FaceWise was born out of Sharon’s own secret health battle with salicylate overload, which became so severe, that she had to undergo surgery.
Award-winning British actress, director, producer and entrepreneur, Sharon Maughan developed health problems in 2009 due to a reaction to salicylates, known as salicylic overload.
Suffering from symptoms including breathing problems, nasal polyps, eczema and incredibly sensitive skin she had major surgery and was warned to make significant lifestyle changes, and drastically limit her salicylate intake or risk the condition returning within 6 months.
Salicylic acid is naturally present in fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, wine and a myriad of other products, however in its concentrated form (whether sourced naturally or replicated synthetically) it has been widely used in a range of cosmetics and domestic products for over a decade due to its preservative qualities, affordability and ease of manufacture.
Although for many users contact with salicylates does not pose a problem, the human body would never come into contact with such high or concentrated quantities in the natural world. Due to the nature of build-up and overload over a long period of time, many consumers will not realise they have a problem until they start to experience symptoms that mean their body is already under stress – and even then, many are not diagnosed with an intolerance to salicylates.
In most severe cases the toxic overload can affect the respiratory system, sensitive skin and cause outbreaks of eczema.
Following her struggles, since 2012 Sharon has been on a journey to develop a line of skincare products that can help to provide the solution. Using the best natural ingredients, Sharon has developed FaceWise, the go to for intelligent skincare.
Sharon Maughan says: “After years of toxic build up and worsening skin problems, I finally developed a life-threatening allergy to aspirin and ibuprofen. Finally, my ENT Doctor diagnosed a salicylate overload known as Samters Triad.
I had itchy, sensitive skin which got worse and more frequent until it became full blown red eczema patches on my face. I also had allergy symptoms like a sensitive nose and eyes.
The diagnosis led to me having sinus surgery after which I felt better and decided to adopt my new lifestyle controlling my exposure to salicylates with a low salicylate diet. Then I started looking for a low salicylate skincare as the skin is the largest organ of the body. What goes onto the skin goes into the body.
When trying to find a low salicylate skincare option, I couldn’t believe there was not a single skincare product line marketing itself as low salicylate.
Salicylates are a cheap preservative used liberally in beauty products and household cleaning products, so we are extensively exposed to them these days. One day when talking to a friend they said, ‘why don’t you launch your own line’. That’s why I’ve made FaceWise.
Before surgery I was very ill. After surgery combined with my new low salicylate lifestyle, I am much better.
I’ve learned to think about what I expose myself to. I never ever expose myself to mint for example, as it is dangerously high in salicylates. I don’t even use mint toothpaste. I never use stripping exfoliant on my skin – I would end up red raw. I am kind to my skin and my body.
I have always been aware of health, fitness, diets, a clear brain etc as part of my job as an actor. But this has been a new process of learning what works for my body and my skin health.”
Following her personal battle with salicylate overload, Sharon now has a heightened understanding of how to limit internal and external exposure and is passionate about helping other sufferers live a lower salicylate lifestyle.
Sharon’s desire is to present an overall education: a new way of approaching skincare, featuring kind-to-skin ingredients as alternatives to the ingredients in mainstream commercial brands that have contributed to her health problems.
Sharon’s aim is to empower skincare users to have a choice about the products they use – something she wishes she would have had.
FaceWise offers a gentle and nourishing alternative created by professionals, and is suitable for all genders, all skin types and ages. It has been developed to combat rising salicylates, whilst leaving skin gently nourished. Formulated to keep you looking glowing and radiant, while cutting out the harmful additives that can enter through your skin.
All FaceWise products are animal friendly and are proudly made in the UK, with fully recyclable packaging.
FaceWise has launched with quad of products for those who suffer from sensitive skin, and for those seeking a gentle, ingredient-led option.
Melting Cleansing Balm, £39.95
The Melting Cleansing Balm reacts to body heat to revive skin and cleanse away dirt and make-up. Sweet almond oil ensures skin remains moisturised without clogging pores. Cocoa Butter and rock samphire extract ensure this gentle cleanser leaves skin feeling both clean and supple.
Essential Eye Cream, £18.95
A must-have in your daily routine our Essential Eye Cream offers a lift to tired eyes. A combination of vitamins A, E and F, all found in shea butter, aid the skin in producing collagen. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin feeling refreshed.
Moisturising Day Cream, £21.95
Formulated for all skin types to deliver a nourishing daily boost. Hyaluronic acid ensures skin feels hydrated and plumped and can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Shea butter intensely moisturises, leaving skin soft and smooth. Rock samphire promotes brightness uniformity and cell renewal leaving skin feeling refreshed.
Revitalising Face Oil, £19.95
Blended with intensely nutritious Kalahari melon seed oil which is rich in omega-6 fatty acids and rock samphire extract, both known for their ability to thrive in some of the world’s harshest environments.