FACE | YON-KA NUDE PERFECT IS THE PERFECT NUDE

I’ve been using Yon-Ka’s Nude Perfect since last year and I can honestly say it is my in-person and on-zoom secret weapon to fantastic-looking skin. I mean, who needs an on-screen filter when you have one in a bottle?!

Yon-Ka’s Nude Perfect is a champion of illusion which creates a ‘blur’ effect that conceals any skin imperfections, minimises pores, evens out skin texture, and smooths fine lines using a simple optical effect. And the bonus? It’s made with 96% natural ingredients!. Now it really is possible to enjoy a perfectly even, natural complexion that is instantly Instagrammable.

The almost entirely plant formula is guaranteed not to contain silicones, a well known polymer found in many soft-focus products. It also features an additional two COSMOS-certified organic ingredients: ashwagandha to protect the epidermis from the harmful effects of light emitted by screens (blue light), and prickly pear cactus, for comfort.  

THE SCIENCE BIT

Thanks to a deep knowledge of the skin, how it works, and what it needs, Yon-Ka uses the latest advances in scientific research and plant biology to create in NUDE PERFECT Fluide both:

1: Instant Action

A STUNNING SURFACE EFFECT: The instant soft-focus effect visibly improves skin quality, smoothing wrinkles and fine lines while revealing a naturally brighter and more even complexion from the moment of application.

2. Long Term Action

Deeply Perfecting Treatment: Its long-lasting multi-perfecting action minimizes imperfections and irregularities, refines the skin’s surface, and tightens pores.    

 The end result is a naturally improved complexion and smoother skin that grows more beautiful with each passing day, even without makeup.

Ultra-light and comfortable, NUDE PERFECT Fluide blends into the skin to the point that you forget you’re wearing it. No greasy film or caked-on feel, but instead mattifying, purifying, antioxidant effects and total anti-pollution action to protect against fine particulate matter and blue light.

Integrated into your morning and evening beauty routine, this fluid, with its matte, velvety finish, enhanced with Yon-Ka Quintessence and a delicate all-natural scent combining ylang-ylang and magnolia, is applied after cleansing the skin and spraying on Yon-Ka Lotion.

YON-KA TIP: Apply a Yon-Ka serum for your skin type before the NUDE PERFECT fluide for optimum comfort for your skin. And to perfect your regime, add a Yon-Ka soft exfoliant and mask twice per week. 

Yon-Ka products are made in France, are not tested on animals, and comply with strict formulation guidelines. Yon-ka Paris skincare is available from professional salons nationwide. For local stockist information visit www.renaissance-skincare.com/Yon-Ka/

RRP: €65 / £57

FACE | MARIE REYNOLDS LONDON IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPLMENTS

TREATING OUR IMMUNE SYSTEMS IS IMPORTANT NOW MORE THAN EVER

Marie Reynolds is one of the UK’s most sought-after skin and wellness experts. Marie’s expert understanding of holistic health is available to all through her exceptional range of skin care, internal supplement products and her unique system for skin and internal wellbeing. Her unparalleled understanding of the skin’s composition has led her to build one of the world’s only genuinely incorporated skincare regimes, covering supplements, topical products, and even specially designed tools to create her modern vision of healthy skin. Marie Reynolds’ holistic view of skin incorporates several pillars which she believes are essential to creating magnificent skin. Not only that but Marie Reynolds London’s range of impressive supplements target many different areas of concern ranging from gut health, immunity, fatigue, and perimenopausal symptoms.

Now more than ever people across the globe want to build a strong immune system to ward off viral infections, to help with that the team at Marie Reynolds London have compiled the best in immunity to assist you in doing just that!

