my blog
For over eight years, I’ve written Beauty and the Biome, a personal blog dedicated to skincare education and science. Through this platform, I’ve shared insights into skin health, broken down the complexities of cosmetic formulations, and translated scientific research into practical advice people can apply to their own routines.
The blog has been a space to explore my dual passions—microbiology and formulation science—while making the often-intimidating world of skincare both accessible and evidence-based. From the role of the microbiome and barrier function to ingredient deep-dives and formulation breakdowns, my writing empowers readers to make informed, confident choices for their skin.
You can browse and read my articles on Beauty and the Biome by clicking below to discover a library of science-driven skincare advice.
THE benefits of fermented ingredients in skincare
When most of us hear the word fermentation we typically think of food products like yoghurt or wine, but the latest research shows this ancient method of food preservation is also effective when it comes to achieving nourished, glowing and healthy skin.
explore my full archive of articles by visiting my blog or read the articles below by clicking on the link
The Science Behind The Microbiome and the Skin-Brain-Gut Axis
The Role of pH in Hair and Scalp Health
Unlocking the Power of Antioxidants in Skincare
The Role of pH in Skin Health
A Guide to the Best Retinoids for Your Skin
Skincare Ingredients to Avoid
how to care for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is not technical a skin type, it is actually a term used to describe a skin condition that occurs when skin easily is irritated, becomes sore and tender, and often is reactive to external factors like topical cosmetic and skincare products. Some people are born with a tendency towards skin sensitivity and a weakened skin barrier, but some develop it during periods of their life, the good news is that it can be controlled. Many potential triggers exist including fluctuating hormonal levels, lack of sleep, dietary choices, exposure to pollution, changes in weather and extremes of temperatures.
@TheOrdinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil offers a wealth of skin benefits, making it a must-have in your skincare routine. This nourishing oil is packed with essential fatty acids, including palmitoleic acid (Omega 7), which is known for its remarkable ability to promote skin health. Sea buckthorn oil`s natural richness in these fatty acids helps hydrate and protect the skin, restoring its natural moisture barrier and preventing moisture loss. Moreover, it contains an array of vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, which combat free radicals and support the skin`s resilience against environmental stressors. Regular use of this potent oil can leave your skin looking radiant, supple, and rejuvenated, making it a key player in achieving a healthy, glowing complexion.
#theordinary #deciem #deciemskincare
My best moments in my KBeauty journey to healthy skin
The @lindenleaves Memories Body Oil is a must have ultimate at home pampering experience.
Key Ingredients:
– Certified organic rosehip oil. Known for being rich in essential fatty acids that help to nourish, plump, and repair the skin
– Sweet Almond) Oil: Nourishing and helps moisturize and soothe the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
– Apricot Kernel) Oil: Known for its ability to firm and tone the skin, making it an excellent choice for maintaining skin elasticity.
– Rose Flower Oil: Helps calm and soothe the skin while providing hydration and radiance.
– Avocado Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids that nourish, plump, and repair the skin, leaving it soft and glowing.
These oils not only provide a delightful sensory experience but also offer various skin benefits, from moisturization and firming to soothing and toning, all contributing to healthier, more radiant skin.
It can also be mixed with ground coffee or sugar to create a body scrub, or added to a warm bath, or to beat the frizz by apply to the tips of the hair.
During the month of October, Linden Leaves is donating $3.00 from every Pink Petal Hand Cream purchased to aid Breast Cancer Foundation NZ in supporting patients, research and their goal of zero deaths.
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Do you wash your face in the shower? Have you ever considered what order is best when it comes to washing your face and hair? Let me break it down:
When it comes to the order of washing your face and hair, it`s essential to leave your skincare routine until last. Cleansing your face after your hair makes sense for several reasons. First and foremost, facial cleansers are formulated to be gentle on the delicate skin of your face, while shampoos are formulated at a more alkaline pH and may contain stronger surfactants designed for the coarser hair on your head. Washing your face as your last step ensures that you remove makeup, dirt, and pollutants and remove any potentially irritating ingredients like fragrances from your hair products. Additionally, by washing your face after your hair, you prevent any residue from your hair care products from clogging your pores or causing breakouts, promoting healthier, blemish-free skin.
