skincare Archives - Kate Waterhouse

All you need to know about winter skin

4th June, 2023

I’m all about looking after my skin. In fact, it’s probably one aspect of my beauty routine that I choose to invest in because I know starting with a healthy complexion provides the perfect base for everything.I like having the option to choose whether I want forego makeup on a particular day or simply start with a good foundation from which to build a makeup look. A key aspect of that routine is having regular treatments with facialist Jacqueline Brennan. Her eponymous Mosman-based clinic is a haven and I often go there when my skin needs some serious TLC. I can attest that Jacqueline is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to skin, so I asked her to share her tips for dealing with winter skin. Read on to find out Jacqueline’s advice for looking after your skin now that temperatures have dropped.

What changes occur to our skin during winter?

Winter is harsh and can be unforgiving. As the temperature drops so does our skin’s ability to protect itself. The low humidity is dehydrating and can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and broken capillaries. However, with a few key changes and additions to your daily routine, your skin will stay balanced and healthy.

What are the biggest concerns regarding skin during winter?

Dryness

Cold, dry winter weather takes a toll on our outer skin layer. Unfortunately, the skin may not be able to naturally compensate for extreme cold, and microscopic cracks in the skin barrier may develop, which can lead to the loss of hydration and inflammation. Additionally, things we do to compensate (like long, hot showers) can exacerbate the problem by stripping the skin of the essential oils that normally maintain our healthy skin barrier.

Redness/Sensitivity

Because of dryness, many people suffer from periods of skin redness during the winter. Because dry skin often looks more wrinkled and dull, many overcompensate by using products that contain alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids to help brighten the skin, but usually they just end up making redness and irritation worse.

Brown spots

Brown spots that become more noticeable is another common winter skin symptom that can be both confusing and frustrating. Most people have slightly darker skin during warmer months because of increased sun exposure. Then as we move back into colder weather, this baseline colour fades, which can expose brown spots making them more obvious.

What changes do we need to make to our skincare routine during winter?

Here are my tips on how to heal dry skin in winter and keep your complexion glowing all season long.

Cleanse gently
Use an exfoliating toner
Keep your skin hydrated by apply hyaluronic acid twice daily
Use an oil-based moisturiser (not water-based)
Take advantage of targeted mask treatments
Don’t forget your SPF every day!

Hot showers, heaters and cold air can be very drying and are all part of the cool weather during winter. What are the best ways to deal with dry skin?

I always recommend my clients to treat their skin more gently in winter focusing on hydration and protecting the skin barrier.

I also recommend gentle exfoliation. The skin exfoliates itself with usage of proper products containing vitamin A. Specifically, Medik8’s Crystal Retinal. It does not create skin sensitivities as many prescription retinoids and retinols do, so it’s a very safe and super active product to work with. Applying ceramides and hyaluronic acid daily helps to protect and hydrate.

I also recommend layering clothes at home to avoid drying central heating and lukewarm water instead of hot showers.

Facialist Jacqueline Brennan

What should we be looking for in a moisturiser during winter?

I would always recommend using a day cream with an added SPF in winter – don’t forget that UVA rays are around us all the time, they can penetrate clouds, glass and are emitted from computer screens.

A great deal of your skin’s natural rejuvenation and repair process takes place at night.

I am a huge fan of ceramides in a winter moisturiser and ceramides make up at least half of the lipids in the skin barrier, which is the body’s first line of defence against the elements. Not only does the skin barrier keep invaders out, but it’s also responsible for keeping moisture in.

I also look for hyaluronic acid a well-known skincare ingredient for dry skin since it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.

Lastly vitamin C – this antioxidant helps protect the skin from free radical damage which is said to be worse in winter.

What treatments should we consider having during winter?

We tend to hibernate in the winter, as opposed to the summer months where we spend more time outdoors. Therefore, winter is a great time to get treatments that might have a little longer downtime or recovery time. It’s also a great opportunity to repair the damage that is caused by the summer months and sun damage.

