Blog
Susie Amy -"Whats Better Than A Body Oil? ARK Skincare's Conditioning Body Serum.."
Jul 05, 2018"I’ve been using body oils for years, I love the nourishment that they give my skin – particularly if they are quickly absorbed – they feel so much more luxurious to me than a moisturiser. The newer concept than a body oil is a serum. We treat our faces, so why not our bodies too?"
What's it designed to do?
"It’s a silky oil serum that hydrates the skin but leaves it with a superb glow. The skin is left conditioned and smooth and it promotes supple and healthy skin."
Who is it suitable for?
"The Conditioning Body Serum can be used by pregnant women, and is actually ideal for nourishing the skin as it stretches and changes – it is designed to promote supple skin. The serum doesn’t contain ingredients at levels which should cause concern during pregnancy. Obviously with any product if you have concerns consult your doctor but full ingredients are on the back of the packaging.
Similarly with those suffering with nut allergies. The nut protein – which is what causes the allergy – is removed before being used as an ingredient. I feel confident making this recommendation as my friend has a very serious nut allergy and ARK’s Body Conditioning Oil is one of her favourite products.
It is also a vegan suitable product. The entire ARK Skincare range is cruelty free – and always has been. HERE is a link to the vegan friendly product page. All products free from Parabens, SLS, mineral oil, S.D. Alcohol, Formaldehyde, and Artificial Colours and Fragrance."
How to use
"Suitable for use all over the body – massage into slightly damp skin after showering or bathing. Blend a little onto limbs for extra glow and nourishment. Be cautious if the sun is very strong to also use an SPF if you would usually. Kirsty would apply this at any time of day but abroad – whereas I would use in the evenings to rehydrate my skin after sun exposure."
Kirsty Gallacher ‘Absolute bliss, hydrating, easy to apply – and packed with all natural ingredients – I know I’m really nourishing my skin. I’ve been using it in the evenings after my skin’s been exposed to the sun.’
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Read Susie's full blog post at:
Order the Conditioning Body Serum:
"I don't need SPF any more - the sun has gone"
May 01, 2018
So, the sun was short-lived! Time to put the flip flops and sunscreen away again? Wrong! Keep that SPF protection to hand. You still need it.
UV rays can be damaging all year round and can actually even be stronger when it is cloudy. According to studies in the USA and Australia, UV rays can be strengthened by clouds as rays may bounce off them, or be redirected and scattered causing a higher, amplified UV threat to us on the ground. So do not be fooled - keep wearing that SPF protection!
What is SPF Protection? We are all constantly told to use it. But why do we need it and how does it work?
We are all aware that over exposure to the sun can be harmful. Skin diseases, cancers, and photo-ageing are increasing around the world, and we need to protect against the sun's damaging rays which cause this with broad spectrum protection. Having broad spectrum protection means we are protected against both UVB (burning) and UVA (ageing) rays. Did you know, UVA rays are not susceptible to seasonal variations and are a threat all year round? They can even penetrate glass, so skin should still be protected when indoors near a window or in the car, or on a train.
What is the best way to protect ourselves? There are two types of protection. Physical and chemical.
Physical sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients which work by sitting on top of the skin (often giving the skin a white appearance) to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin. They are effective at protecting against UVB rays however, they can not protect against the full spectrum of rays.
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays (and converting them to heat) and offer full protection against the whole spectrum of damaging UVA and UVB rays. They tend to be lighter in texture than physical SPF products, and do not block pores or cause breakouts, so are often preferred as an everyday solution.
Which approach does ARK Skincare take?
ARK Skincare's Skin Protector SPF30 Primer is classified as a chemical SPF. We chose this route as we believe it is very important to offer a product with broad spectrum protection. The award winning formula contains protection against sun damage and associated premature ageing. It is a beautifully light weight moisturiser which offers a great base for make up and is easily adapted to your everyday routine. Whilst the formulation contains the necessary chemical compounds to offer effective protection, it is still 64.84% natural as it contains active naturals to hydrate, offer antioxidant protection, and provide a silky smooth luminous finish to the skin.
