THE SKIN REBOOT
Expert tips, treatments and DIY tech to tackle common problems
Do you want better skin? Well, it’s time to invest in it. While a glowing complexion doesn’t necessarily come cheap or easy, our expert guide of how to fight those telltale signs of dull, fatigued or pigmented skin can help you turn back the clock and get you on the path to the radiance you’ve always wanted.
THE ISSUE FINE LINES
If you’re noticing fine lines when you look in the mirror, the issue could be dehydration. “With age, hyaluronic acid decreases and that causes dehydration, fine lines and lack of plumpness,” says Jonathan Baughman-Marc, a pharmacist with French skincare brand Filorga. “Hyaluronic acid is a key element of skin structure and can retain 1000 times its weight in water, [so] bringing hyaluronic acid to the skin will bring back optimal hydration and fight against signs of ageing.”
What you also want to do is add density. You can do this with ingredients such as peptides, vitamins, amino acids, co-enzymes, minerals and antioxidants. “They activate cellular mechanisms and fight signs of ageing by increasing collagen and elastin and re-densifying the skin,” says Baughman-Marc.
MESOTHERAPY
For those that don’t like needles, this treatment uses laser to get active ingredients deep into the skin. Radiance will be yours after 24 hours and your complexion should get progressively better over the next two weeks. GET IT AT: You By Sia, Sydney; youbysia.com.au
AT HOME: Using non-invasive plasma technology, the high-tech Plabeau G4+ tool breaks down air particles into active plasma ions to help ingredients absorb into skin, boost collagen, smooth lines and hydrate.
THE ISSUE CONGESTION
If you think you’re the only one dealing with congested skin past puberty, think again. About 45 per cent of women aged 20 to 45 are affected by acne. “It can either start in adolescence and continue on, or it starts for the first time in adulthood,” says Janis McNicholas, training manager at Avène. Adult acne usually forms around the jawline and the chin, “often due to oil glands being very sensitive to the body’s hormones – and sufferers tend to have drier skin”.
Getting rid of the dirt and extra oils is important, but aim for a gentle cleanser and don’t overdo it. “Over-washing your face can strip away the oil your skin needs to stay balanced,” says McNicholas.
Skin with adult acne can be dry, so hydration is key. “Look for products with retinaldehyde, a pro-vitamin A,” she adds. “It helps to unblock pores, reduce residual marks and provides anti-ageing benefits.”
BEAUTY BUZZ: SPF SERUMS
If you thought SPFs couldn’t get any better, we’re here to tell you they can and have – in the form of skin-loving serums! Regardless of your genetics, we all know that sun protection is right up there in terms of protecting your skin from any susceptibilities. The key is to find one that you want to use everyday, is lightweight and invisible but still nourishing – which is exactly what an SPF serum does, and more. Go on, treat yourself.