Back to basics: what are the skincare products you really need?
There’s a wealth of cosmetics and beauty products on the market, and a bunch of unsolicited advice in magazines, online editorials and on influencer Instagram pages. It’s no wonder so many Perth women are overwhelmed by their skincare choices.
As a qualified and experienced Cosmetic Nurse, I see clients on the daily who spend copious amounts of their hard-earned cash on the ‘next best thing’, rather than investing in the cosmeceuticals that will make a difference to their skin.
So, here’s my top tips for creating a skincare regimen that works for you.
Skincare non-negotiables
I recommend every woman have these key products in their skincare arsenal:
· SPF50+: Especially in the sun-soaked city that is Perth! Rain, hail, shine, inside or outside all day, SPF50+ sunscreen on your face is a must. Otherwise, you are setting yourself up for premature aging. My favourite sunscreen right now is Dermaceutic Laboratoire K-Ceutic SPF.
· Moisturiser – Yes, even for oily skin. Moisturisers are essential to add and seal hydration into the skin. My favourite is Rationale #1 The Crème.
· Cleanser – Removing your makeup and other oils and impurities at the end of a long day is a must. Without it, you’re asking for clogged pores. I’m loving Avène XeraCalm Cleansing Oil.
· A serum – They are essential to target specific skin concerns, and to help balance and maintain healthy skin for a glowing complexion. Everybody has different skin imperfections and causes of those imperfections, so serums are not one-size-fits-all. You’ll need the help of a professional to select the right one for you.
· A high-quality night cream – This will nourish your skin while you sleep, prepare your skin for the next day and – if you have a good one – target the dark circles and wrinkles around your eyes (ditch the eye cream!). Again, talk to a professional to determine the best brand for you.
Often, your skin will have specific concerns that may need to be met by additional products or treatments, under professional supervision. However, the above creates a fantastic base for lifelong beautiful and healthy skin.
So where should you spend money on skincare?
You can easily find high-quality moisturisers, SPFs and cleansers at an affordable price, so don’t be tricked by clever marketing asking you to pay more. ‘Fluff’ products often disguise themselves as containing active ingredients, when in reality they are nothing more than a mediocre moisturiser. You’ll often find these over-priced, over-promising products in your local makeup superstores and along supermarket shelves.
I always recommend spending big on the serums and active cosmeceuticals that that directly address your skin care concerns, such as pigmentation, congestion, aging, redness, oily control – the list goes on! These products are well researched, and clinically trialled, analysed and reported on. The professionals that stock these products are continuously uptrained and assessed on their understanding, and the companies that develop these products genuinely care about your skin and are on hand to answer any questions.
My number one tip? Seek professional help
The staff at beauty stores don’t necessarily have the knowledge base and/or experience to recommend individual skin care routines. Always seek professional advice on your skin routine from a qualified expert. They will be able to create a bespoke plan that meets your individual needs and that will have you glowing from the inside-out.
