Modern Skin Routine

In a reality when we are bombarded by more and more specialist products treating yet more specific skin concerns we didn't know we had, the truth is all we need is a simple, concise and effective skin regime. It's time we re-think what a good skin care regime entails and start using products that work with our skin and not just act as 'fire extinguishers'. It's time we reclaimed the understanding of how capable of renewing our skin is, as long as we treat it with respect and protect is from further harm. The skin routine of the future should involve gentle, multitasking, well-formulated products which help achieve and maintain happy skin, capable of repairing itself. It should not cost you much either, just nip down to your local beauty store and make informed choices.

Cleanse

The best cleansers are fragrance free, non-irritating and effective. After cleansing , your face should feel soft and plump and not 'squeaky clean'. Cleanser- in fact all skincare products- should cause no sensation of stinging, cooling, tightening or redness. If the ones you use do so, consider ditching them for kinder ones.

My top picks: 

• Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser
• Simple Kind To Skin Moisturising Facial Wash
• Bioderma Crealine H20

Moisturise & Protect

Depending your skin type, you could decide to use a serum, lotion, liquid or a cream. The oilier the skin, the lighter the consistency. You do not need to layer on many products addressing different skin concerns. There are plenty of well formulated moisturisers on the market that do it all. Choose a moisturiser with a broad spectrum SPF for day and one without SPF for night. Or have a moisturiser for day and night and top it up with a sunscreen in the morning. Well-formulated moisturisers double up as eye creams. Think about combinations of good ingredients, as products marketed on the back of only one great/exotic ingredient often fail to deliver. Do not waste money on moisturisers, however tempting, unless they are packaged in opaque, air-tight containers.

My top picks: 

• Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Moisturiser & Sensitive Protection SPF15
• Simple Kind to Skin+ Protecting Moisture Cream SPF30
• Aveeno Positively Radiant Triple Boost Serum

Exfoliate

Effective exfoliation is done by applying an AHA or BHA product on your face after cleansing and before moisturising. Alpha Hydroxy Acid helps treat signs of sun damage and reveals new smoother even toned skin. Beta Hydroxy Acid penetrates into the skin and helps treat blocked and enlarged pores, acne and blackheads. Both AHAs and BHAs promote collagen production, more even toned and supple skin, reduce irritation, redness and inflammation. Depending our your skin concerns you could choose to use either or both types of exfoliants. I prefer to use them once a day, on alternative days, as part of my evening routine. I urge you to try this new type of exfoliation and be completely amazed at how good your skin will feel and look within weeks.

My top picks: 

• Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Exfoliant Lotion
• Paula's Choice Weekly resurfacing Treatment with 10% AHA
• Olay Regenerist Night Renewal Elixir