only 5% of these reach the earth’s surface. However, they have a considerably higher energy level meaning their damage can be a lot more severe. Overexposure to UVB rays is what can cause your skin to blister and burn. It is also the cause for most skin cancers, so it is essential to protect your skin and ensure you aren’t putting yourself at risk.
How does SPF work?
A sunscreen acts as a filter, reducing how much UV radiation we’re exposed to. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is the measure of a sunscreen’s ability to protect your skin from harmful UVB rays.
There are two main parts to all sun protection. The active ingredient and the emulsion. The active ingredient does the sun protection work and either absorbs or reflects the UV rays.
The sun protection factor is calculated by how much of the UVB gets through the screen.
The British Association of Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 is a good level to use to keep skin protected.
What makes ARK Skincare's Skin Protecting SPF 30 Primer so special?
Our Skin protecting SPF 30 Primer is the ultimate multi-tasker - Award winning make up primer; sunscreen; and light weight moisturiser in one. It offers 'broad-spectrum’ UV protection which means unlike many products, it protects from both UVA & UVB rays.
By making this part of your daily skincare routine, you’ll keep your skin protected without even having to think about it!
You can find out more about this product here.
References:
NHS - Sunscreen & Sun Safety
ColorScience - How Does Sunscreen Work To Protect Your Skin?
The Explainer - What Does SPF Mean & How Is It MeasuredApril is Rosacea Awareness Month - Here Are Our Top Tips for dealing with Rosacea
Apr 21, 2020Feeling flushed? Suffering from persistent redness? It may be rosacea, which is more common than you think. It is, unfortunately, not something you can cure, but you may like to try our top tips for keeping it under control.
1. Protect your skin from damaging UV rays
UV rays are the number one cause of rosacea flare-ups, so it's important to use a good quality SPF all year round and ensure to cover up when in direct sunlight. Take a look at our SPF 30 Primer here - it's the perfect product to protect your skin and it creates a smooth base for makeup application too.
2.Consider the environment around you. Extremes of temperature and pollution can aggravate rosacea. Hot weather, cold winds, high humidity, and urban pollution can all be problematic. Keep cool, avoid steam, wrap up against cold winds, and protect from pollution.
3. Manage stress levels.
Stress is known to exaggerate skin concerns. Use stress management strategies and take care of your whole self. Sleep, eat well, exercise, and consider including meditation or breathing exercises in your daily routine. This will help you not to put unnecessary pressure on yourself and help to calm your mind and body.
4. Keep well
Being unwell can show on your skin. Fever, coughs and colds, high blood pressure, and serious illness can cause rosacea to flare up. Occasionally long term medication can affect the sensitivity of your skin. If you take medication and suffer from redness discuss it with your GP and explore alternatives. Consider taking multivitamins to keep well especially those with vitamin C and Zinc.
5. Wash your make up brushes
In an independent survey of 1000 people 44% said they had never cleaned their make up brushes! Several studies have shown that makeup brushes can be contaminated with dangerously high levels of bacteria, and in some cases carried more bacteria than was found on a loo brush! Clean those brushes to prevent skin irritations and redness flare-ups.
6. Go make up free
Consider having a break from makeup and see if your redness comes down. Some ingredients in cosmetics can cause irritation. If you have a break from makeup and your skin improves reintroduce your products one by one to see which ones cause a flare-up. You may be able to identify key ingredients to avoid.
7. Avoid scent
Scent can be a major cause of skin irritation. Stop using perfumes and avoid facial, body, and bath products that are highly scented. Even some essential oils can be irritating to the skin, so it's important to choose products that are as natural as possible as these won't contain any harsh chemicals.
8. Alter your exercise routine
Exercise is reported by many rosacea sufferers as a cause of flare-ups. But don’t stop exercising! It is essential to your stress management and overall wellbeing. Instead, alter the way you exercise. Consider short blasts of high-intensity workouts rather than prolonged sessions. Avoid working out in a stuffy hot room, but instead, make sure the gym is well ventilated and ideally air-conditioned. Try using a beauty mist to keep cool during classes. Try swimming. AND always keep hydrated. It is essential to keep your water consumption up.
9. Skincare Products can help but choose carefully. Select products that are created for sensitive skin as these will be free of known irritants and strong fragrances. It's also important to keep your skincare routine simple– “less is more” as they say. Don't chop and change your products either, introduce products one by one over a matter of weeks to avoid over-stimulating the skin. When applying products be gentle. Do not rub your face, or use harsh exfoliators or scrubs, and when cleansing with water avoid extremes of temperature - use hand warm water and a soft cloth. Resist the temptation to wash your face when in a power shower. The strong jets can cause sensitivity and redness to flare.
