Having a skincare regime that is consistent is key in targeting the visible effects that stress, air pollution, weather changes and lifestyle can have on our skin. These can include; dryness, pigmentation, acne, congestion, wrinkles, breakouts and dull skin tone. Skincare can be overwhelming to begin with, so here are some of my lockdown skincare essentials we should all be doing AM & PM to keep our skin youthful and glowing.
CLEANSE - Cleansing the skin is step one to a basic skincare routine that we should all be doing AM&PM. It helps to clear away the skin impurities and prepares your skin for products to penetrate the skin deeper. A common benefit of facial cleansing is the removal of dirt, oil and unwanted debris. Facial wipes don’t count and are an absolute NO NO for your skin. Throughout the day the skin on your face is continually covered with bacteria, pollutants, viruses and dead skin cells. Cleansing helps to balance the pH of your skin; enabling sufficient water and product retention. I currently use the Obagi RX cleansing gel which is great in brightening an uneven skin tone. If you have oily/acne prone/blackhead prone skin I would recommend the Obagi Clenziderm 2% salicylic acid cleanser or Origins Zero oil or checks and balances frothy face wash.
VITAMIN C - I am a HUGE lover of vitamin C products for the skin as I have seen such good results on myself and my lovely clients. So at the moment I’m about to start the Obagi RX Vitamin C range, which I am so excited about as its had such incredible results. So what are the befits of vitamin C? Its touted as one of the best anti-aging ingredients on the market and key to maintaining a smooth and even glowy complexion. Vitamin C is hydrating for the skin and can help fade pigmentation, smooth the skin’s surface and reduce dullness. It has been shown to treat a huge variety of inflammatory skin conditions and minimises redness to create a more even complexion. It also is well known for boosting collagen production, preventing fine lines and wrinkles, protects from sun damage and may prevent skin sagging. This is why vitamin C is a must have for your skin regime. I use the Obagi C serum which is suitable for all skin types and comes in a variety of strengths. I also occasionally use a vitamin C mask by Rodial in the mornings for an extra glow.
MOISTURISE - Moisturisers should be applied AM&PM to keep the skin hydrated throughout the year which in turn will prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Products I would recommend would be Obagi hydrate for daily use, or Obagi Luxe for overnight ultimate hydration for the skin. Rodial bee venom is also ultra rich and hydrating. As I am currently on the Obagi Vitamin C RX skin regimen, i use the night therapy cream which contains vitamin C & E in addition to hydroquinone which lightens and evens the skin tone to reduce pigmentation and brightens the skin. Not applying a good moisturiser will cause the skin tone to appear dull, flaky and will aggravate acne breakouts. It really is a skincare must have. For clients who have acne-prone skin, i recommend using an oil free, fragrance free moisturiser.
SPF - A gold standard in wrinkle prevention. A good SPF provides daily protection from sun radiation. I currently use the Obagi C SPF 50 as part of my daily skin regime. Obagi also sell SPF’s in cool and warm tints to suit all skin tones and not leave that white layer after applying, something I have found with other face SPF’s.
RETINOL’S - Retinol is a member of the retinoid family of vitamin A. Retinol’s should be applied directly after cleansing the skin and are best for evening application as they are sensitive to sunlight so will not work as well if applied during the day. Retinol’s are a gold standard of skincare to introduce in your twenties. They can help rebuild collagen, fade hyper-pigmentation, smooth and resurface skin appearance, balance oil and soften fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol’s come in various difference strengths, I would suggest starting off with a 0.5% retinol three times a week. As my skin has become more tolerant to retinol, I now use the Obagi 1.0% retinol three times a week which you can purchase through the website or me directly using the contact form provided on the website. If you have acne, a prescribed Tretinoin may be more suitable. and a must have in reducing breakouts. If you are using AHA/BHA (acids) it’s best to apply those in the morning, acids may reduce the effect of the retinol and can cause some skin irritation. Always wait 10-30 mins before applying products on top of a retinol.
13 February 2021
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