The Powder Room Journal
Ingredients explained, routines analysed, and the questions our community are asking
The Powder Room Journal
All About Acids
You may have heard about acids in skincare… Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid and Hyaluronic acid among others. If these names take you back to high school chemistry class (or to a general state of confusion) – you are not alone. They may not sound like ingredients you want on your skin, but they can be very beneficial when used correctly. Fear not, we are here to demystify acids in skincare for you! All acids used in skincare offer individual advantages, however to really benefit you have to carefully choose one that is suited to your skin type and concerns. Some acids which are exfoliating are particularly useful for helping your skin look fresh and radiant, and can treat and even prevent acne, wrinkles, and blemishes. Fine lines If you are worried about fine lines and wrinkles, then Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs are a good choice. In fact, many of the most popular skincare acids fall into the category of AHAs including lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid and more. AHAs are derived from various plants and work by gently removing dead skin cells by breaking down the bonds between them to reveal the fresh new skin underneath. AHAs are humectant which means that they attract moisture to the skin and will exfoliate without drying, and can even improve how well the skin holds onto moisture. Because AHAs reveal the delicate new skin to the surface, sensitivity to sun exposure is substantially increased so sun protection should always be applied when using any product with AHAs and for at least a week after the last application. Breakout prone skin If you have oily or blemish-prone skin, Salicylic acid, also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), has wonderful oil-attracting properties which make it very effective when it comes to clearing blocked pores. Salicylic acid cuts through and effectively clears out oils and excess sebum. It is perfect for breakout-prone skin as it also has anti-inflammatory properties which help calm the skin. Similar to AHAs, Salicylic acid does help to minimize wrinkles and also to brighten the skin. Another reason it is also recommended for those who have breakout-prone and sensitive skin is that it works more gently than physical scrubs which may create small, invisible cuts to the skin’s surface and increase irritation and the potential for infection. Dry skin When you hear "acid" you most likely imagine something that peels or exfoliates, however hyaluronic is in the hydration game. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring hydrating agent and humectant (meaning it helps skin attract and retain moisture in the skin). The application of hyaluronic acid has a plumping effect on the skin. As a loss of moisture leads to early signs of aging and loss of elasticity, hyaluronic acid helps to replenish the skin and protect it against ageing. AHAs can also be used to improve the condition of dry skin. Not only does frequent exfoliation with a gentle AHA reveal softer, smoother skin, their humectant properties help the skin attract and retain moisture. Elasticity, pigmentation and age spots Vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid which is a form of vitamin C, is one of the most powerful antioxidants in skincare. Vitamin C is known for its firming and brightening benefits and its ability to reduce the appearance of age spots and sun-damage related hyperpigmentation. This incredible vitamin also helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and sun damage. Start with a patch test and identify purging Better safe than sorry! Whenever you introduce a new ingredient or product to your skincare regimen, we highly recommend that you do a patch test first to ensure your skin doesn’t have a reaction. Apply a small amount on your wrist or behind your ear to see how your skin reacts – if you experience anything more serious than very mild and passing redness or irritation, this is not the right product for you. It is also a good idea to bear in mind that your skin may experience mild ‘purging’ when you begin using a new chemical exfoliator such as an AHA. This involves mild, non-cystic breakouts which emerge as clogs are brought to the surface, and pass relatively quickly. If you experience persistent, cystic breakouts for an extended period of time, unfortunately this product is likely to be unsuitable for your skin type.
What should you look for in a cleanser?
