It can be done in two ways; physically with a ‘scrub’ type of product that buffs the cells away, or chemically with ingredients such as AHA’s (Alpha hydroxyl acids) or BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids) which help to melt away the dead skin cells, but also your skin is super clever as it is continuously naturally exfoliating.

Actually, your skin is busy making a new surface every 22-28 days- how amazing is that!

Here at SkinGym, we prefer chemical exfoliation rather than physical as it works with the skin rather than quite literally taking away, so put down that scrub a dub dub!

So if the skin is designed to naturally exfoliate and do the job itself, do we really need to exfoliate? There are certain conditions and factors that can affect how quickly or slowly the skin sheds, so for example as we age the skins cell renewal slows down, with dry skin or skin exposed to the sun it can also slow down. With other skin conditions such as psoriasis, it’s quite the opposite and can speed up.

So what should I use & when?
We’ve put together a simple guide so you can see how to incorporate exfoliation into your routine for your specific skin concern:

All skins
We recommend using some sort of Vitamin A product to help normalise the skins natural exfoliation process that maybe AVST 1-5 moisturiser, C-Quence 1-4plus Moisturiser or Retinol 1-3. All of these contain Vitamin A which will help the skin to naturally exfoliate.

Acne/Oily skins
Salicylic acid is your best friend as it will help to sweep any excess oil & dead skin cells out of the pore. Sebuwash, Sebutone & Sebumasque all contain this ingredient to dissolve the oil and dead skin cells.

Ageing
If the skin is looking a bit dull and lifeless or maybe slightly sun-damaged then Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream or Concentrated Alpha Hydroxy Toner can help with to smooth and brighten the skin. These two products contain AHA’s to help smooth and exfoliate.

Dry
You need Lactic acid. This ingredient both exfoliates and nourishes the skin Moisturising Botanical Toner or Alpha Hydroxy Night cream will give you your glow back.

Dull/Lifeless
Revival Masque quite literally will make your skin glow. The combination of three acids help to exfoliate, brighten & tighten the skin.
Exfoliation can be a wonderful thing but the key is to not overdo it!! We do need some of those dead skin cells to protect our skin.

For more tips on how to cleanse your skin, check out my ‘Take the day off with me’ video on Instagram

Also check out the new Black Face Kloth – it’s an essential product I highly recommend.

As always we’re here to guide you on your skincare journey so feel free to book a consultation with me so I can give you the best recommendations.

Lots of skin love
Katherine x

The post To Exfoliate or Not to Exfoliate? That is the Question appeared first on The SkinGym.

Do you suffer from acne or acne-prone skin? Then you are not alone. Acne affects around 95% of people in the UK at some point in their life, and although synonymous with the teenage years, acne can still make an appearance in adults. Whether the symptoms are mild or severe, they can have a debilitating impact on self-esteem, so finding the best routine to treat the condition is crucial to getting you and your skin feeling its best.

The endless solutions and products designed for acne can be overwhelming. Hopefully, this quick guide will help you understand acne and how the correct skincare be one of the factors that can help treat your acne.

Causes and Prevention

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition caused by excess sebum and dead skin cells clogging the pores. As build-up occurs, bacteria become trapped and start to multiply, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, papules (small, red, tender bumps), pustules (similar to papules but with a pus-filled head) and in more severe cases, nodules (large, hard lumps beneath the skin).

Hormones, stress, lifestyle and over-zealous skincare routines can all cause acne. Hormones control skin oil production, whilst stress stimulates the oil glands, causing imbalances resulting in excess sebum production and potential acne flares.

What should you do if a breakout surfaces? When it comes to treating acne, consistency and routine are key. A pared-down skincare routine is the best way to soothe and care for your skin. See our recommendations below.

Cleanse

When acne flares, cleansing correctley is a priority in your routine. Wash your face twice daily to remove makeup, dirt and excess sebum that accumulate throughout the day. Avoid abrasive formulas with physical exfoliants and opt for cleansers like  Environ’s Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as; tea tree, salicylic acid and Sarcosine, Environ’s Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser gently cleanses the skin without aggravating blemishes and stripping moisture. If the skin is sensitized and inflamed then the Hydra Intense Cleansing Lotion can be a good option to calm and soothe.