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is used to treat redness, “sun spots” or pigmented areas of the skin as well as spider veins. This is a great treatment for winter months because staying out of the sun is crucial to the effectiveness of IPL. Sunlight can lead to darkening of the treated areas.

Anyone that visits my clinic knows I am a huge fan of LED Light Therapy and I recommend my clients to do it as often as possible, particularly if their skin is feeling dehydrated, sensitive or suffering from any skin conditions such as dermatitis in winter. I try to have light therapy 2/3 times a week!

Gentle lasers such as Laser Genesis and treatments like Ultraformer, which firm loose skin with ultrasound energy, and radio frequency micro-needling treatments are safe to do year-round. All of these procedures represent non-invasive ways to target loose, sagging skin and wrinkles on the face, neck, and body with minimal to no downtime.

Fashion

The skin resolutions you should be making this year according to an expert

11th January, 2023

One of the things I firmly invest in is my skin. I’ve always found that if my skin is in great condition, then everything else falls into place — makeup looks better and I’m confident to go bare faced as my complexion just looks better. One of the people I regularly visit in my quest for great skin is facialist Jacqueline Brennan. She’s a bonafide skin wizard and my skin always feels amazing after a visit to her clinic.

The start of a brand new year is always the perfect time to revisit existing habits, and that also applies to all things skin. If you want to focus a little more on the health of your skin in 2023, then there are some great skincare habits to adopt this year to help you get the kind of dewy, glowy complexion you’ve always wanted. Here Jacqueline shares the game-changing things you can do…

Wear SPF religiously

“The use of SPF is the most important step in your daily routine to prevent premature ageing and sun damage.”

Treat your skin to regular professional clinic visits

“You only have one skin for life, so it’s important to look after it properly with professional guidance from a skin therapist. Having monthly skin treatments will help you achieve your individual skin goals and maintain the health and longevity of your skin.”

Take care of your skin from the inside out

“Your diet and supplement intake contribute immensely to your skin health. Diets rich in essential fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties promote a healthy skin barrier and glowing appearance. Some investable beauty products that I love and I take religiously are: a good quality collagen powder my personal favourite is Par Olive Pearl marine collagen, vitamin B3, zinc supplement, and EFAs. Daily use of this support and maintain my skin health.”

Double cleanse your skin at night

“This should be a non-negotiable skincare step in your nightly routine. Doing so ensures all makeup, sunscreen, dirt and oil are removed before applying your nighttime products. Using an oil-based cleanser first will melt away anything on the skin’s surface then following with your second cleanser of choice which will clean the skin properly and prepare your skin for the application of active serums and moisturisers.”

Don’t neglect your neck and décolletage

“This area should be treated as an extension of the face, any skincare products you’re using on the face should also be used on the neck and décolletage. This area can show signs of ageing before the face as its constantly exposed to the sun, so applying your sunscreen is veery important. Prevention is so important and is much easier than treating sun damage and ageing concerns later on.”

Maintain consistency

“The more consistent you are with your skincare and treatment routine, the more you’ll see results. Just like diet and exercise, there is no quick fix for good skin, it takes work. I couldn’t recommend enough the importance of setting a morning and nightly routine for yourself and making it a habit, just like brushing your teeth. Investing time and care into your skin is the best way to maintain it and keep it looking healthy for years to come.”

Beauty

The beauty products I’ve finished lately

21st March, 2022

I love trying new beauty products because I often come across plenty of new launches via work, or I receive recommendations from friends. The latter is a fave because there’s nothing I like more than being privy to the brand new mascara someone is obsessed with or the wonder serum that’s working its magic on someone’s skin. That said, once I find something I really rate then I will tend to stick to it because a great beauty product that really aligns with my needs is a definite find.

If you’re like me, the beauty products that actually get used down to the very last drop are a special breed. It means that I absolutely loved them and that I kept coming back for more because not only did it do as it promised, but it exceeded my expectations and it was simply a pleasure to use. Whether it’s the results I got, the ease in which I was able to use it or something as simple as the fact that scent was heavenly, there are so many reasons I tend to gravitate back towards particular products, even more so when I actually finish them.

Lately, these are the beauty products that I’ve actually emptied!

