BEAUTIFUL SKIN TOMORROW, STARTS TODAY

Simply start with these 3 easy essential habits and once they become part of your everyday beauty routine we’ll add a few more:

1. CLEANSE (Daily AM and PM)
Cleansing is important, it removes dirt, environmental pollution and of course makeup. Regular thorough cleansing can prevent a build-up of makeup products, skin care products, oil and dirt. Always use a cleanser suited to your skin and avoid harsh foaming cleansers that strip the skin of its natural oils, particularly in the case of acne – this can exacerbate an oily skin issue.

2. TONE (Following Cleanse)
The purpose of Toning is to restore the pH balance of the skin, act as an additional cleanser particularly for acne/oily skin, freshen the skin and even shrink pores. The use of a Toner has waned in popularity over the years possibly due to wanting to simplify the daily beauty routine and a lack of education about the benefits of Toning, but it certainly does deserve its place in the essential daily habits.

3. MOISTURISE (Following Toner)
Moisturising keeps the skin hydrated and provides nourishing ingredients to “feed” the skin. Moisturisers provide a protective effect on the skin against things like environmental pollution, dirt and pollen. Day Moisturisers are generally lighter in formulation so they can be effectively used with makeup products, plus some day creams include an SPF for even further protection for your skin from UV rays. A Night Moisturiser will be specifically formulated to be slightly heavier in texture and include extra ingredients to support skin repair overnight.

Now you’ve got the basic fundamentals established, add in these next 3 super easy habits to add extra glow and protection to your skin:

4. SERUM (Apply after Toner, before Moisturiser)
A beautiful addition to the basic regime, serums provide concentrated ingredients directly targeting skin concerns, skin repair and anti-aging. They can be used morning and night depending on the formulation, plus you can alternate serums for even further results.

5. EXFOLIATE (Once Weekly)
Our skin sheds naturally every 4-6 weeks. Dead skin cells slough off and newer cells are revealed in their place. Exfoliating regularly helps to keep the skin smooth and glowing. Skin looks brighter and fresher. However, over exfoliating can have the opposite effect. Too much exfoliating can cause skin irritation, skin sensitivity and encourage oil production especially in the case of acne. Once to twice a week is all that is needed to keep the skin looking and feeling soft and smooth.

6. SPF SUNSCREEN (Daily or when exposed to prolonged sunlight)
We all know the dangers of sun exposure - UV rays, skin cancers and the importance of wearing sunscreen to avoid burning. From a beauty perspective, sunscreen can help prevent pigmentation (brown spots) and premature aging. Recent studies have found that regular use of sunscreen can actually help reduce existing pigmentation. A lot of day moisturisers and makeup foundations contain an SPF in them which is great (one less thing to think about!) but keep in mind if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period of time you do need to apply extra sunscreen every few hours for total protection.

Finally, these next 3 habits will give you the long term wow factor and keep you looking your very best at any age:

7. EYE CREAM (Apply after Serum, before Moisturiser) – The skin around the eye contour is more delicate and fragile than the rest of the face. Eye cream formulations target lines and wrinkles around the eyes, plus dark circles and under-eye puffiness whilst being gentle to the skin in that area.

8. NOURISHING OR HYDRATING MASK (Once a Week or Fortnight) – A mask is a heavier formulation with concentrated ingredients for giving a super hydration and anti-aging boost to the skin. Masks are luxurious and perfect for indulging whilst having a lovely bath and a glass of bubbles!

9. PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY FACIAL (Once Every 1-3 Months)
There’s nothing like having someone else pamper your face for you. If you’ve never had a facial before, go and have one! It feels amazing and your skin is left looking amazing too. Therapists will use a range of professional cosmeceutical products, peels and skin technology such as IPL and Microdermabrasion to create a beautiful facial with ongoing skin benefits. Regular facials will keep your skin in top condition and your therapist can help you work out the best products for you.

These habits may seem like a lot at first, but they’re really easy to follow and like any habit, when done over time just becomes second nature – in fact you’ll feel like your skin is naked if you don’t follow your routine!

The reward is beautiful, youthful skin at every age of your life.