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Did you know? 1 in 3 babies and toddlers experience nappy rash. It's a common yet commonly misunderstood area of infant health.

To help you ease your child's nappy rash woes, we have busted some popular nappy rash myths. 

 

MYTH #1: Buy bigger nappies to avoid friction

Buying a nappy that is too large for your baby with the hope of reducing friction won’t solve your nappy rash problems. Instead, you may risk leakage and discomfort as your baby experiences discomfort from the bulk of a bigger nappy.

Tip: Always look at the weight range of the nappy. As your baby reaches the higher end of the weight range, then is the time to explore a larger nappy. 

 

MYTH #2: Certain nappies cause nappy rash

While yes, the environment of a nappy can cause and exacerbate nappy rash, the materials themselves won’t be the leading cause. While it may be tempting to explore endless options and brands, most nappies are highly absorbent and made from minimally-irritating materials. If your baby is prone to nappy rash there are other ways to reduce its occurrence than switching brands. 

Tip: Offer your baby nappy free time whenever possible. Lay them on a towel and allow them to enjoy a break from wearing a nappy. This gives your baby’s skin time to heal without the moist environment of a nappy.

 

MYTH #3: Baby powder is a must

Baby powder has long been used to soak up excess moisture. While baby powder has had its own controversy, the formula has evolved over time. However, there are less messy, more conventional options on the market.

Tip: A barrier cream will prevent moisture build-up, while providing your baby’s skin with a protective layer from ammonia in urine and the bacteria in faeces. A thick nappy rash cream which contains anti-inflammatories such as colloidal oatmeal will also provide the skin with healing and soothing benefits. Use it at every nappy change to protect and heal inflamed skin.

 

MYTH #4: Cloth is best 

For the environment – yes! However, disposable nappies have come such a long way. There are plenty of organic, chemical-free options which are designed to provide your baby with the same support and comfort as cloth.  

Tip: If you are environmentally conscious, cloth nappies are a great alternative to disposable. They may not reduce the likelihood of nappy rash; however, they are much better for the environment and your wallet!

 

MYTH #5: All rashes are created equal

A nappy rash may appear due to a number of reasons, including friction, exposure to ammonia in urine as well as diet. Aside from infant thrush, a not so commonly known cause of a rash in the nappy region is hand, foot and mouth (HFM). While it presents on the hands, feet and mouth, it can also rear its head in the nappy area and be very uncomfortable.

Tip: If your baby presents with a persistent or blister-like rash see your doctor to explore the possibility of infant thrush or HFM.

 

Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream contains a range of natural ingredients designed to sooth inflammation caused by nappy rash. It also creates a barrier between the skin and the nappy to reduce exposure to ammonia and bacteria. This cream encourages healing, reduces inflammation and protects infant skin with a thick application.

 

Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream is a dermatologically endorsed pH balanced cream designed to protect against irritants, prevent moisture build up and calm irritated and inflamed skin.

Ready to say goodbye to red, inflamed skin and reduce nappy rash for good? Purchase your Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream here.

 

 

Are you guilty of some potentially detrimental skin habits?

If you’re ticking off one of these skin care sins you’re not alone - approximately 46% of people surveyed are guilty of number 4! Can you relate?

 

1. Going to bed with your make-up on

We all have those nights where we drift off in front of the TV, but this one is an easily avoidable no-no. Make-up tends to coat the skin, with mineral make-up (especially) sitting within the pores and creating a gateway to congestion. If you suffer from oily skin, removing your make-up can reduce breakouts, skin dullness and unnecessary dead skin cell build-up.

Furthermore, Dermatologist, Dr Bhanusali, says that the since the skin naturally exfoliates itself as we rest, “makeup can disrupt the process, leading to pollutants being trapped in the skin.”

2. Washing your face with just water

Ironically washing with plain old H20 does not hydrate your skin. Shocking I know. It also sits high on the pH scale, which means it can disrupt the functioning of your skin. If the pH of your skin is raised it will further struggle to hold onto precious moisture and defend itself against nasties.

An easy way to solve this issue is to utilise a cleanser that is pH balanced. After-all cleansing your skin isn’t just about removing make-up, it’s a vital step in your skin care regime for replenishing and preparing the skin for further product absorption.