Clarins Double Serum

First up, a disclaimer. Clarins is a brand I’ve worked with professionally so I was introduced to this serum in a work capacity. That said, I’ve continued using it long after that time and have been a repeat user ever since. My skin drinks this serum up and it always delivers such great results. It targets the signs of ageing and leaves my skin feeling supple and hydrated. I always look forward to applying it because my skin feels amazing afterwards.

Clarins Double Serum Eye

Being a huge fan of the Double Serum already I was really excited to hear that there was now one that is specifically for eyes. I dot this around my eyes and I find it helps tired eyes look more refreshed. The area around the eyes is also one of the first places on the face to show signs of ageing so I’m all about taking care of it.

La Roche-Posay Tinted Fluid Lightweight Sunscreen

I don’t have an overly complicated beauty routine to get out the door every morning as most days I’m in a rush to get ready. To help make it easier, I like products that do double duty such as tinted sunscreen. Having been a fan of the original La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen, I was keen to try the tinted version for some light coverage during the day. It didn’t disappoint. It glides on easily, provides good coverage and it’s also an SPC50+, which is important as I’m conscious of protecting my skin from the skin, particularly as I live near the beach so often spend most mornings there.

Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer

If I’m wearing makeup I always use this primer underneath. It’s so good. It just makes foundation sit so much better. I like the fact that it helps to minimise pores and fine lines and creates a perfect blank canvas for me to apply the rest of my makeup. Plus, I find it helps product to stay put. It’s also a lighweight, easy to apply texture which earns it more ticks from me.

Tell me—what are some beauty products you’ve finished lately?

Beauty

The best foods to eat for better skin according to a nutritionist

5th March, 2022

What you eat plays such a huge role in the state of your skin—a healthy glow isn’t just aided by what’s in your beauty cupboard, it’s also heavily influenced by what’s on you plate. I spoke with Trish Maharaj, who is not only the founder of mama-to-be skincare brand Madre, but also a cosmetic chemist and nutritionist. So, I asked Trish to share the best foods to eat for better skin, particularly when you’re an expecting mum. These are the foods you should definitely consider adding to your shopping list.

It starts with the gut

“It is not simply “you are what you eat”, rather “you are what you absorb”. The primary role of the gut is to utilise the nutrients from your food that your body needs. When the body doesn’t receive enough nutrients, it sends the few it can use to vital organs—heart, brain, liver—meaning our skin, hair and nails get pushed aside. We want food to be absorbed as quickly as possible to ensure that it doesn’t sit in the gut and ferment, which can then cause unpleasant gas, bloating & microflora imbalance.”

What should be on your plate

“Eat a high-fibre, colourful plant-based diet centred on vegetables, fruits and legumes. Include small regular servings of wholefood fats such as nuts and avocado with each meal. Choose lower glycemic load foods. My favourite skin foods include: Acai, pineapple, cabbage, sweet potato, seaweed, almonds, Brazil nuts, ground flaxseeds, chia seeds, avocado and lemon.

What to skip

“Limiting refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, dairy, processed foods, alcohol and caffeine. This is hard but these foods are generally the culprits for acne and poor gut health which is directly related to skin health.”

What to drink

“[Make sure to] keep adequately hydrated [by drinking 2 litres a water day] is also essential. Try a pinch of mineral-rich sea salt in your water bottle for better cellular uptake.”

What to eat regularly

“A few examples of ingredients that I’d suggesting incorporating into your diet on a regular basis include:

Red capsicum

“With their high antioxidant levels, vibrant red capsicums help to keep your skin healthy and supple. They are a wonderful source of both vitamin C and the mineral silicon, assisting the strengthening and regeneration of collagen, the main structural protein in connective tissue. Healthy collagen production keeps the skin firm and reduces oxidative damage!”

Photo by Louis Hansel @shotsoflouis on Unsplash

Sweet potato

“Its high levels of beta-carotene convert to vitamin A in the body, meaning it provides us with both vitamins A and C, the antioxidants that fight free radicals from damaging our cell tissue, causing premature ageing.”