DEFEND - €35.00/£31.45

We are bombarded with external and internal pathogens that constantly place strain on the immune system. In today’s current climate the need to boost immunity and fight infection is ever more in need. Marie Reynolds London Defend is a tailored combination of both immunity ingredients and highly potent herbal anti-virals and anti-bacterials based on protocols Traditional Chinese Medicine. It contains high dose vitamin C (512mg) from multiple sources, i.e. herbs, berries, plants, and ascorbic acid PLUS 19 additional ingredients from herbs, berries, fruits, leaves, roots, mushroom, bulbs, vitamins, and minerals, as well as probiotics to boost gut immunity. This supplement is an exciting immune boosting and anti-viral formula to help give your body the support it needs against attack.

OCEAN EFA - €36.00/ £32.50

This 500mg supplement contains omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and good fats that are required for a healthy body and mind. Ocean EFA also contains the powerful antioxidant, astaxanthin. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage by harmful free radicals - unstable substances that are thought to contribute to certain chronic diseases. Unlike many other antioxidants, astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it can protect the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage. Unlike fish oil, krill oil does not cause a fishy aftertaste, a common side effect of fish oil. Krill oil is also more easily absorbed by the body and contains higher amounts of astaxanthin than fish oil.

Benefits:

Circulation, Skin health, Liver function, Blood sugar health, Brain function, Blood lipid health, Vision, Premenstrual syndrome, Low mood, Immune function, Healthy joints, Inflammation, Memory, and concentration, Fighting the signs of ageing, Protection for cell membranes, Nervous system function.

VEGAN C - €32.00/ £28.95

The human body struggles to recognise synthetic substances, and this includes vitamins. Food form supplements offer a convenient and effective means of topping up on vitamin and mineral intake, because they present nutrients in a form that is as close as possible to the foods where those micro-nutrients naturally occur. As well as providing vitamin C, it is packed with a multitude of other natural vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, bioflavonoids, pectin’s, essential oils, lycopene, carotenoids, plant sterols, catechins, polyphenolics and other Phyto-nutrients. This vitamin C combination is made up of natural food ingredients, as recognised and required by the body for maximum digestion, absorption, and utilisation. This natural combination is also one of the few vitamin C supplements that: is not rapidly excreted from the body; is easily absorbed (a lower intake is required); is not acidic - many people are unable to tolerate citrus-based supplements, which can aggravate certain medical conditions.

Benefits:

Immunity Collagen formation, Blood vessels, Bones and cartilage, Gums, skin and teeth, Energy levels, Nervous system, Oxidative, stress, Iron absorption.

YVE - €32.00/ £28.95

This gentle and completely natural helper is a favourite amongst women, not least because it does not contain hormones, such as those found in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) drugs. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity, normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal functioning of the nervous system, normal homocysteine metabolism, normal protein and glycogen metabolism, normal psychological function, normal red blood cell formation, normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction, as well as the maintenance of normal bones, hair, nails, skin, vision, immune system, and normal cognitive function.

3-SET – €35.00 / £31.45

3-Set Is a dynamic apoptogenic Botanical Complex with EFSA approved health claims, a synergistic combination of herbs, roots, and vitamins, formulated to combat stress physically, chemically, or biologically while also supporting the immune system, energy levels, mental performance, and a general sense of calm, focus and vitality. These clever herbs help the body adapt to what it needs and regulate the system up or down, as required in the moment. The nature of adaptogenic herbs is to help a person “adapt” to their environment, as well as to normalise, regulate the body’s functioning and support the adrenals. It combines important nutrients and nutraceuticals that support hormonal and adrenal health.

Marie Reynolds London is available to purchase from SkinandBeauty.ie and MarieReynoldsLondon.ie

FACE | DISCOVER THE TROPICS WITH GUAVA AND GOLD

‘Barrister’ seems like such an important job and a pretty grand title. You’re a Queen’s counsel after all, aren’t you?  So to give that all up and, quite literally follow your nose and the scents of the tropics to do something entirely different seems quite radical doesn’t it? This is exactly what Claire Price did just over a year ago, in founding Guava and Gold – and we couldn’t love her more for it.