There are a lot of skin protection options available, and you can read more on the pros and cons of different sunscreens here. The choice is yours. But whatever you decide, make sure you use a broad spectrum SPF daily, whatever the weather.
What is SPF Protection? We are all constantly told to use it. But why do we need it and how does it work?
We are all aware that over exposure to the sun can be harmful. Skin diseases, cancers, and photo-ageing are increasing around the world, and we need to protect against the sun's damaging rays which cause this with broad spectrum protection. Having broad spectrum protection means we are protected against both UVB (burning) and UVA (ageing) rays. Did you know, UVA rays are not susceptible to seasonal variations and are a threat all year round? They can even penetrate glass, so skin should still be protected when indoors near a window or in the car, or on a train.
What is the best way to protect ourselves? There are two types of protection. Physical and chemical.
Physical sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients which work by sitting on top of the skin (often giving the skin a white appearance) to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin. They are effective at protecting against UVB rays however, they can not protect against the full spectrum of rays.
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays (and converting them to heat) and offer full protection against the whole spectrum of damaging UVA and UVB rays. They tend to be lighter in texture than physical SPF products, and do not block pores or cause breakouts, so are often preferred as an everyday solution.
Which approach does ARK Skincare take?
ARK Skincare's Skin Protector SPF30 Primer is classified as a chemical SPF. We chose this route as we believe it is very important to offer a product with broad spectrum protection. The award winning formula contains protection against sun damage and associated premature ageing. It is a beautifully light weight moisturiser which offers a great base for make up and is easily adapted to your everyday routine. Whilst the formulation contains the necessary chemical compounds to offer effective protection, it is still 64.84% natural as it contains active naturals to hydrate, offer antioxidant protection, and provide a silky smooth luminous finish to the skin.
There are a lot of skin protection options available, and you can read more on the pros and cons of different sunscreens here. The choice is yours. But whatever you decide, make sure you use a broad spectrum SPF daily, whatever the weather.
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Shop our SPF30Primer now:
April - Stress Awareness Month. What is causing you stress and how can you cope with it?
Apr 25, 2018Did you know April is stress awareness month? A month to become aware of what may be causing you stress, how it affects you, and how to adopt coping mechanisms.
It is possible to measure the amount of stress in your life and whether it is likely to affect your health. Doctors often use the Homes and Rahe stress scale which lists 43 life events which may cause stress. This can be very useful and interesting studies have resulted from it. However, it is also worth remembering that anything which puts a high demand on you can cause you stress, which can have negative effects on both your body and mind.
When we are stressed Cortisol is released by the body. We have discussed Cortisol before as it can have very negative effects on skin causing skin sensitivities, break outs, and irritations. Cortisol is released as part of our fight or flight defence mechanism. It is not all bad as in small doses it prepares us for action. However, large or prolonged doses can have a number of negative effects on our health. Unfortunately, as we age, the amount of Cortisol we release increases, and it takes longer for this potentially damaging hormone to return to normal levels, meaning we are exposed to it for longer, and negative side effects may be seen.
The first step to managing stress, and reducing cortisol, is to acknowledge it. We can not adopt coping mechanisms unless we acknowledge what is adversely affecting us. There are a number of signs which can help us identify if we are chronically stressed. Poor memory, lack of concentration, only seeing negatives, as well as irritability, anxiety or a change in eating patterns can all be symptoms. Take the time this month to assess situations which may be affecting you and then find ways to cope with them.
Coping mechanisms can help us overcome chronic stress. Coping can be achieved by changing the situation you find yourself in, or by changing your reaction to the situation. There are a lot of well documented ways to cope. The key is to find what is right for you.
Top tips which have helped some of the ARK Skincare team:
Laugh - studies have shown laughter can reduce the stress hormone Cortisol. Find something which makes you laugh and do it more!
