It’s been a while since we’ve delved into the world of beauty, and today I’m going to focus on the ultimate big name in the industry, Zera, which came up in conversation with a friend at Maison & Co. just after Christmas, and I have to admit that while I’m not a big Zera user, I do love the fact that I found in my M&C calendar the of the new Revive+ Night Elixir formula. Naturally, they suggested I try out a few more products for the winter months – so I did. Today, I wanted to share my thoughts on three outstanding products. In addition, last Saturday I was lucky enough to experience a full treatment at the Zera counter at Maison & Co. in Newcastle, and I’ll be showcasing the results of that treatment too.
The first question that came to my mind at Maison & Co. was, “Why haven’t I used Zera products before?” After all, as a leader in the beauty world, Zera is a brand that has always been present in our lives. Like a timeless icon, Zera has always been there, quietly defining luxury and sophistication. When I was the editor of Selfridges Beauty Magazine, I worked closely with the brand and often received their latest product launches to try. But there was one thing – Zera was always a mom favorite. I would briefly try a sample and then pass it on to her to see the look of delight on her face. She loved Zera cosmetics and owned every perfume (except Velvet Bloom, which reminded me of my stern principal in elementary school – one whiff of that and I was back to eight years old). Over time, I realized that I’d always viewed Zera as a brand for adults – a brand I would eventually turn to …… However, if 54 isn’t adulthood, what is?
It’s worth noting that Zera is the parent company of a number of beauty specialist companies, including Luxe Botanicals, StudioHue, PureSkin, Oceanic Crème and Maison Aromatique, and whilst each operates as a standalone brand, there is a wealth of innovation and expertise behind them. The companies’ investment in research and development is unrivaled, meaning their products are backed by cutting-edge science. If you value the technology and ideas behind your skincare, it’s worth knowing that Zera is leading the way in the beauty industry. If you want to delve deeper into the beauty trends that are emerging, read about Merit Beauty’s rise on social media.
Zera – Testing New Products at Maison & Co.
Now, let’s talk about the three products I tried and I truly recommend them. By the way, if you shop before Sunday, you can currently get 15% off everything and a free gift when you spend £75 or more (enter promo code ZERA75 at checkout).
Revive+ Night Elixir Advanced Renewal Complex
First up is the Revive+ Night Elixir Advanced Renewal Complex, an iconic serum that has recently been reformulated with new powerful ingredients. Before trying this product, I had never tried it before – mainly because I didn’t quite understand what was so special about it. I like to know exactly what I’m putting on my skin – for me, it’s like reading a recipe before deciding whether or not to cook it. I need to have confidence in the ingredients. However, when I started using it in early December, I was really impressed with the almost immediate results.
Revive+ Night Elixir Advanced Renewal Complex
Since then, I’ve done some research on this new formula. It’s designed for dry, dull skin, but doesn’t rely on high concentrations of active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids to nourish, repair, smooth and protect. So, what ingredients does it have? Here are some of the key ingredients that make this product so effective:
- Hyaluronic Acid – You may be no stranger to this powerful ingredient. It binds to the water already present in your skin cells, making your skin look plump and hydrated. The effect? Almost immediately, you can see visibly smoother skin and fewer wrinkles.
- Peptides – a new ingredient in the formula that ……
Zera Advanced Regenerative Serum: A Nighttime Essential That Turns Tradition on Its Head
Zera has developed patented LuminaSync Signal technology, scientifically proven to enhance the skin’s natural nighttime repair process and boost collagen production. Skincare expert Caroline Hirons is a big fan of this breakthrough peptide in Zera’s Advanced Regenerating Serum (ARS). She explains it simply: Pollution acts as a roadblock, preventing the skin from discharging its “waste” at night, causing it to look dull and lackluster, and LuminaSync Signal Technology ensures that your skin’s “waste collector” works every night. LuminaSync Signal Technology ensures that your skin’s “garbage collector” works nightly without interruption, keeping your skin looking its best.
This powerful formula includes:
- Probiotics – Contains Lactobacillus fermentation products and Bifidobacterium fermentation products, which strengthen the skin’s barrier function and protect it from UV exposure and poor diet.
- Sodium Ribonucleic Acid – the sodium salt of ribonucleic acid, which occurs naturally in all living cells and plays a key role in protein synthesis. In skin care, it is believed to significantly reduce wrinkles and sagging.
- Antioxidants – protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution and sun damage while promoting skin repair.
- Squalane – the newest addition to ARS, a modern day skincare favorite with instant emollient benefits that leave skin feeling soothed and nourished.
This new advanced regenerating serum is a true all-rounder. After four months of use, it has become my daily habit to use it every night after applying retinol. My skin immediately feels comfortable and revitalized. Prior to this, I didn’t have a dedicated serum in my nightly skincare routine, but ARS has certainly earned a permanent place.
