Glowing Skin Awaits: Exfoliation Essentials for Every Complexion

We all know exfoliating is great for our skin; through the removal of dead skin cells, you leave your skin not only softer and smoother but also as a blank canvas to absorb all the goodness from your House of Immortelle products. But before diving into an exfoliation routine, it’s crucial to understand your skin type. In this article, we’re going to give you a guide on realising what your own skin type is, so that you know the best course of action to get the results you’re looking for from your exfoliation routine.

Different Methods of Exfoliation 

Before exfoliation, you’ll want to begin with a natural face cleanser to achieve optimal results. Then, you can move on to deciding which exfoliation method is best for you, either mechanical exfoliation – where you physically scrub the skin with tools or products with a grainy texture, such as a refining powder, which removes dead skin cells for a smoother texture. Or chemical exfoliation, which involves the use of chemicals to dissolve dead skin cells. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are commonly used in chemical exfoliants. 

The Skin Types

Whichever method of exfoliation you choose will be defined, largely, by your skin type. So, let’s break down the various skin types so that you can figure out your own and decide the best method for optimal skincare:

  1. Normal Skin

Normal skin is well-balanced, neither too oily nor too dry. It tends to have a smooth texture, small pores, and a relatively healthy complexion. If you have normal skin, you have the flexibility to choose between mechanical and chemical exfoliation methods. Starting with a cloth or sponge and a mild chemical exfoliant is a great option.

  1. Dry Skin

Dry skin often feels tight, rough, and flaky. It lacks moisture and may be prone to sensitivity. For individuals with dry skin, mechanical exfoliation methods may be too harsh and irritating. Instead, opt for a gentle washcloth and a mild chemical exfoliator. It’s crucial to follow exfoliation with a hydrating moisturiser to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier.

  1. Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterised by excess sebum production, making the skin appear shiny and prone to breakouts. Mechanical exfoliation using a scrub or a brush can be an effective method for oily skin, as it helps to unclog pores and remove excess oil. 

  1. Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is easily irritated and may react negatively to certain skincare products or environmental factors. It’s essential to approach exfoliation with caution if you have sensitive skin. Avoid harsh physical exfoliants and opt for gentler methods. The House of Immortelle refining powder is an ideal product for sensitive skin types.

  1. Combination Skin

Combination skin is a mix of different skin types, with some areas being oily and others dry or normal. If you have combination skin, it’s important to tailor your exfoliation routine to address the specific needs of each area. You can opt for a combination of mechanical and chemical exfoliation methods, using a brush or scrub on oily areas and a mild chemical exfoliant on dry or sensitive areas.

How Often Should You Exfoliate for Your Skin Type?

The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type and the exfoliation method you choose. It’s important to strike a balance between reaping the benefits of exfoliation and not overdoing it. Here are some general guidelines for how often you should exfoliate based on your skin type.

If you have normal skin, exfoliating once a week is generally sufficient. However, if you feel that your skin can handle a more intense exfoliation, you can increase the frequency to once every few weeks. Pay attention to any signs of irritation or sensitivity and adjust your exfoliation routine accordingly.

For individuals with dry skin, it’s important to be cautious when exfoliating. Once a week is typically a safe frequency to avoid stripping away too much moisture. However, if you notice any signs of dryness or irritation, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks.

Oily skin can tolerate more frequent exfoliation due to the excess sebum production. Exfoliating two to three times a week can help control oiliness and prevent clogged pores. If you notice any irritation, drop it down accordingly. 

If you have sensitive skin, it’s crucial to approach exfoliation with caution. Start with a minimal frequency of once every two weeks and observe how your skin reacts.

If you have combination skin, you will require a tailored approach to exfoliation. Focus on treating each area of your face according to its specific needs. Exfoliate the oily areas two to three times a week and the dry or sensitive areas once a week or as needed.

Now that you’ve discovered your own skin type and have a basic guide on how to incorporate exfoliation into your regular skincare regimen, you can begin shedding those dead skin cells and reveal your glowing skin. Remember to proceed with caution, though; take things slowly, to begin with whilst you get to know your skin better. Just like anything else, your skin will let you know if what you’re doing is working and when you’re treating your skin to the best products that House of Immortelle can offer, your skin is bound to reap the rewards. 

“This is an Advertisement Feature”

Unlock the Secrets of Pre-Cleansing: Do You Really Need It?

One of the most important steps in your skincare is cleansing. It helps to remove oil, dirt, and impurities from your skin, leaving it fresh and clean. However, one step that is often overlooked and can greatly increase the effectiveness of your cleansing routine is pre-cleansing.

