My Favourite UK Indie Skincare Brand

Ishtar SK

In the UK, skincare enthusiasts are increasingly informed and selective about the ingredients in their products. Ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and collagen are among the most sought after due to their well-documented benefits in anti-aging, hydration, and enhancing skin structure​. For good reason too - these ingredients are key players in the fight against aging and for maintaining supple, hydrated skin.  Consumer awareness and ethical standards have also influenced today's skincare consumers - we're not only looking for effective products but also those that align with ethical and health standards. This trend is reflective of a broader movement towards sustainability and transparency in the skincare industry. Consumers prefer brands that offer transparency in their ingredient sourcing and production processes, ensuring that products are both effective and ethically produced. 

Me personally? My interest is in high-tech skincare solutions, or at least products which marry formulations which include naturally derived ingredients with evidence based formulations. 

Why Ishtar SK?

A prime example of innovative formulation in the UK market is Ishtar SK and its range of product ranges which aim to address irritated and sensitive skin, to rejuvenate tired complexions as well as treat blemish prone skin. I love this brand because they use only effective ingredients and also employ clever techniques to ensure their efficacy. Take for example micro encapsulation, the process involving encapsulating a substance within tiny particles to protect it and improve its delivery.  Ishtar SK was also the first brand to bring Mandelic acid products to the UK. 

Mandelic acid has a number of benefits for the skin. It can help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has antibacterial properties, making it beneficial for people with acne-prone skin. In addition, it can help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Introducing Ishtar SK's Celleska Range

 Expertly crafted, Ishtar's Celleska products are designed to rejuvenate and enhance the complexion, making them ideal for those seeking professional strength skincare. With ranges that feature a potent blend of retinoids, 3-O Ethyl C (a stable form of vitamin C), peptides, and lactobionic acid, these products aim to significantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin texture and tone. The inclusion of retinoids, particularly, helps boost collagen production, complemented by a rich mix of botanicals and antioxidants that work synergistically to brighten and even out skin complexion.

Addressing Blemish-Prone Skin: The Ultralase Range

For those struggling with blemish-prone skin, Ishtar SK offers the Ultralase range, formulated to target and alleviate these specific concerns. Key products such as the award-winning mandelic acid cleanser combine mandelic and polyhydroxy acids to unclog pores and promote cell turnover, offering a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining clear skin. The range also includes the A10 moisturizer, enriched with Azeloyl Glycine and ceramide 6, which hydrates while regulating sebum production. Additionally, the Trizyme serum, with its blend of enzymes and succinic acid, effectively removes dead skin cells, aiding in the reduction of blemishes and promoting an even skin tone.

Soothing Sensitive Skin: The Skinescue Range

Recognizing the challenges of sensitive and irritated skin, Ishtar SK has developed the Skinescue range, a premium collection crafted to provide relief and rejuvenation. This line features a unique combination of ingredients like ectoin, C60 fullerene, ceramides, and pre- & probiotics, alongside natural ferments. Together, these components work harmoniously to nourish, soothe, and revitalize sensitive skin, making Skinescue an ideal choice for those who require gentle yet effective skincare solutions.  

Have a look at this facial oil from Ishtar's Celleska range.

It combines the stable Vitamin C ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate with a retinoic acid ester. This potentiating combination lightens post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, improves scar recovery and fights against all the signs of aging.  This oil can be used daily by all skin types. It plays well with all our serums and treatments (including our vit C serums, retinol serums and acids). 

Hope you give Ishtar a try and like it as much as I do!