Cabbage

“Containing the skin-loving combo of vitamins A, C and E, cabbage is highest in some of the most powerful antioxidants found in cruciferous vegetables. Interestingly, it actually contains more vitamin C than oranges! By now we know that vitamin C is critical when looking to minimise wrinkles, fight inflammation and heal damaged tissue. Its impressive nutrient content makes it a potent detoxifying food, slowing the ageing process.”

Lemon

“Another good source of vitamin C. Lemons also support the hard-working liver, our main detoxifying organ. They strengthen liver enzymes and promote the secretion of bile, which in turn aids digestion. A detoxification agent, blood purifier and digestive aid, they are in actual fact alkalising once within the body (despite their acidic taste!). [A skin tip would be to] consume the juice of ½ lemon with a cup of warm water first thing daily to cleanse the body and prepare metabolism, and use lemon throughout your day in salad dressings, stir-fries and smoothies.”

Almonds

“The monounsaturated fats within almonds help retain moisture within the skin, softening and protecting it. These beautifying nuts are rich in vitamin E, the primary antioxidant in human epidermal tissue. Vitamin E works to protect the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays, whilst also nourishing the skin from within to prevent dryness.

Fermented vegetables

“Loaded with probiotics and enzymes, fermented vegetables work on ensuring the gut is a friendly environment for good bacteria to thrive! This helps with digestion and the absorption of all these skin-loving nutrients. Probiotics also work to keep your system free from nasty pathogenic bacteria that cause digestive upset, poor immunity and inflammation, which may lead to skin irritation, acne or dull, unclear skin.

Other foods to include are all green leafy vegetables, carrots, avocado, berries, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and Brazil nuts.”

Fashion

How I’m caring for my skin during lockdown

6th September, 2021

My skin is probably one of my biggest beauty investments due to the nature of my work—whether I’m on hosting duties for 7Racing or in front of the camera for a brand or my blog, I’ve always prioritised my skin as it’s important for it to be in the best shape possible. Ordinarily I’d make time for a facial or other treatment every few weeks but that’s on pause at the moment because of stay at home orders in Sydney. Which means I’ve largely been left to my own beauty devices! As a result I’ve been been exploring ways to look after my skin as best as I can sans expert input. It’s also something relaxing I can do so it’s been a little treat for me to give my skin some TLC once the craziness of the day is over. My skincare routine has all of a sudden become a big highlight to the week.

I have my skincare favourites which are still in rotation but I’ve also been trying to do some at-home treatments in the interim. While it’s not quiiiiite the same as having a proper facial at the hands of a professional, I think I’m doing a good job in the meantime with what’s at my disposal (still can’t wait to go to a spa as soon as it’s possible). So, what have I been doing as far as my skin goes?

Giving my skin a break

One thing that I am doing differently is taking a break from makeup when I can (bar the odd work thing here and there). I’m finding that since my skin has had some time to go au naturale given events and other commitments are on hold, it’s been thriving.

Sticking to my usual routine

I’ve been quite religious about sticking to my normal skin routine (which I talk about here) as it’s something that was working pre-lockdown so why rock the boat? It’s a nice way to bookend the day and I’m taking the time to do everything more mindfully so I’m not rushing through it and giving products the time to their thing.

Weekly treatments

I’m making a point of exfoliating my skin weekly. I’ve been using Cosmedix’ at home mini blueberry peel to exfoliate my skin and I like the fact that it makes my skin feel really clean and fresh afterwards. I’ve also been enjoying doing face masks every week. It’s something I can do while I’m sitting down to watch a show so I appreciate the multitasking aspect of it! It’s easy to forget how nourishing a simple sheet mask can be (I’ve been trialling a few from L’Oreal and think they’re great and they’re also inexpensive) and now that it’s become a ritual I’m making them a more regular part of my skincare regimen.

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise

I’ve been using Bangn body moisturiser of late and really rate it. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated and supple and I’ve always been quite religious with moisturising so I have enjoyed discovering a new product to love during all this time spent at home. Also now that we’re slowly emerging from the cocoon of winter woolies it’s time to get skin spring/summer wardrobe ready!

