Our Blog – Page 16 – Pure Beauty – The Lichfield Beauty Salon

Understanding the Concept of Skin Cycling

25/05/2023 25/05/2023 0

In recent years, the concept of skin cycling has gained significant attention in the realm of skincare and beauty. Skin cycling refers to the natural, cyclic changes that occur within the skin over a period of time, affecting its appearance, behaviour, and overall health. This has led experts to develop new strategies for skincare routines, acknowledging the unique needs of the skin during different phases of its cycle. These cycles typically last for approximately 28 days, coinciding with the skin’s natural renewal process. During each cycle, the skin experiences different phases that can be categorised into four stages: renewal, peak, stabilisation, and decline.

Renewal Phase: At the beginning of the cycle, the skin enters the renewal phase. This stage involves shedding of dead skin cells and the start of the regeneration process. The skin’s protective barrier may be slightly compromised during this phase.

Peak Phase: Following the renewal phase, the skin enters its peak phase. This is when the skin is believed to be at its best. It appears vibrant, luminous, and exhibits optimal cell turnover. Collagen and elastin production are at their highest, resulting in a plump and youthful complexion.

Stabilisation Phase: After the peak phase, the skin moves into the stabilisation phase. The skin’s functions stabilise, and it maintains its newly regenerated state. This phase is characterised by a balance in sebum production, hydration, and cell turnover.

Decline Phase: As the cycle nears completion, the skin enters the decline phase. The skin’s renewal process slows down, collagen production decreases, and signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, may become more apparent. The skin’s barrier function may also be compromised during this phase.

Adapting Skincare Routines to Skin Cycling:

Recognizing the influence of skin cycling on skin health, experts recommend tailoring skincare routines to address the specific needs of each phase. Here are some key considerations for adapting skincare routines to skin cycling:

Cleansing

Gentle cleansing during the renewal phase is essential to remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. During the peak phase, focus on maintaining the skin’s natural balance by using mild cleansers. In the stabilisation phase, regular cleansing routines can help maintain the skin’s optimal state. As the skin enters the decline phase, consider using gentle cleansers that preserve the skin’s moisture barrier.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is particularly beneficial during the renewal phase, as it aids in shedding dead skin cells and promotes regeneration. However, in other phases, opt for milder exfoliation methods to avoid excessive stripping of the skin.

Moisturisation

Adequate hydration is crucial throughout the entire skin cycling process. In the renewal phase, opt for moisturisers that support the skin’s regeneration process. During the peak phase, focus on hydrating and nourishing the skin to maintain its healthy appearance. In the stabilisation phase, continue to moisturise regularly to support the skin’s balanced state. As the skin enters the decline phase, consider using richer moisturisers to counteract dryness and promote skin elasticity.

Active Ingredients

Incorporating targeted skincare ingredients can enhance the benefits of each phase. For example, during the renewal phase, products with gentle exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or enzymes can aid in cellular turnover. In the peak phase, antioxidants and collagen-boosting ingredients such as vitamin C or retinoids can help maintain a youthful complexion. During the stabilisation phase, focus on ingredients that promote balance and protection, such as niacinamide or peptides. In the decline phase, consider using products with hydrating ingredients and peptides to minimise the appearance of fine lines and improve skin elasticity.

Facial Treatments, Skincare Advice

How to Repair Your Damaged Skin Barrier

18/05/2023 18/05/2023 0

Photo by Yara Amaral on Unsplash

The skin barrier is a crucial defence mechanism that safeguards our bodies from external threats. It is the outermost layer of our skin, known as the stratum corneum, which acts as a protective shield. The skin barrier serves multiple functions, including preventing the loss of moisture, regulating body temperature, and acting as a physical barrier against harmful substances, bacteria, and pollutants. When the skin barrier is damaged, these vital functions are compromised and a compromised skin barrier can lead to a range of issues such as increased water loss, dryness, redness, inflammation, and sensitivity. It also makes the skin more susceptible to infections, allergens, irritants, and environmental aggressors. With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of things that you can do to repair your damaged skin barrier:

Avoid Harsh Cleansers

Harsh cleansers often contain strong detergents or surfactants that can strip away the skin’s natural oils. These oils help to lock in moisture and maintain the integrity of the skin barrier. When these oils are excessively removed, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and compromised barrier function.Instead, opt for mild, gentle cleansers that are free of sulphates, fragrances, and other potential irritants, such as Elemis Gentle Foaming Facial Wash. It’s a gentle wash that combines extracts such as fig, and apple amino acid, which helps produce the foamy texture and protects the skin’s moisture barrier.