Cleansing is the first and possibly the most important step of your skincare routine. It sets the tone for everything else that follows. Unfortunately, it is also the step that often gets paid the least attention! Sure, it only stays on your face for a couple of minutes before washing off. However, we also know that cleansers are essential for us to rid our skin of makeup, oils, SPF, and unwanted dirt and bacteria. It is the foundation for the skincare that follows. So, we have decided to give cleansing a leg up in the skincare chain and help you determine what to look for when it comes to choosing the right cleanser for you. pH is king Healthy skin normally has a pH of around 5.5, which means it is slightly on the acidic side. This acidity is known as the skin’s ‘acid mantle’ and it is what protects your skin from pollutants and keeps bacteria from flourishing on the surface. For this reason, you should protect your skin’s acid mantle at all costs! Stick to a cleanser with a pH of between 4.5 and 6 to avoid stripping your skin of goodness. Avoid sulfates Cleansers should never make your skin feel squeaky clean – your face is not a pot! It should feel fresh, clean but not stripped or dehydrated. If you get that dry and tight feeling, consider this a warning because it is a sign that your cleanser is throwing your skin off balance. To avoid encountering this problem, we recommend that you stay away from cleansers that contain sulfates, which are often added to cleansing products to encourage foaming. We recommend avoiding products which include the following in their ingredients list: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, or Ammonium Laureth Sulfate. Your face will thank you for it! Avoid granular exfoliants Regular exfoliation is necessary to keep your skin clear of dead skin cells and to prepare your skin for active ingredients and hydration, however we recommend chemical exfoliants containing AHA and BHA acids (such as salicylic, lactic, and glycolic) instead of abrasive granular scrubs. They help to gently remove pore-clogging dead skin cells but also improve the texture of the skin and work to repair acne scars. If you have acne-prone skin, it is best to avoid abrasive physical exfoliators with harsh grains, sugar, or salt, or facial brushes as much as possible. If you have dry skin, you can use a gentle exfoliator with either very fine grains in a creamy, lotion texture or one that’s honey-based or which contains moisturizing oils. Double cleanse! Cleansing done twice! We can’t stress this one enough – brought to you by Korean women and their gorgeous skin, and now loved all over the world. You begin with an oil-based cleanser or balm to remove make-up, SPF and oils, and follow it up with a water-based traditional cleanser, such as a cleansing gel or foam, to remove dirt and bacteria. If you are longing for clear, radiant skin, this is the way to go! Bonus: Avoid face wipes We know this is the easy option but resist at all cost! Cleansing wipes are loaded with chemicals which, sure, will dissolve your makeup, but surfactants and emulsifiers also aggravate your skin. Not to mention the scrubbing involved on a stubborn scrap of mascara, all that pulling is a massive no-no around your delicate eyes. Be kind to your skin!
New to the UAE and encountering skincare problems?
As with most aspects of our lives, the condition of our skin and the problems we encounter come and go in phases. One distinct phase we remember is struggling with challenging and erratic breakouts and dryness (both!!) when moving to these sunny shores we now call home. Between the logistics of resettling, discovering a new city and all the socializing that starts to engulf your life, the last thing you want is to struggle with your skin. But, why? Sun We live in the desert. It is a very sunny place! Even in the winter, do not let the mild temperatures fool you – the sun is still up there, shining brightly upon us, keeping us warm and alive yet also causing UV damage. The important thing here is not to underestimate the value of sunscreen. Protecting your skin from sun damage is not an optional insurance policy for the future – it also has a more immediate impact on the tone and texture of your skin in the short term. Pigmentation, dark marks and acne scars are immediately darkened by sun exposure, and the skin’s texture will develop a dehydrated, dull appearance – not to mention accelerating the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Dehydration New in town, living off sugary coffees and juggling a packed social calendar alongside what’s probably a new job and alternating between trips to the air-conditioned mall, beach and IKEA, all under the scorching sun, will leave you dehydrated. Double up on your water intake and add some hydrating products to your beauty routine, even if you consider yourself to have oily skin. Your skin might just be producing more oil, and more blemishes, because it is dehydrated. Sheet mask as often as you can! Air-conditioning See above – air conditioning might be a necessity, but it will leave you incredibly dehydrated, and your skin will suffer as a result. Do yourself a favor and leave the AC off when you can, and avoid sitting directly under the vent in the office. Invest in an air-purifying, humidifying plant such as an Areca Palm or a Peace Lily and settle it on your desk in the office or wherever you spend the majority of your day. Add a hyaluronic acid to your routine, se the most hydrating products your skin can tolerate and wear a sleeping mask as the final step of your final night-time routine. Stress As anyone who suffers from ‘deadline breakouts’ can attest, stress can wreak havoc on your skin. Your lifestyle choices and state of mind will reveal themselves on your face, one way or another. Whatever brings you peace of mind, be that exercise, yoga, prayer, travel or trips to the spa, ensure that you make time for it. Failing to update your skincare routine This one’s on you. You’re in a new climate and your wardrobe has likely adapted – so why shouldn’t your skincare? Be conscious and listen to your skin. Observe and update accordingly. Hormonal changes If you are experiencing breakouts around the chin and jawline, it is likely that these are hormonal. If you have made an effort to manage your lifestyle and skincare routine and are not seeing effective results, go to the doctor and have your hormone levels checked out. And welcome!
