Joyce Blok Professional Skin Care

This collection has a special significance for the team as we have very fond memories of its launch. At the time, as samples and formulation changes were being approved, one of the team was falling in love! Each new stage of approval marked another step towards two new products and more exciting developments in the romance. We recall the launch of the products at Pullman Hotel Auckland, one of our favourite locations, with fits of giggles and lots of ‘awwhh’s. Those early days of a budding relationship became part of the energy of the range.

Fourteen years on and our JB Man is successful part of the product range – and the romance is still going strong you will be pleased to hear.

On the label X JB MAN

Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract) - Daily Moisturiser

The unique cocktail of powerful antioxidants (called catechins) found within Green Tea help to combat the effects of free radicals and environmental aggressors while contributing to the health of the skin. In some cases, its anti-inflammatory properties can even neutralise the damage caused through sun exposure. Moreover, Green Tea works to rejuvenate ageing cells, promote regeneration, and improve skin healing. 

Jojoba Micro-beads – Daily Cleansing Scrub

We all have one. That original beauty product that takes us back to the early days of experimenting with skincare and makeup. The streaky lip gloss phase, with too much Maybelline mascara, springs to my mind for the early days of make up application. For skincare it is our very own Gentle Exfoliant that evokes fond memories of the start of a serious routine. The Gentle Exfoliant was the beginning of a love affair with skincare that eventually became a 25 year career.

Originally sold in a tub it was almost edible it was so delicious. For me, it was the first ‘non-scratchy’ facial exfoliant I’d ever used and I was addicted. The natural jojoba beads were part of the original formulation and the basis of the gentle action - something that is now de rigueur, the natural beads were well ahead of their time. Another bonus was the ability to use the product in a dry form as a gentle mechanical peel as well as a wet application for a quick, effective scrub in the shower. A dual purpose product was excellent for the student budget!

Years later I was fortunate enough to visit the original factory that produced the product for us in France. What an experience for a skincare nerd! We no longer import our Gentle Exfoliant in bulk from France but manufacture the product in Auckland. Modified for cleaner efficacy several years ago, this gentle gem is a truly iconic JB product and we are delighted to still have it as a top seller in our 50th year of trade.

I hope if you haven’t already tried it you will. I am sure you will love it. If you’re an existing lifetime fan, like me, then perhaps it’s time you shared your love by taking advantage of this months 2 for 1 offer. Time to evoke a new memory for the next generation perhaps? Enjoy xx

Dual Application Methods:

To cater to your unique preferences and skin needs,  the Gentle Exfoliant can be used in two ways:

Wet Method: For a refreshing and invigorating experience, apply the Gentle Exfoliant to damp skin. Gently massage in circular motions, allowing the exfoliating particles to work their magic. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry.

Joyce Blok Professional Skin Care is a brand, a personality and an inspiration to beauty professionals, salon and spa-goers. In addition beauty fans, that do not have easy access to a local Joyce Blok Expert, enjoy our products via our online store.

Our dual audience, business owners and consumers, demand we showcase the best of the best. Our team of extraordinary talent is dedicated to making Joyce Blok (JB) the first choice for all beauty professionals in New Zealand and accessible to all lovers of professional products both nationally and beyond.

The brand's philosophy emphasises the use of natural ingredients that are sourced locally wherever possible, and that are gentle yet effective on the skin. We place a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices, with a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting fair trade and animal welfare.​

Healthy skin solutions – that’s us

Joyce Blok combines the best of science, nature, and the philosophy of professional treatments via our JB Experts. The research and development of all products draws on the latest worldwide advances in skin care. We focus on providing a complete solution to treat the skin, by offering an essential care range for daily use along with an enhanced care line which contains highly effective cosmeceutical ingredients.

Why JB?

A skincare trend worth knowing

These days, removing your makeup before bed isn't the only skincare rule to live by and the simple 'cleanse, tone and moisturise’ has become a distant memory. Amidst all the noise, how can we use the right skincare ingredients while keeping our routines easy enough to maintain?  

If you haven't already caught wind of the recent skincare trend taking social media by storm, allow us to introduce skin cycling. A method of applying skincare over a four-night schedule. The routine streamlines your regimen and reduces the risk of reaction from active ingredients.

