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

Can Drinking Water Reduce Dark Circles?

We touched upon these pesky, often stubborn under-eye shadows last week, dark circles under the eyes are a common skin concern, often attributed to lack of sleep, stress, or ageing.

While there’s no shortage of eye creams and treatments promising miraculous results, a fundamental factor often overlooked is hydration and just how much of an impact can drinking water have on reducing dark circles?

Dark circles are primarily a result of the thin skin under the eyes showing the blood vessels and the blood they contain more clearly than anywhere else on the body. Factors such as lack of sleep, ageing, and genetics can exacerbate their appearance.

Hydration & Skin Health

Hydration plays a vital role in skin health. Adequate water intake ensures that the skin remains elastic, soft, and supple. Dehydration, on the other hand, can lead to dry, flaky, and dull skin.

While dehydration’s immediate impact may be more apparent on other areas of the face, it can accentuate the appearance of dark circles under the eyes over time.

Dehydration can cause the skin to become dry and lose its elasticity. This can make dark circles more prominent as the skin thins, allowing blood vessels to become more visible. Hydration can improve blood circulation, potentially lessening the appearance of dark circles. Drinking water, therefore, can be an essential part of your skincare regimen focused on reducing the visibility of dark circles.

Along with helping us to banish our dark circles, keeping hydrated can also help us with –

1. Improved Complexion: Drinking water flushes out toxins, potentially improving your skin tone.

2. Less Puffiness: Adequate water intake can also reduce puffiness by balancing the water-salt ratio in the skin.

3. Anti-Ageing: Hydration can help maintain skin’s elasticity, slowing down the ageing process.

How Much Water?

The golden rule is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, known colloquially as the “8×8 rule.” However, individual needs can vary based on lifestyle, climate, and physical activity. A more personalised guideline is to drink at least half an ounce to an ounce of water for each pound you weigh.

Just Water…. ?

Drinking water is just one way to keep your body hydrated. Consuming foods with high water content like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges can also contribute to your daily hydration needs. Herbal teas and infused waters offer an excellent alternative for those who find plain water less appealing.

The Best Part ….

Prioritise getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to give your skin the rest it needs to repair itself.

The Takeaway from this ….

Drinking water alone may not completely erase dark circles, but it can certainly help reduce their prominence and improve your overall skin health.

Hydration should be viewed as a part of a comprehensive skincare routine that includes proper sleep, nutrition, and topical treatments.

The connection between drinking water and dark circles is compelling but not exclusive. While proper hydration can help improve your skin’s appearance and potentially reduce dark circles, it’s crucial to adopt a skincare approach for effective, long-lasting results.

This should ideally combine proper hydration, balanced nutrition, topical treatments, and adequate sleep for the best outcome.

By prioritising hydration as part of your daily routine, you’re not just addressing dark circles but also contributing to your overall well-being and skin health.

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

Dark circles under the eyes are not just a sign of fatigue; they mirror our daily habits. From sleep deprivation to excessive screen time, various lifestyle factors can exacerbate this issue, making it crucial to address them for lasting improvement.

Insufficient sleep is a significant contributor to dark circles. It causes blood vessels under the eyes to dilate, creating a dark tint, and the way you can help yourself is easy –

7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly.
Create a consistent sleep schedule.
Make your sleeping environment comfortable and free from distractions.

The effects of dehydration can make dark circles appear more pronounced as the skin under the eyes becomes dry and dull.

Drink at least eight glasses of water daily.
Include hydrating foods in your diet.
Use a moisturising eye cream daily.

Excessive Screen Time is a big contributory factor, this can strain the eyes, leading to dark circles and puffiness.

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Adjust screen brightness and contrast for comfort.
Use anti-reflective screens or glasses.

Poor dietary choices with processed foods and sugar, can enhance the appearance of dark circles.

Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake.
Include vitamin K and vitamin E rich foods in your diet.

Chronic stress and anxiety can worsen the appearance of dark circles by impacting sleep and causing fatigue.

Implement stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and exercise.
Consider professional counseling or therapy.
Ensure adequate downtime and relaxation in your routine

Here are Some Practical Tips for Addressing Dark Circles

Regular Eye Massage

A gentle massage can improve blood circulation, reducing the appearance of dark circles. Use an under-eye cream with retinol and vitamin C to enhance the benefits.

Appropriate Sun Protection

Sun exposure can worsen dark circles. Use a quality sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect the sensitive under-eye area.

Use of Quality Skincare Products

Invest in skincare products specifically designed for the under-eye area. Opt for those with hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants.