3. Forgetting to moisturise

Those who commit to a regular moisturising routine benefit from hydrated, softer and bouncier skin. Why? A good skin moisturiser which contains vital elements such as antioxidants and skin hydrators can lead to a healthier overall skin. The kind that defends itself against pollutants, drying environments and ageing elements such as the sun.

4. Skimping on sunscreen

This is a big one. In countries such as Australia, the sun is harsh. UV rays in particular are known to degrade the quality of the skin and lead to ageing characteristics such as freckling, pigmentation, sun spots and even skin cancers. By incorporating a daily SPF into your routine, year-round, you can minimise the damage and skin degradation caused by UV exposure.

And before you think your make-up has you covered, Licenced Aesthetician, Karen Fernandez warns, "The SPF levels and formulas in makeup are usually not adequate to be broad spectrum protection, which is the gold standard for anti-aging." So, always apply sunscreen under your makeup and as the final step in your skin care regime. 

 

For a moisturiser the whole family can use, Dermavive Moisturising Lotion provides hydration and skin nourishment with the added benefit of an all natural formulation. The inclusion of colloidal oatmeal encourages optimal skin functioning with anti-inflammatory and calming effects for all skin types.

Ready to experience your softest and smoothest skin ever? Purchase your Dermavive Moisturising Lotion here.

 

 

Does nappy rash have your little one feeling irritated and uncomfortable? There's nothing worse than seeing your baby in discomfort, yet 30% of babies and toddlers experience nappy rash at any one time. *

The good news is, nappy rash can be relieved quickly and naturally by making simple changes at home. 

1. Change Nappies Often 

We know that the leading cause for nappy rash is exposure to urine and faeces for a prolonged period. For this reason, the number one thing you can do from home to limit nappy rash is to change nappies often. If your child is wet overnight, changing their nappy first thing in the morning is vital. Friction will also increase the occurrence of chaffing and inflammation once they start moving in a moist nappy. 

2. Toilet Training 

To break the cycle of nappy rash, toilet training is the best way to leave nappy rash in the past. It is however, easier said than done. Provided your child is ready for nappy-free time or day time toilet training, this will minimise the occurrence of nappy rash. A highly absorbent night time nappy will further support your progress. 

3. Natural Antibacterial 

You've likely invested in barrier creams that create a physical layer between the nappy and your baby's skin. This allows for the skin to heal while still wearing a nappy. Barrier creams containing Zinc Oxide are recommended over Talc products by the Raising Children network as they  provide the skin with a natural antibacterial layer to minimise the occurrence of infection and inflammation - safely. Zinc Oxide further protects the skin against irritants such as ammonia found in urine, and is praised for its barrier protection and antibacterial relief. 

4. Anti-inflammatory and Healing

For immediate relief of itching, redness and swelling, look for products containing Colloidal Oatmeal. Avenanthramides found in oats has anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic activity while the cellulose and fibre found in oats neutralise the pH of dry itchy skin, making it effective to soothe and calm irritation. Colloidal Oatmeal also contains saponins for gentle cleansing and antibacterial properties to further prevent flare ups, and prevent moisture build-up. 

Natural oils which restore moisture and soothe the skin are also recommended. Almond Oil in particular is a vitamin E rich oil that delivers superior soothing and healing properties to chapped, dry and compromised skin. Likewise, humectants such as Sodium PCA can be utilised for their natural moisturising factors to support hydration to skin which may be compromised due to wearing nappies. 

 

Don't have these ingredients at home?  Containing a blend of the above mentioned powerhouse healers, Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream combines the powerful antibacterial, hydrating and healing benefits of natural ingredients to protect, restore and heal the symptoms of infant nappy rash. 

When combined with the use of high absorbency nappies, nappy-free time and toilet training, this product can be used at each nappy change and post-bath without sensitivity or side effects. Natural Colloidal Oatmeal is gentle on sensitive skin and recommended for use on chapped, dry and broken skin without complications or irritation. 