Pre-cleansing involves using a specific product or technique before your regular cleanser to prepare your skin for a deeper cleanse. This method is also known as double cleansing. In this article, we will look at the benefits of pre-cleansing, the different types available, and whether you really need to pre-cleanse.

Benefits of pre-cleansing

Many brands now offer a pre-cleanser. One such brand is Fresh Face Skin, which has formulated a special pre-cleanser that can be used before your regular cleanser to gently remove surface product and build-up, making your regular cleanse more effective. Here are some benefits of incorporating pre-cleansers into your skincare routine.

Removes makeup and sunscreen

One of the biggest benefits of pre-cleansing is the removal of make-up and sunscreen. Many makeup products and sunscreens are formulated to be long-lasting and waterproof. These are often difficult to remove with regular cleansers alone, and one wash is often not enough to properly remove all the products from your face. So, if you are an avid makeup or sunscreen wearer, choosing an oil-based cleanser that can effectively dissolve and lift sunscreen and makeup from your face is advised,  allowing the cleanser to work more efficiently at cleansing your skin.

Clears impurities

Throughout the day, our skin accumulates various impurities such as dirt, pollution, excess oil, and more. However, with the right pre-cleanser, you can remove these impurities and provide a clean canvas for your regular cleanser to work the way it’s designed to. By removing the outer layer of dirt from the skin’s surface, pre-cleansing ensures that your regular cleanser can penetrate deeper into the pores and effectively cleanse your skin while ensuring that your skin benefits from the ingredients found within the cleanser.

Provides a deeper cleanse

Using a pre-cleanser can help you achieve a deeper cleanse. By removing the initial layer of dirt and grime, pre-cleansing allows your regular cleanser to work more effectively without the initial layer of dirt in the way. This is especially beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as pre-cleansing will help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts or pore buildup from forming.

Promotes healthy skin

In addition to its cleansing properties, pre-cleansers also contribute to overall skin health by maintaining a clean and balanced complexion. By removing surface impurities, pre-cleansers prevent the build-up of dirt and grime that can lead to dull, congested skin. Adding a pre-cleanser to your routine also helps prepare your skin to better absorb the active ingredients in your subsequent skincare products, such as serums, moisturisers, and essences, maximising their effectiveness.

Different types of pre-cleansers

Now that we understand the benefits of pre-cleansers, here are some different types of pre-cleansers and how they can be used in your skincare routine.

Micellar Water

Micellar water is a gentle, water-based cleanser that is suitable for almost all skin types. Micellar water contains micelles, tiny oil molecules that attract and lift away dirt and grime. It can also effectively remove make-up and sunscreen. Micellar water is easy to use as it does not require rinsing before your regular cleanser, making it a convenient option for quick pre-cleansing. For those with dry or sensitive skin – be cautious when choosing Micellar water. High alcohol content or artificial fragrances can lead to stripping the skin of its natural oils, leaving your skin sensitised and prone to irritation.

Fresh Face Skin pre-cleanse is a 100% natural product that is easy to use and contains no stripping ingredients. It focuses on gently removing surface product, oil, and dirt from the skin surface and can be used with their reusable chammie or a cotton pad, for easy product removal, prior to cleansing with your chosen cleanser.

Oil-Based Cleansers

Oil-based pre-cleansers are especially great at breaking down makeup and stubborn impurities. They are particularly beneficial for those with dry skin as they moisturise while removing dirt. These cleansers tend to emulsify and become milky when in contact with water, allowing it to be easily washed away, leaving skin feeling soft and nourished.

Cleansing Balms

Cleansing balms are formulated to have a solid, balm-like consistency that melts into an oil on contact with the skin. Cleansing balms often contain nourishing ingredients that leave the skin feeling supple and hydrated. Similar to oil-based pre-cleaners, they emulsify and turn milky when in contact with water, making them easy to wash off.

As you can see, the benefits of pre-cleansers vary and they provide different benefits for different skin types.

For oily skin, pre-cleansers can help remove excess oil as well as the impurities created by the skin that can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

For dry skin, pre-cleansers can provide additional hydration and cleanse effectively without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is an effective way to prevent dryness while effectively cleansing the skin and removing makeup or product.

For combination skin, pre-cleansers can help balance oil and maintain a clear complexion. They ensure thorough cleansing and prevent pore build-up.

