Month: January 2024

Sleep helps to combat a multitude of issues from gut health to stress and is an important cornerstone of wellness. Prioritising sleep will help your body on every level and allow you to get the most from your skincare regime.

How lack of sleep impacts skin

Ever woken up after a broken night’s sleep to puffy eyes, a dull complexion and slack skin? Beauty sleep is no joke, we really do look tired when we’re struggling with sleep, and that’s because our body perceives loss of sleep as stress. After a bad night our cortisol levels rise and that means skin is less able to repair efficiently and in the morning it shows. By ensuring you get enough shut eye you’ll limit your cortisol levels which is good news for your skin, not to mention your mind and body.

How to get better sleep

According to The Sleep Charity, the average sleep an adult requires or might expect to sleep is around eight hours a night. However, there is no ‘normal’ length of time, it is whatever is natural for you.” Sticking to a consistent bedtime routine and keeping a regular bedtime and wake time will help your body’s sleep system to stay balanced. Follow our tips below and you’ll drift off for the restorative sleep your skin needs in no time.

Time to power down

Screen time is a big issue in the modern world, our mobile phones, tablets and computers keep us connected, but they can also rob us of precious sleep time. It’s not just the mental stimulation they provide, it’s also the specific blue light that they emit. Blue light inhibits the hormone that helps us to fall asleep – melatonin and makes us think it’s time to wake up! 

The Sleep Charity recommends avoiding screens for an hour before bedtime and suggests switching off overhead lights and turning on lamps to help ease your body into sleep mode.

Create a calm sanctuary

Make sure your bedroom feels relaxing, it should invite sleep not lead you into worrying about the to-do list, so try to keep it neat and clutter-free. So many of us now work from home and have makeshift offices, but it’s well worth banishing all work paraphernalia from your bedroom, make it a place you love being that is free of stress and busyness. Lavender is naturally calming, so try a pillow mist, diffuser or light a candle to fill your space with chilled out vibes.

Unwind and relax

A racing mind when we get into bed is completely understandable, but it won’t help you to get the restorative sleep you need. Spending some time before bed unwinding will mean you can climb into bed already relaxed and simply drift off. Instead of watching that extra episode Netflix tantalisingly suggests, turn off the tech and reach for a book to help you move into the right frame of mind for sleep.

The optimum temperature

It’s tempting to think that an extra warm room will help you to sleep, but according to The Sleep Charity “our body heat peaks late afternoon and then starts to drop in the evening to prepare your body for sleep, kickstarting melatonin production. An ideal bedroom temperature is around 16-18° C.” Falling asleep can be a challenge when it is too cold (or too hot), so make sure your nightwear keeps you cosy or cool as necessary and invest in natural fibres like cotton or silk as the plastic fibres of polyester and nylon can keep us too hot and lead to unsettled night.

When we don’t sleep well it can have a huge impact on our wellness in general, causing issues in all sorts of areas, we know zzzz’s are crucial for health and happiness, not to mention skin health.

If you have any skin concerns please get in touch or book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 731762

Why is it so Important?

We are all chasing radiant and healthy skin and making informed decisions about your skincare regimen is paramount.

While countless products and DIY routines claim to be the magic solution to all your skin concerns, nothing compares to the expertise and personalised guidance you can receive from a personalised consultation.

This blog explores the benefits of booking a consultation at a skincare clinic and why it’s a crucial step in your journey to achieving your skincare goals.

Tailored Assessments

One of the foremost advantages of a skincare clinic consultation is the opportunity for a tailored assessment of your skin. Every individual’s skin is unique, influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures.

Our Skincare professionals have the expertise to thoroughly evaluate your skin’s condition, identifying its specific needs and concerns. This serves as the foundation for ceating a skincare plan that accomodates your skin’s requirements.

Targeted Solutions

Having a consultation at a skincare clinic empowers you to access targeted solutions for your skin concerns. Whether you’re dealing with acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or any other skin issue, the experts at the clinic can recommend the most suitable treatments and products. This ensures that your skincare routine isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach but rather a precise and strategic plan designed to address your unique concerns.

Treatment Options

One of the key benefits of a skincare clinic consultation is a wide variety of treatment options that may not be readily available over the counter.

Clinics offer a range of advanced treatments, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and more.

These treatments are performed by skilled professionals and are tailored to your specific skin goals. Booking a consultation opens the door to exploring these transformative treatments that can rejuvenate and revitalize your skin.

Product Recommendations

Navigating the world of skincare products can be overwhelming, with brands hungry for your attention.

During a clinic consultation, skincare experts can recommend products that are best suited for your skin type and concerns. These recommendations take the guesswork out of your skincare routine, ensuring you invest in products that deliver results.

Education and Awareness

A consultation at a skincare clinic is an educational experience that equips you with a deeper understanding of your skin. Skincare professionals often take the time to explain your skin’s condition, the causes of specific issues, and the science behind recommended treatments.

This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your skincare routine and fosters a sense of responsibility for your skin’s well-being.

Long-Term Planning

Effective skincare is a journey, not a destination. We understand the importance of long-term planning and can create comprehensive treatment plans that span months or even years. This ensures that your skin receives consistent care and monitoring, allowing you to achieve and maintain the desired results over time.

Confidence Boost

When you invest in your skin’s health through a skincare clinic consultation, you’re taking a proactive step toward enhancing your overall appearance and well-being. As you witness the positive changes in your skin, it’s natural for your confidence to soar. Healthy, glowing skin can boost your self-esteem and provide a renewed sense of self-assurance.

Please get in touch or book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 731762

As we get further in to the New Year, why not add skin care to the list of good intentions to set yourself.