Use A Gentle Exfoliator

Exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, but it’s important to choose a gentle exfoliator to avoid further damage. Look for products with mild chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or fruit enzymes rather than harsh physical scrubs. Elemis Peptide4 Overnight Radiance Peel is formulated with a blend of skin-smoothing acids and nourishing botanical oils, and the daily exfoliating treatment refines and revitalises the skin to improve the look of skin clarity and tone.

Avoid Hot Water

Hot water strips away the natural oils present in your skin, leading to increased dryness. When your skin barrier is already compromised, it has difficulty retaining moisture, and hot water can worsen this problem by drying out your skin even more. Also, damaged skin is often more sensitive and reactive and hot water can trigger inflammation and irritation, causing redness, itching, and discomfort. Use lukewarm water for cleansing and bathing to prevent excessive drying and treat your face to Decleor Organic Harmonie Calm Soothing Comfort 2 in1 Cream and Mask, which combines powerful organic ingredients such as rose essential oil, sweet almond plant oils and centella asiatica extract to soothe, even the skin tone and stabilise your skin all day long.

Incorporate Barrier-Repairing Ingredients

Look for products that contain ingredients known to support the skin barrier’s repair and maintenance. These can include ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, panthenol (provitamin B5), and peptides. By reinforcing the skin barrier, these ingredients can improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, while supporting the skin’s structural integrity, as well as promoting firmness, elasticity, and a smoother complexion. Skin Republic Hyaluronic Acid 1% and Niacinamide Serum is a super-hydrating serum, infused with 1% hyaluronic acid, which deeply hydrates dry skin, soothes rough patches, and rids your skin of flaking and dryness.

Protect From The Sun

Sun protection becomes even more crucial when the skin barrier is damaged. When the skin barrier is compromised, its ability to shield the underlying layers from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation is significantly weakened. UV radiation from the sun can penetrate the damaged skin more easily, leading to increased risks of sunburn, premature ageing, pigmentation disorders, and an elevated likelihood of developing skin cancers. Applying sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), such as CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade are vital steps in safeguarding the skin from further damage.

Facial Treatments, Skincare Advice

The Benefits of Incorporating Antioxidants into Your Skincare Routine

11/05/2023 11/05/2023 0

Photo by Gemma Evans on Unsplash

Antioxidants are powerful substances that play a critical role in our body’s overall health and wellbeing. They protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to ageing, cancer, and other health problems. When it comes to skincare, antioxidants are essential because they can help protect our skin from environmental damage, including pollution and UV radiation. Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine can have a range of benefits for your skin’s health and appearance – here are five of them:

Reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

As we age, our skin loses collagen, which is a protein that gives our skin its elasticity and firmness. Free radicals can break down collagen, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. Antioxidants help to prevent this damage by neutralising free radicals, which can slow down the ageing process and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Evolve Organic Beauty Miracle Facial Oil is a nourishing yet light facial oil that contains natural retinol from Organic Rosehip and antioxidants from Organic Argan oil to regenerate and revitalise mature and dry skin.

Brighten The Skin And Even Out Skin Tone

Free radicals can cause damage to the melanin in our skin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Antioxidants can help to prevent this damage and promote a more even skin tone by inhibiting the production of melanin and encouraging skin cell turnover. This can result in brighter, more radiant skin. Murad Essential-C Toner is a refreshing mist with antioxidants that replenishes moisture for a radiant, glowing complexion.

Soothe Inflammation And Irritation In The Skin

Free radicals can cause inflammation, which can lead to redness, irritation, and even acne. Antioxidants can help to reduce inflammation by neutralising free radicals and promoting a healthy, balanced environment in the skin. This can result in calmer, clearer, and healthier-looking skin. This Works In Transit Skin Defence SPF30 is a protective SPF30 moisturiser with antioxidants and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB for skin protection against the elements.

