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As women 35+ can attest, the skin on our faces can change year on year; fine lines begin to deepen, hormones can wreak havoc, hyperpigmentation can seemingly arrive out of nowhere, and ceramide production—essential lipids found in the outermost layer of our skin—slows.
“Ceramides play a crucial role in maintaining the skin barrier’s function which helps to retain moisture thus keeping the skin hydrated and supple. They also shield against harmful pollutants and UV rays,” says Nica Marcello, the National Education Manager at Elizabeth Arden. “As we age, our natural production of ceramides decreases which leads to dry, flaky skin and the formation of fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of skin elasticity.”
It’s a trying time, but it is manageable, all the more so if you have a star product within reach on your bathroom vanity. For over 30 years, Elizabeth Arden’s range of Ceramide Capsules have been addressing unique skin concerns. Targeted formulas include the Strengthening & Refining Serum for a brighter complexion, the Rapid Skin Renewing Serum to visibly diminish lines and wrinkles, the Daily Youth Restoring Serum which targets aging skin, the Radiance Renewal Serum with a potent hit of Vitamin C and the Hydra- Plumping Serum with Hyaluronic Acid. (We know, we felt we needed a little bit of all of them, too!) The best part is each biodegradable capsule uniquely delivers a pure, potent and precisely measured dose of serum to the skin.
“Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Capsule Serums contain a blend of ceramides that mimic the skin’s natural lipids,” explains Marcello. “These ceramides help to restore the skin’s barrier, which is crucial for retaining moisture and protecting against environmental damage. This will in turn, improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to better hydration and a smoother texture.
“The serums also include ingredients that support the skin’s natural collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This results in a firmer, more youthful-looking skin.”
Ahead, GRAZIA sits down with Marcello to discuss the advantages of concentrated, pre-measured serums, how to choose which serum is right for you, and, rather interestingly, how to layer them!
elizabeth arden Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules Strengthening & Refining Serum, 60 capsules, $160 SHOP NOW
GRAZIA: What lifestyle/environmental factors commonly cause skin to show signs of dehydration and damage?
Nica Marcello: Several lifestyle and environmental factors can lead to skin dehydration and damage such as:
Diet: Consuming a diet high in salt, sugar, or caffeine can dehydrate the skin. Alcohol consumption also contributes to dehydration.
Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin, depriving it of oxygen and essential nutrients, which can lead to dryness and premature ageing.
Inadequate Water Intake: Not drinking enough water can cause the skin to lose its natural moisture, leading to dehydration.
Stress: Chronic stress can affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture and repair itself, leading to dryness and irritation.
Weather: Extreme weather conditions, such as cold, dry winters or hot, humid summers, can strip the skin of its natural moisture.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the skin barrier, leading to moisture loss and increased risk of dehydration.
Pollution: Environmental pollutants can damage the skin barrier and lead to dehydration and irritation.
Indoor Climate: Air conditioning and heating systems can reduce humidity levels indoors, causing the skin to lose moisture.
GRAZIA: What are the advantages of serums being in concentrated, pre-measured capsules?
NM: Using serums in concentrated, pre-measured capsules offers several advantages such as:
Precise Dosage: Each capsule contains a pre-measured amount of serum, ensuring you get the exact dosage needed for optimal results. This consistency helps maintain the effectiveness of the product.
Freshness and Potency: Capsules protect the serum from exposure to air and light, which can degrade active ingredients over time. This packaging helps maintain the serum’s potency and freshness until the moment of use.
Convenience: Capsules are easy to use and perfect for travel. There is no need to measure out the product, reducing the risk of spills or using too much or too little.
Hygiene: Using a capsule for each application minimises the risk of contamination. Unlike jars or bottles that require dipping fingers or using droppers, capsules ensure that the product remains sterile.
Targeted Treatment: Capsules can be formulated with specific concentrations of active ingredients tailored to address particular skin concerns, providing a more targeted and effective treatment.
elizabeth arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules Rapid Skin Renewing Serum, 60 capsules, $160 SHOP NOW
GRAZIA: How should Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Capsule Serums be applied?
NM: To get the best results from Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Capsule Serums, follow these steps:
Twist: Gently twist the tab around twice to open the capsule.
Squeeze: Press the capsule to release the serum onto your fingertips.
Warm: Rub the serum between your hands and fingertips to warm it up.
Apply: Use a sweeping motion to apply the serum evenly over your face and neck. Make sure to cover all areas, including the forehead, cheeks, and chin.
GRAZIA: How does one decide which Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsule Serum is right for them? And which is your personal favourite and why?
NM: Choosing the right Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsule Serum depends on your specific skin concerns and goals. For example, whether you want to brighten your complexion, target fine lines and wrinkles or improve hydration. Personally, I love them all! If I had to choose, many users love the Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum for its comprehensive benefits. It’s a versatile option that addresses multiple signs of aging and enhances overall skin health, making it a great starting point for those new to ceramide serums. It also comes in a version that is lighter in texture and ideal for combining with oily skin.
elizabeth arden Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules daily youth restoring Serum, 60 capsules, $160 SHOP NOW
GRAZIA: Is it possible to “double dose” and apply two serums?
NM: Yes, it is possible to use two serums in your skincare routine, either by applying them to different parts of the face or by layering them. Here is how you can do both effectively:
Applying to Different Parts of the Face: If you have different skin concerns in different areas, you can apply specific serums to those areas. For example, you might use a hydrating serum on dry patches and a brightening serum on areas with hyperpigmentation.
Layering Serums: When layering serums, apply the one with the thinnest consistency first, followed by the thicker one. This ensures better absorption and effectiveness. If the consistency is the same, apply the most active serum first, followed by the most hydrating serum so it can act as a humectant and further enhance the benefits. For example, applying a Vitamin C serum followed by a Hyaluronic serum. Allow each serum to absorb fully before applying the next one. Waiting a minute or two between applications can help prevent the serums from mixing and ensure each one penetrates the skin properly.
elizabeth arden Vitamin C Ceramide Capsules Radiance Renewal Serum, 60 capsules, $160 SHOP NOW
elizabeth arden Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide Capsules Hydra-Plumping Serum , 60 capsules, $160 SHOP NOW
GRAZIA: Beyond skincare, what are some other out-of-the-box ways you look after your skin?
NM: A few things I work into my everyday include:
Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase: Silk pillowcases reduce friction on your skin, helping to prevent wrinkles and keep your skin smooth.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Manage Stress: High stress levels can lead to skin problems like acne and eczema. Practices like yoga, meditation, or even regular exercise can help manage stress and improve your skin. A massage once a month is always a good idea!