Her goal was to create an elegant, capsule collection of products with ethical credentials, inspired by heady reflections of the tropics and a desire to capture unforgettable, exotic holiday memories in a bottle - and then ultimately on skin and hair.

There’s really nothing like a smell to truly capture the essence of a memory and transport you off to a moment of sheer bliss; so drawing on the expertise, flair and imagination of an international fine fragrance house, Claire’s team used the distinctive scents of a delicious array of tropical fruits and flowers to create her products -  including delicious guava and cherimoya, fragrant pink magnolia, white floral facets of tuberose (‘the carnal flower’), sweet vanilla orchid and enchanting orange and plum blossom.

 To complement the fragrances, natural oils have been blended with botanical ingredients, specially selected for the health of the user’s skin and hair – these are all to enhance personal wellbeing and no fragrance used is to mask a chemical ingredient, because there are none!

Manuka oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, while sweet almond oil boosts collagen production and keeps skin hydrated. Grapeseed oil, found in most products in the range, is a natural moisturiser which helps to maintain soft, radiant skin and hair, while rich shea butter and vitamins feature across many products in her ranges.

But while what’s *in* the product is natural, we have to applaud Claire and her team for their sustainability efforts in packaging also. All products are currently packaged in fully recyclable bottles and packaging; but the work doesn’t stop there, as there are plans to move to bio-polymer bottles made from sugar cane extract, and to incorporate water-free products into the collection so as to further limit Guava & Gold’s impact on the environment, so you can feel good about the products you use while enjoying a momentary memory – or a daydream trip – to the far-flung shores of the tropics.

You can purchase the full Guava & Gold range at Orlagh Maye salon via BODYCARE Archives - Orlagh Maye

FACE | THE C WORD: VITAMIN C!

If there is one skincare step almost guaranteed to elicit a wowser compliment-cum-question like: ‘What are you doing to your skin, you look different/you’re glowing!?’, it’s topical Vitamin C. Used when it’s at its most potent, Vitamin C brightens, firms, smooths, and nourishes skin, no matter what your skin type - whether it’s breakout-prone, very dry, or anything in between.

Vitamin C is one of those truly multi-use beauty products, and aside from giving your skin a radiance boost, it can also help to fade fine lines, reduce the look of dark spots and tighten loose skin. Perhaps most importantly, it also protects your skin from environmental pollutants. 

 At face value though, (and this is what generates those compliments), Vitamin C makes you positively glow. Use it once and see instant results; but keep at it and your skin’s clarity and radiance will continue to improve.

We’ve put together a list of our favourite Vitamin C products to Celebrate National Vitamin C Day, which is on 04 April (who knew, right?) and I suppose that’s as good a day as any, 4 x 4 is a good numerical descriptor because this super Vitamin is such a fab all rounder…

Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum Deluxe 100ML RRP: €127.00 /£109.22 

Today, the VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum remains IMAGE Skincare’s #1 bestselling product for 17 years and counting. Seeing the need for more VITAL C, IMAGE Skincare are introducing the deluxe sized serum for those who can’t live without this hydrating, anti-aging and brightening vitamin c experience. This deluxe size is a first for IMAGE Skincare and there is no better product to honour in this unique way than everyone’s favourite VITAL C HYDRATING ANTI-AGING SERUM. 

This high-potency serum softens the appearance of wrinkles, supports skin elasticity and fights environmental damage. Hyaluronic acid helps to lock in hydration and supports the look of plump, bouncy skin. It contains multiple forms of vitamin C to help brighten the skin and fight visible signs of dullness and fatigue.

This Works Morning Expert CBD Booster + Vitamin C RRP: € 43
This Works Morning Expert CBD Booster + Vitamin C is a wakeup call for your skin. Reinvigorate your skin with this expertly blended serum which helps protect your skin against environmental stressors in the day ahead. Add it to your morning routine to fight skin fatigue and brighten the appearance of dullness on waking. 