In summary, pre-cleansers play a crucial role in achieving a thorough cleanse that enhances skincare routines and skin clarity. By removing makeup and surface impurities prior to cleansing, it allows for a deep skin cleanse and promotes skin health.

Pre-cleansers set the stage for optimal skincare results.

This is why brands like Fresh Face Skin, created by founder Amelia Goff, formulate pre-cleansers that work alongside their regular cleansers to give you the best possible skin results while enhancing your skincare routine.

“This is an Advertisement Feature”

Unveiling the World of Male Modeling: Insights and Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

Male modeling has long been associated with glamour, fashion, and the pursuit of aesthetic perfection. While the industry predominantly focuses on female models, the male modeling world is equally captivating and competitive. This article delves into the intriguing realm of male modeling, shedding light on its inner workings, challenges, and the dedication required to succeed in this visually-driven profession.

Diversity and Changing Standards

The male modeling industry has experienced a significant shift in recent years, embracing diversity and breaking traditional beauty standards. Today, male models come in various shapes, sizes, and ethnicities. The industry now values individuality, unique features, and personality rather than adhering to a narrow definition of beauty. This newfound inclusivity has opened doors for aspiring models who may not fit the traditional mold, offering them opportunities to showcase their distinct looks and personal style.

Fitness and Physique

Physical fitness and maintaining a well-toned physique are essential aspects of male modeling. While no one-size-fits-all requirement exists, models are generally expected to be in good shape and possess a healthy physique. This involves maintaining a disciplined exercise regimen, following a balanced diet, and caring for their overall well-being. The level of fitness required may vary depending on the specific modeling niche, such as fitness, underwear, or high fashion.

Grooming and Skincare

Male models invest considerable time and effort into their grooming and skincare routines. This includes proper skincare, hair care, and maintaining a well-groomed appearance. From regular visits to hairstylists and skincare specialists to learning effective grooming techniques, models strive to present themselves at their best for every assignment. Attention to detail in personal grooming is crucial, as it enhances their marketability and allows them to excel in a highly competitive industry.

Professionalism and Resilience

The male modeling world demands professionalism, resilience, and a strong work ethic. Models must be punctual, adaptable, and able to handle long hours and physically demanding assignments. They often face rejection and intense competition, requiring them to maintain a positive mindset and persevere in facing challenges. Building and maintaining professional relationships with industry professionals, such as photographers and stylists, is also crucial for success.

Navigating Different Modeling Genres

Male models have the opportunity to work in various genres within the industry. These include fashion shows, editorial shoots, commercial campaigns, fitness modeling, and more. Each genre requires unique skills and the ability to adapt to different creative visions and brand aesthetics. Successful male models are versatile, capable of embodying different characters and styles while maintaining their own distinct persona.

The Impact of Social Media

Social media platforms have revolutionized the modeling industry, offering male models a powerful tool for self-promotion and networking. Instagram, in particular, has become a platform where models can showcase their portfolios, engage with followers, and catch the attention of industry professionals. Maintaining a solid online presence and cultivating a dedicated following can significantly enhance a model’s visibility and career prospects.

Longevity and Career Transition

The career lifespan of male models can vary, but many have successfully transitioned into other areas of the industry as they age. This can include opportunities in acting, fashion photography, creative directing, or even establishing their own fashion brands. Male models who develop a solid personal brand and industry connections throughout their careers can often leverage their experience and knowledge to pursue fulfilling roles behind the scenes.

The world of male modeling offers a fascinating glimpse into a visually driven industry that has evolved and embraced diversity in recent years. Male models must possess physical attributes, professionalism, resilience, and adaptability to succeed in this competitive field. From navigating different genres to building a strong online presence, the insights shared in this article provide a deeper understanding of the multifaceted world of male modeling.

How to Lose Weight After the Holidays

It’s finally that time of year again. A time of long beach days, hot summer nights, and that cute bikini you picked out last year. But wait a minute – before you try it on, have you considered the possibility of the dreaded ‘holiday weight’? (Don’t act like you don’t have any because that’s impossible.)

My boyfriend and I have come to terms with this fact of life. And we’ve made a 3-month pact. No junk food. 2 liters of water a day. Gym visits as often as possible. Yesterday was our first gym visit. After forking out a huge twenty dollars for a casual visit and spending an hour sweating and aching and feeling like I was going to throw up, I must admit I began to question what I got myself into. Why does summer have to be such a pain?