The creator of this viral method is board-certified dermatologist Whitney Bowe, MD.” Key to Dr Bowe's approach is recovery. "I've treated thousands of patients for over a decade as a dermatologist", says Bowe, "and I find that one of the top mistakes people make is that they don't build in nights for their skin barrier to recover.” She likens the approach to that of a workout, "your muscles need recovery days, your mind needs recovery days, so it makes sense that your skin also benefits from recovery days.” 

So let's cut to the chase. What are the steps? 

Night one: Carry out your regular skincare routine, but use an exfoliant instead of strong actives. 

Night two: Retinoid time 

Then, take two nights off before repeating the cycle. Easy right? Bowe goes into greater detail on her website, explaining, "on recovery nights, focus on nourishing your skin microbiome and repairing your skin barrier—think hydration and moisture." 

A method which simplifies your routine, increases product efficiency, improves skin health without risk of irritation? Count us in! 

Alpha and Beta hydroxy acids are highly effective methods of exfoliation. Using Alpha-Beta's together helps tackle skin conditions from the outside and within for a bevy of benefits. 

AHA's: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, delivers glow, improves pigmentation, skin texture and tone. 

BHA's: Balances oil production, calms inflammation, clears clogged pores and even helps remove ingrown hairs. 

How to use our Alpha Beta Collection 

Alpha Beta Cleanser 6%:  For a thorough cleanse that also hydrates and soothes, massage a small amount over your dry face and neck, then remove with soothing warm water and a face cloth. Repeat for best results.

Alpha Beta Concentrate 15%:  Revitalise a dull skin, clarify your acne-prone areas or boost an ageing complexion by applying one or two drops of the concentrate to your skin. Use at night, after cleansing, applying gently. Leave on and follow up with your night cream or your recommended overnight mask. Cleanse your skin in the morning.  

Alpha Beta Gel Cream 4.5%:  We recommend using this antioxidant-enriched moisturiser in the evening and in combination with Joyce Blok’s Super Serum.

Alpha Beta Face & Body Exfoliant 8% :  After cleansing, remove impurities and stimulate cellular renewal by massaging this revitalising exfoliant over dry skin for a couple of minutes. Emulsify with water and continue smoothing over the face and body. Rinse off, tone and moisturise. Use 2-3 times weekly. A beautiful self-care ritual for the ultimate alpha-beta glow.

A few members of JB’s head office team share how they plan on spending the school holiday season. A delightful read, we hope you discover a few ideas which might inspire some activities to entertain your own full-house once school’s out.     

Vanessa - ​​For me it’s about spending time with my seven-year-old boy. We have a few go-to’s that get us out of the house and stops me finding jobs to do. Plus, they’re activities we both enjoy. The library is a must as he won’t be getting books out from the school library and he loves to read which means he gets through them pretty quickly. The museum has fantastic activities and we often take cousins or friends with us. And lastly, baking, which these holidays will involve hot cross buns. For him, the highlight’s eating what we make! 

Brooke - With my first wee one on the way, I’ll be making a beeline for child-free zones and indulging in as much “me time” as possible before my greatest life change to date. I’ve got my eyes on JB’s Collagen & Elastin Mask and the delish Sugar Scrub. Two self-care treats that I aim to continue, even when I welcome my sweet boy into the world.  

Kirstin - I look forward to spending time with family, maybe an evening get-to-together with plenty of yummy food and wine. It’s also a great time to catch up on jobs that need to be done around the house and spend quality time with the kids with more time to show an interest in their hobbies. 

Two common skin care ingredients you'll have heard a lot about (with good reason!) are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). So what are they exactly, and what do they do? Essentially, they're both plant or natural based chemical exfoliants that help remove dead cells from the top layer of the skin. But, each also has unique properties that tend to different skin concerns.