Tone

Adding a toner to your routine can help to remove dead skin cells that cause blocked pores. The Sebu-Tone Clarifier utilises AHA exfoliants (Lactic Acid and Salicyclic Acid) to gently exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and excess cleanser from your previous step. The sebum-regulating ingredients minimise oiliness and shine whilst delivering a sterilisation effect on the skin to reduce bacteria and calm inflammation. This is a good option if there is a lot of congestion

Moisturise

If you avoid adding excess moisture so as not to aggravate your skin, you may want to re-think. Moisturising is a vital step in your routine to ensure that your skin barrier is working optimally to protect your skin from external aggressors. Moisturised skin can prevent scarring from severe acne, so it is not a step to miss.

Look out for non-comedogenic formulations that are likely to be less rich and clog your pores. Environ’s Sebu-Ace Oil is a vitamin-enriched oil that helps to minimise the appearance of blemishes. Packed with Vitamin A, C and E, this moisturising oil normalises oil production and cell renewal by delivering comfort and soothing your skin.

The final step to your daytime routine should always be SPF to protect your skin from the sun to prevent increased pigmentation of acne scars.

Results

Here is a before and after of a client who followed our advice and routine and what they had to say…

Our Skin Expert Katherine Taylor is on-hand to advise what treatments or products are best for your individual skin needs. Book a consultation today to start your journey to healthy, clear skin.

The post Your Complete Guide to Adult Acne appeared first on The SkinGym.

It’s that time of year, the nights are getting darker, the days are getting colder and we are swapping our little shackets for big puffer coats. With the temperature dropping, the thermostats are being cranked up – but what impact is this change in temperature and the use of heating having on our skin?

Believe it or not, the changing seasons can actually have a huge impact on your skin. Cold temperatures and dry air draw moisture away from the skin and harsh winds can lead it to crack.

We know it may be tempting to crank the heating up, have a really hot shower, and sit by the fireplace to keep warm in winter. However, heat can actually damage your skin in the same way – especially with the contrast in temperatures. This can really dry your skin out, and also cause mottled skin – this can eventually become permanent.

So how can you protect your skin in winter?

Avoid heat!

We know its really tempting to jump in a boiling hot shower to warm up after a cold day, but it is actually really bad for your skin and it can strip all the important oils needed for your skins barrier. Turn the dial down from hot to warm on the shower can save some of the skins moisture being stripped. Avoid washing your face in the shower and opt for a luke warm wash with a soft face mitt. Instead of having the heating on full time, if you can – choose the time of day where you will benefit from it the most, having it on for the whole day can really dry your skin out. Pop a humidifier to add some moisture back to the air if you’re sat right next to it.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Everyone talks about staying hydrated in summer, but its just as important to stay hydrated in winter too. As previously mentioned, heating can really dehydrate your skin, so ensure you are drinking at least 2.5 litres a day and to keep that water locked into the skin make sure you’ve got some good fats in your diet. Taking a Omega 3 & Hyaluronic Acid supplement can be really beneficial.

You may also have to add in a bit of extra moisture, super moisturiser is designed to act like a second skin and stop all of the skins natural oils escaping. Perfect if the skins feeling dry, tight and uncomfortable. You can also try our skin moisture lock and skin moisture IQ.

Don’t forget the sunscreen 

Just because it isn’t summer, it doesn’t mean you can skip out on the sun cream! Winter sun, is just as damaging to your skin, and even on a cloudy day UV rays are really strong. Sunscreen plays an important part if your skincare routine all year round. Try our Heliocare Oil free gel.

Speak to an expert

Skincare can be an absolute minefield and with every skin being different, it can be difficult to know what products are right for you. If you are unsure, speak to a skincare expert, who will be able to advise you on the best products to help you through winter. We also recommend a consultation before purchasing any of our products, book yours with us here. 

If you wish to discuss your skincare routine or what products to use, book a consultation with our Skincare Specialist Katherine Taylor who will be happy to help you on your skincare journey.

The post How to protect your skin this Winter appeared first on The SkinGym.

When it comes to looking after your skin, there are so many conflicting opinions on what is right. What one person says you should do, another says you absolutely should not – so it can be hard to know what is best for you.

Whilst everyone’s skin is different and therefore should be treated differently, there are some common ‘skin mistakes’ that many are making. We have put together some of the top 10 most common skin sins and how to avoid them.

1. Sleeping in your makeup

We’ve all been guilty of it, coming home late after a long day or a night out and being too tired to take our makeup off. But sleeping in makeup is one of the worst skin sins we can commit.