I woke up in the morning with aching arms, legs, abs, and a starving stomach. Damn you, holiday weight! There has to be an easier way…

Here’s what I think. The moderation rule is important, as in – eat everything in moderation. Feel like some chocolate? Have a square! Craving lollies? Go for the 98% less sugar option. It may not be the healthiest way to ‘diet,’ but who am I kidding? Diets are boring anyway. At work, we are careful to have a small stash of All Natural lollies on hand for those one-off sugar hits. Now when lunchtime rolls around, rather than going for the trusty Kebab Shop Nachos, try out a fruit salad with yoghurt, or even a salad sandwich. It’s important to keep your stomach full the whole day long. Skipping breakfast is a big no-no, so as not to affect your metabolism, leaving you more likely to pig out on the tempting junk later on that night.

What’s important is staying active. This really depends on the individual. While I would much rather fork over loads of cash to sweat it out in the gym, a smarter individual may realise that jogging is far more affordable (plus, you can take your iPod and sing along simultaneously!). Team sports are always fun if you’re more of a social person like me. While it’s off-season for the more popular sports, like netball or soccer, nighttime indoor competitions are always run. Grab a bunch of friends and sign up!

Don’t like to sweat? Walking for an hour a day can do just as much good as a half-hour run. So go on a shopping spree and take the stairs instead of the elevator. Little things like this that may seem like nothing at the time really do add up. Even if it’s doing ten push-ups in an ad break of your favourite show and seeing if you can beat the next lot of ads. Fun little challenges for yourself make exercising not seem like it at all, and trust me; you begin to feel quite proud of yourself when you beat your last Personal Best!

At times it will all seem too much, I’m not going to lie, and Baskin Robbins will probably seem like Heaven to you, but before you break down: just think of that cute bikini you’ve got sitting at home. It’ll all be worth it.

FOMA 2022: Standout Moments From The 2022 Fashion Show

FOMA 2022 was an event not to miss. Thirty-six cultures were represented, seven exhibitions, eight ambassadors, four foreign government collaborations, six initiatives, two business growth stories, and 41 faces of FOMA.

Set in the Powerhouse Museum – it was a celebration where a live runway show and a fashion experience took place.

Amongst flashing lights, media coverage, and music – several designers and artists participated at FOMA 2022, such as BULUUY MIRRII By Colleen Tighe Johnson, Karis Zanetta The Label By Karis Zanetta Cheng, Fiji Consulate General & Trade Commission (Australia and New Zealand), The Bowerbirds by Sally Jackson, My Paloma by Founder Eliana Gamboa-Chapman, Lena Kasparian The Label by Lena Kasparian, Tatyana Anderson in Collaboration with Wendy Scully Millinery and Vivian Chan Shaw The Label. It was a great night filled with world-class fashion and entertainment.

Check out some of the photos from the event below, courtesy of Victor Hawk.

AACTA Awards 2022 Red Carpet: Return Of The Glitz, Glam And Gowns

The red carpet was rolled out in Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion 2 days ago as the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards held its official ceremony for 2022. The cream of the crop in the Australian Entertainment industry attended Australia’s night of nights, as the who’s who of show business gathered to celebrate the best in TV and cinema.

If you want to see all the glitz and glam at the 2022 AACTA Awards then scroll down below.

Event Of The Week: Cover ModelQuest 2022

What: Cover ModelQuest is one of the most prestigious modelling competitions in the land down under to date. It’s the quest to discover Australia’s most promising models where contestants compete in their own choice of beach wear, theme costume, and after-five fashion. There are no height or size restrictions. The top 3 models selected during the finals will be shot exclusively for the next issue of StarCentral Magazine, with the male and female winners becoming the cover of the next issue.

Where: Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport Hotel (241 O’Riordan St, Mascot NSW 2020)

When: November 12, 2022

Tickets via this link: Cover ModelQuest 2022

Event To Watch Out For In 2022: The Global Elite Fashion Festival

What: The first-ever GEFF (Global Elite Fashion Festival) is set to hit Sydney on Saturday, October 22, and we can’t be more excited!

Global Elite Fashion Festival is a platform pioneered by Global Elite Media Group and GEQ Magazine in collaboration with StarCentral Magazine, Flagcom group, and Millionaires Alliance. It provides a sustainable platform for international and emerging designers that effectively engage with Australia’s diverse communities and presents an opportunity for designers to showcase their uniqueness and cultural nuances.

There will be three incredible events on October 22; The Australian Golden Sash Awards – the Oscars of beauty pageants will be happening first at 4 pm, followed by the Global Elite Fashion Festival then lastly, Global Elite International Awards.

