#SKINSHELFIE

The bathroom shelf of Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe

A typical day: My schedule has been turned on its head since lockdown began but I’ve grown to love it, as I have a better work-life balance now. I wake up at 6.30am and make a matcha latte and a plant protein shake for breakfast. I’ll then spend the next two or three hours replying to emails and prepping orders for our online shop. At 9.30am, I’ll go for a jog to de-stress. I used to hate running, but I got into it during lockdown and now I aim to go three times a week. Afterwards, I’ll jump in the shower before carrying on with work, including virtual consultations with my clients. For lunch, I’ll squeeze in a large salad. In the evenings, I wind down by making a nutritious dinner, such as oyster mushrooms, miso broccoli, a boiled egg, spicy chickpeas, seasoned quinoa and avocado. As a treat, some evenings I’ll have a glass of red wine. I’ve always got multiple books on the go at once – Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is currently on rotation. Before bed, I take CBD oil and use the Headspace app to listen to a meditation to help me switch off.

Skincare philosophy: Actives are king. Use them according to your skin concerns. My go-tos are niacinamide for mild acne, retinol for skin health, azelaic acid for exfoliation, hyaluronic acid for hydration and vitamin C for hyperpigmentation.

Skincare non-negotiable: Cleansing twice a day is a must – no excuses.

I don’t care how tired you are, it has to be done. I also wear SPF religiously;

I feel naked without it.

Main skincare concern: Hyperpigmentation. As much as I love my melanated skin, this is the only drawback. I get dark spots easily, so I’m always on a mission to get rid of them so my skin tone looks more even.