Exercise - symptoms of stress can be reduced by including physical exercise in your weekly routine. Just twenty minutes a week can have a positive effect on mental wellbeing according to this study
Unplug - modern technology can seriously increase the amount of demands placed upon us. Take time to "unplug", turn off devices, and slow down.
Be mindful - take time to bring your complete attention to the present moment. There are plenty of techniques, find out more here
Massage - Studies have found that regular massage can reduce stress and improve sleep patterns. There are many different kinds. Find a therapist here
In summary it is key to remember to accept that stress is unavoidable. You can take steps to reduce your stress and learn how to cope with it, but you will never be completely rid of stress. Stress serves a purpose as a healthy response to overwhelming situations or perceived threats, and it can be dealt with in an equally healthy fashion. Remembering this is, in itself, a good coping strategy.
When we are stressed Cortisol is released by the body. We have discussed Cortisol before as it can have very negative effects on skin causing skin sensitivities, break outs, and irritations. Cortisol is released as part of our fight or flight defence mechanism. It is not all bad as in small doses it prepares us for action. However, large or prolonged doses can have a number of negative effects on our health. Unfortunately, as we age, the amount of Cortisol we release increases, and it takes longer for this potentially damaging hormone to return to normal levels, meaning we are exposed to it for longer, and negative side effects may be seen.
The first step to managing stress, and reducing cortisol, is to acknowledge it. We can not adopt coping mechanisms unless we acknowledge what is adversely affecting us. There are a number of signs which can help us identify if we are chronically stressed. Poor memory, lack of concentration, only seeing negatives, as well as irritability, anxiety or a change in eating patterns can all be symptoms. Take the time this month to assess situations which may be affecting you and then find ways to cope with them.
Coping mechanisms can help us overcome chronic stress. Coping can be achieved by changing the situation you find yourself in, or by changing your reaction to the situation. There are a lot of well documented ways to cope. The key is to find what is right for you.
Top tips which have helped some of the ARK Skincare team:
Laugh - studies have shown laughter can reduce the stress hormone Cortisol. Find something which makes you laugh and do it more!
Exercise - symptoms of stress can be reduced by including physical exercise in your weekly routine. Just twenty minutes a week can have a positive effect on mental wellbeing according to this study
Unplug - modern technology can seriously increase the amount of demands placed upon us. Take time to "unplug", turn off devices, and slow down.
Be mindful - take time to bring your complete attention to the present moment. There are plenty of techniques, find out more here
Massage - Studies have found that regular massage can reduce stress and improve sleep patterns. There are many different kinds. Find a therapist here
In summary it is key to remember to accept that stress is unavoidable. You can take steps to reduce your stress and learn how to cope with it, but you will never be completely rid of stress. Stress serves a purpose as a healthy response to overwhelming situations or perceived threats, and it can be dealt with in an equally healthy fashion. Remembering this is, in itself, a good coping strategy.
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Shop our De-Stress Serum:
Cruelty Free Skincare
Mar 21, 2018ARK Skincare has never, and will never test on animals. We manufacture in England and are registered on the EU Portal for registration of cosmetics, CPNP - Cosmetic Product Notification Portal which adheres to all EU rulings. The ban on animal testing of cosmetic products in the EU came into effect in September 2004. it has been illegal to test cosmetic product on animals in the EU since that time. In the UK testing of cosmetic products was banned in 1997 after a voluntary initiative by the industry. The ban on animal testing of cosmetic ingredients in the EU came into effect in 2013. it has been illegal to test cosmetic ingredients since then.
We are a relatively young, independent owned company and not linked to any other companies who test on animals.
We often get asked, "What about the China debate?" Our answer is; we are not sold in any Chinese stores. We do ship worldwide from our web site and from other beauty web sites but this is via a "cross boarder" arrangement which means our products do not have to go through local tests and are definitely not tested on animals. We would not undertake any business activity which forces us to test our products
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Shop our full range of products now:
https://www.arkskincare.com/collections/all
Vegan Skincare
Mar 13, 2018
Adopting a vegan lifestyle has become increasingly popular due to perceived health benefits, as well as environmental and animal welfare considerations. The endorsement of this way of life by celebrities, and the introduction of vegan ranges by many high street supermarkets, plus the availability of vegan friendly lifestyle products, mean it is no longer considered extreme.