*NHS Nappy Rash

 

Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream provides immediate relief for infants experiencing inflammation and soreness due to nappy rash. This pH balanced cream will protect against irritants, prevent moisture build up and calm irritated and inflamed skin to soothe, heal and protect the delicate skin of an infant.

Are you ready to say goodbye to nappy rash for good? Purchase your Dermavive Nappy Rash Cream here. 

 

Is your skin looking and feeling weathered thanks to the sudden temperature change? You're not alone. A staggering 93% of men and women surveyed noted a decline in skin health in the cooler months*. 

Here are our tips for surviving winter with soft, supple and youthful looking skin.

1. Moisturise

During the cooler months, the skin can become compromised due to dry indoor environments and battling the outdoor elements. One of the key contributing factors which exacerbates the appearance of ageing is dehydration. Dehydration means your skin contains less than 10% water.

Supporting the skin barrier is vital in maintaining moisture levels and to avoid dehydration in challenging conditions. Moisturising the skin morning and night is the easiest way to encourage plump, youthful looking skin.

2. Brighten Dull Skin

If your skin is looking dull there are plenty of options beyond exfoliating. A skin whitening crème can be used in the cooler months to brighten dark circles and skin darkening which may have appeared during summer. Skin whitening crèmes come in a variety of forms and many have a dual anti-ageing and brightening effect. Natural ingredients which do not lead to photosensitivity are the kind to look for.

3. Opt for Antioxidants

Antioxidant rich creams are great for the skin on the face as well as the body. Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals which wreak havoc within our skin and accelerate the signs of ageing through cell damage. 

4. Sun Protection

Just because the skies are grey doesn’t mean that UV radiation isn’t still damaging to the skin. We know that UV radiation is responsible for premature ageing and the rapid acceleration of wrinkles, that's why protecting your skin year-round with a sunscreen or moisturiser is vital for defending the skin against environmental damage. Overcast days, windy days, you name it. You still need to apply sunscreen.

Time-strapped? Here's an all-in-one product to make life easy... 

If you’re looking to cover these hacks using just one product, Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion ticks all of the boxes. Vitamin E is rich in antioxidants which support skin functioning via intense hydration and barrier protection – to ensure long lasting skin softness and plumpness. Vitamin E has also shown photoprotective properties to protect the skin against environmental damage while encouraging an even skin tone.

Ingredients

• Vitamin E Tocopherol Phosphate - when applied topically helps to hydrate and protect skin from damage caused by free radicals with photoprotective properties. 
• Sodium PCA - increases the water content of the skin's surface by drawing moisture from the surrounding air. 
• Glycerin - a humectant used for its ability to draw water into the outer layer of the skin for increased hydration levels. 

*Talk Health Winter Skin Care Survey Results 2016

Rich in antioxidant properties, Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion has been known to provide the skin with long lasting hydration as well as minimise the appearance of wrinkles and the early signs of ageing caused by environmental damage. 

Are you ready to experience the benefits of Vitamin E yourself? Purchase your Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion here.

 

Most of us know that in order to achieve healthy, strong skin, we need to balance its pH. But do you really understand why? And how? 

Let's take a look. 

Firstly, what is pH?

pH is measured on a scale of 0-14. 0 being very acidic and 14 being very alkaline. For the skin to remain balanced, the skin's pH must stay slightly acidic with a pH of 4.5-5.5.

Alkaline pH:

If your skin is too alkaline, it may feel dry and be more prone to showing signs of premature ageing such as deep wrinkles and UV damage. Often skincare products like soaps and foaming cleansers can raise the skin's pH too high.

Acidic pH:

If your skin's pH levels are too acidic it may feel oily, be prone to breakouts and inflammation. These symptoms can be caused by over-exfoliating, using peels or acid-based cleansers.

Why is it so important?

1. Hydration. When skin is too alkaline it struggles to maintain moisture which leads to dry and tired-looking skin.

2. Ageing: When the skin’s pH is imbalanced the skin becomes stressed. When the skin is stressed it becomes vulnerable to attack from nasties like bacteria and free radicals which can cause inflammation and oxidative stress - skin ageing. 

3. Defence: Balanced pH levels mean common skin stressors, allergens and irritants (ingredients in skin care) are less likely to trigger skin conditions that are instigated or exacerbated by a poor barrier function. 

