With winter approaching (yes, it’s inevitable!), now is the ideal moment to delve into the world of skincare. If you’ve been contemplating a skin makeover but haven’t quite taken the leap, I’ve got you covered. Here’s all you need to know!
As the mercury drops, our skin’s defence mechanism can falter, leaving us susceptible to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. For those following preventive or maintenance skincare routines (as opposed to active treatments), I strongly recommend incorporating a hydrating or gentle cleanser into your winter regimen. Consider adding a functional hydrator like one of the ZO SkinHealth creams or the Skinbetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment.
Now, let’s talk retinoids (think retinol or retinaldehyde) – these little wonder molecules really deserve our attention! Retinoids are like magic potions for your skin. Over time, integrating this powerhouse ingredient into your routine will expedite your skin’s cell turnover, resulting in fresher skin cells reaching the surface faster and improved elasticity. Clinical studies have confirmed their ability to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and minimise unwanted texture. They also work wonders in minimising the appearance of pores and achieving an even skin tone. If you’re looking for the Holy Grail of anti-aging ingredients, retinoids are it. With a plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. I always recommend starting with a lower concentration and introducing it gradually to minimise potential side effects like redness, dryness, and sensitivity (known as retinisation). Alternatively, I find the Skinbetter Science Alpharet is extremely well tolerated with minimal to no reactions. Amazing! All of the products discussed here can be ordered from the clinic. Simply book a skincare consultation either virtually or in person and your products will be shipped to your home (at the moment most orders are sent next working day delivery too!).
In your 30s and beyond, it takes about 42 days for your skin to rejuvenate itself (compared to a mere 14 days in your baby days), so give any new product at least this amount of time to reveal its significant benefits. For many, it takes closer to 6 months to see the full results of your new regime.
Now, let’s shift our focus to skin booster treatments. These injectable hydrators stimulate your skin cells, ramping up collagen and elastin production. After hitting the big 3-0, collagen levels in your skin start to decline (typically by 1% each year, even more during menopause), leading to less bounce and slower recovery from facial expressions. Skin boosters not only enhance skin quality and hydration but also complement your at-home skincare routine. They’ve even been shown to extend the results of fillers…win win!
I recommend a series of three treatment sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart. To achieve that radiant glow in time for the festive season, it’s best to start sooner rather than later. Your skin will thank you!
Winter might be coming, but it’s also bringing with it the perfect opportunity to revamp your skincare routine. Embrace retinoids, consider skin boosters, and get ready to flaunt that youthful glow throughout the season and beyond. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your skin deserves the best care, especially during the colder months.