At night, cell mitosis peaks in our body. This is the process of renewing and repairing our skin, new cells are pushed to the surface, while your skin sheds old ones. Sleeping with makeup prevents the skin from being able to complete this cell turnover process, this can make your skin appear rough dull and dry.

2. Using baby wipes

Yes taking your makeup off is essential, but the way you take it off is also crucial. Although it may look like you are taking your makeup off, baby wipes are only formulated to remove organic material from the surface of the skin – not makeup. Using baby wipes can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. We also do not recommend using makeup wipes, not only can these contain harsh chemicals they can also completely strip your skin of oil. Fear not we have an alternative and it’s much kinder to the planet as its resuseable, introducing the FACE KLOTH. This microfiber mitt just needs water adding, then let it dissolve all the days dirt, grime and makeup off your face.

3. Not wearing SPF

One of the biggest skin sins you can make, and probably the most common, is not applying and reapplying SPF. SPF is so important in not only protecting our skin from sunburn and skin cancer, but in the fight against aging too. Damage from the sun’s harsh UV rays can cause your skin to age prematurely. A recent study* has found that people who use broad-spectrum sunscreen on a daily basis experience 24 percent less skin aging than those who don’t or only use it occasionally. Now that’s enough to reach for the SPF. Finding the right one is the key. We love Heliocare for the options of formulas.

4. Using water that is too hot

Although we all love nothing more than a nice warm shower, especially now it is getting colder outside, washing our face with water that is too hot can be really damaging.  Piping hot water can heighten skin sensitivity and strip it of its natural oils. Ideally I’d turn the temperature down on the shower or save washing your face for the sink

5. Not cleaning your tools

Cleaning your brushes is not always top of the list to think about in your daily routine, but regularly cleaning your makeup tools is really important. Bacteria can form and build up on your brushes, which in turn can lead to breakouts. Aim to wash your brushes every 4 weeks.

6. Over Exfoliation

A common myth is that you must exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate in order to have healthy glowing skin. This is not the case, over exfoliation can lead to sore, sensitive skin and sometimes even peeling and acne inflammation. Your skin is really clever and  naturally exfoliates itself. Sometimes with certain skin conditions and age  this can slow down. We recommend using Vitamin A to regulate your skins natural exfoliation process. We also love AHA’s to help speed up the exfoliation process. Why not try Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream.

7. Touching your face

Although it is really tempting, touching your face regularly can actually spread dirt and bacteria from your hands to your face. This can lead to breakouts, irritated skin and clogged pores. If you do need to touch your face, ensure your hands are clean or that you are washing them regularly! Absolutely no picking!! Leave that to the professionals!!

8. Not moisturising oily skin

A common misperception is that oily skin shouldn’t be moisturised. Whether your skin is oily or not, it should always be moisturised. Moisturisers contain important ingredients which draw the water into your skin and forms a protective layer that helps trap water into the skin. There are all kinds of different moisturisers, it is all about finding the right one for your skin type.

9. Using soap

 Whilst soap may be ok for general cleaning of your hands, it is not something that should be used to clean your face. Conventional soaps will not only strip your skin of its natural oils, they can also disrupt the pH of your skin and cause dryness and irritation. 

If you like the feel of washing your skin try Low Foam Cleaning Gel as this will be more effective and kinder to the skin

10. Not paying attention to your neck

Finally, having a good skincare routine for you neck and chest is equally as important as your face.  Whilst you may be using all the important products on your face, neglecting your neck could mean you look a different person from the chin down! Because the skin around the neck is so thin, it’s less capable of retaining moisture and in turn ages a lot faster than other parts of the body. It’s really important to keep this area hydrated if you want more youthful looking skin! No need for a separate neck product just make sure you include this area.

If you wish to discuss your skincare routine or what products to use, book a consultation with our Skincare Specialist Katherine Taylor who will be happy to help you on your skincare journey.

The post 10 Common Skin Sins appeared first on The SkinGym.

In recent years, growing studies have evidenced the correlation between gut health and its impact on skin conditions. The skin plays an important role in expelling toxins and water whilst also being the body’s first line of defense against harmful bacteria. Both the gut and skin are densely packed with blood vessels and nerves which provides a bidirectional connection adding to the age-old tale ‘You are what you eat’. Consequently, the skin can be a key indicator of any imbalances in your gut or your overall health.