Achieving a flawless make-up look with skincare
Can’t stop watching those Instagram make-up tutorials (mesmerising aren’t they)? You might have noticed that most Instagram makeup tutorials start with the artist massaging their favourite cream, serum or oil onto their face. This is no coincidence and is non-negotiable - moisturizing your face is a universal beauty essential. There are a number of other key skincare steps you can take, however, to achieve that flawless finish and we are not talking just talking about primers. You might have heard that 'not to prime is a crime'. However, the skincare that precedes primer application is just as, if not more, important. The reality is that no matter how great your makeup skills and quality of products are, if you skimp on your skincare routine before applying, you could end up with uneven, patchy coverage that wears quickly and doesn’t make you look or feel your best. Thankfully, prepping your skin for make-up application is pretty easy - just follow our simple step-by-step guide below: Cleanse Seems pretty basic, right? You need to cleanse to not only remove makeup but even if you have been lounging au natural all day. Remember to rinse with lukewarm water. If you are a makeup junkie, we highly recommend you double-cleanse when you want to remove your make-up. Simply put, this is cleansing twice; first with an oil-based cleanser or balm, followed by a water-based traditional cleanser, such as a cleansing gel or foam. This is because makeup, sunscreen and pore-clogging sebum are most effectively broken down and dissolved by oils, rather than detergents, as ‘like’ mixes with ‘like’. The foam or gel cleanser works to further rid your pores of any residual bacteria, dead skin cells and remaining surface impurities. Remember that a clean canvas is a smooth canvas. Exfoliate Applying makeup over skin that is not exfoliated (hello dead skin cells) is like painting over chipping paint – an unpleasant visual and simply not a good idea. We recommend exfoliating regularly with products including Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) to gently remove dead skin cells and encourage turnover so your skin is ready for hydration. Hydrate Dry skin will crease. We love a good sheet mask especially before special occasions when we want our makeup to look on-point, so prior to using a hydrating cream, we recommend you use a nourishing sheetmask for a little extra glow. They are usually packed with goodness but one that includes hyaluronic acid to plump the skin would be our choice for makeup preparation. Give us any opportunity to force-feed our skin beneficial ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, and we will take it! Massage Regular facial massages are a must for glowing skin, but especially for bigger occasions before which you can boost circulation by giving yourself a mini-facial with your favourite oil or serum. With oils, you need to be careful with the type and quantity so that they do not clog your pores. Primer As a final step following moisturizer and SPF, primer will help makeup glide on your skin a lot smoother to reduce the appearance of imperfections. Make sure to go for a mattifying primer if you have oily skin.
Why are we so addicted to sheet masks?
