When it comes to looking after Irish skin, there aren't many companies that can claim the a heritage as rich as that of Ovelle Pharmaceuticals.
Based in Dundalk, Ovelle skincare has been passed through its founder's family since its inception in 1934. Eighty years later, the producers of Elave skincare have announced a new three-part facial skincare regime made up of the steps Renew, Rebalance and Protect to mark their birthday milestone.
One of the immediate attractions of this brand is the 'free-from' approach makers pride themselves on; the products are free from harsh colourings, preservatives, perfumes and foaming agents, making these beauty buys especially suitable for sensitive skin. Of course, they're founded with the Irish climate in mind too.
We put the new releases to the test over a month of continuous use... here's how we got on.
STEP 1: RENEW
AGE DELAY GLYCOLIC CLEANSING TREATMENT 200ML - €26.95
This cleansing treatment boasts 12% Glycolic Acid, which works while cleansing to exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate collagen activity in the skin. A blend of Humectants protect the skin from dehydration, while the combination of emollients work to deeply soften and smooth skin.
Given the active ingredients, we found it best to use this only once a day and left on the skin for a shorter period of time. Alternatively, you could use it only once or twice a week as a treatment, leaving for a minute or two on the skin before removing with a warm and damp facecloth.
Expect a tingle when you apply too - that's the acid at work - and with active ingredients at this concentration a patch test is always a good idea. Though these products are specifically designed for sensitive skin, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
STEP 2: REBALANCE
AGE DELAY NIGHT GLYCOLIC TREATMENT 50ML €27.95
This product again boasts that all-important Glycolic Acid again, but in a less concentrated form. An anti-oxidant blend of coconut and palm glycerides and vitamin E helps to repair signs of environmental damage, while, like the cleanser, a combination of emollients soften and smooth skin.
This treatment can be used in conjunction with glycol cleanser, and makers advise using it at night time before bed.
STEP 3: PROTECT
DAILY SKIN DEFENCE SPF 45+ 50ml €22.95
Nowadays the majority of skincare brands contain some SPF, but as Irish women we're amongst the worst for assuming we don't need a high factor as we rarely see the sun. In fact, your skin needs SPF every single day. That protection from Ultraviolet UV light and environmental pollutants could make all the difference when it comes to visible signs of ageing, and the sooner you start - the better!
This moisturiser contains SPF45+ Broad Spectrum High UVA/UVB Protection, which protects skin every day from signs of UV exposure like dark spots, roughness and loss of elasticity, along with vitamins C, B & E and
zinc oxide to protect sensitive skin. The oil-free formula won't clog your pores, and the lotion is light and easily absorbed. Suitable for everyday use in all weather conditions, we think Elave are on to a winner here.
Her Thoughts
We're embarrassed to admit that previous to this trial we were not aware that Elave was an Irish brand. For shame! Knowing that now, it explains why this regime felt like a perfect fit almost instantly. Designed with Irish skin types in mind and our typical environmental factors taken into account, the experts at Ovelle have added to their line with a high-performance collection of top-quality products at fair prices. After almost a month of regular use, we've noticed plumper, dewy skin, less blemishes, more luminosity and more moisture held in the skin. We will definitely be repurchasing...
Elave products are available in pharmacies nationwide or on-line from the Sam McCauley website www.buy4now.ie 
