Come Out of Lockdown Looking 10 Years Younger
Zoom meetings, video conferences and endless chats on FaceTime, has meant we’ve all spent the better part of a year starring back at our own reflections.
It’s the equivalent of spending all day in front of the mirror analysing yourself, only worse, as the mirror doesn’t give you zoom face. Unsurprisingly this stratospheric uptake in video-calling has resulted a colossal rise in sales for skincare products and cosmetic procedures .
The bad news is its going to be at least another 5 week until we can step into a hair salon or beauty clinic (and that’s assuming we can get an appointment!). The good news is, with no where to go for the next few weeks, there’s never been a better time to transform your skin.
Before you start hitting up google, there are a few things you need to consider before you splurge. Firstly you need to think about what results you are looking to achieve. Are wanting to plump and firm the skin? Tackle acne or acne scars? Transform tired eyes or rid yourself of pigmentation? Or are you simply looking for the ultimate anti-aging booster!
Once decided, it’s time to review the products you are already using to make sure they are actually doing what you bought them for. If not it’s time to switch up your skincare and introduce some new ingredients.
As a guide, there are some key ingredient to look out for that will help tackle some of the most common skincare concerns.
For pigmentation issues, you want to be looking for products containing vitamin C or alpha arbutin serum. If you suffer from rosacea, products containing azelaic acid are your friend. In need of hydration? It’s all about hyaluronic acid. And for anti-aging? Well, It’s got to be the holy grail that is vitamin A, aka retinol.
It’s important to introduce any new product gradually to avoid any irruption or flare up. It will also allow you to see if the products are working, after all, these products aren’t cheap and no wants to waste money on dud skincare. Finally, remember to be patient. You need at least one skin cycle (4-5 weeks) to see any real results, ideally two.
Of course we’re not about to throw you to the beauty wolves and let you just get on with it. Oh no, instead we have hand picked some of the best skincare products out there, to leave your friends questioning how you are the only one to come out of lockdown looking 10 years younger!
DR LEVY
An anthropologist-turned-trained medic-turned-dermatologist, Dr. Phillip Levy is a laser and wound-healing specialist who strove to develop a way to re-boot ‘worn out’ cells and kick-start the production of collagen. The result? A phenomenal skincare line, proven to revitalise the dermal stem cells that create essential collagen for smoother, firmer, stronger skin.
However, it’s this dynamic duo we’re currently obsessing over. Featuring Dr Levy’s cult Eye Booster Concentrate (a best-selling eye serum hailed as alternative to Botox) and micro-current Galvanic Device (to intensify deeper serum penetration), after just a few weeks the results are transformative. Fine lines and skin quality is visibly improved (by 53% & 59% respectively if you go by clinical trials), whilst dark circles almost non-existent.
100% Vegan and Ophthalmologically tested.
ZO SKIN HEALTH
Created by the eminent dermatologist Dr Obagi, ZO Skin Health is renowned world over for pushing the boundaries of medical grade skincare and turning back the hands of time.
Ideal for reviving dull winter skin, ZO’s Skin Brightening Programme is a multi-product, skin therapy system designed for the visible treatment of hyperpigmentation without the use of hydroquinone and retinol (which can irritate sensitive or post treatment skin). Improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation, this gentle routine is specifically designed for those with freckles, liver spots or uneven tone, where skin brightening is desired, whilst also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Each Skin Brightening Programme features a Gentle Cleanser for All Skin Types , Exfoliating Polish, Complexion Renewal Pads, Brightalive Skin Brightener and their Daily Power Defence .
SKINCEUTICALS
SkinCeuticals is another one of those skincare brands aesthetic doctors and dermatologist rave about, and their Complete Silymarin CF Blemish Routine Bundle is a must for anyone wanting to target acne prone skin.
Containing their clinically proven Silymarin antioxidant serum, formulated specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin to fight against visible skin ageing, the bundle also features SkinCeuticals all essential Blemish + Age Defense. A lightweight, non-oily serum to be applied after the application of Silmarin CF, to reduce the appearance blemishes and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ofcourse no skincare routine is complete without an application of SPF and the team at SkinCeuticals have not let us down, including their Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50 in the bundle. Formulated with state-of-the-art UV filters, this high protection sunscreen helps prevent UV induced collagen breakdown and UV-induced dark spots. While their Blemish + Age Cleanser is the perfect way to start and finish your day, decongesting and refining pores, minimisesing blemishes, and brightening the skin.
111 SKIN
The Protective Duo £210
The culmination of twenty years of surgical knowledge and medical application, 111 Skin was a consquence of globally renowned cosmetic surgeon Dr. Yannis Alexandrides, developing a serum to help accelerate the skins healing process after surgery trauma. Originally created for his patient, word quickly spread about about this new super serum, NAC Y2. Shortly after that Harrods came knocking and the cult brand that is, 111 Skin was born.