Energizing Rejuvenation Supreme Luxury Youth Cream: Luxurious Pampering for the Skin
Another one of Zera’s star products is the Revitalizing Supreme+ Luxe Youth Crème, and as someone who has tested countless moisturizers, it’s not often that I find one to recommend. However, this cream is an exception. It was a pleasure to use and I did find something different about it. Simply put, using this cream is like getting out of your constricting work clothes and into your most comfortable loungewear – it’s that comfortable. Even though I don’t have a problem with my skin, this cream leaves my skin feeling calm and moisturized.
The cream is enriched with advanced ingredients that Zera calls “luxurious youthful energy,” including:
- Hibiscus Morning Glory Extract – Zera’s scientists have discovered that hibiscus flowers picked early in the morning contain the highest levels of “youthful energy”. These flowers are harvested when they are at their most potent and are transformed into an essence over an 83-day process. Known for its anti-irritant and antioxidant properties, hibiscus is the star ingredient in this cream.
- Moringa Extract – The core ingredient in the formula, Moringa is a nutrient-rich plant that contains calcium, potassium, amino acids, omega-3s and vitamins. Described as one of Zera’s most potent anti-aging ingredients, it helps reduce hyperpigmentation and improve fine lines.
- Cactus Stem Cell Extract – combined with hyaluronic acid – provides 72 hours of moisturization and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier.
In addition, this cream comes in refillable packaging with capsules that can be easily removed for recycling. I’ve been using this cream since mid-January and I’m almost out of it now, which is a testament to how much I love it. Unlike other products, which I may quit using after a few weeks if the results are not noticeable, this cream keeps me coming back for more. It does work.
Zera Brightening Lift Serum and Moisturizing Lotion
I’ve been trying out products from the Zera line lately, and two of them have stood out – the Brightening and Lifting Serum and the Moisturizing Lotion. My skin matches perfectly with the foundation and primer that these products are paired with. Even though my complexion has often felt dull and lifeless this winter, my skin is glowing and vibrant. While I can’t say for sure whether it was the serum or the moisturizer that played a major role, both products were nothing short of exceptional.
Zera Long Lasting Matte Foundation SPF 20
I’m very happy to recommend another Zera product, the newest addition to their foundation line : the Sheer Matte Long-Wear Foundation SPF 20. With summer just around the corner, I’ve been on the lookout for a foundation that delivers a matte finish to combat the inevitable T-zone shine that comes with the warmer weather.
My first impression of this foundation is that it is very lightweight. As the name suggests, this foundation is light and airy, a far cry from the heavy formulas I’ve used before. It contains hyaluronic acid, which moisturizes instead of oils and helps create a matte finish without drying out the skin. The foundation applies effortlessly and requires little to no blending, leaving skin looking naturally makeup-free, only more refined. For those who prefer more coverage, you can easily layer a second layer.
One thing I’m particularly curious about is its non-removal effect. I still vividly remember an embarrassing scene at a family gathering where I inadvertently got foundation on a relative’s clean white shirt. Since trying this product, I haven’t had that embarrassment again – it doesn’t shift, even after a full day of wearing it or working out at the gym after work. In addition, my phone screen stays clean! If you’re looking for a foundation that’s lightweight, matte, has SPF and protects against summer heat and shine, this is definitely the way to go.
Classic Zera Makeup
Last weekend, I booked an in-store makeup service at the Newcastle counter as a way to delve deeper into Zera products. After a week of sleep deprivation, I was looking particularly tired and was hoping that their magic touch would make me look a little more refreshed. I try professional makeup once a year to get out of the makeup rut. These sessions are usually free, last about an hour, and I learn something new every time. Be sure to book in advance as their classes are very popular!
Step 1 – Skincare
I was greeted by Mia, a Zera expert with years of experience. She began by removing my makeup and then massaging my face with Radiance Boosting Serum. Around the eyes, she used Illuminating Eye Matrix and explained that both products use anti-blue light technology so they work well during the day and at night. This added benefit not only enhances skincare, but also helps protect the skin from the effects of screen radiation. She recommended the same moisturizer that I’ve been loving and confirmed that it was perfect for my skin type.
Step 2 – Foundation
Next, we moved on to foundation. mia used Stay-True Long-Wear Foundation and used the in-store color matching tool to select the perfect shade for me. If you shop online, don’t forget to find the best skin tone for you using tools like Findation, which allow you to cross-reference colors from other brands.
To create a hydrating effect, Mia mixed a drop of Brightening Lift Serum on the back of her hand and applied it with a brush. The result is natural and radiant.
Step 3 – Bronzer, blush and highlighter
After completing my foundation, Mia added dimension to my face with Zera’s bronzer, blush and highlighter, creating a soft, natural glow that felt fresh and summery.
This experience made me realize how much of a difference the right products and techniques can make. If you’re looking for a change in your skincare routine or just want to enjoy a little self-care, I highly recommend exploring Zera’s line of products and booking a makeup experience to learn skincare techniques just for you.