What are you doing to give your skin some TLC?

Beauty

Every product in my current skincare routine

18th November, 2020

I’ve always said that great skin is the basis of a flawless beauty look, and given I tend to need to have my makeup done several times a year for work commitments, I’ve always made a point of investing in my skin over most beauty things. My routine consists of regular facials and IPL treatments, but it’s really all about having a solid skincare regimen at home.

I love trying new products, particularly those that friends recommend so my routine does change up every so often but at the moment I’ve fallen into a nice rhythm with the products I have in my kit. I’ve loved the results I’ve been getting and I think my skin has never been in better shape. So, here’s what I use from morning to night.

My morning routine

I’ll do my skin routine first thing in the morning as I’m getting ready and it starts from serums and goes to the final product of SPF sunscreen. After which, I’ll apply my makeup. I find this process to be a nice way to start my day so where possible, I like to take my time with it. Here’s what I use:

1. Cosmedix Pepoxide

This is an antioxidant peptide concentrate that can be used morning and night. It helps to smooth skin and fight wrinkles, retain moisture and fight free radicals and even out skin tone. It’s a mult-tasker in a bottle which I love.

2. Ultraceuticals Ultimate Brightening Serum

A great serum is a must and this award-winning serum helps target pigmentation and also helps with the skin’s luminosity ie a lovely glow.

3. Clarins Double Serum

Yes, I like to use two serums. Along with seriously hydrating the skin this also fights the signs of ageing by minimising wrinkles and fine lines and also smoothing and brightening the skin. I like the fact it’s is light like a gel but is super nourishing like an oil.

4. Clarins Nutri-lumière Nourishing Day Cream

Once I’ve hydrated my skin with serums, I like to help lock it all in with a great nourishing moisturiser. This one is really wearable as its light and not oily or heavy.

5. Actinica Liposomal Lotion

Sun damage is the one thing that will really compromise the state of the skin so I always, always put on sunscreen before I walk out the door. I consider this the final step in my skincare routine and do it daily. This sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin and isn’t too heavy so it makes it really wearable.

6. Marc Jacobs Under(Cover) Perfecting Coconut Face primer

Before I put on foundation I always use a primer. I find this helps foundation glide on and also helps it to last the whole day. This also has a nice coconut scent which smells a bit like a holiday in a bottle.

7. Clarins Everlasting Youth Fluid

I love this foundation because it offers great coverage but is lightweight so it sits nicely. I hate wearing heavy foundations because it just makes my skin feel like I’ve caked a lot of makeup on. That second skin feeling is perfect.

My daily routine gifting me an all-day glow

My night routine

After a long day I like nothing more than getting ready for bed and doing my nightly routine. I use different products in the evening because I want to optimise the skin’s natural renewal process overnight. I go for products with actives that will help enhance this, and in turn help me to wake up with great skin.

1. Sodashi Samadara Eye Crème

Sodashi is a great Aussie beauty brand that does really beautiful luxe natural skincare. I dot this under my eyes to kick off my pre-bedtime skincare routine.

2. Cosmedix Serum 16 Rapid Renewal

This little gem contains retinol which helps boosts collagen production and helping to reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. I’ve found it to be great at improving the texture of my skin.

3. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair

When a product has cult status you know it has to be for a very good reason and Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair is just that. It helps with the skin’s nightly repair process and contains hyaluronic acid which locks in the skin’s moisture.

4. Clarins Nutri-lumière Rejuvenating Night Cream

The very last step in my routine is a slathering of night cream. My skin feels so moisturised and plump after this routine. Afterwards, it’s lights out.

Beauty

What you should know about skincare during pregnancy

8th October, 2020

During her pregnancy, Trish Maharaj had difficulty finding the kind of skincare she was after—something that was all-natural, Australian and safe for her baby and kind to her skin. So she decided to take matters into her own hands. As a cosmetic chemist and nutritionist, she decided to create her own skincare range that specifically catered to expecting mums and Madré Australia was born. Here, she chats about what you need to know about caring for your skin as a mum-to-be, including how to deal with stretch marks and the non-negotiables of your routine. .