Our soothing Anti-Redness Serum contains a botanical complex clinically proven to calm and protect sensitive, and regularly receives 5-star reviews. It has also been featured by Talontedlex, a popular skincare blogger who openly talks about her favourite products to help rosacea. You can find out more about this award-winning product here.
Controlling rosacea involves looking at all aspects of your lifestyle. Follow these tips to help keep your skin calm. Don’t be disheartened or allow it to upset you. You are not alone. In fact, you are in good company with film stars, princes, and presidents reportedly suffering. You can always chat with us on socials @arkskincare or email sales@arkskincare.com for help and product advice. We love hearing from you!
How To Lift Your Mood
Apr 16, 20208 TOP TIPS
We all have our days where we don't feel so good and need a little bit of comfort. So, this week, we thought we'd share some of our top tips to help lift and boost your mood, for when you're in need of a pick me up. Remember you can always chat with us on socials too, we love hearing from you! @ARKskincare
Sometimes it can feel easier to push negative emotions away, rather than actually dealing with them. However, ignoring the way you’re really feeling and bottling things up can often do more damage than good.
Be kind to yourself. Take some time out and reflect on what it is that might be making you feel down. Perhaps sharing your feelings with a friend or family member might help. Or, if you don’t feel like talking, allow yourself some time to accept how you feel. Sometimes a good cry to a sad film can relieve a lot of built-up tension and make you feel a lot better!
Chatting with friends or family members can always help to boost your mood. While we all know face to face interaction is limited right now, why not call or facetime someone you haven’t caught up with for a while? Start a virtual hangout and have your own ‘pub’ quiz with your best friends and favorite drinks, or get creative with an online game of Pictionary!
Do you ever find yourself so submerged with something, then you look at the clock and hours have gone by? Find something you enjoy doing and allow yourself some time to have fun! There’s plenty of things to keep you occupied - a funny film or tv show, writing/drawing, puzzles, online quizzes, or even virtual games you can play online with friends!
While they're a lot less chatty, if you have a pet, spend some time with them too! Animals can bring us so much joy with the little things they do and can be a great company when you're feeling low.
“The way to someone's heart is through their stomach!” - A tasty treat is always a great way to put a smile on someone's face. There are plenty of free recipes online, so why not have a go at trying one yourself? Baking can be a really therapeutic way of keeping busy for a few hours and as a bonus, you'll have an afternoon treat to go with a cup of tea!
If you're in need of some inspiration, take a look at these yummy looking recipes!
Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Loaf
Offering an act of kindness to others is always a nice thing to do. It can make somebody’s day and you’ll feel great seeing their reaction, knowing you’ve done lovely something for them. Ideas could be offering some help to somebody who is struggling, treating a loved one to a home-cooked meal or even showing a smile to a stranger.
Having something positive to listen to is always a good way to lift the mood. Put together a playlist of all your favorite songs to put on or find something interesting to listen to. There are plenty of podcasts online where people talk about all kinds of different topics.
For an all-round feel-good podcast, The Mental Makeover Podcast has lots of episodes on how to live a happier lifestyle, including topics such as the law of attraction, boosting your mood and improving your self-confidence. Definitely worth a listen!
Although we all know the importance of staying inside at the moment, we can still get our dose of vitamin D! Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain's release of a hormone called serotonin, known as the happy hormone. Even going for a short walk or standing outside for 5-10 minutes can help. Just don't forget your SPF!
Taking some time out to practice self-care is so important for good mental health. Run a bath, pop a face mask on, grab some of your favourite body products and treat yourself to a few hours to yourself to relax and unwind. An early night now and again helps too - a rested mind makes anyone feel better!
If you really want to treat yourself, take a look at ARK Skincare's new Uplifting Care package! The perfect gift to treat yourself or a friend to.
Includes:
- Vitality Hand & Body Wash
- Nourishing Body Lotion
- Hydrating Beauty Mist
- ARK Washbag
You can find more of our other care packages and gifts here.
References:
Psychology Today - 10 Simple Ways To Improve Your Mood
Very Well Mind - How to Instantly Lift Your Mood
SELF - 13 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Mood
Healthline - What Are The Benefits Of Sunlight?