This facial serum is 98% naturally-derived and contains 1% CBD from Hemp and 20% Vitamin C. They work together promote a more even skin tone, reducing pigmentation and dark spots while calm and soothe away redness to restore your morning glow. Use it alone or add a few drops to your moisturiser.

Nimue Vitamin C Moisture Mist (RRP: €33.50) 

A hydrating antioxidant spray for the face that stimulates endorphins, resulting in an uplifted and invigorated feeling. Can be used throughout the day as required and perfect for spritzing over foundation.

Skingredients Skin Protein €45, 30ml 

Your vitamin A anti-ageing serum, the skincare game changer. An active formula of vitamin A, C + Eantioxidants + a pro-collagen peptide + tea extracts for smoother, tighter, brighter skin.

Ultraceuticals Ultra C Firming Eye Cream €73, 15ml 

This advanced age defying eye cream contains pure Vitamin C in a CSIRO* developed delivery system for Asorbic Acid, plus Ultraceuticals peptides Microelastin® and MicroCollagen. It visibly improves elasticity, firmness and smooths the delicate eye area. This Pro Collagen formula has also been enhanced with a potent cocktail of calming and moisturising ingredients to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Dermalogica Bio Lumin C Eye Serum €76 

Supercharged Vitamin C eye serum outsmarts visible premature skin ageing caused by daily eye movements and environmental stress. Lightweight serum delivers a highly-bioavailable Vitamin C complex to the skin around the eyes to dramatically brighten and visibly firm

Yonka Beauty Box Vitality, €53.00/£46.50 

Give your skin a boost! Let yourself be transported by the freshness of citrus fruits … a true shot of energy! 

This set includes: 

·         Yon-Ka Pamplemousse cream PS, 50ml  

·         Créme Mains hand cream, 50ml 

Pamplemousse cream lights up the complexion. The ultra-comforting Crème Mains (hand cream) nourishes and repairs the driest, roughest skin. This duo gives your skin an instant boost. 

Yon-Ka Pamplemousse Creme is a vibrant energising cocktail. A real shot of energy, this light, luscious cream with an invigorating citrus scent lights up the complexion and vitalises the epidermis. The version for dry skin is enriched with fine oils for enhanced comfort. Your complexion is radiant. YOUR skin and spirit revitalised, thanks to citrus aromas. 

Rich in hydrating and nourishing comforting agents, Yon-Ka Créme Mains repairs and protects the driest and roughest skins thanks to its formula which combines Shea butter, vegetal glycerine, grape seed oil, Bisabolol and vitamins A, C and E.

And that’s it - the best of the C word, on the F Words! As always, I’ve tried all products here so ping me a message or a comment if you’d like to know anything else besides the info given here.

FACE | CODEX BEAUTY - AN IRISH SKINCARE BRAND THAT'S CHANTING ALL MY SKINCARE MANTRAS

Quarantine has made us rethink not only our skincare, but also our lifestyles. Makeup can help give you a temporary glow, but nothing can really replace the beauty of naturally glowing skin. And as my fave, age-old expression goes, “Beauty comes from within”…. and from a scientific perspective, it does!

Exfoliating regularly, a simple daily skin care routine, and leading a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to keep your skin smooth and radiant.

When it comes to skincare, despite trying and reviewing everything(!) I have always advocated the less is more mantra. A simple, regular skincare routine avoiding too many products and layering is key. Too many actives can irritate your skin and even cancel out each other’s benefit.

A basic routine including only three steps is more than enough:

• Gentle exfoliation and cleansing (used at most twice daily), reduces the build-up of dead cells and doesn’t irritate your skin.

• Toning to help provide anti-oxidants and promote cell turnover

• Hydration using a nourishing moisturizer that helps soothe irritated skin and potentially an oil that locks in the moisture and helps control oiliness.

And find products that support the microbiome – the last thing you want to do is strip your microbiome as then your skin will become red and irritated.