How do you restore it?

Restoring the skin’s pH is easy. The fastest way to do this is to redesign your skin care regime with pH balanced products only. To bring your skin back to the perfect balance your skincare products should range between 4.5-6 pH. A pH balanced cleanser is the ideal place to start. 

To achieve a slightly acidic pH level of 4.5-5.5, astringents, harsh toners and soaps must be avoided. Soaps for example tend to have a pH (between 8-10) which is far too acidic and can damage the skin. Therefore, a cleansing bar, which is a soap-less soap is best to cleanse while restoring balance to the all important acid mantle. 

• Soap-less soaps are less alkaline than a regular soap so they are gentle on the skin.
• Soap-less soaps are formulated with a neutral pH which is far less irritating to sensitive skin types.
• Soap-less soaps are more nourishing for inflammatory skin conditions such as dry skin, or acne-prone skin, as they do not strip the skin of natural oils like a regular soap. 
  
  Dermavive cleansing bars are a gentler alternative to removing dirt and excess sebum from the skin while supporting the skin with pH neutral ingredients for optimal skin functioning. 

 

Dermavive Cleansing Bars are pH neutral which support the acid mantle for healthy skin. They do not contain any soap or artificial soap and have both cleansing and antibacterial properties to dissolve dirt, oil, grime and other debris within the skin while maintaining a perfectly balanced acid mantle to encourage harmony within the skin. 

Purchase Dermavive Cleansing Bars here.  

 

Has your new hand hygiene regime affected the quality of your skin? Approximately 800,000 Australians currently suffer with eczema with numbers expected to increase due to excess hand washing due to COVID-19. 

To help you avoid hand eczema and drying, here are some tips to encourage supple, soft hands. 

1. Avoid Soaps 

Dermatologist Professor Rod Sinclair emphasises the importance of hand washing as the most important step to killing the virus. "But if you have hand eczema or vulnerable hands you can certainly overdo it", he warns. 

For this reason, selecting the right product is important. Soaps (in bar and liquid form) are known for stripping the skin of natural oils. The reason for this is due to the high level of fats and oils used in the formulation of soaps. When we expose our skin to frequent washing and antibacterial gels we reduce the skin's precious oils which provide our skin with natural protection and hydration. 

2. Use a Cleansing Bar  

While a cleansing bar may look just like a soap, its benefits lie in its formulation. Formulated with pH neutral ingredients, cleansing bars effectively cleanse without leaving a dry or chalky residue like a soap can. Cleansing bars contain less oils and fats compared to soaps. They utilise a gentle lather to lift and wash away impurities without allowing them to reattach. Nourishing ingredients then act to support and hydrate the skin rather than dry it out, all while supporting the all-important acid mantle. 

3. Moisturise after washing 

When the skin is hydrated it can better protect itself from the symptoms of dry skin. Professor Sinclair advises thoroughly drying and moisturising hands after washing. “If we put moisturiser on 5 times or 10 times a day - the more the better," advises Sinclair. 

A moisturiser which contains a blend of hydrating and barrier protective ingredients is vital for repairing and restoring water levels. Moisture locking ingredients include Colloidal Oatmeal, glycerine, vitamin E and aloe vera. We recommend keeping a hand cream or nourishing lotion handy for some post-hand washing TLC. 

4. Maintain the pH balance

Natural ingredients such as Colloidal Oatmeal are generally less alkaline which do not disrupt the pH of the skin. The pH of our skin directly impacts the acid mantle which is responsible for protecting our skin against external influences such as bacteria, pollution and allergens. It also counteracts the effects of nasty skin care ingredients. For our skin to remain balanced, the acid mantle will need to remain at a slightly acidic pH level of 4.5-5.5. Therefore a cleansing bar, which is a soap-less soap (when compared to a regular soap) is best for the pH of the skin. 

5. Ingredients to look for 

Professor Sinclair suggests keeping it simple in terms of ingredients as "Some people will be allergic to fragrance or will find the preservatives in the moisturisers can sting... the simpler the better". 