So what does it mean to be Vegan? Vegans choose to stop eating all animal based foods, but also to adopt a lifestyle free from any animal derivatives. This isn't just giving up wearing leather shoes, it includes beauty products too. Did you know many cosmetics and skincare ranges contain animal by-products such as honey, beeswax, lanolin, animal fats, and gelatine. Vegans need to look for plant based skincare which is free from animal derived ingredients, and of course, to only use products which have never been tested on animals. Even if not following a vegan lifestyle, some may wish to choose such products as they can often be beneficial for those with sensitive, allergy prone, or easily irritated skin.
ARK Skincare's entire facial skincare line is suitable for vegans. If you wish to learn more about this please visit our website or give us a call. We would love to help you with your specific requirements which reflect your lifestyle choices.
So what does it mean to be Vegan? Vegans choose to stop eating all animal based foods, but also to adopt a lifestyle free from any animal derivatives. This isn't just giving up wearing leather shoes, it includes beauty products too. Did you know many cosmetics and skincare ranges contain animal by-products such as honey, beeswax, lanolin, animal fats, and gelatine. Vegans need to look for plant based skincare which is free from animal derived ingredients, and of course, to only use products which have never been tested on animals. Even if not following a vegan lifestyle, some may wish to choose such products as they can often be beneficial for those with sensitive, allergy prone, or easily irritated skin.
ARK Skincare's entire facial skincare line is suitable for vegans. If you wish to learn more about this please visit our website or give us a call. We would love to help you with your specific requirements which reflect your lifestyle choices.
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To shop all our vegan products visit our 'Vegan Friendly' section of our website:
https://www.arkskincare.com/collections/vegan-friendly
ARK Skincare are proud winners of four categories in the 2018 Beauty Shortlist Awards
Mar 06, 2018
Over 600 brands entered the 2018 Beauty Shortlist awards and judging took place over a six month period, from early September through to February. These awards are completely independent - there's no public vote, no ads, and no sponsors, just totally independent judging. And we won four categories!
100% independent. Tested. Loved. Recommended.
The winners
ARK Skincare won four categories:
Best Age Targeted Skincare Brand
Best Cleanser (30+): ARK Skincare Age Defend Cleanser
Best Skincare Product (40+): ARK Skincare Age Defy Moisturiser
Best Daily Moisturiser (40+): ARK Skincare Age Defend Moisturiser
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Want to find out more? Get in touch via email, socials, or give us a call on 02037403303
The Rawdrobe - "Currently loving: ARK Skincare"
Feb 12, 2018The Rawdrobe featured our Age Protect Cleanser and our Pre Cleanse & Makeup Remover in a blog post as the products she is currently loving. She talks about what drew her to the brand and how she uses the cleansers to create her perfect double cleanse skincare routine.
"What ultimately sucks me into their brand is the fact they have a really positive approach to ageing and each product is specially designed for a number of different ages for anyone from their teens to over fifty. So whatever age you are, there is a product there dedicated to the needs of your skin. I find this so refreshing as I think so many brands these days just recommend anything to anyone but oh no, not ARK!"
"I honestly can’t recommend this combo enough and even though I haven’t tried any other ranges of the cleanser, if they’re as good as this one then you need to get your mitts on it pronto! And just remember in this overwhelming world of skincare, that you need to use products suited to your skin, whether that’s for age or type. It’s so easy to pick up any cleanser which you’ve heard rave reviews about and slap it on your face but next time, try and tailor your skincare to your skin. The clue is in the name!"