Hydrate And Nourish The Skin

Many antioxidants have moisturising properties and can help to replenish and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This can help to improve the skin’s overall texture and hydration, making it look and feel smoother and more supple. Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance contains antioxidants that help prevent daily damage caused by free radicals while also strengthening the skin’s lipid barrier to help prevent moisture loss.

Protect The Skin From Environmental Damage.

Our skin is exposed to a range of environmental stressors, including pollution, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions. Antioxidants can help to protect the skin from these stressors by neutralising free radicals and promoting a healthy, balanced environment in the skin. This can help to prevent damage and promote healthy, resilient skin. Elemis Superfood Day Cream is a day cream with antioxidant rich oils and vitamin rich Superfoods that feeds and replenishes the skin with vital hydrating nourishment. The skin’s natural ecosystem is balanced to help defend against the environment for skin that feels smoother, softer and revitalised.

Uncategorized

The Latest Skincare Trends: Exploring Innovative Products and Techniques

04/05/2023 04/05/2023 0

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Welcome to the world of skincare, where innovation is constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of beauty! Today, we’re delving into the latest skincare trends that have taken the industry by storm, unveiling a few of the most innovative products and techniques that promise to revolutionise your skincare routine. From cutting-edge formulations to advanced technologies, we’ve curated a list of the next big things at the forefront of skincare, helping you to achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin.

Gua Sha

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that has gained popularity around the world for its therapeutic benefits. Derived from the Chinese words “gua” meaning to scrape and “sha” referring to the reddish marks that appear on the skin, gua sha involves using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin’s surface. The technique aims to stimulate blood flow, release tension, and promote the body’s natural healing process. Gua sha is commonly used on the face and body, and it is believed to help alleviate muscle pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and even enhance the appearance of the skin.

CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, has gained significant attention in the realm of skincare for its potential benefits. When incorporated into skincare products, CBD offers a range of positive effects. Firstly, CBD possesses anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm irritated skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also aid in reducing redness and swelling, promoting a more balanced complexion. Additionally, CBD is known for its antioxidant properties, which can combat the harmful effects of free radicals and environmental stressors, ultimately contributing to a more youthful and radiant appearance.

Sheet Masks

The sheet mask trend has taken the beauty and skincare world by storm, becoming a popular and beloved ritual for countless individuals. These thin, pre-cut masks, typically made of cotton or hydrogel, are saturated with a variety of nourishing ingredients and designed to fit snugly on the face. With their convenience and effectiveness, sheet masks have become a staple in many skincare routines. The appeal lies in sheet masks’ ability to provide instant hydration, brightening, and revitalisation to the skin, delivering a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home.

Microbiome

In recent years, the microbiome has emerged as a crucial factor in skincare, revolutionising our understanding of how to achieve and maintain healthy skin. The microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit our skin’s surface, and scientific research has revealed its vital role in maintaining skin health and function. The delicate balance of beneficial bacteria on our skin helps protect against harmful pathogens, regulates inflammation, and supports the skin’s natural barrier function. This newfound understanding has led to the development of microbiome-friendly skincare products that aim to nourish and optimise the skin’s microbial ecosystem. By incorporating prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics into formulations, skincare brands are now able to promote a healthy microbiome, which in turn contributes to clearer, more balanced, and radiant skin.

Blue Light Protection

Blue light, emitted by smartphones, tablets, computers, and other digital screens, has shorter wavelengths and higher energy levels compared to other colours in the visible light spectrum. Prolonged exposure to blue light can penetrate the skin deeper than UV rays, leading to various skin-related issues. It can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, accelerate skin ageing, cause hyperpigmentation, and even induce inflammation. Therefore, it is crucial to protect our skin from blue light by adopting preventive measures such as using blue light filters, minimising screen time, and incorporating skincare products with ingredients that shield against this specific form of light.