AHAs are water-soluble, meaning they can't break through the skin's natural oils and are mainly used to exfoliate the skin's surface. They are incredible agents for even skin tone, easing pigmentation and diminishing scarring. Some AHAs, primarily lactic acid, also act as a humectant, drawing hydration to the skin. BHAs are oil soluble, meaning they penetrate deeper into the skin's pores. Think of it as the ultimate deep clean for excess sebum build-up. Some skincare brands focus on one or the other, but dermatological research shows they work well together synergistically. That's why our Joyce Blok Alpha-Beta range combines AHA's and BHA's to deliver the best of both worlds. 

Our Alpha Beta Power Duo 

Joyce Blok’s Alpha-Beta Gel Cream (with 4.5 alpha-beta hydroxy acids) is an antioxidant-enriched moisturiser with the comfort of a cream and the lightness of a gel. It evens skin tone and stimulates cellular renewal. While the newly reformulated Alpha-Beta Concentrate (with 15% AHA’s) clarifies the complexion, helps reduce fine lines, while offering the antioxidant benefits of green tea and bilberry. 

Where to start?

We recommend using the Alpha Beta Gel Cream in the evening in combination with Joyce Blok’s Super Serum. The Alpha Beta Concentrate is perfect for the start of the cooler months. Introduce to your evening routine by applying once a week to begin with, leave on and cleanse skin in the morning. Sunscreen is essential whilst using our Alpha Beta range. We recommend JB’s BB Cream SPF30 for beautiful, protected coverage. 

Enjoy our two-for-one offer

Purchase an Alpha Beta Gel Cream & receive your FREE full-size Alpha Beta Concentrate - while stocks last.

What do sunflowers, vitamin E and happiness have in common?

Ahh January, the month of fresh starts, positivity and unbridled optimism. Rather fittingly, it also marks the beginning of sunflower season here in New Zealand. Delightfully bright and cheerful, we couldn’t think of a better flower to represent summer joy.  As we haven't seen too much sun so far in 2023 our sunflowers have been a great substitute we've found!

Not only do sunflowers resemble miniature suns, they actually follow daylight across the sky. They have biological clocks which guide them to turn their heads and follow this bright star as it moves from east to west during the day. How beautiful this flower which chases the light! 

Inspired by these happy blooms, we have a special offer this January; when you purchase a Serum Vitamin E 15%, (our bright star) you'll receive a FREE Everyday Sun Fitness SPF15. 

Our Vitamin E 15% Serum works to renew, soften and protect skin from free radicals and environmental damage.  

What are the game-changing ingredients in JB’s Vitamin E Serum? 

Ginger Root Extract — An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it helps to reduce redness and even aids in mild pain relief.

Rapeseed Oil — An essential fatty acid rich in omega 3 and 6 to soften, nourish and transport vitamin E into the skin.  

Pomegranate — A powerful antioxidant which protects skin from UVB-induced oxidative stress, stimulates epidermal rejuvenation and is rich in skin-loving vitamin C.   

As a skincare brand, we're obsessed with beauty. But we also appreciate that beauty isn't just skin deep; it can be found in a smile, family traditions, that first cup of coffee in the morning, the comfort of your favourite well loved summer t-shirt... the list is endless.

So, when we asked a few of our Joyce Blok brand ambassadors what Christmas means to them, we weren't at all surprised by their responses. Here's what some of them had to say;

Nikki Bunkall "Christmas to me is about family time, spending it with loved ones and the gift of giving. Not just giving physical gifts but giving time and seeing the happiness on everyone's faces"

Vanessa Shepherdson "Christmas means spending time with family, baking with the kids, giving, laughter and lots of love!"

Natalie English "Christmas is time for family and close friends, the surprise and laughter of gifts being given and received, time for relaxing… and overindulging. Sun (we hope), sand, sea and leftovers!"

Brooke Duder “Christmas for me means nostalgic movies, decorating the house with wreaths and red ribbons, the smell of pine needles, the endless sweeping up of pine needles, and an excuse to rest, indulge and look back on all I’m grateful for in the year that was”.

As a general theme, our team expressed that beauty isn't found in the receiving of gifts but in the giving and in the simple pleasure of quality family time. It was also found in the unexpected, like leftovers! (scalloped potatoes and a thick slice of pav on Boxing Day - how good!). We hope this blog serves as a reminder to look for beauty everywhere - even in the chaos of the silly season. In fact, especially during the silly season. It might sound cheesy, but it certainly is a magical time of year.  