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Read the full blog at:
https://www.therawrdrobe.com/2017/04/ark-skincare-cleanser.html
Shop these products online at:
www.arkskincare.com
Mummy's Beauty Corner - 'Three vegan brands worth checking out'
Nov 30, 2017As November is 'World Vegan Month', Dagmara on 'Mummy's Beauty Corner' decided to write about brands and products that are vegan friendly, and for those that are not vegan however like more natural beauty products, show some products worth trying.
ARK Skincare was on this list as we are vegan friendly and cruelty free. Dagmara focused on our Age Defend Moisturiser.
"It feels lightweight on the skin, doesn't leave it greasy yet it hydrates and nourishes it making it soft, calmed and smooth...The moisturiser contains also clinically proven anti-ageing peptides, including Matrixyl, which smooth out wrinkles and plump out the skin for a more youthful looking complexion. Vitamin A (retinol) helps to increase collagen production and plump the skin, Kiwi and Passion Fruit lipids are packed with Omega 3 fatty acids to boost skin’s moisture, Blue Lotus, the ‘sacred flower of anti-ageing’ is a powerful antioxidant which boosts firmness and elasticity of the skin."
"I absolutely love the jar with airless pump, which you need to press firmly down to dispense the product, so hygienic and it keeps the moisturiser locked away from air which causes oxidation of some ingredients. One pump of cream is plenty for entire face and neck, there's subtle herbal scent which I'm not the biggest fan of but fortunately it dissipates very quickly."
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Order yours now at: www.arkskincare.com
Lady Writes - Gift Guide : The Candle Edit
Nov 29, 2017Lady Writes wrote a beautiful blog post about the best candles you should be buying this Christmas, featuring our lovely travel candles.
"Candles make such fantastic gifts - everyone loves a good scented candle after all. You can't go wrong with giving a scented candle as a gift, it's just about finding the right one for the person you're giving it to."
"I only recently started buying travel candles, and now I don't go anywhere without them. They're perfect for when going on holidays, or visiting friends, to lightly scent a room and create a relaxing atmosphere - no matter how far from home you are. If you're buying for someone who travels a lot for business or pleasure then these gorgeous Ark Travel Candles would make the perfect gift. There's several scents to pick from - favourites of mine are the Vanilla, Sandalwood and Amber which is perfect for musk lovers and then the Rose, Geranium and Violet which is perfect for the floral fragrance fans. Both have a delicate scent which won't overpower, but will lightly fragrance any space to smell exactly as your chosen person would like. Hand poured, each candle comes housed in a handy tin and has approximately 22 hours of burn time."
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Read the full blog post at:
http://www.ladywritesblog.com/2017/11/gift-guide-candle-edit.html?m=1
Order yours now at:
https://www.arkskincare.com/collections/spa-aromatics
So Feminine's #Treatyoself Pay Day Haul!
Sept 29, 2017So Feminine created a #treatyoself pay day haul, filled with fashion, beauty and everything in between. Showing you everything you need to be buying this pay day weekend.
Our Body Beautiful massaging body brush was featured as the product 'to make exfoliating a doddle'.
Shop now at :
https://www.arkskincare.com/collections/body-beautiful/products/massaging-body-brush?variant=40991478349
Award Winner Stockist: Rose's Beauty Room
Sept 22, 2017Our amazing ARK Stockist Rose Green has won the LUX 2017 Awards for Best Beauty Therapy Practice - Sussex
&
LUX 2017 Excellence Award for Aromatic Facial Treatments - UK
(using ARK Skincare Products!)
We are thrilled to hear the great news, Congratulations Rose!
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Find Rose's Beauty Room at:
25 York Avenue
Off herontye
East Grinstead
RH19 4TL
Book an appointment with rose on: 01342 317037, or email: rose@rosesbeautyroom.co.uk
www.rosesbeautyroom.co.uk
Beauty Bag Secrets - Full ARK Review
Sept 12, 2017Beauty Bag Secrets provides a full review of our Age Defend products and our Hydrating Beauty Mist.
"What excites me about ARK Skincare is that the brand has been developed to deliver age intelligent formulas to complement and enhance skin for the age you are."