Although topical skincare plays a major role in improving our skin condition, skin supplements help to maintain and retain radiant beautiful skin from the inside out. Take a look at our top key supplement categories below:

Pro-Biotics

Your gut microbiome contains trillions of microorganisms and bacteria that are vital for a correctly functioning gut and your overall health. Poor nutrition, stress, hormones and even antibiotics can disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome, resulting in breakouts and inflammation.

Skin Clear Biome is formulated from 4 specific strains of beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacterium Bifidum, Lactobacillus Helveticus, Lactobacillus Paracasei and Saccharomyces Bourlardii) that work in synergy to support the gut flora, soothe irritation and balance oil production. With the addition of zinc, Skin Clear Biome boosts the skin barrier and clarifies your complexion – keeping those pesky spots at bay.

Collagen

As we age, our natural collagen production decreases and the elasticity of our skin depletes, resulting in accentuated wrinkles and less firm complexions. Supplementing with ingredients that can boost your own collagen production can help the skin age better, look more youthful and glowing.

Skin Collagen Support is the next generation of collagen support. Vitamin C, zinc, MSM, grapeseed extract and melon concentrate work in harmony to defend and maintain the skins natural collagen and elastin production, leading to more supple, plump and smooth skin that protects from the signs of stress.

Omega Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are incredibly useful for the healthy function of our brain and our skin. Unlike other nutrients, essential fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6 cannot be produced naturally within the body. It is, therefore, important to supplement either by supplements themselves and in your diet.

Skin Omegas+ provide a combination of Omega-3, Omega-6 and Vitamin A. These deeply nourishing ingredients work to moisturise and hydrate all layers of the skin, reaching where your hydrating serums cannot. The skin across your entire body is nourished from within, resulting in an all-over luminous glow. Omega fatty acids are perfect for all skin types but, particularly those who struggle with dehydrated, sensitive skins or conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Multi-vitamin

The skin needs essential vitamins and fatty acids to function at optimum levels. It is common for many to focus their skincare regimes on the face and decolletage but neglect the skin on their bodies. Supplements are an easy way to ensure that your whole body recieves the critical nutrients it needs for a radiant glow.

Skin Vitality is a fantastic daily multi-vitamin for the skin, packed with 28 ingredients including; copper for maintenance of connective tissues keeping the skin supple, Vitamin B2 to reduce fatigue and Vitamin D to support bone and immune system function. This clever blend of ingredients also includes acai, bilberry, broccoli and spinach that are bursting with antioxidants, to protect your skin from free radicals and enhance your skin’s radiance.

If you wish to find out more on what supplements would be best suited to your skin, book a consultation with our Skincare Specialist Katherine Taylor who will be happy to help you on your skincare journey.

The post How to Feed Your Skin From Within appeared first on The SkinGym.

Skincare can be an overwhelming minefield when your skin begins to flare up, or you simply don’t know where to start. Picking the right products and the order that you apply them is essential for building an effective skin routine that delivers remarkable results.

We have broken down the core essentials that we should all be doing daily, regardless of skin type. If you follow these simple steps morning and night, with consistency, you will see a noticeable improvement in your skin texture, tone, and hydration.

Step Number 1: Cleansing

Cleansing is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine. Throughout the day, your skin produces oils, sweats and sheds dead skin cells – this is all before pollutants and added makeup take effect! All these factors contribute to clogged pores, breakouts and dull complexions. It is essential to cleanse your skin to remove these impurities to keep your skin healthy and radiant.
Finding the right cleanser for your skin type is equally as important as cleansing itself. For those with oily skin, Environ’s Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser is a beautiful foaming formula that uses tea tree, salicylic acid and sarcosine to break down dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin of all-important hydration. Environ’s Hydra-Intense Cleansing Lotion is a nourishing alternative for those on the dry end of the spectrum. Packed full of soothing ingredients, this luxuriously rich cleanser utilises jojoba seed oil and hydrolysed oats to lock in moisture and calm the skin.
To maximise your cleansing step, we would recommend double cleansing to ensure all impurities are removed before you move onto your next step.