The Codex Bia Hydration line is ideal for the exfoliation and moisturization functions as it is MyMicrobiome certified and is designed to maximize hydration. Specifically, the exfoliating wash (€50) does not strip the skin of moisture but gently removes dead cells. The Bia Skin Superfood (€55) has been scientifically proven in efficacy trials to moisturize, soothe and protect the skin with the patented Biacomplex. The Bia Facial Oil (€100) locks in moisture to increase it up to +168% while controlling sebum production.

About Codex Beauty

Codex Beauty is a collective of global skin care lines built on science, natural ingredients, plant-based preservatives, pharmaceutical-grade processes, safety and efficacy trials, sustainability, and consumer transparency. Its offering is entirely organic, free of harmful chemical compounds, and rigorously tested according to biotechnology practices.

SSSSHHHH! THE HUSH AND HUSH SECRET IS OUT!

Regular readers will know that I have tried and tested (and loved!) a few Hush and Hush luxury beauty supplements before (The Mind Your Mind pre-bedtime supplement and the Deeply Rooted hair product to name a few). But in January of this year the brand announced its first line extension, SkinCapsule which I’ve been trialling here at home since. Comprised of clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients, this trio of skin-perfecting supplements hones in on three of the most common age-related skin issues: discoloration and uneven skin tone, dryness, and breakouts.

 SkinCapsule is backed by the same clinical research that Hush & Hush is widely known for—scientifically-sound data that supports results-oriented products. The three-piece skin-centric line can be used as part of a long-term treatment plan or as needed. Formulated with only clean ingredients, each supplement addresses a specific skin-related concern to tackle problematic issues once and for all.

Deep-rooted in real regenerative science, Hush & Hush is the culmination of more than 15 years of cellular and nutritional research and is dedicated to delaying the inevitable aging process. All of the formulations are designed to support the body’s natural defence and regenerative powers with a unique blend of scientifically proven vitamins, herbs, and botanicals coupled with modern-day technology.

 The vegan, NON-GMO, gluten-free SkinCapsule line is created without gelatin, artificial colorants, flavourings, or additives. Designed to be used in tandem with traditional topical skincare products, SkinCapsule works internally to feed the cells with the necessary nutrients it needs to mitigate skin-related issues.

Meet the lineup for the skin you desire:

SkinCapsule™ BRIGHTEN+ - RRP €65.00/ £60.50 

This naturally derived dark spot and discoloration reducing supplement relies on clean, clinical ingredients to brighten dull-looking skin. It also helps to diminish the appearance of age-related skin tone changes, sunspots, redness, and age spots for brighter, healthier-looking skin. Vitamin C plus proprietary ingredients like SkinAx2, Lutemax, and Saberry® regulate melanin synthesis.

SkinCapsule™ HYDRATE+ - RRP €65.00/ £60.50 

This super hydrating supplement harnesses the power of clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients, including vitamin C, vegan fermented hyaluronic acid, Korean red ginseng, Cococin™, and Ceramosides, to create optimally hydrated, perfectly balanced, glowy skin for that ‘lit-from-within’ look. Ideal for those with dry, dehydrated, rough, and weathered skin that craves moisture, a bevy of skin hydrating ingredients work from the inside out to reduce dryness and increase skin hydration in just 15 days.

This is the one I’ve been trialling and I have to say, I LOVE IT. I’ve been raving about skin from within for years now and I’m delighted the experts Janna & Marc Ronert (of IMAGE Skincare fame) have yet again taken an industry lead in creating a formula which blends the very best of science and nature to the benefit of our skin.

SkinCapsule™ CLEAR+ - RRP €50.00/ £46.50

This skin balancing, anti-blemish supplement is formulated with clean, clinical, plant-based ingredients and botanicals to help reduce pore-clogging oil, soothe reddened skin, and help to diminish the severity and number of breakouts on the face, chest, and back. It helps to alleviate blemishes and breakouts, redness, and excess oil without drying out the skin thanks to a unique blend of ingredients including selenium, zinc, turmeric, vitamin A, and pantothenic acid.