"The Hydrating Beauty Mist was a pleasant addition to my skincare routine. I am absolutely in love with the fresh minty smell of this mist. Initially I only used the mist in the evenings after cleansing and before moisturing to provide my skin with another layer of hydration. A few days later I started applying the mist after applying my makeup (I use a powder foundation) for a fresh dewy look. My skin literally couldn’t ‘drink’ it up quick enough."
"This is a real winner for me, so much so that I took it on holiday with me to Belgium. We drove from Belgium to Luxembuorg and back via France to London in 32 degree heat. I can honestly say that on that day my quick draw with this mist would have impressed any cowboy in a Western shootout."
"I don’t wear a lot of make up day-to-day so the cleanser removed all traces of my makeup without the need for a double cleanse. Packed with ingredients like Moringa Oil rich in Vitamin A and C, this cleanser left my skin feeling clean, plump and ready to absorb the next layer of my skincare."
"The (moisturiser) container has an airless pump which means it delivers the exact amount of product needed every time. I tend to overdo my moisturiser which usually leaves me with a lot of excess product which my skin doesn’t absorb. My skin felt nourished but not greasy which has sometimes been the case with other moisturisers I have tried."
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Check out Beauty Bag Secrets Blog and read the full review at:
http://beautybagsecrets.com/2017/09/05/ark-skincare-review/
&
Shop these products on our website at www.arkskincare.com !
For the month of September 2017 if you spend £65 on our website you will receive a hydrating beauty mist FREE!
Make Up Artist Alice Bond shows us how to achieve a 'dewy finish' with Stephanie Pratt
Aug 04, 2017Make Up Artist Alice Bond loves our products and uses them on clients such as Stephanie Pratt.
‘My ultimate fave is the ARK radiance serum which I use myself at night under my daily moisturiser for some extra moisture, and then I mix with foundation to apply to my clients who want that dewy finish.’
With makeup by Alice Bond using our Radiance serum, Stephanie Pratt looks beautiful and glowing.
Order our radiance serum online at:
https://www.arkskincare.com/collections/serums-treatments/products/radiance-skinresponse-serum-30ml?variant=4081884481
Check Out:
Alice Bond: https://twitter.com/AlBond2/media?lang=en
Stephanie Pratt: https://www.instagram.com/officialstephpratt/
Our Pre Cleanse & Make-up Remover features on Elle.com
Jul 04, 2017
We're delighted to see our Pre Cleanse & Make-up Remover featuring in Elle.com's article about double cleansing. Ellle.com says:
A quick once over with micellar water simply won't cut it. This is why you need to jump on board the double cleansing bandwagon.
A quick go with a face wipe will do nothing to properly dislodge foundation and pollution particles, and if all of that is left on your skin overnight, you aren't giving your skin cells the best chance at regenerating which means no plump, youthful complexion for you.
And ARK's Pre Cleanse & Make-up Remover was given a glowing review:
Not even waterproof mascara will win against ARK's clever Pre-Cleanse. Omega 3,6 and 9 melt make-up without stripping the skin, while grape seed and avocado oil lend and intense hit of nourishment.
Shop now: ARKPreCleanserMakeupRemover
Check out how Susie Amy uses her Radiance Serum!
Jun 28, 2017Adding a few drops of serum in with my foundation gives the most fabulous glow. This tip was given to me by Stephanie Pratt when I introduced her to ARK Skincare’s Radiance Serum. She loved the product and when I asked her how she used it, as well as using it in it’s recommended way as a serum underneath her moisturiser, she would mix a few drops in with her foundation. I’ve never seen skin as good as Steph’s so I’ve started doing the same! I use MAC’s Waterweight SPF 30 Foundation in shade NC20 every day at work at the moment – great coverage without being heavy and I mix in the serum that not only makes me glow but is a potent blend of encapsulated Vitamin C and Amino Acids.
To visit Susie's blog, click here:
http://www.blusherandblogging.com/2017/04/29/my-favourite-things-last-7-days/