What is CEF Serum and what does it do?

As we head into summer, we wouldn’t be without our Serum CEF. But before we explain why, let's stay true to our On The Label series and uncover its game-changing ingredients, which rather conveniently, are all in the name…  

C - stands for vitamin C, of which it contains a whopping 15%. Vitamin C provides powerful antioxidant protection with the ability to help reverse some of the effects of sun damage and brighten the skin.

E - stands for vitamin E, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that renews, softens and protects damaged skin from free radicals and environmental damage. 

F - stands for Ferulic Acid. Ferulic works to reduce the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, and other visible signs of premature ageing. It works exceptionally well paired with other antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E, boosting their efficiency. 

Designed for daily use, this unique cocktail of ingredients assists healing, neutralises free radicals, supports collagen production, improves skin blemishes and scarring, and works to instantly brighten the complexion. As the biggest skin health cherry on the top, this powerful concentrate provides eight times the skin’s own photo-defence to provide the ultimate in UV protection. Pro tip - teaming CEF with SPF is the best way to ensure a ‘sunburn-free’ summer.

So, how do you get your hands on some?

Skincare so advanced, it communicates with your skin In an ideal world, we'd be able to talk to our skin, ask it what it's missing and give it clear instructions like, "please focus on building more collagen!". At Joyce Blok, this is actually a very achievable goal.   

Our Anti-Ageing range works to minimise the appearance of existing wrinkles and help prevent the formation of new lines. It provides a daily action to help firm and smooth the face, neck and décolleté to reveal a radiant glow. So how does it do all this while conversing with our body's largest organ?  

The Anti-Ageing range naturally encourages a more youthful complexion by facilitating intercellular communication within the skin! The professional formulations are enriched with two intelligent peptides that function as messengers, allowing the epidermis and dermis to communicate more efficiently. 

The first of these 'talking' ingredients is one of the most effective cell-communicating peptides in skin care; Matrixyl 3000 promotes collagen synthesis and encourages improved firmness and tone. This clever peptide mimics the appearance of broken collagen strands which signal to the skin that collagen has been lost, causing the skin to react naturally by producing more. 

Argireline is a peptide which enhances these actions while actively working to calm stressed skin. Argireline relaxes facial tension, minimising the appearance of wrinkles and preventing further skin ageing. 

Another incredible ingredient is White Tea which features in the Anti-Ageing Day Cream. While it doesn't communicate in the here and now, it does tap into the future. Defending you from early signs of ageing by protecting your skin from pollution and free radical damage.

Drawing on our extensive knowledge of New Zealand skin types and expertise in blending naturally sourced active ingredients, our researchers have selected an innovative mix of ingredients to help keep age concerns at bay while keeping up with modern advances in communication. We expect it in all other areas of our lives, so why not in our skincare? 

Women are building an impressive skincare vocabulary. Their morning and evening routines are carried out with intention and diligence. And while in 2022, we’re excited to see that men are becoming increasingly interested in their skin health - there’s still a pretty sizable gap. Why? Because men aren’t marketed to in the same way. They aren’t told to care for themselves—at least not to the extent women are. Male-targeted campaigns stick to the basics. And serums? Forget it.

But here’s the thing, skincare shouldn’t be gender specific. Here at JB, skin is skin. We appreciate that men and women don’t differ in their desire for youthful, healthy radiance and we all face the same skin aggressors; stress, sun, and ageing. Gender aside, if you’re a living, breathing human being, cleansing, hydration, protection with antioxidants and SPF are all key to healthy skin you can feel confident in.    

Today, we want to remind men that your skin health does matter. Serums are for you, and your routines don’t need to be complicated - you just need (and deserve) to have one.

As New Zealand’s first locally developed beauty therapy brand, Joyce Blok has created products designed specifically for our unique climate and skin care requirements. The range promotes natural, active ingredients and our research and development draw on worldwide advances in skin care.