What are some of the key concerns when it comes to skincare products and pregnancy?

“People tend to be concerned about two major factors – he ingredients they are using on their skin and whether there are any harmful ingredients that are best to be avoided for their safety of their unborn child, as well as the way their body is going to change over the course of their pregnancy and how to best manage that.”

Are there any ingredients that are best avoided?

“Given there is so much misinformation out there, my best advice for women trying to fall pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding is to speak to your healthcare professional. In saying that, there are ingredients that we have come to know that are best avoided during pregnancy. People are best to use products that are not only free from harmful toxins, but also endocrine disruptors known as carcinogens which can include ingredients (often found in skincare) such as retinols, Vitamin A and AHAs/BHAs.”

What are some beneficial skincare ingredients that expecting mums can look to incorporate into their routine?

Celery Stem Cells – “These are great for emerging white marks and scars on skin.”

Organic Shea and Cocoa Butters – “Rich in fatty acids, these butters have been touted for their ability to hydrate, nourish the skin and improve elasticity. The fat in cocoa butter forms a protective barrier that allows the skin to hold in moisture. It is also rich in natural plan compounds called phytochemicals that help to fade scarring on the skin and minimise stretch marks.”

Virgin Grade Plant Oils – “A variety of plant oils is key to ensure there is a variety of omega 3, 6 & 9’s. I love sacha inchi oil, evening primrose oil and marula oil. Look for virgin grades as these are unrefined and less processed and therefore retain its antioxidant profile. Our Madré Boob Balm for example, contains a variety of fancy essential fatty acids, omegas, vitamins & minerals from various oils to nourish dry skin.”

Bajuchiol & Azelaic acid – “These acids are a great natural alternative for those suffering from pregnancy acne as typical solutions such as Retinol, Salicylic Acid & Benzol Peroxide aren’t safe for pregnancy skin. These acids will not only help kill the bacteria that causes acne and keep pores clean but can also help brighten dark spots from pregnancy-induced melasma.”

We know that often stretch marks during pregnancy is hereditary but what are some ways expecting mums can help minimise them?

“Although stretch marks are a pretty obvious side effect of pregnancy, that still doesn’t make them any less annoying! You can be proactive by using a combination of ingredients that will help with collagen growth, its organisation which is key in repairing the stretch mark/scar if they have formed, alongside ingredients that help with elasticity and hydration of the skin. Doing this as your skin expands will certainly assist in helping the skin stretch as you grow.

Our Madré Belly Mask has been created specifically to assist with this for both pregnancy and postpartum bellies. It contains those pregnancy skin loving ingredients like Celery Cells, Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter which will help promote collagen organisation, growth and repair.

I would also recommend increasing cell turnover on areas that a prone to stretch marks such as the belly, butt, breasts and thighs via a physical exfoliant/scrub. Look for spherical shaped scrubbing agents such as jojoba, carnauba and coconut based exfoliants. Sugar or walnut based scrubs scratch the surface of the skin and this can lead to further irritated skin during pregnancy.”

What are some of the non-negotiables when it comes to skincare during pregnancy?

“As your skin starts to expand to accommodate the human who’s taken up residency inside your stomach, it can lose a lot of its moisture. This can lead to the skin feeling quite itchy, dry and flaky. Use a great moisturiser or oil with a wide array of essential fatty acids and Omegas. Also make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, which helps keep skin hydrated.

Sun protection is absolutely essential! Mineral sunscreens are generally the safest options for pregnant women, so make sure you track down ones that have zinc oxide in the ingredients list. Also, physical sun protection like hats and umbrellas at the beach are key.”

Beauty

Beauty pick of the week: Scott + Sullivan The Cleansing Pad

28th June, 2018

Whilst it’s a must for great skin, cleansing can sometimes become a tedious chore. So, these cleansing pads have been a godsend for me.