Their Protective Duo utilises this signature ingredient, NAC Y2 , to protect and repair stressed skin. Boosting collagen production, supporting cell regeneration and improving elasticity in the skin, the Y Theorem Serum is ideal for those whose skin have faced any element of trauma or exposure. Whilst the NAC Y2 Pollution Defence Booster, works as a complexion defence to protect the skin from physical and blue light damage by combining a powerful complex of peptides and antioxidants. Used together 111 Skins’s fortifying duo helps to sooth, heal and maintain a healthy complexion away from free radicals, inflammation and a weakened skin surface.
IMAGE SKINCARE
For those wanting professional results with a natural edge, look no further than IMAGE Skincare. Pioneering clean clinical skincare and founded by an estetician and plastic surgeon, IMAGE is loved by skincare professions world over thanks to it’s naturally effective, mindful formulas that deliver real results.
Whilst the range features many an award winner, for powerful age-defying formulas that deliver fast-acting (and long-term) visible results look no further than IMAGE’s Age Defy Collection. This transformative set features three full-sized bestsellers including their deep cleansing MAX Stem Cell Facial Cleanser, the all essential AGELESS Total Pure Hyaluronic6 Filler and their brightening and hydrating VITAL C Hydrating Repair Crème (an Editor’s Beauty favourite). For an added boost, the collection also contains a mini I MASK Firming Transformation Mask and ILUMA Intense Brightening Serum Sample.
MEDER
Myo-Fix Facial Kit £350
Lockdown may have resulted in many of us cancelling our botox sessions but that doesn’t mean we need to watch those angry frown lines reappear.
Meder’s Myo-Fix, is widely regard within the beauty industry, as one the world’s first non-injection wrinkles correction treatment that actually works. Using a combination of innovative neuro-modulating peptides that work in synergy, to immobilise mimic muscles in the forehead and around the eye area, frown lines and wrinkles are relaxed for visibly smoother skin and a fresher appearance.
Their Myo-Fix Facial Kit, is an at home version or their infamous in clinic 5-weeks treatment course. Safe and effective for both pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, this no-needle treatment kit includes Meder’s Enzy-Peel Double-Action Probiotics Mask, a probiotic enzyme exfoliation is suitable even for sensitive skin. The Myo-Fix Mask, a brightening and strain relieving mask for tense and stressed face with expression lines and last but not least, the Myo-Fix Concentrate.
Myo-fix is also recommend to extend and maintain botox results without the side effects of injections.
LQ
Skin Hair Nails Max £89.97
Targeting your skincare woes from the inside out is LQ’s Skin Hair Nails Max. This daily easy to drink, all-in-one beauty collagen shot has been scientifically formulated to support the maintenance of healthy skin, hair and nails. Containing high strength Marine Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin, Reveratrol, Selenium plus Vitamin C and E, liquid supplements are significantly easier than pills for the body to absorb, meaning your will be reaping significantly more of the good stuff.
THE SKIN GEEK
Not heard of the Skin Geek? Then it’s time to get familiar. An award winning beauty therapist, trainer and blogger, Nicola Russell aka The Skin Geek can transform even the dullest skin to dazzling.
So celebrated are her skills that she now has her own range of cult products including the skincare must have, an At-Home Microneedling Roller. An added step to your daily routine, post cleansing pre skincare, this painless microneedling roller creates micro channels in the skin to stimulate cell rejuvenation and help aid serum penetration for optimal results. Made from the highest quality titanium alloy that have been through a strict sterilisation process called gamma radiation, they are sealed in a hermetic pouch, and are guaranteed to be 100% contaminant-free.
For an added boost, we recommend applying the Skin Geek Hudra Gel Mask post needling for an added boost of hydration and plumpness. Infused with powerful humectants, anti inflammatories and antioxidants to leave skin feeling hydrated, refreshed, smooth and rejuvenated, the split design it moulds perfectly to the skin for the perfect at home facial!. Use 2-3 times per week for maximum benefits.
TEOXANE
Although you might recognise the name Teoxane as a brand of hyaluronic acid dermal filler, it is also a major player in the world of aesthetic skincare. Specifically created to maintain the results of cosmetics procedures whilst simultaneously soothing, hydrating and revitalising the skin, this Genever based brand is continuously proving it’s self as one of the go to brands for anti-aging skincare that actually works.
Designed to target those areas prone to premature ageing, the Specif Care Gift Collection address fine lines, puffiness and dark circles around the eye contour with their Teoxane Eyes RHA Eye Contour. While the 3D Lip, works to hydrate and plump the lip area, for a beautiful youthful smile.
PMD
Microdermabrasion has been a firm favourite ever since it made its first appearance on the beauty scene many moons ago. Having previously been an exclusive in-salon treatment, it is now possible to get transformative results in the comfort of your own home thanks to the beauty techs at PMD.
PMD’S Personal Microderm Elite Pro is an updated wire free version of their original revolutionary at-home device. Featuring their signature TruTier™ technology, combining variable vacuum suction and tri-speed capabilities for the most customizable microdermabrasion treatment on the market. The Elite Pro comes with an extended range of discs, catering for those looking for an ultra gentle treatment ideal for those with sensitive skin to a very intense. Weekly treatments using the Personal Microderm Elite Pro, encourages cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes and enlarged pores.
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