Any questions, leave them below 👇
The @Cosrx Propolis Light Cream moisturizer is a game-changer, packed with nourishment and potent antioxidants that penetrate deep into the skin, ensuring a velvety-smooth texture. Since introducing this excellently formulated moisturizer into both my morning and evening regimens, I`ve noticed a marked improvement in my skin`s resilience and a reduction in irritation. Dive into my detailed review by clicking the link in my bio.
The @bentoncosmetic Fermentation Eye Cream has such an impressive ingredient list:
– Galactomyces ferment filtrate as it`s first ingredient. This yeast-based ferment filtrate has been shown scientifically to increase skin brightness. It is also appears to moisturise, prevent skin damage and function as an antioxidant.
– Bifida ferment lysate, a probiotic bacteria that has the potential to repair damaged DNA when applied topically.
– Ceramides for rebuilding the skin barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss.
– Hyaluronic acid for boosting skins moisture content.
– Adenosine, a yeast-derived ingredient important for cell-communicating.
– Aloe leaf extract for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
– Wrinkle-fighting epidermal growth factor EGF, for stimulating college production.
This is certainly one of the best eye creams on the market with so many ingredients usually found in lower amounts in products with with higher price tags. The cream itself is thick and moisturizing and sits well under makeup.
There is also no preservative ingredients used. This is often seen in probiotic containing formulations as the probiotic bacteria create an acidic environment that prevents contamination (not indefinitely and not in all circumstances), and any preservatives would also kill resident probiotics. So what does this mean? Well on the positive side, what could be better than using a cream around the delicate eye area with no questionable ingredients? The negative is the shelf-life on six months from opening or 24 months after manufacture.
Everyone is familiar with serums and moisturizers, but have you heard of a Pressed Serum?
I have been so interested by the @blithecosmetic.us Pressed Serums which is a solid serum (cold pressed). The idea of a pressed serum according to Blithe is that helps to provide intensive skincare with nourishing ingredients that can absorb deep within the skin. The theory is you can replace two products in your routine with this serum. It is described as a pudding like texture, which is hard to explain until you try it, but is easy to apply while the thick, texture seems ultra rich at first, it melts into a creamy serum consistency on the skin that feels both lightweight and hydrating.
The main ingredient is 59.4% chaga mushroom extract also known as an “immortal mushroom” that is rich in Beta-glucan and helps to boost skin’s collagen and elasticity, thus helping to improve visibility of wrinkles and firm skin. The serum is also infused with 120 hour fermented oil that helps with nutrient absorption deep into the skin while still keeping it lightweight.
I have to continue using this longer to confirm reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, but can say currently I do see my skin more hydrated and moisturized from using it, although I do prefer to use it on my neck as having only one skincare product here saves time.
The Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask is a highly effective product for those looking to improve the overall appearance and health of their skin.
One of the standout features of this sleeping mask is its use of Centella Asiatica extract, a powerful ingredient known for its soothing and regenerative properties. This ingredient, along with other hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and shea butter, work together to deeply nourish and hydrate the skin overnight.
The texture of the mask is also noteworthy. It has a rich and creamy consistency that feels luxurious on the skin, yet it absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky or greasy residue.
Some of the key ingredients in the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask include:
Centella Asiatica Extract: This ingredient is known for its soothing and regenerative properties, making it ideal for calming sensitive skin and promoting skin healing.
Glycerin: This humectant ingredient helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.
Shea Butter: This rich and nourishing ingredient is known for its ability to hydrate and protect the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
Beta-Glucan: This ingredient helps to soothe and protect the skin, as well as improve its overall texture and radiance.
Fructan: This ingredient helps to improve skin hydration and prevent moisture loss.
These ingredients work together to deeply nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthy, calm, and radiant.
In terms of results, I`ve noticed a significant improvement in the overall appearance and texture of my skin since using the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask. My skin feels smoother, more hydrated, and more radiant. It has also helped to soothe any redness or sensitivity I`ve experienced, leaving my skin looking and feeling calm and healthy.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask to anyone looking for a high-quality and effective sleeping mask to add to their skincare routine. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin, this mask is sure to leave you with a glowing complexion.
Kate bancroft
Founder of Citation Skincare and writer of Beauty and the Biome, Kate combines her background in microbiology with over eight years of science-based writing to make skincare knowledge accessible, evidence-driven, and empowering.