When I was in my early teens, I had terrible acne and went
through two rounds of Roaccutane to clear it up. It meant dry eyes, peeling
skin, sensitivity and regular blood tests.
Thankfully, my skin has been clear bar the occasional spot
since then. I am very, very fussy about looking after it though. That doesn’t
mean using the most expensive products or going through any long, complex
rituals. It just means I pay attention to whether products actually work and if
I end up with spots or redness, or if they leave my skin greasy or peeling,
it’s over!
I am a big fan of several skincare brands that really work
for my skin. They have targeted products that are used in salons and
recommended by dermatologists.
I don’t do facials – as much as I’d love to, I don’t have
the money for it and I’m so fussy about the products I use that I can’t imagine
anyone doing a better job than me at cleaning and massaging my skin!
I do splash out on laser/IPL/microdermabrasion a couple of
times a year. This is how I’d much prefer to spend my money. These are
intensive treatments that have a lasting effect on clearing spots, evening skin
tone and in my case, blasting tiny broken capillaries around the nose and chin.
I’ve got very pale skin so I find it
really noticeable if I have any redness. Microdermabrasion also eradicates
blackheads – it is the only treatment where I can go concealer and makeup free
for days afterwards feeling my skin is flawless!
If clear, even skin is your 2015 resolution then here’s my
recommendations.
Dermalogica PowerBright is designed to reduce and resolve
hyperpigmentation. This is uneven skin colour that is very common in women.
It’s the result of hormones, scars, spots, prolonged sun exposure and is very
common during/after pregnancy.
While my uneven skin tone is very minor, I actually love the
PowerBright range because of it’s high dose of vitamin C. It’s healing and
restorative after I’ve had laser and microdermabrasion. I also find that the
ingredients designed to treat hyperpigmentation also fix up a few pimples
within days. It does take about 3 weeks’ to see the full effect so stick with
the products daily for that time.
Elemis Resurfacing Mask + Rosepetal Cleanser: Elemis is a
luxury skincare brand from the UK that
is used in beauty salons and resorts
internationally. I love the Rosepetal Cleanser because it smells heavenly and
it’s really gentle on the skin. Using harsh, drying cleansers might make you
feel squeaky clean but they actually strip your skin of natural oils and can
make it really sensitive and inflamed.
The Resurfacing Mask is my once-a-week treat. I leave it on
while I have my breakfast and review my daily duties. I’ve definitely noticed my
skin is brighter and softer straight after using it.
As for not doing facials? Well...I AM looking at an Elemis facial because they are the ultimate. I'll let you know if I do it!