Consistent Skincare Routine

Maintain a consistent skincare routine, including proper cleansing, moisturising, and regular use of an eye cream.

Professional Treatments

Consider professional treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and fillers for persistent dark circles.

Lifestyle and dark circles are intimately connected, making lifestyle adjustments fundamental in managing this concern. Prioritising sleep, hydration, a balanced diet, and a robust skincare routine, while mitigating stress, screen time, and smoking, can significantly reduce dark circles. Embrace a lifestyle conducive to your overall well-being and watch the transformation it brings not just to your under-eye area but to your entire countenance.

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

It’s fair to say that vitamin C has had a MOMENT in skincare in the last five years.

It’s not surprising, given the fact that this powerful antioxidant has many skin benefits, including helping to brighten and protect the skin.

Vitamin C is pretty complex when it comes to skin formulations, as we’re about to reveal. It’s important to note that not all vitamin C products out there are equal. Read on to find out why!

What’s so great about Vitamin C?

Let’s begin with a few reasons why we recommend incorporating vitamin C into most skincare routines. This multifunctional powerhouse ingredient is a major antioxidant, which means it will defend your skin against free radical damage from environmental aggressors, like pollution and UV rays.

It works seamlessly at both the surface level and deep down, to protect skin DNA for optimal cellular health. It also helps support the body’s natural production of collagen, which improves the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring.

If you’re concerned about hyperpigmentation or dull skin (who isn’t?), then vitamin C is a great active ingredient to add to your routine as it helps to even out the skin tone and brighten.

As an anti-inflammatory ingredient, vitamin C helps combat the signs of ageing, as there is a very close link between ageing and inflammation in the body. Vitamin C also supports the skin’s natural production of hydration in the long term, helping to keep the skin in optimal condition.

The big secret is that vitamin C is NOT seasonal; you can use it year-round! Vitamin C is a key ingredient in fighting pigmentation, making it your go-to post-summer saviour and as we begin to move into the cooler months, the environment will soon start to change, and as we get cold and the heat goes on, our skin is likely to suffer, becoming dry or dehydrated and looking dull. Once again, call on vitamin C for antioxidant support, extra hydration, and that radiant glow.  

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

Thinking about an in-clinic treatment?

Or already have a booking?

Then we have good news for you, you can boost your results! No matter what your treatment is, from microneedling to chemical peels, YOU can improve your skin outcome.

Everything you do in the weeks before and after will have an impact on your treatment, from the skincare you use, to how much sleep you get. We like to think about prepping for a treatment like prepping for a marathon.

If you’ve been a coach potato and turn up to run a marathon your outcome will never be as good as if you’ve spent time training and readying your body to perform on the day. Similarly, if your skin is in really good condition on the day of your treatment, your results will be even better! So don’t save all the good skincare for afterward, your treatment isn’t the beginning, today is!

When it comes to your skin pro, they will be thrilled if your skin is at its best on the day of treatment. It means they can potentially go deeper, stronger, and harder meaning they will have more fun and you’ll get both amazing results and the best value too! Plus, if your skin is more resilient and stronger there’s a chance your pro will be able to combine more than one skin treatment at your appointment, so you might be able to have, for example, an enzymatic peel followed by some light-based therapy.

It’s the same with your recovery, if you follow good aftercare, you will have better and quicker results. There’s so much you can do outside of your treatment slot to get your skin in prime condition before you even walk through the clinic door.

Here are our top 5 hacks, so don’t delay and start today!

No 1 Take a look at your wellbeing.

Focusing on your gut health as any inflammation here will often show up on the skin as redness, dullness, or breakouts. Then there’s sleep, intrinsic to skin health and recovery, so ensure you get enough in the weeks leading up to your treatment.
 

No 2 Prep with Medical-Grade Skincare to Get Great Results

Don’t save your precious AlumierMD skincare for after your treatment. Work with your pro to ensure your daily skin routine is working hard for your skin goals and needs. If your skin is in tip-top condition when you walk through the clinic door your treatments will be even more successful.
 

No 3 Do at-home facials.

In the weeks leading up to your treatment spend a bit of extra time on a weekly or bi-weekly at home facial. Ask your pro for a mask recommendation; you can also read about face masks in our Halloween blog post.
 

No 4 Set your pro a challenge

Arrive at the clinic with such good skin that your pro will need to work extra hard to take it to the next level!
 

No 5 Follow the aftercare routine set by your pro

Your pro will advise you on what to use when for the first few weeks after your treatment. If you follow it to the letter, you will have better and quicker results, can’t say fairer than that!

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