When: Saturday, October 22. (Program starts at 4 pm for the Australian Golden Sash Awards)

Where: Sir Stamford Plaza Grand Ballroom (241 O’Riordan St, Mascot NSW 2020)

Tickets: Please contact Sue Turner – 0402 281 721

NSW Finalist Sheridan Mortlock Wins Miss Earth Australia 2022

 

Photo Credit: George Azmy

Fourteen worthy queens vied for a single crown on Sunday, September 4, 2022, and the coronation night turned out to be a smashing success!

This year’s competition also included musical performances from Angel Charms, Queeness Gutierrez, Deuc3s, Adlips, and Darius Vevo, dance performances from the Philippine Dance Ensemble and Rommel Reyes Olson of Olson Dance World with his dance partner, Jane Standish, as well as a fashion showcase featuring Faten Lawn, Kruz La Mode, Caftan House, and Maricris Delapena Couture. We also got introduced to the Miss Little, Junior, and Teen Earth Australia Princesses, as well as the Mrs. Earth Australia 2022 official candidates Analieze Bella Newton, Anie Benitez, Irene Evangelista, Jenina Cotelo, Judith Nguyen, Kristine Tadem, Louise Veronica, Mary Venus, Mel Diaz, and Rhea Tecson.

The Miss Earth Australia 2022 coronation night went down at the grand ballroom in Hyatt Regency Hotel Sydney. This year’s cream of the crop for Miss Earth Australia consisted of Jaisy Molina, Ariel Beninca, Haley Cobb, Jessika Bassan, Kajol Chand. Kelsy Prest, Naomie White, Riley Aston, Robyn Russell, Sheridan Mortlock, Himaya Wijayaweera, Jaisy Molina, Mariah Whyte, Sofiia Starchevska, and Judith Sanougah.

Following a four-hour showdown of environmental speeches, gowns, glams, and game-changing questions, here’s how things turned out for this year’s hopefuls…

Sponsors’ Awards

StarCentral’s Choice: Kelsy Prest (New South Wales)
Miss Budgy Smuggler: Jessika Bassan (New South Wales)
Miss Millionaires Alliance: Naomie White (New South Wales)
Miss Megaworld International: Sheridan Mortlock (New South Wales)
Miss Hyatt Regency Sydney: Ariel Beninca (Queensland)
Miss Lari Sports Active: Robyn Russel (Australia Capital Territory)
Miss UME: Riley Aston (Queensland)
Miss Cruz Lamont: Mariah Whyte (Victoria)

Special Awards

Best in Swimwear: Sheridan Mortlock (New South Wales)
Miss Photogenic: Sheridan Mortlock (New South Wales)
Best in Evening Gown: Sheridan Mortlock (New South Wales)
Miss Congeniality: Kelsy Prest (New South Wales)
Miss Talent: Robyn Russel (Australia Capital Territory)
Best in Environmental Speech: Naomie White (New South Wales)
Darling of the Press: Riley Aston (Queensland)
People’s Choice Award: Himaya Wijeyaweera (Victoria)
Green Achievers Award: Himaya Wijeyaweera (Victoria)

Top 5 Winners

Miss Earth Charity Australia: Himaya Wijeyaweera (Victoria)

Miss Earth Water Australia: Riley Aston (Queensland)

Miss Earth Fire Australia: Robyn Russel (Australia Capital Territory)

Miss Earth Air Australia: Naomie White (New South Wales)

Miss Earth Australia 2022: Sheridan Mortlock (New South Wales)

Congratulations to the current National Directors Juliet De Leon and managing director Marc Baylon for pulling off the incredible event, and hats off to the entire Miss Earth Australia 2022 team – it was an amazing effort. Congratulations also to all the beautiful ladies, and best of luck to the new Miss Earth Australia 2022, Sheridan Mortlock!

You can watch the full pageant via this link: Miss Earth Australia 2022

In Pictures: The Miss Earth Australia 2022 Grand Launch and Fashion Show

On Saturday, July 30, Stargazer Production and the Miss Earth Australia Organization hosted a fashion show to celebrate the latest Earth warriors at Hyatt Regency in Sydney. The event featured Stargazer models showcasing designs by Tommy Ge of Leatheron, Faten Lawn, Lily African Wares, Alies Bol, and Armando Crisostomo. It gave an introduction to the Miss Earth Australia 2022 finalists.

Check out some of the images from Stargazer Production and the Miss Earth Australia Organization below, courtesy of Paul Vasquez: