AR Beauty Beat, March 2022: Best Beauty & Grooming Releases

A new mask from French pharmacy favourite Avène, the DermAbsolu Recontouring Mask combines a rejuvenating blend of bakuchiol (often touted as a plant-based retinol alternative) and glycoleol which work together to protect against collagen depletion, with restorative ingredients like niacinamide and provitamin C to visibly brighten the skin and improve radiance.

Designed with breakout-prone skin in mind, the A Clearing Body Wash is part of the Frank Body everyday range, which utilises active ingredients often reserved for the face in body care products. A Clearing Body Wash spotlights deeply exfoliating salicylic acid which works to clear pores of the excess oil and bacteria that contribute to acne. Salicylic acid is teamed with vitamin c-rich kakadu plum, energising coffee seed extract, balancing vitamin B, and nourishing aloe vera to keep skin hydrated and healthy as it works.

Providing targeted hydration to the delicate eye area, the Aesop Exalted Eye Serum aims to counter the all-too-common signs of dehydration like dull patchy skin, which can be exacerbated by fatigue, age, seasonal allergies, and environmental conditions. The Exalted Eye Serum replenishes the skin with a blend of vitamins B3, B5, C, and E to nourish and balance the skin around the eyes. Humectants like panthenol and sodium carrageenan support moisture retention while the addition of pelvetia canaliculata extract further supports skin suppleness and resilience. Like all of Aesop’s products, a warm, woody aroma comes courtesy of cedar atlas and frankincense essential oils.

The ideal accompaniment to the brand’s ceramide capsules, Elizabeth Arden has released a trio of updated Advanced Ceramide Lift & Firm Creams, including day and night varieties. The Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Lift & Firm Day Cream SPF15 contains a triple-action blend of ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and tripeptides to improve kin density; red algae extract to support moisture retention; and edelweiss extract to improve the appearance of sagging skin. The day cream contains a small amount of SPF protection, however this should be teamed with at least SPF30 for optimal sun protection.

Launch date: 28th March

A light physical exfoliant, the Koéna Dermaceutical Daily Exfoliator aims to boost radiance and promote circulation. Biodegradable florabeads are teamed with Koéna’s signature Resta-Plex formula to sweep away dead skin cells while providing hydration. A delectable vanilla scent comes courtesy of vanillin extract, a low irritant ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Iconic New York apothecary skincare brand Kiehl’s has partnered with Bush Heritage, with five Australian artists creating four unique designs that utilise a flora and fauna-inspired colour palette for the brand’s famous Ultra Facial Cream. The second year of the partnership also coincides with the use of renewable glacial glycoproptein in all Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream formulas, a lab formulated ingredient that doesn’t require additional extraction from sea glaciers.

A vegan-friendly, affordable alternative to Olaplex, the Revolution Bond Plex range is designed to repair the bonds within the hair using a triple weighted molecular protein system, improving overall hair strength and condition. The Bond Plex range comprises a pre shampoo treatment, shampoo, silky conditioner, and a leave-in cream treatment, all designed to address hair health. Phytantriol and provitamin B5 are thrown into the mix to promote hair hydration, while a blend of conditioning agents work to soften and smoothen the hair.

A multitasking formula, Dr Roebuck’s The Goldie combines vitamin C-rich kakadu plum with brocolli, chia seed, and sunflower seed oils, as well as mica, for a brightening serum that delivers an instant luminance as it works.

Swedish haircare line Nine Yards has arrived on Australian shores. Comprising a lineup of 19 professional-grade products, the premium haircare range caters to all hair types, including curly, thin, dry, and blonde. Consisting of both core shampoos and conditioners as well as hair type-specific styling products for volume, texture, and hold, the products are hardworking yet easy to use. Highlights include the Go Loud Volume Shampoo and Big Noise Volume Conditioner, both of which are proving popular with the Australian market.

Renowned nail polish brand Sally Hansen from Amazon Australia has released a line of plant-based, vegan-friendly formulas. Coming in a selection of neutral and statement-making shades, the Good.Kind.Pure range contains bamboo and marine algae extracts to help nourish nails and works to protect nails from environmental aggressors.

Marking the brand’s first mask specifically designed for sensitive skin, the Fresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask is an overnight formula that works to alleviate redness, uneven skin tone, and rough texture. Floral extracts of passionflower, cornflower, cherry blossom, and peony combine with vitamin C and squalane to calm, brighten, and smooth the skin.

The iconic Clarins Lip Comfort Oil has received a makeover, with the rectangular tube switched for a cylindrical one. Additionally, the formula contains 98% skin care-oriented ingredients, with the remaining 2% designed to swathe your lips in a translucent coat of colour. The addition of sweetbriar rose extract to the pre-existing hazelnut and jojoba oil formula help protect the lips from environmental stressors as the oils provide nourishment.