Step Number 2: Serums/Treatment

With your skin now beautifully cleansed, it is now time to treat any skin concerns you may have. Whether it is scarring, pigmentation, ageing or acne, this second step is where you will turn to serums. The powerhouses of your routine, serums pack a punch and work wonders for your skin. Below are three ingredients to look out for when choosing a serum:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that is present within the skin’s primary layers. As we age, vitamin C levels decline, resulting in a dull, uneven and less firm complexion. Adding a Vitamin C serum to your routine will boost the radiance of your skin, provide a healthy glow, and help to brighten dark spots. Vitamin C is also a great team player that can be used with other antioxidants and exfoliants, such as niacinamide. Environ’s Intense C-Boost Mela-Even Cream is a fantastic option for those struggling with pigmentation due to its super doses of Vitamin C & E that help to lighten and brighten the skin.

Vitamin A

Retinol is the most well known derivative of Vitamin A found in skincare but we like to give the skin a briggade of different tyoes of Vitamin A to ensure the best results. Vitamin A is a hero ingredient found in our moisturisers and serums. It really is a hero ingredient as it does so much for the skin such as stimulate collagen and elastin production to help reduce fine lines, stimulates the skins natural exfoliation process to make a smooth skin, increases the skins natural moisture levels to keep the skin hydrated and plump, making it a brilliant ingredient to use across all skin types and concerns.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is the foundation of hydrated skin. A naturally occurring substance in the body, hyaluronic acid can hold 1,000 times its weight in water which leads to plump and deeply hydrated skin. Perfect for all skin types (even oily skin can be dehydrated!) hyaluronic acid is a great addition to your routine to deliver a healthy, more youthful complexion. Environ’s HA Intensive Hydrating Serum is an excellent serum that delivers results and layers well with the other products within your routine.

Step Number 3: Moisturise

Slightly heavier in formulation and texture, moisturisers act as a barrier to lock in all the essential goodness you have applied in the cleansing and treatment steps of your routine. They help to keep the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) healthy, which goes on to protect your skin from irritants and inflammation, whilst also maintaining hydration in the deeper skin layers. The molecular structure of the stratum corneum includes both ceramides and fatty acids, therefore, it is beneficial to supplement your skin with a moisturiser with these two components.

Step Number 4: SPF

Last but certainly not least is SPF, the most important step in your daily routine that protects your skin from sun damage and reduces the risk of skin cancer. There has been a surgent of lightweight SPF formulations that deliver the crucial broad-spectrum protection that feel comfortable on the skin – no more heavy, greasy formulations! Sun damage is the leading cause of pigmentation and premature ageing, as it increases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Incorporating an SPF into your routine will help to prevent and diminish these skin concerns Heliocare 360 Oil Free Gel SPF 50 is a weightless sunscreen making it perfect for all skin types, that includes UVA & UVB filters and antioxidants to provide ultimate skin protection.

If you would like to discuss what products and routines would work best for you, book in for a skin consultation with Katherine Taylor, who will help you achieve your skin goals.

The post Your Back To Basics Skin Care Routine appeared first on The SkinGym.

If you struggle with acne scarring, pigmentation or would like to give a boost of youth back to your skin, then our new SkinPen micro-needling treatment is for you. Take a look at our quick guide below for all the information you need before you book your first appointment.

What is the SkinPen?

The SkinPen is a cutting-edge device that delivers collagen stimulation therapy (CST) to the skin. More commonly known as micro-needling, the SkinPen creates microscopic punctures in the skin via the insertion of fine, short, sterilised needles. This process stimulates the body’s natural wound healing process, which causes an increase in collagen and elastin production. Don’t fret if you have a low pain threshold, the sensation is akin to a pinprick!

What are the benefits?

As the SkinPen rejuvenates from the inside out by triggering the skin to produce growth factors this treatment really is the ultimate for total rejuvenation of the skin.

SkinPen stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, which in turn sees an increase in both collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are key components to preventing signs of ageing by plumping the skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and increasing the skin elasticity to deliver a lifted tightened complexion.

Also known as scarless healing, SkinPen can replace damaged scar tissue with new healthy collagen meaning this is the ultimate treatment for most types of scarring, enlarged pores  and also pigmentation

SkinPen is the treatment that keeps on giving as you see a plumper fresher skin after about 7 days but the ultimate results come through after about 3 months. After your first session, your skin will look instantly more plump, refreshed, and luminous. As with all skin treatments, your desired results will depend on your skin concern, which will determine the number of sessions you will need. Our lovely skincare expert Katherine is on hand to advise on how many sessions you will need.

At Home vs. In Clinic?

