Let me start by saying I am no skin or beauty expert. Quite the opposite actually, I am rather lazy when it comes to all things beauty. I don’t own a hair dryer and, despite my best efforts, still struggle to get my eyeliner even.
That said, since moving to London a few years ago, I have made a genuine effort to maintain my skin so it looks the best it possible can. Not a huge fan of make-up, the better your skin looks, the less you need to put on. Winter is not the best time for skin, and it can leave our faces looking dull and dry. But spring is the perfect time to clean up your beauty routine. So here are a few easy tips to help you put your best face forward.
Mix up your products
There is increasing evidence that despite how well your products are working for you, your skin eventually gets used to them. I’m not suggesting you throw out your products, but you can shake up your routine by alternating between cleansers and moisturisers so your skin doesn’t become immune to their benefits. While I find Dermalogica works best for me, I vary between five different cleansers, two of which are scrubs and three are moisturisers.
Always remove your make-up
I don’t care how tired you are – this is non-negotiable. Clogged pores do not equal your best skin. Take the short amount of time to thoroughly clean your skin every night, and moisturise before going to bed. Overnight is when your body repairs itself, and therefore when your products work the hardest.
Use a mask at least once a week
Not only a nice way to relax and pamper yourself, but using a face mask helps skin to look its best. Choose the right one based on your skin needs. My favourite is a charcoal mask, as it works hard to drag out impurities that can lead to clogged pores or blemishes.
Employ the help of an expert
I am a huge advocate of microdermabrasion. Similar to a facial but utilising crystals and suction, the treatment helps to remove your skin’s outermost layer of dead cells. The result? Younger, healthier-looking skin and increased collagen and elastin production as your body produces a new layer of skin. While not everyone can afford to have a facial each month (myself included) getting them every few months, or as often as your budget allows, is a great way to help give your skin a deep clean. This is becoming increasingly important given the level of pollution and the other ageing factors we face on a daily basis.
Inside out
There is only so much you can do to the outside of your skin. Don’t forget that your skin is a direct reflection of what is going on inside your body. The best way to get a glowing complexion is to drink lots of water, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and get enough sleep. No amount of skincare can make up for a poor diet, lack of nutrients or sleep.
Do you have any tips to add to the above? Share them in the comments below? What’s the secret to your best skin?
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