Dr. Marc Ronert, MD, Ph.D., founder of Hush & Hush says, “We had so much success with the initial Hush & Hush products, and our customers wanted more. They were asking for us to develop a specialty line that focuses just on the skin,”

Janna Ronert, founder of Hush & Hush says, “We wanted to feed the needs of our customers and that need was a line of professional, science-based supplements that works on these often hard-to-tackle skin problems from an internal approach.”

SPRING CLEAN FACIALS WITH NIMUE

Just like our homes need a springtime scrub, our beauty routine will benefit from a spring clean too. Spring is a time of birth and rejuvenation. It is the season for new life, rejuvenation and for our skin to come out of hibernation. Hopefully, skincare lovers everywhere have meticulously kept up a regular skin regime throughout the Winter months, but fear not, now is as good a time as any to start. What better time than spring to breathe some new life back into your skin?

I’ve been trying Nimue over the last few months and I have to say i LOVE the products…. So I have rounded up seven products to show you the way to clean, soft, healthy skin with this very exciting skinceutical brand.

Age Intelligence Cleansing Cream – €63.00

A superior, rich, and creamy cleanser which removes all traces of make-up and impurities and rapidly hydrates and leaves skin glowing.

Cleansing Gel – €41.00

A soap-free, 2-in-1, gel cleanser that gently removes eye and face make-up and impurities and provides light exfoliation.

Y:Skin Facial Wash – €36.00

A gentle, soap-free gel cleanser with a light consistency that removes impurities and exfoliates the skin, leaving it soft and smooth.

Cleansing Milk – €41.00

The Nimue Cleansing Milk is a creamy milk emulsion with a soft, smooth, and delicate texture that gently and effectively removes make-up, pollutants, and daily impurities, leaving the skin with a delicate smooth finish.

Clarifying Mask – €44.00

A cream face mask formulated to remove impurities and excess oil while still retaining moisture. Use weekly for a refined and smooth skin texture and a cleansed, hydrated feel.

Glyco Mask – €50.50

A fast-acting resurfacing treatment mask that rapidly exfoliates and tightens, for improved skin texture, radiance, and a more youthful, glowing complexion. The ideal skin boost before a special occasion.

Exfoliating Enzyme – €46.00

An enzymatic exfoliator that gently removes dead skin cells and promotes cell renewal.

FACE | LET ME TELL YOU ABOUT PAYOT….

Let me tell you a little bit about Payot, a brilliant beauty and skincare brand created by a formidable woman 100 years ago in my second home, France. Nadia Payot was the inventor of the ‘facial gymnastics’ concept, a pre-curser to all modern facial techniques, and, later that year, in 1920, she developed the 42-step facial massage which revolutionised skin treatments forever. 

Later, as her business developed, she worked on creating take-home products for everyday skin types which women could use themselves. In 1947 she developed the Pâté Grise, a brilliantly simple grey paste made from natural ingredients which continues to soar in popularity today. In fact, one pot of Pate Grise is sold every five minutes around the world – and there are quite a few fans here and across our network of online customers too.

What’s the secret sauce?; I hear you ask! Well, Nadia Payot’s Pâte Grise contains an optimum formula to bring small blemishes to a maturation phase. It works while you sleep to accelerate the maturation of minor sub-cutaneous spots and make them disappear, almost overnight. This cult beauty, anti-blemish secret has been passed from generation to generation of French women and across the world.

Payot Masque Charbon - Ultra-absorbent Mattifying Care - Orlagh Maye

FACE | INTERVIEW WITH JENNIFER ROCK AKA THE SKIN NERD AS SHE LAUNCHES NEW BOOK

In a world where beauty consumers are inundated with marketing messages and every product is said to be the ONE you need for your skin, where does one turn to for truthful and helpful advice without agenda?

