Style clinic
Dear Style Clinic,
I am missing my usual monthly facials, as much for the physical pampering as for the skincare benefits. What do you suggest?
It’s not just about the anti-ageing factor. Facials can and do play a vital role in our emotional wellbeing. Dr Katerina Steventon, a facial skin consultant therapist based in Beverley, East Yorkshire explored the role of facial touch in relaxation using EEG (electroencephalography) and found that facial touch contributes to stress relief, delivering direct physiological benefits to the skin and muscles of the face. The study participants had their brain alpha waves measured prior to starting on a trial using a light facial serum for a daily evening facial massage (10 minutes long). There was an increase in these alpha waves – a measure of relaxation – after a month.
We can achieve some of the wellbeing and anti-ageing benefits of DIY facial massage at home using facial serums, particularly those containing ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, squalene, salicylic acid and ceramides. Marks & Spencer has a great Pure range of serums, £18 each. If you prefer an oil, Eve Lom’s Radiance Facial Oil is a legendary face nourisher, 60 at Eve Lom, available at Space NK.
Based on her own results, Dr Steventon developed her 1-4-9 Signature Routine Collection with a Calming Cleanser, Anti-Ageing Serum and Radiance Eye and Lip Serum.