Although you can use micro-needling rollers at home like our Cosmetic Gold Roll CIT these at-home treatments work to enhance penetration of product rather than rejuvenating the skin.

If you want to correct a particular skin concern, we recommend a course of treatments in the clinic. The SkinPen utilises slightly sharper needles, that when used correctly by a professional, can deliver more effective results. The SkinPen also increases the efficiency of your skincare, allowing the different steps in your routine to penetrate deeper into the skin’s surface.

Take a look at our video before on all things SkinPen, or alternatively get in touch today to discuss how our exciting SkinPen treatment can help you on your skincare journey – this isn’t one to be missed!

The post Everything You Need to Know About SkinPen appeared first on The SkinGym.

For the skincare savvy among us, acids will be tried and tested in your routine. Variations of different acids can be found in cult-favourite toners, serums and moisturisers; with each providing results for specific skin concerns. If acids are new to you, don’t fear we have created a quick guide on the different types of acids, when best to use them and how they benefit different skin concerns.

Bring on the glow! Exfoliating Acids

AHAs – Alpha Hydroxy Acids

You have probably seen these in numerous products and are commonly known as; Glycolic, Citric, Mandelic and Lactic. AHAs aid the exfoliation of the skin and stimulate collagenproduction making them the perfect addition to an anti-ageing skin regime.

Glycolic is arguably the best known AHA, it is the most effective in the AHA family due to its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin as it contains the smallest molecule in AHAs. Our favorite AHA is Lactic Acid as its found naturally in the skin and has lots of extra benefits such as inhibiting pigment- great for uneven skin tone, it helps to aid moisture in the skin and tends to be less aggravating to the skin.

We recommend the Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream.

BHAs – Beta Hydroxy Acids

BHAs are the sister to AHAs, similar in that they also exfoliate the skin and remove build-up and dead skin cells which contribute to dull skin and blocked pores. BHAs differ due to their molecular structure which is oil-soluble, unlike AHAs which are water-soluble. This allows for deeper penetration into the pores making BHAs extremely effective in treating acne and blemish-prone skin. BHAs also have natural soothing properties so can be used for sensitive skin whether oily or dry. 

Salicylic acid is the most popular of BHAs and is commonly used for targeting blemishes and acne due to its antibacterial and skin calming properties.

Take a look at Environ’s Sebu-Wash & Sebu-Tone.

Ready for Radiance? Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) differs from other acids as it solely hydrates the skin rather than exfoliating. HA is a naturally occurring substance in the body with the impressive ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water! It is a perfect ingredient for those needing a boost of hydration or wanting a plump, hydrated complexion.

We recommend HA Intensive Hydrating Serum.

Can you use AHAs and BHAs together?

Many acid-focused products are formulated with a combination on AHA & BHA acids. For your first foray into acids, take a look at a toner or a moisturiser. If the doses are too high within your products you may experience some peeling, therefore, build up and limit acid use (apart from HA) to 2-3 times per week dependent on your skin concern.

Consider the Botanical Moisturising Toner.

If you want to learn more on how acids can aid your skincare journey, contact our skincare expert Katherine for a skin consultation and product recommendations to achieve a radiant complexion.

The post Your Guide to Skincare Acids appeared first on The SkinGym.

We’re not all blessed with flawless complexions (if you are, we salute you!) and skin can fluctuate with breakouts or dryness dependent on stress and hormones. If your skin is singing out for some TLC or an extra boost, adding a serum to your routine is a must.

The world of skincare can be a minefield and it can be hard to differentiate between the multitude of products on offer and where to add them to your routine. That’s why we’ve put together our guide for all things serums and our recommendations based on your skin concern.

What is serum?

Serums are made of smaller molecules that penetrate deeply into the skin; this makes them perfect for targeting specific skincare concerns as they deliver high concentrations of active ingredients.

How should I apply serum?

You should use a serum after cleansing and eye cream but before your other regime steps. This will ensure your skin receives the maximum effects before you layer your moisturiser on top to lock in all those skin-loving actives.

If you want to accelerate your results and indulge your skin, introduce a gua sha or micro-needling into your routine. Micro-needling allows for greater penetration of active ingredients into the skin, making it the perfect partner to your favourite serum. Take a look at our micro-needling rollers.