Sheet masks are life The ritual of sheet-masking may have originated in South Korea, but we can't escape the craze that's swept the skincare world anywhere – not even here in the Middle East. It’s almost impossible to browse through Instagram or Snapchat without scrolling past a ubiquitous masking selfie. Even our local grocer has them close to the cashier – just to make sure they’re in full sight for the weak-willed shopper (which we definitely are)! These disposable masks are soaked in a nutrition-packed ‘essence’ – a watery serum – and are designed to fit the contours of your face to infuse active ingredients directly into your skin. The sheet itself can be made from a variety of materials including cotton, hydrogel, or various natural fibres. So why do we love them so much? They’re a simple and effective way to hydrate all skin types. Once you get into the rhythm of masking, it becomes second nature, and you can be doing anything from cooking, cleaning, reading or watching TV. Unlike other messier facial masks, they are individually packaged, making them convenient and easy to use. Mask like a pro As the sheets are a one-size-fits-all, it is likely that no sheet mask will fit perfectly onto your face with no adjustment. It is easiest to start applying the mask from the forehead and pat softly as you go down the rest of your face while lining up the holes for the eyes, nose and mouth. We recommend very carefully making small cuts with a pair of vanity scissors around these holes to ensure a better fit. Yes, you may look like somebody’s nightmare, but you are force-feeding your skin beneficial ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and hyaluronic acid, so it is totally worth getting the right fit. The mask should be left on for around twenty minutes; some sheet mask packages instructs you to leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes but really, the longer the better until the mask starts drying out. Very gently tap the remaining moisture into your skin before removing, as the goal here is to ensure your skin has absorbed as much of the gooey goodness as possible, and the tapping motion helps promote this absorption. Another bonus is that you don’t have to (and definitely should not) wash the residue off after applying. Et voila! Beautifully hydrated, bouncy skin. How often do we mask? We like to mask almost every day but if you can manage two to three times a week you are already on your way to skincare perfection. This may seem excessive but maintaining hydrated skin helps avoid all kinds of skincare woes and this is especially true for oily skin which may be lacking in water-based hydration and over-compensating with excess sebum. But, you might wonder, if the intent is to moisturise the skin, why don’t we just apply a rich face cream or serum? Most would agree that this would be a lot quicker! However, the true power of the sheet mask lies in its ability to push hydrating, nourishing ingredients into your skin – basically through osmosis (remember high school?) The mask acts as a barrier between your skin and the drying air around it to keep the moisture where it belongs - on your skin! This works effectively because it takes your skin around twenty minutes to absorb moisture and regular serums evaporate before they have soaked in. So, if you are looking to restore moisture and are on the market for toned, bouncy skin, stock up on those sheet masks as a key step in your skincare routine.
Should your skincare routine change during pregnancy?
Everyone talks about the pregnancy “glow” but what about the breakouts, oily or dry skin, redness, photosensitivity and pigmentation? The list can go on for many mothers to be. While your skin does need a little extra attention during this special time, it is important to remain mindful of what ingredients you are introducing into your body as they may also impact your baby. But it is now easier than ever to maintain your skin during pregnancy and toxin-free choices are now widely available. Here are some tips to help you navigate through any skincare woes you might encounter while expecting: Increased oiliness For some of us, pregnancy brings hormonal changes which can translate into an increase in oil secretion, which may lead to breakouts. However, pregnancy can render your normal skincare routine unsuitable as you will need to avoid products containing alcohol and fragrance which can worsen inflammation. The good news is that glycolic acid and other AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) products which are derived from natural ingredients (for example sugar cane) are both safe and very effective for keeping your skin clear of dead skin cells and clogs. Photosensitivity and hyperpigmentation Androgens rushing through your body can sometimes darken areas of skin, a condition that is usually known as ‘pregnancy marks’ or Melasma. Although hyperpigmentation is more common in women with darker complexions, this can also be a hereditary effect, so if members of your family have had this condition, then the chances of your skin being affected are higher as well. To avoid this hormone-triggered side effect, applying sunscreen daily is of utmost importance. Using mineral – rather than chemical – sun protection is usually a better choice during pregnancy as mineral sunscreens are often less irritating and work by using physical filters such as zinc or titanium oxide to block UV rays. Using Vitamin C is also an effective way to treat hyperpigmentation, and works as an antioxidant to break down dark spots, increase cell turnover and help stop the creation of new dark melanin areas. Dry skin Dry skin is also experienced by some mothers-to-be, and a great way to remedy flaky skin is by adding hyaluronic acid to your routine. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring hydrating agent which works to restore the skin’s moisture content and defend it against moisture loss. It holds up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture giving your skin a plumping boost. Using a hydrating cleanser and moisturizing with nourishing oils and lipid-rich moisturizers also helps to keep your natural moisture barrier intact. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive than usual, so always test before using new products and consult with your physician.