Whether you’re a skincare expert, novice or somewhere in-between, we’ve made things easy with our annual holiday collection. Available in three types; Normal, Sensitive and Anti-Ageing. Each thoughtfully curated with all the products and high-performance ingredients you need for a complete skincare routine. Plus, a ten-day travel size of our hero product for the season - Serum CEF. Adding Serum CEF to your daily routine will increase protection against UV rays and stimulate collagen synthesis!

Our On the Label journal series began as a remedy to fuel our enthusiasm for skincare ingredients. A behind the scenes breakdown of the exciting ingredients in our favourite skincare products. Today we’re diving straight in with Joyce Blok’s Rejuvenating Mask and exploring its game-changing ingredients. 

Oat Silk: Could there be a more delicious name for a skincare ingredient? The silk is actually a metaphor and refers to the silky texture of this very fine powdered oat extract. It will come as no surprise that oat silk leaves skin feeling velvety and smooth.

Sweet Almond Oil: Sweet almond oil contains many nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Thanks to the vitamin E, sweet almond oil keeps skin cells healthy, protects skin from UV radiation damage, and helps skin look smooth, soft, and free of fine lines. The fatty acids help skin retain moisture and heal dry, irritated skin.

Nano Retinol: The term "nano" comes from ancient Greek meaning "dwarf". But when it comes to Nano Retinol's benefits, there's nothing pint-sized about it. (Think nano-technology: small but extremely powerful). A derivative of vitamin A, nano retinol brightens and lightens pigmentation, reduces fine lines and promotes hydration, allowing for greater permeation into the skin.

Niacinamide: A derivative of vitamin B3, niacinamide isn't stored in the body, so our sources come either through eating it, or topically via skincare. This skincare ingredient has been trending heavily over the past year, and it's easy to understand why. It helps to repair the skin's natural barrier to help reduce the impact of environmental aggressors. It improves skin's texture by minimising pores and reducing blemishes and congestion. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and inhibits excessive oil production that leads to breakouts. As if that weren't enough, it also boosts hydration and offers a boost of radiance.

Like a smoothie for the skin, with all the modern-day advances that beauty has to offer, the *Joyce Blok Rejuvenating Mask is a delicious elixir that leaves skin in next-level condition.

Spring has the very best intentions - nature bursts into life, willing us to do the same. But let's face it, after a long cold winter, not everyone is feeling as energetic. We're meant to be feeling vibrant and alive, yet for some of us, all we really want to do is find a cosy corner and rest our head.

With this in mind, we’re sharing three of our favourite ways to awaken to the season.

Take a dip: ​​Contrast therapy involves exposing the body to a contrast of hot and cold temperatures. Chilled water triggers a jolt of adrenaline and increases dopamine levels, while the uplifting sensation awakens the entire body, sparking productivity and efficiency. Wellness studios are now offering the treatment via saunas and ice baths, but this elemental-inspired experience can also be enjoyed (or endured) from the comfort of your bathroom. Simply end your shower with a blast of cold for 30 seconds to a minute. The afterglow of positivity and energy is worth it, we promise! 

Get moving: It might sound counterintuitive, but physical activity really is the best way to wake up. Movement in any form helps boost endorphin levels and improve mood. But swapping your snuggly home socks for running shoes isn't easy. Set a goal to, in some way, add movement to your mornings. Whether it's walking the dog before breakfast, a morning jog with a friend or enlisting the help of your favourite Spotify tune while getting ready for the day ahead.

Fuel up: Adding protein to your breakfast (along with healthy carbohydrates and fats) will provide a more steady, prolonged energy boost by regulating blood sugar. There are many delicious ways to include protein in your breaky; smoked salmon, spinach, avocado, Greek yoghurt, chia seeds, tofu and eggs. Fuel your body and mind in the right way and watch your mood and energy levels respond.

Joyce Blok is a familiar name in our capital city, and that's due in part, to the fabulous work of Joanne Watson and Linley Ramsay, the duo behind beauty therapy and day spa Urban Sanctuary. The dreamy spa catering to the wellbeing needs of Wellingtonians for the past thirty years.