Gua sha stones are also great tools to use alongside your serum. Gua sha stones encourage lymphatic drainage, lift, sculpt and reduce the signs of ageing! To use apply your favourite serum or face oil to provide some slip to the skin and gently sweep across the face. Find out more on how to use our gua sha tools here.

What serum should I use?

Anti-ageing

If fighting the signs of ageing is top of your to-do list, then serums are your new best friend. Turn to serums containing peptides for plump, hydrated skin that reduces the signs of wrinkles and fine lines. Peptides are short chain amino acids that act as the building blocks for proteins such as collagen. Collagen strengthens the skin and provides elasticity that gives skin a radiant bounce. As we age our collagen production decreases, therefore, it is vital to support the production to retain a youthful complexion. Our recommendation would be Environ’s Tri-Peptide Complex Avance Elixir.

Acne/blemish-prone skin

You may shudder at the thought of adding anything new to your regime if you suffer from breakouts or acne. However, choosing a lightweight serum with ingredients such as salicylic acid to unclog pores or vitamin C to reduce inflammation and correct skin tone could be a game-changer. Colostrum gel can also work wonders as it is naturally antiseptic and helps to repair the skin barrier. Take a look at Environ’s Vita Enriched Colostrum gel here.

Dry skin

A great addition to your regime regardless of your skin type, but perfect for those with drier complexions are serums containing hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body and holds 1000 times its weight in water, making it the perfect remedy to plump and hydrate parched skins. Keeping your skin hydrated also helps to diminish the look of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin texture. We love Environ’s HA Intensive Hydrating Serum.

Stressed skin

Stress is a part of everyday life and your skin is the first place to show it. Environ’s new Serience Night Serum packed full of active powerhouses like malachite extract (an antioxidant to protect from stress), neuropholine (to energise and reset the skin), Argireline Amplified (to relax fine lines) and Matrixyl Morphomic (a powerful peptide that reconnects the skin and boosts collagen). Use it as part of your nighttime routine to wake up refreshed and a little less stressed.

Watch my video guide all about serums…

If you need any help choosing the right serum for your skin, book in for a face-to-face or video skin consultation with our skincare expert Katherine Taylor.

The post How to Use Skincare Serums appeared first on The SkinGym.

Balancing looking after your children, yourself, and working at the same time can be difficult! As a mum of two small girls myself, trust me I know. If looking after you is at the bottom of your list of things to do, then read on for our top tips for rejuvenating your skin without taking too much time out of your day.

1. Feed your skin

It’s easier said than done, we know, but drinking lots of water, eating fruits and veggies and taking skin-targeted supplements will ensure that your skin is being nourished from the inside, and gives topical treatments a better chance of working as well.

Try to cut down on toxins like caffeine, alcohol and processed food (I know it can be difficult if you’re sleep deprived!) as they can cause your complexion to become dull, but you’ll reap the rewards when you see the benefits in your skin.

2. Make the most of your cleanser

Your cleanser is the first step in your skincare routine, ideally you should be cleansing morning and night. If you need help picking the right cleanser for you, take a look at our blog post on the subject. If you have time, we recommend a double cleanse to ensure that your skin is beautifully clear of the day’s pollution, sweat, dirt and grime. It sets you up so your skin is ready to absorb whatever comes next in your skincare routine, whether that’s a toner, a serum or just a moisturiser.

If you’re lucky enough to take a bit of time out incorporating a quick facial massage tool such as Gua Sha can instantly give your skin a pick me up

3. Vitamin C

A brilliant all-rounder, Vitamin C can help to reduce hyperpigmentation, correct skin tone and brighten your skin. We recommend Environ’s Intense C-Boost Mela-Even Cream to give your complexion a gorgeous, radiant glow.

4. Tackle tired eyes

If you need a pick me up to help those tired eyes look no further than the Vita Peptide Eye Gel from Environ. This will be your new best friend to make even the most tired eyes look brighter, more hydrated and plumper.

5. Make time to treat your skin

You absolutely deserve some me-time – take a moment to prioritise yourself and pop into a clinic for a treatment. Whether you have a particular skin concern you want to address, or perhaps you just need a moment to relax – let the professionals pamper you!

6. Bonus tip – be kind to yourself

There are many factors that can affect your skin, so don’t forget to be kind to yourself. If you wouldn’t say that to your friend or your child, then don’t say it to yourself!

If you need any help choosing the right skincare product for your skin, book in for a face-to-face or video skin consultation with our skincare expert Katherine Taylor.

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