With small changes, you can create your new skin care resolutions this New Year and improve the overall health of your skin, prevent signs of aging, and ensure your skin has a healthy glow all year round.

Commit to these skin care resolutions now so you can enjoy the benefits all year long.

Clean Out Your Skin Care Collection

Skin care products sadly, do not last Every six months, take the time to clear out your stockpile of skin care products. Keep the products you love, pass on the ones you don’t, check expiration dates, and toss anything that’s too old.

Moisturise Morning & Night

Moisturising your skin encourages healthy cell turnover, helps fight the signs of aging, rehydrates and plumps the skin, and restores the moisture you lose throughout the day—all of which play an essential part in ensuring your skin looks its best. Apply moisturiser every morning and night to keep skin hydrated.

Pamper Your Lips

Don’t neglect your lips! Dry lips can lead to cracking, bleeding, chapping, and other damage. Use moisturising lip products regularly to protect and hydrate the skin of your lips, especially during the cold and wintry months.

Wash Your Makeup Brushes

Washing your makeup brushes not only helps them last longer but also gets rid of harmful bacteria. Commit to washing your brushes with water and a drop of gentle shampoo every week to keep them clean.

Wear Skin-Healthy Makeup

Skin care products and makeup you use should work together to keep your skin balanced and nourished. Aim to use skin-healthy makeup that won’t irritate your skin or clog your pores to achieve a healthier complexion in the new year.

Take Off Your Makeup At Night

Leaving your makeup on overnight can clog your pores, lead to blackheads and acne, accelerate signs of aging, and cause other skin problems. If you wear makeup during the day, take the time to wash your face before climbing into bed that night.

Use A Face Mask Once A Week

Face Masks are a great addition to your skin care routine and come in a variety, designed to address specific skin care issues. Use a face mask one to three times a week after cleansing to repair damaged skin and achieve a smoother complexion.

Wear Sunscreen Every Single Day

Let’s make this the year that you apply sunscreen to your face and neck every single day—no matter the weather or season. Additionally, cover all other exposed skin before heading outside, including the backs of your hands and your forearms. Aim for products with an SPF of at least 30 to 50, and follow the directions to ensure you get full protection.

Start An Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine

It’s never too late to start an anti-aging skin care routine that helps minimise the signs of aging. By incorporating anti-aging products into your existing skin care routine, you can prevent fine lines and wrinkles and maintain a plump, youthful appearance.

Be Consistent

When it comes to skin care, consistency is key. To experience the benefits of most skin care routines, you must give them time to work. It can take weeks for you to notice changes caused by some skin care products. This New Year, make a resolution to create a skin care routine that you can follow consistently.

Please get in touch or book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 731762

The allure of youthful, radiant skin is something most of us aspire to maintain throughout our lives. While genetics and skincare routines play significant roles in our skin’s health, our diet and nutritional choices can often be the unsung heroes (or culprits) in the tale of ageing skin.

The Power of Nutrition

Our skin, being the largest organ, reflects our internal health, and it’s often the first place to show signs of nutritional imbalances or deficiencies. Proper nutrition can provide our skin with the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs to fight off the damage caused by free radicals and other environmental stressors.

It is true when they say “you are what you eat!”

Key Nutrients in the Fight Against Ageing

Antioxidants:

These mighty molecules combat free radicals in the body, which are a major contributor to skin ageing. Foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as oranges, strawberries, almonds, and sunflower seeds, can bolster skin health by offering an antioxidant boost.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Prominent in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, omega-3s are pivotal in maintaining skin’s lipid barrier, a crucial element in keeping skin hydrated and plump.

Vitamin A:

This vitamin, found abundantly in sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens, aids in skin cell production and repair, ensuring skin remains smooth and revitalised.

Collagen and Amino Acids:

Lean meats, beans, and dairy are excellent sources of amino acids which are the building blocks of collagen – the protein responsible for skin’s elasticity.

Water:

While not a ‘nutrient’, staying hydrated is vital. Water helps in maintaining skin moisture and delivering essential nutrients to skin cells.

Foods to Embrace and Avoid

The Good –

Fatty Fish

As mentioned earlier, fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fats, which are essential for maintaining skin health.

Avocados

These creamy fruits are high in beneficial fats and contain vitamins E and C, acting as a natural moisturiser for your skin.

Nuts and Seeds

Packed with a plethora of nutrients, they contain skin-boosting ingredients like selenium, zinc, and protein.

The Not-so-Good –

Sugary Foods and Drinks

Excess sugar can lead to glycation, where sugars attach to collagen fibres, making them stiff and inflexible, leading to premature ageing.

Overconsumption of Alcohol

It can dehydrate the skin, causing it to appear more dry and wrinkled.

Highly Processed Foods

Often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium, these can contribute to skin inflammation and dehydration.

The Role of Digestive Health

The gut-skin connection has been a burgeoning area of research. A healthy gut can lead to a clear complexion, while a troubled digestive system can result in skin issues, including premature ageing.

Including probiotics in your diet, found in yoghurt and fermented foods, can improve gut health, indirectly benefiting skin.

Stay Hydrated, Stay Youthful

Water is imperative in keeping skin hydrated and toxin-free. Dehydrated skin can appear dull and exhibit pronounced lines and wrinkles.

Drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water daily can have profound effects on skin appearance and health.

Lifestyle, Diet, and Skin Health

While diet plays a significant role, other lifestyle factors like stress, lack of sleep, and smoking can exacerbate skin ageing.

Adopting a holistic approach that marries a balanced diet with a healthy lifestyle can have a significant effect with the onset of lines and wrinkles.

Please get in touch or book in for a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 731762