Facial Treatments, Skincare Advice

Breaking Down the Science of Skincare: Understanding Key Ingredients

28/04/2023 28/04/2023 0

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In the world of skincare, where countless products line the shelves promising to transform our skin, it can be challenging to decipher the truth from mere marketing hype. However, hidden amidst the array of beauty potions lie a handful of truly remarkable ingredients, each with its unique superpowers that can genuinely revolutionise our skincare routines. From age-defying antioxidants to deeply nourishing moisturisers and rejuvenating acids, these powerhouse ingredients hold the key to unlocking radiant, healthy, and youthful-looking skin. Today, we’re looking at some of the most popular skincare ingredients, shedding light on the science and efficacy behind these skin-transforming elements that have captivated the attention of beauty enthusiasts worldwide.

Hyaluronic Acid

This naturally occurring substance, found abundantly in our bodies, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. In skincare, hyaluronic acid has gained recognition for its unparalleled ability to attract and retain moisture, making it an essential ingredient for plump, radiant skin. It possesses a unique capacity to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, resulting in a replenished and rejuvenated complexion. With its lightweight, non-greasy texture, hyaluronic acid effortlessly penetrates the skin, imparting a deeply hydrating and soothing sensation.

Retinol (Vitamin A)

When it comes to achieving a radiant and youthful complexion, one ingredient has consistently stood out among the rest: retinol. This remarkable compound, derived from vitamin A, has garnered a well-deserved reputation as the gold standard in skincare. Retinol boasts a multitude of benefits, making it a must-have in any skincare enthusiast’s arsenal. Its ability to stimulate collagen production helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also improving skin elasticity. Furthermore, retinol tackles acne and blemishes by regulating oil production and unclogging pores, resulting in a clearer and smoother complexion.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and protect against environmental damage. Revered for its remarkable antioxidant properties, this vitamin has soared in popularity as a skincare ingredient, revolutionising the way we approach our daily routines. From fading hyperpigmentation to boosting collagen production, Vitamin C has proven to be a game-changer, unveiling a brighter and more even complexion. It also aids in the healing process, making it an ideal ingredient for diminishing the appearance of scars and blemishes.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

One of the most impressive aspects of niacinamide is its versatility. Whether you’re battling acne, concerned about hyperpigmentation, or simply striving for a more radiant complexion, this remarkable ingredient is here to address a wide range of skincare woes. Niacinamide acts as a potent antioxidant, effectively neutralising free radicals and protecting the skin from environmental stressors. By doing so, it helps combat premature ageing, fine lines, and wrinkles, promoting a youthful and supple appearance. Another compelling feature of niacinamide is its ability to regulate sebum production. This makes it a go-to solution for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Salicylic Acid

Known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties, salicylic acid works wonders for various skin concerns, particularly acne-prone and oily skin. This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) effectively penetrates the pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells, which helps to prevent clogged pores and reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. By gently exfoliating the skin’s surface, salicylic acid promotes cell turnover, revealing a smoother, clearer complexion. Moreover, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness and irritation, making it an ideal choice for those dealing with acne or sensitive skin.

Facial Treatments

How to Exfoliate Without Irritating Your Skin

20/04/2023 20/04/2023 0

Image by senivpetro on Freepik

Exfoliating can be beneficial for the skin as it helps to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, resulting in a smoother, brighter complexion. However, over-exfoliation or using products that are too harsh can irritate the skin and cause redness, sensitivity, and even breakouts. With this in mind, we;’ve put together some tips to make sure your skin is buffed to perfection without causing you any issues:

Choose The Right Exfoliant

One of the most important things to remember is that you need to use a gentle exfoliant that is appropriate for your skin type. For example, if you have sensitive skin, choose a chemical exfoliant with mild ingredients like glycolic acid or lactic acid, instead of a physical exfoliant like a scrub. Enzyme exfoliants use natural fruit enzymes like papaya or pineapple to dissolve dead skin cells and are usually gentle enough to be used on all skin types, but may not be as effective as other types of exfoliants.

Don’t Overdo It

Limit your exfoliation to once or twice a week, especially if you have sensitive skin. Your skin barrier acts as a protective shield against external aggressors like pollution, UV rays, and bacteria and over-exfoliation can strip away this barrier, leaving your skin vulnerable to irritation and inflammation. It’s important to follow a gentle and consistent exfoliation routine that suits your skin type and concerns.