How To Keep Active Indoors
Apr 12, 2020
We hope you’re all doing well and are keeping healthy going into the third week of lockdown. Despite being a few weeks in now, we know it can still seem strange and feel tricky to deal with sometimes. During this time, we hope our content can help to uplift and inspire, or even just take things off your mind for five minutes!
As lots of us are staying at home and are unable to be able to go to the gym or get as much exercise in, we thought we would suggest some ideas on how to keep active indoors. So, if you’re feeling a little bit stuck for something to do, this could be the post for you!
1. Online Workout Videos
There are thousands of workout classes on YouTube which are fab as they are free to access and you can search for exactly what you want. Whether that be cardio, strength, high/low intensity or even just some stretches, there is so much content to choose from.
The channel SELF has some great cardio workouts, or, if you’re looking for something low-intensity, Lucy Wyndham-Read has a channel full of great “walking workouts” which are a great way to get you moving!
2. Live Workouts
Lots of celebrities and online influencers are using their platform positively by live-streaming with their personal trainers and inviting their following to join in too! A great way to feel part of something and get a real sense of community, while getting some exercise in too! Here are some ideas for people to follow...
3. Fitness Apps
Don’t forget about fitness apps! Why not have a break from scrolling through socials and find a workout to do on your phone?
Chris Hemsworth has recently announced he is offering a 6-month free subscription of his fitness app Centre which you can find out more about here.
Fiit is another app where you can link your phone to your tv screen. You can wear a tracking belt during your workout and see your stats on the screen while you do your exercise. You can also invite friends to workout with you and compete for the most 'fiit points' which is lots of fun and a great way to increase your motivation!
4. Yoga & Pilates
If you fancy the idea of learning a new skill, why not give yoga or pilates a go? It has lots of different benefits such as increasing your flexibility, strength and posture. It can help to relax and calm the mind. One of our favourites is Karen Eccles @pilatesfromwithin, who is hosting live workout classes. A nice therapeutic way to start or end the day!
5. Get Creative!
You don’t need to commit to a whole workout to stay active, it's just about finding ways to keep yourself moving. Do some star jumps in the garden, have a dance in the kitchen while you cook dinner or even just walk up and down the stairs a few times - that'll get your heart rate up! Improvise with what you have available. Who needs dumbbells? Grab a bottle of water or a few cans of beans!
6. Walking/Running/Cycling
We all know it’s very important to stay at home as much as possible at the moment. However, we are still allowed our hours of exercise per day which is worth taking advantage of! While keeping a distance from others who may be out and about, why not take a walk, run or cycle? Fresh air is still as important as ever to keep brain fog away!
7. Take your chair away!
Is sitting at a desk or on the sofa all day is making you feel sluggish? Sitting down for long periods of time is thought to slow the metabolism and make us feel tired.
Why not create a standing desk to work at instead? Some say it can even improve productivity and focus as it keeps you more alert!
Wrapping Up With A Gentle Reminder...
While keeping active is great for both the body and the mind, please don’t pressure yourself. Lots of online content is all about being productive 24/7 at the moment and while that might be great for some, we must remember this time isn’t about becoming a fitness guru, eating kale for every meal or working 10 hour days. It's a strange time for everyone and the most important thing we can do is take each day as it comes and do what feels right for us. Whether that be going for a run or having a PJ day, all are important. Take care of yourself.
Sources:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/why-sitting-too-much-is-bad-for-us/
Care Packages & Competition!
Apr 07, 2020We could all do with a pick me up. Here is your chance to send yourself, or a friend, a care package to serve as a virtual cuddle. You can choose from our three options: Comfort, Uplift, or De-Stress. Order your favourite for yourself, or send it to a friend of your choice. Simply add the recipient's delivery address at check out.
The Comfort Care Package
Including:
- Conditioning Body Serum
- Rose, Geranium & Violet Travel Candle
- ARK Wash Bag
- Was £72, now £22
The Uplifting Care Package
Including:
- Mini Hydrating Beauty Mist
- Vitality Hand & Body Wash
- Nourishing Hand & Body Lotion
- ARK Wash Bag
The De-Stress Care Package
Including:
- De-Stress Serum
- Hydration Injection Masque
- Geranium, Eucalyptus & Peppermint Travel Candle
- ARK Wash Bag
Want to include a message?
Sadly we can not include personal messages at this time. However, at check out, you can sneak in a message in the name field. Enter your recipient's name in the "first name" field, and the message in the "last name" field. The name and message will be displayed on the address label. But keep it brief due to the limited space available, and make sure you put your details in the billing address section.