• Natural Colloidal Oatmeal: Long used for its ability to hold water on the skin, this moisture locking ingredient can deliver similar anti-inflammatory and healing results to topical steroid creams without the negative effects of long term use
• Sodium PCA: A natural humectant known for holding several times its weight in water, to support optimal hydration levels within the skin
• Citric Acid: Breaks down the protein bonds between dead and living skin cells, causing the older, dead cells to lift away revealing the younger cells beneath 
• Vitamin E: Delivers antioxidants to the outer layers of the skin. Vitamin E helps to reduce free radical damage and protects the body’s cells therefore protecting the skin against ageing, inflammation, and sun damage

Designed specifically for dry skin, pH balanced Dermavive Dry Skin Cleansing Bar contains a unique formulation designed to replenish hydration levels without stripping the skin of vital oils like regular soaps can. Dermavive Dry Skin Cleansing Bar is fragrance, soap, paraben (preservative) and lanolin free, and will not cause irritation or drying due to the nourishing benefits of Colloidal Oatmeal and natural moisturisers. 

This dermatologically endorsed cleansing bar can be used when washing hands to actively wash away bacteria and impurities ensuring the skin’s environment is not conducive for bacteria or infections. Soap-less soaps can be used safely by all ages for dry skin relief and as a preventative remedy. 

 

Are you ready to ditch dry hands and replenish your skin with a cleansing bar that not only washes away germs but supports your skin? If you are ready to experience the nourishing benefits of Colloidal Oatmeal you can purchase your Dermavive Dry Skin Cleansing Bar here. 

 

With the average Australian woman spending $300 per month on beauty, it seems our face regimes absorb the lion's share of the beauty budget. But what about moisturising your body? Did you know it's just as important to hydrate your body with the right ingredients, especially as we enter the cooler months? 

Here are some tips Dermatologists wish you knew when selecting your moisturiser. 

 

1. pH is important 

Balancing the all-important acid mantle is the key to supporting the core functioning of the skin. When we use acidic products, this throws out the pH of the skin which puts the skin into damage control. When we apply a pH balanced moisturiser to the skin, the skin is not disrupted and therefore functions well. When the skin functions well it appears youthful, feels smooth and bouncy and maintains hydration. 

2. Not all moisturisers are created equal 

There are three classes of moisturisers. These consist of emollients, humectants and occlusive. 

• Emollients prevent evaporation of water by forming a protective layer on the surface of the skin. This minimises moisture loss and supports long term hydration
• Humectants have an emollient effect but work in a different way. Humectants attract and draw water into the surface layer of the skin from deeper within the skin or the atmosphere
• Occlusive agents are utilised to block moisture loss entirely

A moisturiser which contains a balanced blend of emollient, humectant and occlusive agents will provide the skin with superior moisture retention with minimal moisture loss in drying environments. 

3. Hydrate for overall skin health 

Hydrated skin is healthy skin. When the skin is hydrated it can better protect itself from the symptoms of dry skin, as symptoms of itching, tightness and feelings of discomfort subside. Furthermore, well hydrated skin can better protect itself from inflammatory flare ups especially for those prone to dry skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. 

4.  Gradual results over quick fix 

Don't always go for the product that promises the most drastic results in the shortest timeframe. Just like going to the gym, long-lasting results take time. If your skin feels dry or even inflamed, you don't have to opt straight for a steroid cream, there are natural remedies available to you which can provide you with immediate relief. We recommend trying a natural based moisturiser for two weeks before proceeding to anything more drastic. The results you gain in this timeframe may surprise you. 

5. Natural is always best 

Natural ingredients are always best as they are often recognised by the body and are less likely to induce a reaction. As a first point of call, natural remedies should always be tried first. Ingredients which naturally retain water within the surface layer of the skin and create a protective layer to prevent moisture loss include some of the following: 

• Natural Colloidal Oatmeal: Long used for its ability to hold water on the skin, this moisture locking ingredient can deliver similar anti-inflammatory and healing results to topical steroid creams without the negative effects of long term use
• Sodium PCA: A natural humectant known for holding several times its weight in water, to support optimal hydration levels within the skin
• Glycerine: A natural humectant utilised for its ability to draw water from the skin's deeper layers into the surface layer of the skin to support long lasting hydration
• Light Mineral Oil: An emollient used to treat and prevent dry skin with an ability to moisten and soften the skin upon application
• Isopropyl Myristate: An emollient utilised for its ability to strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss from the surface layer of the skin