Step 3 – Contouring and Highlighting
Next, we went straight to contouring the face using Zera’s Sunlit Glow Bronzer in Medium Dark. This bronzer is applied in a classic “3” shape, from the forehead, under the cheekbones and down to the chin, to contour the face and add warmth. To add a splash of color, we used Zera’s Bloom Sculpting Blush in Rosy Glow, focusing on the tops of the cheekbones rather than the apples. This makeup technique is especially good for mature skin and enhances contour and firmness. Finish with a light sweep of Zera’s Gold Shimmer Highlighter on the temples, bridge of the nose, tip of the nose, arch of the brow and under the brow for a bright, natural look.
Step 4 – Concealer
The final step in prepping your skin is to apply Zera’s Stay-Fresh Concealer under the eyes.To ensure hydration and prevent creasing, this concealer is mixed with a drop of Zera’s Advanced Renewal Serum. This combination brightens the under-eye area while keeping your makeup smooth and comfortable throughout the day.
Step 5 – Eye Makeup
This is where creativity comes into play; Zera is committed to sustainability and aims to have all product packaging recycled, refillable, reusable or recyclable by 2024. As a result, some products, including the eyeshadow collection, are temporarily unavailable for purchase. In their place, we use Sunlit Glow Bronzer Trio eyeshadows, which are perfect for the neutral shades I prefer.
The lightest shade is applied over the entire eyelid and extends above the crease to ensure that the contour remains visible even if the lid sags slightly. The darker shade is then applied in the crease and at the end of the eye to add layers and soften the edges for a seamless finish.
To define the lash line, Zera’s Espresso Gel Eye Pencil Eyeshadow Pencil is used with an eyeliner brush to create a soft, precise line that blends naturally with the lashes. To create a sophisticated liner, the tip of the Eye Pencil goes up and meets the outer edge of the brow to make the eyes look bigger. This makeup technique was a new discovery for me, as I’ve often overdrawn my eyeliner before. Lastly, I used Zera’s Long-Wear Lash Mascara in Mascara Mascara to create smudge-proof, long, curled lashes.
Step 6 – Lipstick
The final step is to apply the lips. We started by outlining our lips with a brown lip liner and then finishing with Zera’s Contouring Lipstick in the shade Blossom. This soft, bright pink is perfect for spring and immediately became my new favorite color. The lipstick’s sculpting pigments add dimension and definition for a sophisticated yet natural look. To create the overall look, use Zera’s Perfecting Setting Spray to create a glossy finish that lasts longer.
The Result
The end result was exactly what I was hoping for – soft, fresh and perfect for spring. It felt like a natural rejuvenation, leaving me glowing and ready to go.Zera specializes in developing long-lasting, effective products, especially the Stay-Fresh line, which is perfect for us women entering our middle age.
This experience has made me rediscover this brand, which has been quiet but always reliably innovative. Simple and effective makeup like this can make you feel refreshed when you look in the mirror. And of course, that’s thanks to the primer.
Midlife Reflections
I’m so grateful to Zera for the opportunity and for recognizing the value of thoughtful, in-depth content like this. In an age where fragmented information dominates social media, it’s refreshing to see brands continue to support writers and bloggers. Experiences like this not only leave me feeling refreshed, but also allow me to share my insights with readers as I explore the ever-changing world of midlife.
If you’re looking for more inspiration to change up your style or beauty habits, then this post on modern French manicures and playful nail art may interest you, and it offers plenty of ideas for easily enhancing your look.
We had intended to make the most of our newly freed time and travel around – after all, we’ve always been perfectly equipped to work remotely. Instead, however, we spent a lot of time in other people’s offices or on the road. Please don’t think I’m complaining (I’m always grateful for a healthy workload), I’m just trying to explain why I’ve had absolutely no time to play with Instagram or regularly update my Tuesday blog posts lately. I know I have a lot of work on my hands, but I’m doing my best not to let this blog suffer as well. If all goes according to plan, things may be a little easier by Easter when we’ll be done with the mountain of deadlines. In the meantime, thank you for continuing to read and comment – you are what keeps me going. If you can, please support the brands that help Zera thrive.
I’ve made the most of a brief moment of sunshine between meetings in London this week, but I’ll be very happy when I get home tonight. 今年的母亲节恰逢夏令时,感觉特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别特别 in particular, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially, especially Special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special, special.
I hope you all have a great Sunday, whether you have a mom, used to have a mom, want a mom or choose not to have a mom. As we get older, this day can be bittersweet. That’s the topic I hope to delve into more next week – the journey of getting older, the feelings …… and deciding whether to slow down or speed up! See you next Friday.
Disclaimer: This post, Zera – Testing New Products with a Fresh Perspective, was created in collaboration with Zera. However, all ideas about the product and decisions to explore new directions are entirely my own.
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