Look out for our competition post on our Facebook or Instagram pages, tag a key worker in the comments whom you believe should receive a free care package. There are ten free gifts to be won. Competition ends Tuesday 21st April.
In your comment include the following:
1. Their name
2. A little bit about them and why you want them to win.
3. Which of the ARK Skincare Care Packages you'd like them to win
Please keen to one nomination per comment. You are welcome to nominate as many people as you like, but please do each one in a new comment.
We're not asking for likes or follows, but do feel free to share so we can celebrate as many people as possible.
Best of luck!!
ARK Skincare’s New Night Treatments: Your Feedback
Apr 05, 2020At the start of this year, ARK Skincare launched two brand new night treatments. (If you missed the big news, you can find our original post here!)
We’ve given you plenty of information about each of the treatments and how they benefit your skin while you sleep, but what does everyone think?
Since these products were made available on the ARK Skincare website, we have been so thrilled with the feedback that we decided to round-up all the things that people have been loving and share them with you!
Clean Natural Scent
“It contains no artificial colours or fragrances so has a very healthy smell to it, one I personally love and one that’s not over-powering. You don’t need a lot as a little goes a long way and it applies like a dream, sinking in beautifully. My skin instantly feels plumped and hydrated.” – Tracey, Lifestyle Blogger (@the-naughtyfortydiaries)
Brighter, Softer Skin
“I’ve been using the Age Defend night cream now for 6wks. I’ve been using ARK on my skin for 4yrs, so I was very excited to get my hands on the night cream! It really does not disappoint. My skin feels amazing, it looks clearer, brighter, feels softer. It’s a lovely rich, nourishing texture without leaving the skin sticky & heavy like some night creams. It also smells divine & is a must now in my daily skincare routine.” Kate Hardy - ARK Skincare’s Resident Therapist
Helps to Hydrate
“Nourishing and healing…the ARK’s Defend Night Treatment Cream is amazing! Light, silky smooth and provides the perfect amount of hydration. Yet another beautiful product from ARK, thank you!” Karen D - Customer
Gentle on Sensitive Skin
“It calms down my Rosacea that tends to flare up with the cooler weather” – Annemieke, Beauty Blogger (@_beautyonreview)
A Great Under-Eye Treatment
“I simply cleanse and follow with the serum of my choice. I then apply and massage Age Defend Night Treatment in using my jade tool which feels amazingly therapeutic. The Night Treatment can even be used under the eyes as it contains Prodizia which helps reduce dark circles and eye bags.” - (@the_naughtyfortydiaries)
Gorgeous Glow
“This lightweight formula and silky texture melts quickly into the skin adding a layer of much-needed hydration. Each morning my skin looks plump, hydrated and has a youthful glow which I am loving!” Sharon, Beauty Blogger (@backtoyoubeauty)
Leaves You Looking Rested
“I’m a big fan of ARK’s Defy range, so couldn’t wait to try the new Night Treatment. It’s rich without being heavy and I’ve noticed an improvement in skin texture in only one week of using it. I feel like I wake up looking more rested now!” Judith S - Customer
Perfect for Dry Skin
“I’ve been using the two products each night and my skin feels lovely and replenished when I go to bed right through to morning. I have sensitive, dry skin usually but it’s been looking so much clearer as well as being brighter and more supple.” – Emma, Lifestyle Blogger. (@Evenangelsfall)
Works While You Sleep
“The cream is nicely absorbed by my skin and in the morning my skin feels soft, nourished and looks brighter already. I feel that my skin is more hydrated too, making it the perfect night cream for the winter months.” (@_beautyonreview)
It is a simple, quick and effective routine that leaves my skin prepped for its beauty sleep. (@the-naughtyfortydiaries)
Gives The Skin Some 'Oomph"
"When it comes to the colder months, my skin needs a bit more oomph in my moisturiser and this fits the bill perfectly" - Talonted Lex, Beauty Blogger
We were also thrilled to be part of Lex's February Skincare Shakeup on her blog which you can read here.
To view the night treatments on our website you can click here.
What We Have Learnt From Isolation... So Far
Mar 31, 2020The world has temporarily changed and we are learning how to adjust to our new way of life. Here we share tips to help us all get through this together and stay positive...
Do not watch the news nonstop! Decide on one update a day and make sure it is a reliable source. Perhaps you enjoy a particular TV or radio news bulletin, or maybe you watch the daily government briefing? Stick to one, otherwise, it becomes overwhelming.
