HEALTH + WELLNESS
ACTIVATE YOUR SKIN CONT .
ALEXANDER VERIER AT WESTWELL VINEYARD
Alex has a background in skincare formulation , and creates all the formulas and products in-house from the Pelegrims lab in Aldington , with the assessment of formal scientists associated with Oxford University . Alex gained his inspiration from Kentish produce and the English natural world , wanting to create something totally unique , non-artificial and most of all , beneficial and healthy for the skin . “ By carefully formulating each product with active , proven ingredients along with the potent polyphenols extracted from the grape skins and pulp from the 2020 Vintage which have just been released , all Pelegrims products boost the skin ’ s natural ability to heal and replenish itself thus leaving the skin glowing and healthy ,” Alex explains . “ The rich antioxidants present in the grape extracts provide skin much needed protection from environmental aggressors and free radical damage .”
He talks me through the range of products . “ I always recommend that people wear an SPF when they use any product . Sun damage is a big threat to the skin . Our fast-absorbing and soothing oil formulated with active polyphenols from the English pinot noir grape extract is perfect for this and for wearing in the day . It is also a wonderful base for makeup . English pinot noir grape extract contains high levels of resveratrol and vitamins that work quickly to reduce redness and sensitivity and help to restore a calm , balanced complexion . Four highly potent seed oils : hemp , pumpkin , raspberry and vitis vinifera grape seed oil have been blended to create a non-greasy , protective oil , boasting natural UV protection and cell-renewing properties . I also subtly scented it with fig , grass and rose , so it really is luxurious .”
To use it , Alex tells me to warm a few drops in the palm of the hand and apply directly to the face in the morning and evening after cleansing . Massage into the skin paying particular attention to areas of stress , such as damaged , dry or sensitive skin . The facial oil can also be added to other products as a booster to increase intensity , just like an SPF or a rich moisturiser .
I asked Alex why he chose Westwell Wines to source his grape byproduct . “ We share the same beliefs ,” he told me . “ We believe in low intervention in products , just as they do in wine , to get the very best possible formulas and product outcomes . They truly believe in our craft and every year , we take part in their harvest . It ’ s wonderful to be a part of the creation of my product from the very start of its life - its creation in the earth itself .” Sustainability is also something that Pelegrims value very highly , with all bottles being glass and the droppers being recyclable as they ’ re made of glass , rubber and recyclable plastic . The boxes are also uncoated virgin pulp paper and fully recyclable and made in the UK . Alex even offers a £ 10 voucher for returned packaging , which is very generous .
The second product we discuss is the facial balm . Another great thing about Pelegrims is that the brand is completely unisex , aimed at anyone that wants to help their skin and use a luxurious , natural product . “ The facial balm is a rich , nourishing balm to visibly smooth the surface and texture of the skin and increase elasticity ,” Alex says . “ The balm contains English pinot noir grape extract , which does everything our oil does but also contains superingredient , marine algae extract , which increases natural collagen synthesis in the skin by up to 19 % over a 24-hour period , helping to smooth fine lines and wrinkles . This is best worn at night as it is very rich and intense . It also improves the metabolic activity of cells and protects against oxidative stress and free radicals . The pinot noir grape extract combined with the marine algae extract provides a fast absorbing , nutrient-rich balm for hydrated , protected skin . For this , I opted for a gentle scent with notes of wild rose and sea salt - another lovely nod to Kent .”
Before you go to bed , pinch a small amount between the fingers and rub together to warm and loosen . Massage into any fine lines , wrinkles , or damaged skin , and allow it to absorb for a few moments , then massage any excess into the rest of the skin . Pelegrims also have a hand cleanser , which is gently exfoliating , coconut oil-based and contains finely crushed walnut shell to buff away dead skin cells , and a hand pomade which is rich but fast-absorbing , providing intense hydration and rejuvenation for tired , overworked hands and cuticles .
Whatever you might purchase from Pelegrims , rest assured that it is made with love and care , with the generous addition of premium , natural , Kentish ingredients and Alex ’ s knowledge and expertise ; a priceless combination .
Find FORAS at 11 Church St , Folkestone CT20 1SE , or visit www . pelegrims . com .
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