Be Gentle

Whether you’re using a physical or chemical exfoliant, be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard or applying too much pressure. Let the exfoliant do the work, and don’t scrub for too long. Over-exfoliation can also disrupt the natural balance of your skin, leading to increased oil production and clogged pores. This can cause acne and breakouts, especially in people with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Moisturise

Moisturising after exfoliating is important because exfoliation can remove the top layer of dead skin cells, leaving your skin more exposed to the environment. This can cause your skin to become dry, dehydrated, and even irritated. Moisturising helps to replenish and lock in moisture, keeping your skin soft and supple. Look for a moisturiser that is non-comedogenic and specifically formulated for your skin type.

Patch Test

Patch testing a new exfoliator is important because exfoliators can contain active ingredients that may irritate or sensitise your skin. Patch testing can help you determine if your skin will have a negative reaction to the product before you apply it to your entire face or body. To perform a patch test, apply a small amount of the exfoliator to a small area of skin, such as the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24 to 48 hours and check for any signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or swelling. If there is no reaction, you can safely use the exfoliator on your face or body.

Dermalogica, Elemis

A Skincare Routine Which is Just Your Cup of Tea

14/04/2023 14/04/2023 0

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Next Friday is this year’s National Tea Day, which makes us think about all of the different products we offer which contain types of tea. There are over 3000 varieties of tea, each with its own specific characteristics, so it stands to reason that each of these different plants can offer something to your skin. In fact, tea in its many forms is a hugely popular ingredient in skincare, combining powerful antioxidants, minerals and other key skin-loving compounds that can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels. Here are five products which are precisely our cup of tea!:

Murad Clarifying Cleanser

Green tea has many qualities which make it an excellent skincare ingredient, and Murad has harnessed its soothing properties for this clarifying cleanser. The gel cleanser helps to dissolve excess oil, purify pores, clear existing blemishes and prevent future breakouts while green tea extract helps soothe and calm irritation for healthier-looking skin. It also contains a therapeutic dose of salicylic acid which reduces the severity of blemishes, helps keep skin clear by preventing formation of new blemishes and allows skin to heal.

Evolve Organic Beauty 360 Eye and Lip Contour

The eyes and lips may not seem to have much in common, but the skin in these areas shares a delicate quality which means that they need added care. This nourishing eye and lip cream from Evolve Organic Beauty contains an invigorating complex of probiotics, green tea, pomegranate and caffeine, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eye and lip area, combating the appearance of fine lines, puffiness and dark circles, while toning the skin for a more youthful and rejuvenated look

Dermalogica Age Reversal Eye Complex

Another product for the eyes, this anti-ageing treatment from Dermalogica contains white tea, a delicate variety which possesses a high level of phytonutrients and antioxidants. The serum targets concerns of the eye area, primarily wrinkles and crow’s feet plus puffiness, dark circles due to hyperpigmentation and skin sensitivity due to dehydration. It’s a powerful product which offers visible results after just one use.

Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Complete

While you may drink a lot of tea, it’s unlikely that you’ll drink enough to get the highest level of benefit from it, which is why taking a supplement containing concentrated extracts is wise. Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Complete is an excellent starter pack to discover the benefits of skin supplements for overall skin health. As well as extracts of green tea, it contains grapeseed, turmeric root, bilberry fruit, beta carotene, lutein and lycopene, all of which offer antioxidant properties.

Elemis Superfood Kefir-Tea Mist

You may not have heard of rooibos before, but that could be because it also goes by the name “redbush tea”, which is probably more commonly known. Rooibos is naturally caffeine free and is a rich source of antioxidants, as well as offering a unique polyphenolic profile, which is why Elemis has packed it into this kefir-tea mist. The rooibos offers skin soothing properties, while fermented kefir helps to soothe and balance the skin for a healthy looking complexion.

Eye Care

Puffy Eyes? No Problem!

07/04/2023 07/04/2023 0

Photo by Marina Vitale on Unsplash

A survey conducted in America showed that eye bags are one of the most common skin problems we face, affecting 27% of people – but what are eye-bags, why do they occur and how do we deal with them? Read on to find out more:

What are the Bags Under My Eyes?!

To put it ultra-simply, eye-bags are mild swelling or puffiness under the eyes. Bags under the eyes can also occur when the tissue structures and muscles supporting your eyelids begin to weaken.

