Alongside mysterious medical symptoms and cute animal photos, beauty related queries remain one of the most searched categories year after year.
Our go-to search engine, Google, have exposed exactly which beauty conundrums had us stumped in 2016 in their annual list of most popular questions.
While we’re all fingers and thumbs when it comes to the most Googled question of all (how to do a fishtail braid), we can provide some answers for the other queries on the list.
How to get rid of under eye bags
The skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the face and full of blood vessels. Fluid retention underneath this delicate skin can cause eyes to appear shadowed and swollen – especially when we’ve lost sleep!
It’s an old trick, but cucumber slices, cold teaspoons or chilled chamomile tea bags placed over tired eyes will all help to soothe and de-puff.
Follow with Echium & Argan Gentle Eye Cream, using your ring fingers to gently massage around the orbital bone to boost circulation and drain away swelling.
Puffy eyes can also be a sign of dehydration or over-consumption of salt, both of which cause water retention. So drink up and swap savoury snacks for lower sodium options.
The best way to get rid of a deep spot
It’s so tempting to prod, poke or pick at a deep-seated blemish, but resist! It will only drive infection and inflammation deeper into the pore, making scarring much more likely. Stubborn, under-the-skin zits require patience and restraint.
Cleanse with a Gentle Cleanser twice a day, giving the problem area a little extra time to soften under a warm, damp muslin cloth. Pat skin dry and apply a thin layer of our Copaiba & Zinc Blemish Serum to the affected area or blemish.
Our Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil is also fantastic for shifting stubborn blemishes. High levels of regenerating sterols and carotenoids can help to draw spots to a head, or make them disappear altogether. Massage into clean skin 1-2 times per week.
Deep blemishes are sometimes a sign of hormonal changes – try our tips for managing hormonal acne.
How to get bigger lips
A trend towards fuller lips last year saw beauty fans attempting DIY plumping with everything from water bottles to cayenne pepper.
Our lips naturally thin with age as collagen and hyaluronic acid production slow down. While we don’t recommend risking the bruising and irritation of more extreme DIY methods, there are some things you can do to keep your lips looking full.
A diet rich in protein and Vitamin C supports collagen production, helping to protect the natural structure of the skin and slow down thinning. Stock up on dark leafy greens and high-quality protein sources, such as lentils and fish.
Lips look fullest when they’re well exfoliated and hydrated, so follow our guide to keep your lips looking plump and healthy – even in winter!
How to clean makeup brushes
Keeping your makeup brushes squeaky clean is an easy way to reduce bacteria, helping to prevent flare-ups and breakouts on sensitive or acne-prone skin. Treat your brushes to a shampoo at least once a week.
Angling the brush down to avoid damaging the glue of the brush, dampen the hairs under a warm tap and gently massage in a few drops of baby shampoo or unscented Castille soap to loosen makeup and dirt.
Thoroughly rinse and place on a clean towel to dry.