Five sneaky ways you might be sabotaging your skin
Not wearing (enough) sun protection We do tend to go on about sunscreen but that’s only because it is so important to keeping your skin in the best condition it can be in, and minimizing early signs of ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Nothing sabotages your skincare more than over-exposure to UV rays but that doesn’t mean that you should only wear sun protection when you’re planning to spend a day outdoors. Even if you are going to be sitting in an office all day, skipping the sunscreen is not an option. Count up those minutes you spend in between your car, the office, yoga, lunch and any other errands you might run over the course of a regular day - they add up! So, find a light sunscreen you love and commit to wearing it daily as over the years, the rewards you reap in avoiding expensive corrective treatments later on will pay dividends. Not washing your makeup brushes regularly You may wash your face religiously but what about your makeup tools? If neglected, they become a bacteria magnet and transfer this bacteria to your skin every time you apply your make-up, leaving you vulnerable to breakouts and skin infections. This particularly applies to make-up sponges such as Beauty Blenders which tend to remain damp and particularly inviting to bacteria - these should be washed thoroughly after every use. You don’t even need a special cleanser to keep your tools clean, simply wash your brushes in your favorite cleanser with lukewarm water. Not disinfecting your phone screen Chances are, your phone touches everything. Even if you are obsessive about washing your hands, your phone is constantly coming into contact with environmental bacteria and when you answer a call, this bacteria transfers to your face and may leave you vulnerable to breakouts or worsen any acne you may already have. You can’t eliminate the spread of this bacteria entirely but regularly cleaning your phone with disinfectant wipes helps keep things clean and clear. Not using the right products for your skin type We get extremely excited by products that have glowing reviews and suffer from a serious lack of willpower when it comes to trying the latest in beauty trends, so we get it. Not using the right products for your skin type can, however, seriously sabotage your beauty routine. The key is to determine your skin type and requirements and to carefully observe how it reacts to different kinds of products. For example, oils are having a skincare moment these days, but may not be suitable for your skin if it gets congested and uncomfortable. Same goes for products with active ingredients - if a particular kind of product does not work for you, chances are it never will so accept it and move on - your skin will thank you. Not reading the label In the long-term, familiarizing yourself with the most common, key ingredients often used in skincare will save you time, (a lot of) money and potential heartache. Always read the label and research why that particular ingredient has been added to a formulation. The easiest way to make a start is by referring to Powder favorites CosDNA or SkinCarisma - which have large databases of common skincare and beauty ingredients. Their clever analyses tools allow you to paste the ingredients lists of your favorite products into the tool to produce an itemized list which explains each ingredient’s purpose in the formulation and their potential to trigger irritation and breakouts. Of course, your mileage may vary so these analyses should not be taken at face value, but will support your understanding of how skin care can work for you.