Scott + Sullivan The Cleansing Pad, $55

I like to look after my skin but sometimes at the end of a long day all I want to do is go to bed and the thought of having to go through a cleansing routine seems the hardest thing in the world. So in the interests of avoiding clogged pores and potential spots by just leaving my makeup on, I’ve started using these handy cleansing pads.

They’re a simple concept – 60 pads that have been pre-soaked with micellar water and chamomile extract that can take the place of your regular cleanser. So not only can I just wipe the day off I’m also giving my skin a hit of chamomile’s anti-inflammatory benefits. It also moisturises so I’m left with supple feeling skin afterwards.

As I tend to be on the go a lot, they’re also compact and come in a handy little screw top jar which means I can just throw them in a bag with minimal fuss. And hey, if this means one less thing for me to worry about in my skincare regiment then I’m definitely on board.

Beauty, Fashion

The one part of your beauty routine you shouldn’t neglect

9th November, 2017

If there’s one thing I’m fastidious about when it comes to my beauty routine its skincare. From cleansing to moisturising I always make sure that I take the time to ensure my skin remains in top shape. Whilst overall skin maintenance is important there’s one part of my routine I admit I wasn’t so laser focused on and that was taking care of the area around my eyes. This is crazy when you consider that it’s often one of the first things people notice about your face. It’s for that reason that Elizabeth Arden’s Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Eye Serum has become such a critical part of my skincare regime. Having already used the brand’s face serum from the Ceramide range and loved the results, I wasn’t surprised at the difference using the eye serum made to the overall condition of the delicate skin around my eyes. Just using a capsule each morning made my eyes look firmer and brighter and in turn helped me look healthier and more youthful. It’s an easy step to incorporate into my existing routine and one that I can definitely see myself continuing.

Along with younger looking eyes, Advanced Ceramide Capsules Eye Serum have also become an essential when I’m applying makeup (thumbs up for any beauty product that can do double duty). I always like to focus on my eyes whenever I’m doing my makeup but most especially when I’m going to an evening event. I think the key to great eye makeup is all in the prep that you do in that area. I always apply a cream concealer to cover any discolouration around my eyes but I’ve found that by mixing it with an Advanced Ceramide capsule it not only enables the concealer to glide on more easily it instantly makes my eyes look more luminous. With a great base to work with I then apply eye shadow, eye liner and mascara and I’m pretty much ready to walk out the door. So easy and so simple.

For a step-by-step guide to my eye makeup routine check out the video below:

This post was produced in collaboration with Elizabeth Arden

Beauty

A day in the life of my beauty routine

25th April, 2017

I am the first to admit that my days of having an extensive beauty routine are over as I simply have way too much to do in my day to spend it dealing with a huge arsenal of products. I’m all about a regimen that is quick, simple but most of all, effective. This is what I do in a day…

My morning starts with cleansing my face, applying Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum and then finishing with a hydrating moisturiser. I’m all about great skin and the most important step in my skincare regimen, is serum. The Advanced Ceramide Capsules conveniently comes in single-dose capsules which makes it easy to use. It’s highly potent and I’ve found my skin just drinks it up and my complexion has improved as a result. I’m all about great skin so this step is important. Now that Sophia is a little older she loves to watch as I go about my routine so we always spend the morning together as I get ready.

My day is varied so I could be spending it at work one minute, shooting a What I Wore post for the blog or hanging out with the girls the next so my makeup has to be appropriate for several different scenarios. My makeup routine mostly consists of applying a good base then applying eye shadow, eye liner, mascara, then curling my lashes. I also apply a highlighter to my cheekbones to accentuate them. I’ve managed to get this down to as short a time as possible as I need to get out the door fast!

Given I’m all about a quick beauty regimen I’ve managed to whittle down my top shelf beauty products to a few key beauty items – essentially what I can’t live without. What are they? Check out the video below to find out what gets my tick of approval and gets prime position in my beauty collection.

At the end of the day I like to unwind and prep for bed by taking my makeup off then cleansing my skin. I’ll then apply the same Advanced Ceramide Capsules to help my skin restore and replenish overnight. After that it’s lights out in preparation to do it all again the next day!

This post was created in collaboration with Elizabeth Arden.

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