The pair are all about professionalism and warmth and see their space as a time-out for anyone wanting to escape their everyday to relax and rejuvenate. "Our holistic focus towards our clients wellbeing delivered with our hearts, our heads and our hands, combined with our commitment to using only the most pure and natural products available, is what we believe has sustained the continued success and growth of our business".

We sat down with Joanne and Linely to learn what they love most about working in the beauty industry, what self-care means to them and what their favourite JB products are.

What do you love most about working in your industry?

Joanne: The aroma of the divine skincare products we use at Urban Sanctuary followed by making my clients feel amazing with my time, energy and touch.  

Linley: I have the opportunity every day to make people feel nurtured and great about themselves.

What does self care mean to you?

Joanne: Taking time out for my favourite day; A walk, a full body massage followed by a home care facial, leaving the Joyce Blok vitamin cream mask on while having a glass of French champagne (or two!).

Linley: Taking time to listen to my inner being. Time spent by the ocean does it for me. Better still, if I can swim in the ocean - or, a restorative yoga session and a soothing soak in an aromatic hot bath also heightens my awareness of self care and nurturing.

Favourite Joyce Blok product? 

Most definitely the Super Serum. It's so hydrating. It gives immediate results and comfort to the skin and is so versatile as it can be used on your skin, around the eyes and the décolletage love, love, love!

Linley: The BB Cream is definitely my JB hero product. Evens out skin tone, light-diffusing glow, sun protection, with antioxidants, what more could you want in a daily protection product?

Can you share a quote that resonates with you? 

Joanne: "You can be gorgeous at thirty, charming at forty, and irresistible for the rest of your life" - Coco Chanel.

Linely: “You know you've got it, if it makes you feel good” - Janice Joplin.

What’s the most special quality about Wellington?

Joanne: You just can’t beat Wellington on a good day.

Linley: Windswept and Irresistible. (Just how I like my men too!)

Ahhhh….the piercing wail, or slightly uneven barotone, of the teenager in the house as they spot the glow in the dark zit that has appeared about 15 minutes before they depart for “the most important night of my life!!!” This is a not an auditory joy you are unlikely to forget in a hurry. Nor is the utter frustration as midlife hormones begin to decide to have a completely unwanted sequel to those teenager nightmares. Be rest assured your problem skin can be addressed (see our BHA3 Serum) and your beautiful oily skin is what we dream of. Here’s 5 truly marvelous reasons why.

Oil helps to preserve your skin – fewer wrinkles. Need we say more?

Oily skin enjoys more natural sun protection – another bonus.

You are more balanced – oily skin helps balance the pH.

Sebum contains vitamin E which is an antioxidant and a key ingredient to protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radicals.

You are naturally dewy and you’ll still be asked for ID for many, many more years to come.

So if you have ever suffered from those wee bumps on the back of your arms, legs, thighs or buttocks the thought of spring can fill you with dismay. Whilst most common under the age of 30 this condition, whilst harmless, can be very annoying. Never fear this is a common skin condition and, like most things, looks decidedly worse when your trying on a new swimsuit than in the real world. We have some advice to help with softening those little bumps this season.

Keratosis pilaris is a build up of a protein called keratin. It is very common, harmless and not infectious. It is more prominent in the winter months. Whilst you may think it is a sign your skin is getting oily, it is actually worse if your skin is dry or flaky - often at the end of winter. The small bumps may be skin coloured, red or brown. Your skin can feel rough and sometimes may be a little itchy. 

Whilst keratosis pilaris usually clears up on its own, the use of AHA products help to improve the appearance of the skin. Our Alpha Beta Face & Body Exfoliant will help loosen dead skin cells, moisturise and soften dry skin. 

When using  product new to your routine test it on one area of the affected skin first. You need to be sure any product works for you and doesn’t cause a reaction. This will only make you even more self conscious.

Others things to try to improve your bumpy skin

Enjoy warm water - hot water remove oils from the skin.

Try a humidifier - low humidity during the winter dries out the skin.

Stay in you pyjamas - well sort of. Tight clothes cause friction on the skin and can aggravate the condition so make sure you’re dressing comfortably.

Use our Alpha Beta Face & Body Exfoliant 3 x times a week. We know we’ve already said this but like all good things repetition is the key to success.