Causes of Eye Bags

The most common cause of under-eye bags is ageing. Older skin becomes too loose and tends to fall or wrinkle, due to the slow-down in collagen production as we age. The muscles and tissues around the eye can also weaken and contribute to the baggy look. Eye bags can also be caused, or exacerbated by, dehydration, lack of sleep, allergies and a number of other triggers which make us look puffy.

How to Reduce Eye Bags

There are a number of things you can do to help to reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, from reducing your alcohol intake, drinking more water, getting more sleep and even cosmetic surgery! However, using one or some of the following products on a regular basis will probably help more than all of the above ideas combined!

Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift

Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift is an active, cooling cream-gel that works with the skin’s natural microbiome, or microflora, to brighten and energise the eye area, while Sea Water Extract and Arctic Algae minimise the look of puffiness and dark circles.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Vitality Eye Cream

Elemis Pro-Collagen Vitality Eye Cream is a restorative cream that cocoons the delicate skin around the eye contour area for a replenished and smoothed appearance. Additionally, it can be used on the eyelids to visibly lift and firm for a more wide awake look.

SkinCeuticals AOX+ Eye Gel

SkinCeuticals AOX+ Eye Gel contains a synergistic antioxidant formulation that helps reduce the appearance of signs of ageing due to environmental damage to skin around the delicate eye area. When applied with a massaging action, targeted actives revive under-eye skin and help reduce the appearance of puffiness.

Skin Abode Cryo Queen Ice Roller

Skin Abode Cryo Queen Ice Roller has two ends to use on the face and around your eyes. Made of professional-grade stainless steel for a long-lasting cooling effect. This refreshing tool instantly lifts saggy and puffy skin, rejuvenates dull complexions and sculpts the face, by creating a microcirculation effect on the skin.

Evolve Organic Beauty Hyaluronic Eye Complex

Evolve Organic Beauty Hyaluronic Eye Complex has been specially designed to refresh your eyes and act as a cooling pick me up whenever you need it. Exotic Tuberose flower plant stem cells help to reduce the appearance of eye bags, fine lines and puffiness while firming and brightening the delicate eye area.

Body Treatments, Health and Happiness

Five of the Best Reasons to Use Self Tan

30/03/2023 30/03/2023 0

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Most people agree that they look and feel healthy and radiant with a suntan, but the truth is that, unless it’s a sunless one, there is no such thing as a safe tan. Any natural skin darkening is an indication of sun damage and that the UV rays have made the skin’s normal defensive components kick in, creating more melanin to protect the skin from additional harm. So, what should you do if you love a golden glow but don’t want the risks? Hit the bottle, of course! The easiest and safest way to get a fake glow all over without harming your skin or putting your health at risk is to use a sunless self-tanner, and they have plenty of other benefits, too. Here are just five of them:

It’s Safer

According to the FDA, “Evidence suggests that tanning greatly increases your risk of developing skin cancer. And, contrary to popular belief, getting a tan will not protect your skin from sunburn or other skin damage. The extra melanin in tanned skin provides a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of about 2 to 4; far below the minimum recommended SPF of 15” And furthermore, most of the more than one million skin cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. are considered sun-related. This alone makes us want to avoid the sun’s harmful rays and use Sienna X Gradual Rose Water Self Tan Mist instead.

It Offers Skincare Benefits

If you’re using a self-tan, you might find it tricky to use other skincare products at the same time without affecting application. However, there are tanning products out there which not only give you a golden glow but also offer skincare benefits, too. St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Vitamins Bronzing Water Body Mist is a lightweight and easy-to-use clear self tanner which is infused with 95% natural skincare ingredients, hydrating hyaluronic acid, refreshing green mandarin water and Vitamin C and D boosters to mimic the effects of the sun, without the damage.

It Doesn’t Accelerate Ageing

It’s a well-known fact that the sun is the number one cause of skin ageing and that UV exposure seems to be responsible for 80% of visible facial ageing signs. This means that if you want to remain looking youthful but still have a glow, self-tan is the way to go. Better still, using self-tanners such as Sienna X Self Tan Q10 Tinted Mist, which contains the anti-ageing ingredient Q10, actually visibly firms the skin and reduces the signs of ageing!