Look no further because The Skin Nerd, Jennifer Rock shares all her skincare expertise, and the passion and knowledge gathered in her extensive career in this helpful beginner’s guide. The Skin Nerd: Your straight-talking guide to feeding, protecting and respecting your skin is a 360° approach to your healthiest skin.

Written with Jennifer’s unique brand of humour and honesty, her first book is jam-packed with skinformation and advice, which will educate and empower you to know what your skin needs and how to achieve better skin health. Readers will learn how the skin works from the inside out with information on nutrition and beneficial skin vitamins and supplements, to managing the ageing process and tackling skin conditions. Jennifer also shares her core Nerd Philosophies and Commandments and the benefits of Spritz O'Clock. With all this information and more The Skin Nerd: Your straight talking guide to feeding, protecting and respecting your skin will be your skin bible for life.

Extractable sections:

·       The ideal skin diet

·       The skin test - assess your skin situation

·       Spot quick fixes/remedies

·       Jennifer’s favourite skingredients and makeup products

·       The Korean skincare regime and other skincare trends

·       Jennifer’s special event skincare schedule

Our editor Cathy caught up with Jenn for a bit of a chit chat on how she got to where she is today.

What was your tipping point, getting you to actually turn The Cleanse Off Mitt into a business? 

I was a skin therapist in London and I had clients who were buying premium results-driven skincare but using face wipes to “cleanse” first so the fantastic skincare wasn’t able to properly penetrate into the skin and do its job. They may as well have been pouring half of the serum directly from the bottle onto their bathroom counter (and expecting skin results). 

I knew that there was a gap in the market for an accessible, affordable and skin-friendly alternative to face wipes so I created it and so the Cleanse Off Mitt® was born. 

#cleansewithme is the new #getreadywithme - but can you overcleanse?

Yes! Of course you can! I think it more has to do with what you’re using to cleanse than the amount of cleansing you're doing. I advocate for a double cleanse - remove your makeup and debris with your first step and then cleanse with something that is either soothing or pacifying the skin or delivering active ingredients after.

Overcleansing is when you are using too many skin-stripping ingredients, you’re using active cleansers too frequently (such as a cleanser with a high salicylic acid content twice a day) and you’re essentially damaging your skin’s barrier. 

Everyone wants to know about adult breakouts - are they caused by food, hormones or products? Or a mixture of all three?

They can be caused by any of these or combinations. I believe it is important to investigate the root of the concern, to figure out whether it’s stress that is causing your breakouts, whether it’s lifestyle, whether it’s products that no longer work for you or whether it’s an intolerance, for example. 

This is why we send all clients of the Nerd Network a skin diary to complete, to track whether they slept correctly and how much sugar they ate, for example, and see if these things correlate with their skin troubles. 

Skin from within - which supplements would you recommend for healthiest skin?

All of them. First and foremost, vitamin A in some shape or form so long as you are not pregnant or breastfeeding. Probiotics are something that everyone should take, as are omegas. Vitamin C is key for tackling pigmentation, boosting our collagen production and strengthening capillaries to aid with redness. If you’re looking for plump, youthful skin, collagen supplements like IMAGE’s Yana are the ticket. 

Is sugar the devil? Should we stay away from it for our skin - for our health in general? 

Unpopular opinion but yes, sugar should be avoided whenever possible. Sugar increases inflammation throughout the body (thus in the skin) and helps to form AGEs (advanced glycation end-products) which attack our collagen and elastin and age our skin faster. 

That being said, all in moderation. Every once in a while, it’s not the end of the world if you have some chocolate. If that same chocolate helps to reduce stress, then isn’t it having a positive effect on your skin nonetheless?! 

For the blurb about book at end, can we feature the consultations too like so? (I've attached the book press release again below)

For an online skin consultation and personalised results-driven routine from an expert, as well as access to your recommended products on The Skin Nerd® store, exclusive content, events, webinars and so much more, visit www.theskinnerd.com/onlineskinconsultations/ and join the Nerd Network.