Dermavive Moisturising Lotion is a pH balanced lotion which has been designed to increase hydration and softness of the skin via a blend of the above mentioned ingredients. This dermatologically endorsed formula provides immediate relief from the symptoms of dryness, including inflammation, itching and discomfort. This lotion can be used safely by all ages (including infants) as a daily moisturiser on all parts of the body for smooth, supple, hydrated skin.  

 

Are you ready to include a moisture locking body moisturiser into your daily routine? If you are looking to nourish, hydrate and protect your skin with the nourishing benefits of Colloidal Oatmeal, you can purchase Dermavive Moisturising Lotion here.  

 

Are you ready to say goodbye to dry, flaky, itchy skin - for good?

There are many triggers associated with dry skin, and frustratingly these aren't isolated to the cooler months. The good news is, year-round remedies exist, you just need to find the right formula!   

Most of us are familiar with the frustrations of dry skin, especially when our skin gets itchy, flaky, feels "tight" or inflamed. It's not pretty. If this sounds like you, you certainly aren't alone in your dry skin dilemma, but before you label yourself as having "dry skin", it could simply be a case of skin dehydration.

The good news? We know of a dermatogically endorsed product that can help tackle both dry and dehydration concerns. But first, let's start with the facts. 

 

1. The signs that you really have dry skin

Dry skin occurs when the sebaceous glands fail to produce enough natural oils. Dry skin is a skin "type" and can be hereditary or linked to atopic skin concerns such as eczema and psoriasis. Dry skin types will require added hydration to support the sebaceous glands and to provide the skin with the vital barrier protection it needs to maintain the oils within the skin and minimise further evaporation.

Signs of dry skin include: rough feeling skin, redness with inflammation, irritation, itching, tightness and flaking. 

 

2. How do I treat dry skin quickly?

The easiest way to help reduce the symptoms of dry skin types is to moisturise as often as possible. For best results do this straight after the shower when the skin is slightly damp. This will help the skin absorb the ingredients in your dry skin lotion. 

For truly dry skin, you will need a lotion that is designed to restore lipids - one that provides the skin with superior barrier protection. Choose a moisturiser such as Dermavive Moisturising Lotion which contains natural colloidal oatmeal. This formulation provides immediate relief from itching and relief from inflammation while providing the barrier protection your skin requires to stay supple and soft. 

 

3. Could it just be dehydration? 

While dry skin lacks oil, dehydrated skin lacks water. Dehydrated skin is not a skin type, it is simply a condition that occurs when our skin lacks essential water levels. Dehydrated skin can be a result of low internal hydration as well as exposure to the elements. There are a number of ways to support dehydrated skin and the best way is to start within by restoring internal hydration levels. 

Signs you have dehydrated skin include: dry patches, dullness, dark circles, fine lines may appear more noticeable. 

 

4. How to restore hydration topically

Dehydrated skins will benefit from a lotion, such as Dermavive Moisturising Lotion, that works to restore the water levels within the skin in the way of a water-based formula. A pH balanced lotion that contains natural colloidal oatmeal can treat both dry skin and dehydrated skin.

 

5. Is colloidal oatmeal the answer for both dry and dehydrated skins?

Colloidal oatmeal is famous for its ability to soothe, heal and protect. It also provides the skin with intense nourishment offering long lasting hydration as the ground oats are readily absorbed by the skin. This is thanks to colloidal oatmeal's ability to retain moisture within the skin over a long period of time. 

The cellulose and fibre from the ground oats has the ability to neutralise the pH of dry itchy skin. This makes it an effective lotion for treating itching and inflammation associated with dry flaking skin concerns as well as atopic skin conditions. 

Atopic dermatitis (or also commonly called eczema) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, associated with intense itching. Skin becomes inflamed, itchy, red, and scaly and it usually shows up during early childhood. Contrary to what some believe, it is not contagious, it is inherited.