Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Skin & Body Care - the questions everyone wants to know

SKINCARE:

Why do I need a different moisturiser for day and night?


"The skin has different needs in the day to those of the evening when you are sleeping. During the day your skin is exposed to pollution, UV rays and the elements. You may wear makeup, be in air conditioning all day, all these things affect the skin. So during the day your moisturiser might have a higher level of anti-oxidants to help quench free radicals, sun protection to deflect UV damage and moisture binding ingredients to keep the skin well hydrated. In the evening however, your basal cell regeneration is higher so rejuvenating and repairing ingredients work more effectively, ingredients such as Retinol from Vitamin A will be more effective in the evening when you are resting. Some ingredients may make your skin sun sensitive; acne preparations, lightening ingredients and even botanical bases with essential oils, these should be used in the evening too. In a nutshell the rule of thumb is in the day; protect in the evening; correct and repair."

We recommend: For daytime: "C" Evolutive Eye Gel & Hydrating Sunscreen with Anti-oxidants for face and body and for the Evening: Evolutive Eye Cream and Power Repair Line

What’s the difference between a face mist and toner?

"A mist is generally a hydrating spritz that contains moisture binding ingredients such as hyaluronic whereas a toner or lotion is wiped on the skin to aid in the removal of water soluble pollutants and complete the cleansing process."

We recommend: Phyto-Aromatic Mist

How can you temporarily zap pimples?

"Most pimple preparations contain ingredients such as peroxides which oxygenate the skin, ideal as bacteria cannot survive in oxygen, however many are drying so organic peroxides are now the preferred choice. Anything which helps to reduce inflammation is helpful; the quickest way to reduce a red and angry pimple is by rubbing ice over the area and keeping the skin clean."

We recommend: Clarifyl Spot Treatment

Why does my skin feel taut after cleansing?

"If your skin feels tight and taut after cleansing then your skin's pH is too alkaline, in other words your skin is dehydrated. There are a number of factors that contribute; excessive sweating, medications, low fat diet to name a few, but the most common is dryness associated with cosmetic products that are too harsh or aggressive for your skin. Sometimes using a lotion can help to restore the pH of the skin however it is better to switch to a mild cleanser and use it sparingly."

We recommend: Hydrating Cleanser and Hydrating Lotion

How do you get rid of open pores?

"Open pores are a manifestation of an oily skin and the best way to treat them is to address the oiliness first. Skin care preparations that contain oil gland sedating essential oils such as grapefruit can help and the addition of tiny micro-sponges in products helps to absorb the oil before it builds up in the pores. Regular gentle exfoliation and maintaining a healthy moisture level in the skin will also help refine the texture. One of the most beneficial ingredients for refining open pored skin is a marine DNA ingredient that helps to swell the opening making it appear much smaller. "

We recommend: Pevonia Power Repair Line DNA

BODY CARE:

What products should I use to get rid of dry elbows and knees?

"The skin on your elbows and knees becomes course and dry due to friction; the constant pressure on these areas stimulates a build up dry dead skin cells. We are often told to Loofah these areas but unfortunately too much of this can exacerbate the problem as it creates additional friction. It’s the skin's protective mechanism to thicken on these areas. The best ingredients for softening these areas are alpha and beta hydroxy acids which gently exfoliate on a daily basis."

We recommend: Preserve Body Moisturiser with AHA's

I have dry skin, but find body butters to thick, what’s the alternative?

"Regular exfoliation followed by more hydrating formulas tends to work more effectively as they penetrate the skin more easily."

We recommend: Silky Skin Body Scrub followed by Dry Oil Body Moisturiser

How do I prevent ingrown hairs?

"Regular use of alpha and beta hydroxy acids to reduce the cell build up around and over the hair is the best method. Be careful not to "over loofah" the area as it will actually toughen and thicken the skin exacerbating the problem."

How often should I exfoliate my body?

"A good exfoliation once a week is ample paying close attention to trouble areas such as the knees, elbows and feet."

What’s best for my skin, soap or shower gel?

"Shower gels are generally more hydrating but some "over counter" preparations may have drying ingredients. The best products for cleansing the body are those free of sodium lauryl sulphate, alcohol and artificial perfume. A shower gel that uses natural lathering ingredients such as soapwort or saponaria will always be the best option for keeping skin supple and soft; these can even be used on baby skin."

We recommend: Anti-Stress Bath and Shower Gel