Do not lose your day to social media scaremongering! Now is the time to make sure you are following only positive social media accounts and avoid any inaccurate information. Social media will be so important to us to keep in touch over the next few weeks, but it can also be incredibly negative. Follow the positive hashtags #positives #postivevibes #positivenews #goodnews .. and maybe the odd cute animal site!
It is really easy to slip into poor habits and to move only a few steps each day. Pick a time to exercise and stick to it. There are so many free videos and fitness challenges available on YouTube and Social media. No gyms required!
This is no time to start an extreme eating plan! Eat a balanced diet and make sure you get the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Don't start panic taking new supplements, but perhaps a daily dose of Vitamin C will help. Also, ensure you get exposure to light rays for a short time each day to top up your Vitamin D levels. You can achieve this by sitting at an open window if you can't get out. But don't forget your SPF if you are in sunlight for any length of time!
This is a great opportunity to check-in with old friends and extended family whom you may not have seen recently. Re-establish old links. A 'phone call now could really make someone's day.
There are lots of community groups starting up to offer local assistance. Check-in with your neighbours (whilst staying two meters apart) even if you don't know them, and make sure they are OK.
You can't become the world's best teacher overnight! If you are trying to work from home as well as managing homeschooling it is a pretty impossible task. Cut yourself some slack. Do the best you can. Use all the school resources provided but if you need to resort to online tutorials, videos, and films, that is fine.
Remember that body brush you bought but never really used? .. Or a Jade tool you planned to learn how to perfect the art of facial massage with? Do you have other products you never really got to grips with? Now is the time. Create a great facial and body skincare regime and get into the habit whilst you have the time. You will see the physical improvements, as well as feel the psychological benefits of a good self-care regime. Plus there is nothing quite like a soak in the bath at the end of the day to ease away stress.
"Keep a diary and someday it will keep you" Mae West was very wise... but even if you don't manage to create a best seller, writing your feelings down can be very cathartic and help you organise your thoughts and feelings. Getting the negatives off your chest is good but write down the good stuff too and focus on all the positives. It will help!
Over the coming weeks we will be sharing lots of tips and ideas, and hopefully spreading some positivity. Our office is closed as our staff are now all working from home, but please do keep in touch via social media or email. We will get back to all messages in turn. Please share anything which has made you feel good and we will pass it on to the rest of the ARK Skincare community.
Our delivery service remains fully operational. All orders are processed in our distribution centre which is adhering to all the latest government safety protocols. Parcels will be safely delivered and left at your door. No signatures or contact will be required. If you have any concerns please get in touch office@arkskincare.com
Stay home. Stay safe. Keep well.
What happens when we sleep?
Mar 29, 2020The Science of Sleep
We all know how important rest is and the struggle we can face without it. So, what happens when we sleep and why do we need it?
Sleep is incredibly important as it helps the brain to function properly. Without it, we are unable to properly process what we’re told and remember things we learned throughout the day. This is why it can be hard to focus on what would usually be fairly straight forward.
Bad or little sleep can lead to many different complications. Some are physical, such as seizures, high blood pressure and increased likelihood of illness and infection. It can also increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and paranoia.
Despite knowing all of the factors that are associated with lack of sleep, I was interested to find out what actually happens when we slumber. So, with that in mind, I went away and did some research of my own.
So, What Did I Find?
Sleep is regulated by our circadian rhythm (also known as our body clock). It responds to light cues and ramps up the production of melatonin – a natural hormone known as the ‘sleep hormone’ which tells our body it’s night time. Once the sun starts to go down and we are exposed to less light, melatonin is released into the bloodstream and as levels begin to rise, we start to feel sleepy. (This definitely makes me feel less guilty about feeling so sluggish in wintertime!)
When we sleep, we experience a four-stage cycle. These cycles are often repeated 3-4 times during the night, depending on how good of a sleep we get.
Stage One
This stage is the transition between being awake and falling asleep once we get comfortable, close our eyes and begin to relax. This usually lasts about 5-10 minutes.
Stage Two
This is when our heart rate and breathing begins to slow down, body temperature drops and our muscles may twitch. This stage is still fairly light and the brain produces sudden increases in brain wave frequency known as sleep spindles.
Stage Three
This is known as the “delta” stage of sleep due to the delta slow brain waves which take place. It is at this particular stage in sleep that the most growth hormone is produced to service bones, muscles and repair the body. At this point, it becomes a little harder for us to be awakened because we become less responsive to outside stimuli.