Five ways to vacation-proof your beauty routine
Vacation season is in full swing! We are packing our bags and escaping the heat, and chances are, that’s what you’re planning too. There’s nothing quite as invigorating as a holiday, and sometimes it’s just what you need to clear your mind and restore your energy and focus. Achieving that bronzed, stylish-but-effortless holiday beauty look is not as easy as it appears on Instagram... here are five tips we have for making it a little easier. Switch up your skincare routine The change in season and in your environment is a great opportunity to review what you’re using and what might no longer be working for you, especially when it comes to those products you want to love, but can’t bear to admit don’t work for you This is a time to consider whether you really need oils in your routine, which could be sitting heavy on your skin amidst all the heat and humidity, or perhaps whether you really need to be using products with acids which increase photosensitivity. The summer is also a great time to incorporate Vitamin C into your skincare, as it helps fight sun damage (but is in no way a substitute for sunscreen). And add some extra hydration! Travel is dehydrating – flights, air-conditioning and you’re likely to be drinking less water than usual. Stop dehydration before it takes its toll and add a hyaluronic acid-based serum or a few sheet masks a week to keep your skin luminous and hydrated. Fully commit to your SPF Yes, you probably wear sunscreen. But are you topping it up frequently enough and are you using the right kind of sun protection for your skin type? Always read the label on your preferred sunscreen and note how much protection you can expect, or for how long. If you tend to forget, set an alarm on your phone or download an app! There are plenty of apps available, some of which are free, to help you stay healthy and protected. Sun exposure can undo all the hard work you’ve been doing at home to keep your skin healthy and free of hyperpigmentation. If you are picky about the kind of sunscreen you use, or if you prefer to use organic products or have sensitive skin, take back-ups or a large size of your favorites. Keep the makeup light and natural Give your skin a chance to breathe. Choose dewy and natural over heavy makeup, especially when it comes to your complexion. Even if your skin isn’t your idea of perfect, give yourself a mental break to be yourself – it gets progressively easier! Remember to cleanse thoroughly, even if you’re not wearing make-up on your complexion. Removing SPF residue is essential for keeping your skin bright and clear. Watch your diet Enjoy your vacation, go for it! But if you can, try to do it in moderation. Sugar and dehydration equals ageing. Drink water as often as you can remember, and consider carrying your own refillable glass bottle. Great for the environment, great for your health, great for your conscience. Don’t forget your hair! Your hair gets damaged in the sun too, especially when combined with salty seawater. Sun protection for your hair exists, use it! Either cover up with a hat or use a leave-in conditioner or spray with UV protection. Otherwise, a stylish (and suitcase friendly alternative is to wear a chic scarf twisted into a turban to protect your hair around the pool. Don’t forget to use a replenishing intensive treatment or mask every few days to keep your locks smooth and shiny. Bon voyage!
Could your dairy intake be sabotaging your skin?
What causes acne? It's a complicated question. If you have breakout-prone skin and have tried every anti-acne skincare product or routine in the book, you may have heard that what stands between you and the perfect, clean skin you dream of is your dairy consumption. Maybe you have heard a celebrity endorser swear by avoiding dairy for glowing skin or read one of a growing number of magazines articles arguing that there is a strong correlation between your dairy intake and skin conditions such as acne, dull or aging skin. So where is the truth in all of this and are your milky lattes really causing your breakouts? Hormones! In order to produce milk, cows used for dairy farming must be pregnant. As a result of their pregnancy, their bodies are flooded with hormones such as progesterone and insulin growth factors. Some researchers suggest that as these hormones make their way into our bodies through dairy consumption, they may promote inflammation and stimulate sebum production, leading to more breakouts. Not all dairy is created equal… So, is it necessary to eliminate all dairy to ensure smooth, clear, breakout-free skin? Apparently not as the jury is out on how different dairy foods impact your skin. Research indicates that yogurt and cheese do not have a direct impact on your skin health and that yoghurt, for example, may even help reduce breakouts due its probiotic content. It is not clear why cheese doesn’t have an obvious effect – one possibility is that it could be due to the reduced lactose content however further research is required to come to a definitive conclusion. It is also possible that whole milk may be better for your skin than skimmed milk, as casein and whey are often added to skimmed milk, releasing additional hormones into your bloodstream which can trigger those dreaded pimples. So, do we have to choose between great skin and our favorite food? Even if you are not convinced by the science – because correlation doesn’t mean cause – it is worth cutting or reducing your dairy intake temporarily to determine whether or not it leads to pimples for you. The average life of a skin cell is 120 days, so the most efficient way of doing this would be to completely eliminate all dairy from your diet for this period of time to see how your skin responds. After this period, dairy products can be slowly re-introduced – one at a time – to determine whether your skin reacts. If you notice an increase in breakouts then it might be time to seek alternatives for your calcium intake! Coconut, oat and almond milks are great alternatives. Organic soy is also a good option for some but may trigger inflammation in others – which can also lead to breakouts – so it not as ideal a long-term replacement. These milk alternatives should also be consumed in moderation as they are often loaded with sugars which can lead to other health problems, so always check the label carefully. And if you do not notice your skin reacting after a period of elimination… bring on the cheese tray! In moderation of course.