It Helps Conceal Imperfections

If you sunbathe or use sunbeds, aside from the cell-level damage you’re doing to your skin, you also risk causing uneven skintone. UV rays can make acne and other imperfections appear much darker and can even cause hyperpigmentation or exacerbate melasma. On the flipside, there are self-tanning products, such as Sienna X Ultra Dark Mousse, which will not only prevent you from needing to damage your skin with UV rays, but can actually cover imperfections in your skin and make them look less visible. Win/win!

You Can Have Year-Round Tanning

It’s all well and good having a glow for a few weeks after your summer holiday, but in time this will fade and that’s often when the temptation to use tanning beds arises. According to The American Academy of Dermatology, indoor tanning can increase the risk of developing the two most common types of skin cancer — squamous cell carcinoma by 58% and basal cell carcinoma by 24%. Avoid the risk altogether by giving yourself an easy to maintain, all-year tan using St.Tropez Self Tan Watermelon Infusion Bronzing Mousse. It is a lightweight classic tanning mousse that tailors to your individual skin tone, for a natural looking and long-lasting tan in just one application.

Facial Treatments, Skincare Advice

Bring Flowers into your Skincare this Spring

23/03/2023 23/03/2023 0

Photo by Demi Kwant on Unsplash

Spring has, (dare we say it?!) FINALLY sprung – or at least, the daffodils outside of our window say that it has, and that means florals are a big theme right now. This time of year always makes us want to have more flowers in our lives, but if the weather isn’t conducive to sitting in the garden, we can always include more flowers in our skincare routine! Today, we’re sharing with you five of our favourite products which harness the power of flowers so that you can get floral, even if the sun’s not quite shining:

Lavender – Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner

Lavender is known for its soothing properties, from its sleep inducing smell to its anti-inflammatory effects, which is why Elemis used it to create this toner. It effectively tones the skin and helps rebalance the pH level, without the use of alcohol or harsh detergents. As well as containing extracts of Lavender, it also has sweet Betty flower and saponins from quillaja wood help to balance and soften the skin. It provides a deep cleaning effect which refreshes the skin without drying it out.

Sunflower – Murad Age-Balancing Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF30

It seems highly appropriate that a flower which is known for turning to face the sun is included in a product which offers broad-spectrum sun protection! This SPF from Murad, as well as containing sunflower, also boasts a blend of shea butter, grape seed and avocado oil to replenish dull, dry skin with long-lasting hydration. The cream helps to restore moisture balance to distressed skin and provides a barrier to keep skin hydrated and plump, as well as improving elasticity and smoothing your complexion.

Feverfew – Medik8 Calmwise Colour Correct

This calming, colour-corrector from Medik8 actually harnesses the powers of a few different botanicals. As well as feverfew, which helps to diminish redness and act as an antioxidant to protect the skin, there’s also camomile to soothe and reduce inflammation and aloe vera, which acts on suppressing the redness response. These, along with other ingredients, work on the causes of redness and sensitivity to correct your skin from within, while mineral-based green pigments expertly blend into your complexion, merging with your natural skin tone to instantly neutralise redness.

Daisy – Dermalogica Phyto-Nature Oxygen Cream

This cream from Dermalogica actually contains extracts from a variety of daisy called the “electric daisy”, but don’t worry, you won’t get any shocks! Electric daisy is sometimes referred to as “nature’s botox” as it helps to firm and tighten your skin, smoothing out the appearance of wrinkles and giving your skin a youthful boost. Clinically proven to give 4 years back with skin looking firmer and more lifted after 1 week, your skin is left looking luminous and revitalised.

Rose – Decleor Organic Rose Damascena Night Balm

Last, but definitely not least, is this night balm from Decleor which harnesses the power of roses, one of the world’s most popular flowers. The balm is created from a blend of rose, geranium and chamomile oils which soothe the skin and reduce the signs of irritation. The rich formula accelerates skin cell regeneration over the night, which the soothing and delicate fragrance will help you to relax, just in time for bed.

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Wednesday	Open	10am-4pm
Thursday	Open	10am-4pm
Friday	Open	10am-4pm
Saturday	Open	Closed
Sunday	Closed	Closed