Stage Four
Stage four is known as REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement), the deepest stage of sleep which we usually enter about 90 minutes after initially falling asleep. This is the stage where the brain is most active, the eyes dart back and forth and breathing becomes fast and shallow. It’s also when our dreams take place. Chemicals that are released within the body render it temporarily paralyzed so that we don’t act them out in our sleep. Each REM stage can last up to an hour and an average adult has five to six a night.
ARK Skincare’s Brand-New Night Treatments
After some extensive research into the science of sleep over the past two years, ARK skincare has recently released two new night treatments. Each is packed full of active ingredients that help to aid the body’s natural repair process when we sleep, allowing us to wake up feeling rested and glowing. You can find more information about these here.
Sources
This informative video from The Economist explains each stage of sleep in detail which you can watch here
NHS - How To Beat Insomnia
Product Focus: ARK Skincare's Intensive Hand & Nail Cream
Mar 27, 2020How do you keep your hands soft and supple? - A good hand cream!
Without mentioning what is going on right now, it's easy to say that we're all adamant about washing our hands a lot more. While this is extremely important, it's very easy to let your hands get dry, especially in the cold weather. So, as a gift from us to you, we're adding in a free hand cream to every order placed over £5.
To help you to understand what makes this product a multi-award winning staple in our range, we thought we would share the ingredients that make it up, what they do and how they benefit the skin.
Raspberry Seed Oil
Raspberry seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids such as omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9. It also contains high levels of vitamin E making it the perfect lipid choice for daily protection as it provides protection and moisture retention for the skin.
Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter
Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter Shea butter melts at skin temperature, helping to moisturise the skin as it easily absorbed without leaving the skin feeling sticky. It is well-known for overcoming dry, irritated and sensitized skin and cocoa butter can help to improve elasticity.
Kiwi & Avocado Oil
Kiwi oil helps to maintain moisture in the skin and prevent drying and scaling. It can also help aid in the relief of itchy, scaly, irritated skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. The fatty acids within avocado oil have excellent moisturising properties that help regenerate and rejuvenate the skin.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed Oil is rich in both Omega 6 and vitamin E, which helps to moisturise the skin and give it the ability to bounce back. It is easily absorbed by the skin and leaves it feeling soft and silky. This oil also contains a powerful antioxidant ingredient called proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant may even out skin tone when it’s used on your skin consistently.
Red Algae
Red algae is known for its amazing skin benefits including increasing moisture, moisture retention and promoting smooth skin. It also has the ability to block UV rays, protecting the skin against pigmentation, sun damage, and dark spots. It has also been clinically proven to prevent wrinkles.
Blackcurrant Seed Oil
A rich natural source of Vitamin C, Blackcurrant Seed Oil is a powerful antioxidant-rich plant oil that contains therapeutic properties, making it a wonderful healing oil for inflammation. The oil's high antioxidant content helps to protect skin cells from free radical damage which can be caused by the environment.
Press & Awards
Rosacea Awareness Month - Are You Worried About Rosacea?
Apr 26, 2018
Do you suffer from redness and facial flushing? Does it get you down, make you hide away or use lots of make up? It can be hard to establish the causes of redness and irritation but it could be a very common condition known as Rosacea. April is Rosacea awareness month which aims to help sufferers learn more about this condition.
Rosacea is more common than you think and sufferers tend to have redness in the centre of their face and very sensitive skin. This can be accompanied by broken capillaries and, in the case of acne rosacea, breakouts. Symptoms can be triggered by many things. Environmental factors such as heat, cold or wind can exaggerate the condition, as can physical exercise. Dietary choices such as consuming alcohol, spicy food or even cheese may also make things worse. Stress can also be a major factor.
Learning to avoid triggers, using calming skincare ranges, and ensuring your products are free from any known irritants will help. Look for brands which display "free from" logos and explore ranges which are recommended for sensitive skin.
Follow these easy skincare tips:
- Avoid artificial scents and colorants
- Use a serum with calming benefits aimed at reducing redness and flushing
- Use a daily broad spectrum SPF to protect against damaging UVA and UVB rays
- Use a cooling, calming spritz throughout the day
- Consult with your skincare therapist / facialist for advise on the best course of facial treatments for you
- If concerned contact your GP for further advice
If you do suffer from Rosacea you are in good company. The beautiful Lisa Faulker, actress, presenter and chef says in the latest Woman&Home Feel Good You Magazine that "I have Rosacea and ARK Skincare completely changed the look and feel of my skin in a matter of weeks. I love it, especially the de-stress serum and the age defend moisturiser." To learn more about the products she uses click on the link below.
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Shop our Anti-Redness Serum now at:
