Skincare Tips

Your Skincare routine is essential for your daily way of life, and it's important to take good care of your skin to maintain a healthy and youthful appearance. Knowing where to start can be overwhelming with many available products and options.

That's why we've created this blog to share our knowledge and experience and give you some skincare tips to help you make informed decisions about the products and routines that will work best for you.

We'll also share our favourite routines and provide expert advice on maintaining healthy, glowing skin at any age. So whether you're new to skincare or a seasoned pro, join us on this journey to better, flawless skin and a more confident, beautiful you.

 

 

Protect yourself from the sun

You must protect your skin from the sun. To do this, you should use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and one that includes vitamin c as that can help to protect the skin from sun exposure. Also make sure to reapply it every 2 hours or right after swimming or sweating.

Additionally, try to stay in the shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, and wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats.

 

 

Don't smoke

One of the best skincare tips we can give is to stop smoking. Smoking is detrimental to your skin health in several ways. Nicotine constricts blood vessels in the skin, reducing oxygen and blood flow to the skin cells, which can lead to wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.

Smoking also damages the collagen and elastin in the skin, which is responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic.

In addition, smoking can cause a breakdown of the skin's natural protective barrier, making it more susceptible to damage from environmental factors.

To retain healthy skin, it's recommended to quit smoking.

 

 

 

Treat your skin gently 

Use lukewarm water and mild, non-abrasive cleansers to treat your skin gently.

Avoid harsh exfoliants, excessive touching or picking, and strong, alcohol-based products. Moisturise while the skin is still damp after cleansing to lock in hydration. It will help maintain healthy, hydrated, and glowing skin.

 

 

Eat a healthy Diet. 

Another one of the best skin care tips we can give would be to eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can provide the necessary nutrients to support healthy skin.

These foods are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation.

Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption can help maintain healthy skin. Eating a balanced diet can promote a healthy gut and healthy skin.

 

Manage your stress 

Managing stress is essential for skin health as it can cause inflammation and trigger flare-ups of pre-existing skin conditions.

 

Ways to manage stress include:

• Exercising.
• Practising mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
• Getting enough sleep.
• Connecting with loved ones.
• Practising time management and seeking professional help.

Managing stress can improve the skin's overall health and promote a healthy mind-body connection.

 

Keep your skin hydrated 

For your skin to stay hydrated, you should drink plenty of water, use a moisturiser regularly, avoid hot water and harsh products, use a humidifier, and incorporate hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables in your diet. It will help the skin to appear plump, smooth and radiant.

 

 

Exfoliate 

Exfoliating is a skincare technique that involves eradicating dead skin cells from the skin's surface. To exfoliate, use a mild or chemical exfoliant such as alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acids. Do it regularly but only sometimes. Once or twice a week will be enough for most skin types.

 

 

Cleansing Twice 

Cleansing your skin twice, also known as double cleansing, is a skincare routine involving an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover followed by a water-based cleanser to remove all traces of makeup, dirt and impurities. This method allows for a deeper cleanse and can help improve your skin's overall appearance and health.

Double cleansing is a skin care routine involving an oil-based and a water-based cleanser to remove all traces of makeup, dirt and impurities.

The benefits of double cleansing include a deeper cleanse, improved appearance and health of the skin, and it helps to prevent breakouts and clogged pores.

 

Retinol 

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A widely used in skin care products to help improve the appearance of uneven skin tones, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.

 

The benefits of retinol include the following:

• Stimulating collagen production.
• Increasing cell turnover.
• Unclogging pores.
• Reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone, wrinkles and fine lines.

 

It also helps to improve the skin's texture and tone, resulting in a more youthful and radiant appearance.

 

 

You should be moisturising 

The skin naturally loses the ability to retain moisture as we age. The moisture is what helps keep the skin hydrated and protected.

 

The benefits of moisturising include:

• Improving the skin's texture.
• Preventing dryness and flakiness.
• The appearance of wrinkles and fine lines is reduced.
• Providing a barrier to protect the skin from environmental damage.

 

It also helps to soothe irritation and inflammation, balance the skin's natural oils, and lock in hydration.

 

 

You should stay away from tanning beds

Not using a tanning bed has several benefits for the skin. Indoor tanning increases the risk of developing skin cancer, which includes melanoma, the most deadly form of its kind.

It also causes premature ageing, wrinkles and age spots. It can make existing skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis worse.

Additionally, tanning beds emit UV rays that can cause damage to the DNA in the skin cells, which can lead to cancer in skin.

Not using a tanning bed can help reduce the risk of skin cancer, preserve your skin's youthfulness, and prevent other skin damage.

 

The benefits of choosing skin care products formulated for your skin type 

Whether you have normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, mature skin or sensitive skin, choosing the right skin care products formulated for your skin type can help improve your skin's overall health and appearance.

It will provide the specific ingredients and benefits that your skin needs, reducing the chances of irritation or breakouts.

Formulated products will help target specific skin concerns such as acne, dryness or ageing and will optimise the effectiveness of your skincare routine.

 

 

Treat Your lips 

Treating your lips is essential to keep them healthy and moisturised. Properly treating your lips can help to prevent dryness, cracking, and chapping, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. This also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Keeping your lips moisturised can make them look more plump and youthful. Using lip balm or lip scrubs formulated with natural ingredients such as beeswax, cocoa butter, or coconut oil can provide a barrier to protect your lips from environmental damage and keep them hydrated.

Also, lip balm with SPF is very beneficial.

 

Keep your hands off your face 

Keeping your hands off your face can help improve your skin's overall health and appearance. Touching your face often can transfer bacteria, oil and dirt from your hands to your face, which can cause breakouts and irritation.

It also disrupts the skin's natural oils, leading to dryness. Keeping your hands off your face can help reduce the likelihood of acne, blackheads, and other skin blemishes and leave your skin looking clearer, smoother and healthier.

 

You should check your skin regularly

Checking your skin regularly can help detect any changes or abnormalities early on and make treating them easier.

Regular skin checks can help identify cancer growing in the skin at an early stage when it is most treatable. It also helps detect and monitor skin conditions such as moles, freckles, age spots, or other marks.

Checking your skin regularly can also help you identify any changes in your skin caused by exposure to the sun or environmental factors and take the necessary steps to keep your skin protected. It can also help you identify any skin changes caused by the products you use.

 

 

Cleaning your makeup brushes regularly 

Cleaning your makeup brushes regularly can help improve your skin's overall health and appearance. Your brushes can accumulate bacteria, oil, and old makeup, which can cause breakouts and irritation.

Regular cleaning can also help extend your brushes' life and keep them in good condition. Cleaning your makeup brushes can also help to apply makeup more evenly, resulting in a smoother, more polished look.

It is recommended to clean your brushes at least once a week with a mild shampoo or brush cleaner.

 

Know how to layer your skincare products correctly

Knowing how to layer your products can help optimise their effectiveness and provide better results for your skin.

Layering skincare products in the correct order allows each product to penetrate the skin more effectively and work more efficiently. It also ensures that the products are being used in the right amounts and that the skin is receiving the full benefits of each product.

Layer from light to heavy. Thinner serums to thicker serums, and finally, lotions and creams. Heavier formulas like moisturisers can act as a barricade for other products, so they must go last. Moisturisers and sunscreen are the icings on the cake.

 

Make sure you do a patch test

A skin care product test before applying it to your face can help prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions.

It can identify if the product causes any redness, itching or burning, determine if the product is suitable for your skin type and if it causes any adverse effects, and helps to identify if the product is compatible with other products you are using.

By doing a patch test, you can ensure that your products are safe and effective for your skin.

 

Remember, your hormones impact your skin

Hormones can have a significant effect on the skin. They can cause acne, increased oil production, changes in pigmentation, dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

Hormonal fluctuations, such as pregnancy, menopause, those that occur during puberty, and certain medical conditions, can lead to specific skin changes.

Consulting with a dermatologist should be a priority if changes in your skin become noticeable and concern you. They can help determine if hormonal changes are the cause and provide appropriate treatment options.

 

Take time for yourself and relax

Relaxing can help reduce stress, which can positively impact the skin. Stress can cause inflammation, breakouts, and a decrease in collagen production, leading to ageing and wrinkles.

Relaxing can help improve the skin's overall appearance by reducing inflammation, promoting better circulation, and allowing the skin to repair itself more effectively.

 

 

Wash your hands before applying products

Washing hands before applying your skin care can help remove dirt, bacteria, and oils that can cause irritation or breakouts. It also helps to prevent contamination of your skincare products, which can lead to loss of effectiveness.

Additionally, washing hands can create a clean surface for your products to be absorbed, resulting in better efficacy of the products.

 

Protect your skin's moisture barrier

Face oils can help to protect and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. The skin's moisture barrier, also known as the acid mantle, is a thin film on the skin's surface that helps keep the skin hydrated and protected from environmental stressors. 

Certain ingredients in face oils, such as fatty acids and ceramides, can help repair and strengthen the barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, face oils can help to lock in the moisture already present in the skin, preventing it from evaporating.

 

 

Sleep on clean pillowcases

Sleeping on clean pillowcases can help reduce acne by reducing the number of bacteria and oil on the skin. This can also help keep the skin hydrated, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and prevent irritation caused by bacteria and allergens.

 

Do not pop spots

Not popping spots can help prevent the spread of bacteria and potential scarring. It can also help the spot heal faster and reduce inflammation and redness. Additionally, not popping spots can help to prevent pigmentation and discolouration.

 

You should be switching up your skincare routine throughout the year

Updating your skincare routine with the seasons can provide several benefits for your skin. For example, the air is typically drier during the winter, which can cause dryness and flaking.

Using a heavier moisturiser or a humidifier can help combat these effects. In the summer, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause sun damage and increase the risk of cancer in your skin.

Additionally, switching to lighter, oil-free products in the summer can help prevent breakouts caused by excess oil on the skin. 

Adjusting your skincare routine to match the changing seasons can help your skin stay healthy and look its best.

 

Avoid Skin-Stripping Ingredients

Skin-stripping ingredients are typically harsh chemicals that can remove the skin's natural oils and barrier function. 

Examples include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), and alcohol. 

These ingredients can cause dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Reading your products' ingredient list and avoiding those containing these harsh chemicals is essential.

 

 

Remove makeup

Removing makeup allows the skin to become a clean surface, ready to receive new products. A simple trick is to cleanse your face as soon as you arrive home rather than wait until bedtime. Just as you can't wait to remove tight work attire, your skin longs to eliminate impurities and pollution from your pores. We recommend starting with a gentle cleansing oil for the best results.

 

Increase the Circulation in Your Skin

Increasing circulation in the skin can bring benefits such as a healthy glow, reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improved oxygenation and nutrients delivery to skin cells, cell rejuvenation and overall better skin health.

 

 

Get professional facials

A professional facial can provide several benefits for the skin. These facials are typically performed by a trained esthetician who uses specialised products and techniques to address specific concerns you have.

A professional facial provides a deep cleanse, removing impurities, dirt, and oil from the skin. This helps unclog pores and prevent acne breakouts.

Exfoliation is another critical component which can be done manually or chemically. It helps to remove dead cells on the skin, which allows the skin to become smoother, with a brighter complexion that can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Additionally, it includes a moisturising treatment that can help hydrate and nourish the skin.

Professional facials often include a variety of massage techniques that can help increase blood flow, give the skin a healthy glow and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Overall, a professional facial can provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience that can leave your skin looking and feeling its best.

 

You should only be using a few products.

Your skincare won't benefit from Using too many products as this can harm the skin. It can lead to irritation, dryness, and even breakouts. 

By simplifying your skincare routine, you can reduce the risk of these issues and improve the overall health of your skin.

When you use fewer products, your skin can absorb and utilise the active ingredients better, leading to more effective results. Additionally, using fewer products can save you money and time in the long run.

It's also less likely that you'll experience any adverse reactions from using too many products or products that contain ingredients that your skin may not tolerate well.

It is essential to remember that less is often more when using skincare products. It's better to focus on using a few high-quality products that work well for your skin rather than layering on multiple products that may not be necessary or beneficial for you.

 

 

Sun protection doesn't stop at sunscreen.

Sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. While sunscreen is essential to any sun-protecting routine, it is not the only thing you should do to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and exposure.

Sunscreen application should be the final step in your morning skin care routine and reapplied every 2 hours if you spend time in the sun.

Other protection measures include wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats, and seeking shade during the sun's peak hours (between 10 am and 4 pm).

It's also important to be mindful of your surroundings and aware of the UV index, which can be checked online or through a weather app. 

This will give you an idea of how strong the sun's rays are on a given day and help you make decisions about protecting your skin against sun exposure accordingly.

It's also important to note that the sun's rays can still penetrate through clouds, so protecting your skin is essential even on cloudy days. 

Remember that sun damage can accumulate over time, so it's important to practice sun protection habits every day, not just when you're at the beach or pool.

 

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Skincare tips for glowing skin

Having a healthy and glowing complexion is a goal for many people. Several tips can help achieve this. Firstly, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps keep the skin hydrated and healthy. 

A balanced diet with plenty of healthy fats, vegetables and fruits can also help improve the skin's overall appearance. 

Getting enough sleep is also essential for overall skin health, as it can help reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. 

Exfoliating regularly can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, leading to a brighter complexion. 

A face mask appropriate for your skin type can also help hydrate and brighten the skin. So whether you have acne-prone skin, normal skin, dry skin or sensitive skin, be sure to get the right mask for your skin type. 

Protecting your skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is also essential for maintaining skin health. 

Finally, reducing stress through meditation or exercise can positively impact skin health. 

What should my daily face routine be?

The five basic steps of a skincare routine are:

1. Cleanse: Remove dirt, oil, and makeup with a gentle cleanser.
2. Tone: Balance the skin's pH level and prepare for the next step.
3. Treat: Apply serums or spot treatments to target concerns specific to your skin.
4. Moisturise: Hydrate and nourish the skin with a moisturiser.
5. Sun protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.

It is essential to choose products that are appropriate for your skin type and concerns and to be consistent with your skincare routine. Additionally, it is also crucial to pay attention to any changes in your skin and to adjust your routine accordingly.