At ilā, we believe beauty is more than just skin deep. It is crafted by hand, guided by intention—a quiet ritual rooted in connection, integrity, and the rhythms of life itself.
Our founder, Denise Leicester, has spent decades working with the subtle intelligence of the skin, understanding that true radiance is beyond organic—it is energetic, intuitive, and deeply personal.
So when it comes to skincare advice, how much of what we hear is truth—and how much is simply myth?
Let’s explore.
“You only need SPF when it’s sunny”
Denise says: Myth
SPF is not just for bright, sun-drenched days. Ultraviolet rays—both UVA and UVB—are present all year round, even when the sky is grey, even when you are indoors near windows.
UVA rays, in particular, penetrate deeply into the skin and are responsible for premature ageing, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity. They move through clouds, glass, and even winter light.
Protecting your skin daily is an act of devotion—where beauty becomes ritual. Applying SPF is not about fear; it is about preservation, honouring the skin’s vitality through every season.
“If a product tingles, it means it’s working”
Denise says: Myth
Tingling is often misunderstood as effectiveness. In reality, it can signal irritation, inflammation, or disruption to the skin’s delicate barrier.
True skincare works in harmony with the skin—not against it. Results should feel nourishing, balancing, and calm.
At ilā, we believe in soulful luxury—formulations that support the skin’s intelligence rather than shock it into response. A product does not need to sting to be transformative; in fact, the most powerful results often come quietly.
“You don’t need moisturiser if you have oily skin”
Denise says: Myth
Oily skin is often a reflection of imbalance—not excess nourishment. When the skin is stripped or dehydrated, it can overcompensate by producing more oil.
Moisturising helps regulate this cycle. It restores hydration, supports the barrier, and signals to the skin that it is safe—reducing the need for excess oil production.
“You need to double cleanse—even if you don’t wear makeup”
Denise says: True
Throughout the day, the skin gathers more than just visible residue. Pollution, environmental toxins, SPF, and natural oils build up and settle into the pores.
A first cleanse dissolves surface impurities. A second cleanse purifies more deeply, allowing the skin to breathe and receive nourishment.
“Lifestyle affects your skin more than products”
Denise says: True
Your skin reflects your inner world. Stress, sleep, diet, emotional wellbeing, and hormonal balance all shape how your skin behaves.
No product can fully compensate for chronic stress or lack of rest. True radiance comes from alignment—body, mind, and spirit.
Skincare, then, becomes part of a wider ritual. Energy-infused beauty begins within and is supported by what we apply externally.
“Your skin type can change over time”
Denise says: True
Skin is not static. It evolves with age, environment, hormones, and lifestyle shifts.
What once felt balanced may become dry, sensitive, or reactive. What worked before may no longer serve.
Listening to your skin—really listening—is essential. This is the essence of beyond organic: adapting, responding, and honouring change with awareness and care.
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