Adapting your skincare routine for Ramadan
The Holy Month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, and prayer practiced by millions of Muslims around the world. It is also a good time to break bad habits and for new beginnings. For some this might mean getting on track for a healthier lifestyle such as cutting out caffeine, sugar and smoking, and for others this might mean picking up new habits such as reading or reflecting on spirituality. When it comes to taking care of your body, it’s important not to leave out your biggest organ, our skin. This year, Ramadan has arrived in one of the hottest months of summer, so we need to prepare and adapt our self-care routines to ensure our skin doesn’t suffer. The change in our diet and lower water intake can cause our skin to lose moisture and appear dull and dry. A proper skincare routine is therefore essential for those of us who want to maintain elasticity whilst avoiding breakouts and dryness, all of which often stem from with dehydration. Drink tons of water Water really is the holy grail when it comes to skincare. Make sure you drink plenty of water and natural fresh juices as your break your fast. Your skin and body will need some extra help to stay hydrated and supple and increasing your water intake will brighten, heal and prevent breakouts. Water-rich foods like watermelon, grapefruit, celery and cucumber are also a good idea, as is avoiding carbonated or sugary beverages like soda, artificial sugary juices and caffeine. Try a sheet mask a day You can sheet mask anytime - you can even carry sheet masks in your purse and mask on the go! Masks are a great way to get your daily dose of moisture and nourishment for healthy, glowing skin with superb hydrating properties. Introduce Hyaluronic Acid In addition to drinking less water, we are subject to more air-conditioning, leaving our skin feeling like the Sahara. You can give your skin a hydrating boost with Hyaluronic Acid. Holding up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture, Hyaluronic Acid has a plumping effect on the skin, replenishes it and protects against ageing. Add a facial oil Oils can be intensely nourishing and balancing for the skin and can create a barrier against excess moisture loss. You can start your day by patting a few drops of natural oils, suited to your skin type, onto your skin between your toner/serum and your moisturizer for the perfect hydrated base. Avoid the sun This one might seem like a no-brainer but try to walk in the shade wherever possible and never forget your sunscreen. The long fasting hours, hot and humid weather and lack of fluid can also lead to chapped lips so invest in a SPF lip conditioner to protect your lips.
Sensitive Skincare Do’s and Don’ts
Looking after sensitive skin can be confusing and stressful – one inconspicuous wrong turn and your skin is either irritated, breaking out or worse. Sensitivity can be triggered by a number of different factors which can be genetic or environmental, and keeping sensitive skin in tip top condition does require a little bit of extra care and attention, however that doesn’t mean that it has to be a major chore. Here are our recommendations for those with sensitive skin: Do wear sunscreen Sensitive skin needs sun protection just as much as, if not more, than any other skin type. If your skin reacts badly to chemical sunscreen, try using a physical (mineral) sunscreen to keep the sun’s harmful UV rays at bay. Mineral sunscreens use physical filters such as zinc or titanium oxide to block UV rays and are less likely to cause reactions than chemical formulas. Do keep a skincare diary Stripping back your routine and maintaining a simple skincare journal can help you identify which ingredients are leading to breakouts or irritation. This can also help you keep track of whether expensive products are really working to improve your skin in the long-term. Do introduce new products to your routine slowly This one is a tough one for us. It can be really tempting to try a number of different or new products at the same time in a desperate attempt to ‘fix’ your skin when it is already reacting or irritated. Unfortunately, this is almost always a terrible idea as it makes it difficult to identify which products might be doing your skin harm, and which combinations of products are just too much for your skin to handle together. Go slowly and give each product a minimum of 28 days to see if you notice any effect. Do drink plenty of water and catch up on your sleep There is no substituting the impact of a healthy lifestyle on your skin – getting plenty of sleep, water and managing stress will make a noticeable improvement to all skin types but sensitive skin in particular will benefit from a clean lifestyle which encourages your body’s natural ability to rid your skin of harmful toxins. Caffeine, sugar, alcohol, dairy, soy, gluten and some additives, to name a few, may trigger a reaction so being careful about your lifestyle choices can really have an impact on your skin. Don’t wash your face with very hot water Excessively hot water is irritating, to sensitive skin especially, by restricting the blood vessels right under the skin, which can trigger acne and rosacea flare-ups. Very hot water can also strip your skin of its natural oils too quickly, so not only do you risk scalding your face, you risk dehydrating it. Wash your delicate facial skin in lukewarm water when possible. Don’t use harsh drying products Sensitive skin does not tolerate harsh cleansers which include sulfates and fragrances. Products with high isopropyl or SD Alcohol 40 content may dehydrate and irritate the skin and polyethylene glycol (PEG) surfactants, which create foaming, may excessively strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation. Instead, remove make-up with cleansing oils to dissolve it gently without rubbing and look for gentle, low-pH cleansers which use non-comedogenic ingredients. Don’t over-exfoliate Physical exfoliating scrubs are often made with ground nuts or particles with sharp edges which can cause tiny cuts to the delicate skin on the face – leaving it vulnerable to breakout-causing bacteria. Chemical exfoliators, unless especially gentle and formulated for sensitive skin, can also be irritating and can compromise the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Enzyme exfoliants are often the best option – which gently dissolve dead skin cell bonds and impurities on the surface of the skin, leaving it soft and smooth without causing any harm. Don’t touch your face Seriously, stop touching your face! Whether or not you regularly wash your hands, picking and touching your face will only spread bacteria and irritants and push them further into your skin. For this same reason, regularly cleaning your phone and make-up brushes will help to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Holiday Skincare Survival Guide
We are in the midst of the most wonderful time of year! The holiday season is almost certainly not wonderful for our complexions, however. These are our quick tips for ensuring your skin survives the end of the year and starts January off with a glow: 1. Drink Plenty of Water Yes, we are always repeating ourselves with this one however it is particularly important to stay hydrated during this time of year. In between sleep deprivation, stress, sugary food and drinks and other environmental stressors, drinking enough water is the easiest way to keep things in balance – aim for 2-3 litres per day. 2. Maintain a Basic Routine The temptation to fall asleep in your make-up may be strong but resist! This may not be a time for indulging in masks however maintaining at least a quick and simple skincare routine is essential. Using a gentle balm cleanser, or cleansing water if you're not wearing make-up, followed by a hydrating moisturizer will do the trick when in a rush. 3. Make-up Avoid heavy and potentially pore-clogging make-up in favor of lightweight formulas packed with soothing and hydrating ingredients which will help keep your skin in tip top condition. 4. Don’t Squeeze Pimples We all want perfect skin, especially this time of year! Breakouts can seem like the end of the world when you have a full social calendar, but pimples can easily be covered with make-up as long as they are not irritated or inflamed. If you are facing a very inconveniently-timed breakout, start by calming the skin down with a mud mask. Follow with a sheet mask for adding hydration to create a smooth canvas for make-up application, prior to moisturizing and priming. Products formulated with snail mucin are especially effective in healing and speeding up the recovery of blemished skin. In order to avoid redness and inflammation, which is much more difficult to cover up, do not pick or squeeze any pimples unless they are whiteheads which are fully at the surface. Rather than squeezing, pull the skin around the pimple gently in an outward motion as if to stretch it out, which will prompt the whitehead to ooze out of the pore (satisfying!) Dab the area gently with rubbing alcohol then apply a spot treatment. 5. Using a Silk Pillowcase To keep your hairstyle intact that little bit longer and save on precious styling time, nothing beats sleeping on a silk pillowcase. The smooth silk fibers reduce friction against the hair shaft therefore also reducing static, breakages and frizz. As a bonus, your skin will also stay more hydrated as less moisture will be absorbed from your skin by silk!