There are a number of ingredients used within skincare that often get demonised – particularly by the non-certified ‘clean’ beauty movement. Here, we share the facts on the ones that receive the most negative press.    

What is clean beauty? You may be surprised to learn that there is no set definition. Generally, the concept is that a brand (or retailer) obtains some list of ‘dirty’ ingredients which are supposedly not good for us or the environment, and so long as a product doesn’t contain any of these ingredients, it is ‘clean’. Sounds simple, right? Well, in reality, it’s far from black and white. Many ‘clean’ brands pride themselves on transparency, but the truth is, if brands focused more on what actually is in their products rather than simply listing what isn’t, this would create a much more transparent marketplace for the consumer. Here, we explain why there’s a lot more to consider by outlining a few of the main problems with the clean beauty movement:

Thinking about getting a chemical peel? Get the low-down on the popular cosmetic treatment as Advanced Skin Facialist, Andy Millward covers all you need to know.  What is a chemical peel?  A chemical peel is a broad term used to describe a solution that is applied to the skin to stimulate the renewal process, resurface the outermost layer of the skin (the upper epidermis) and help stimulate collagen production in the dermis (the middle layer of the skin). How does it benefit the skin?   The benefits of a chemical peel can vary depending on the type of peel used. Broadly speaking, they can be useful for treating a variety of skin concerns such as sun damage, hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, acne, acne scarring, congestion and dullness.

Want to know what you can do about blackheads? Here, Skin Specialist Megan Abraham explains all you need to know about them including the difference between blackheads and sebaceous filaments – a normal part of the skin that often gets mistaken for the common skin concern.

What is hormonal acne and what can you do about it? We asked Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Emma Wedgeworth, to explain all. First things first, let’s clear up acne vs breakouts… The word ‘acne’ may conjure up images of severe cysts and boils, however, dermatologists use the word ‘acne’ or ‘acneiform’ (acne-like) to describe the process by which breakouts occur.  So, in reality, all spots and breakouts are a form of mild acne, although the term is usually reserved for more severe cases. 

Thinking about getting Botox or dermal filler? We asked Aesthetic Practitioner and Dental Surgeon, Dr. Ayah to answer some of the most common questions she gets asked about the popular cosmetic treatments. Read on for the answers…  Before we start, let me briefly explain the anatomy of the face as when you understand what is happening at the various layers, you can then better understand the treatments used to target the changes that occur. 

Layering your skincare can be confusing, so we asked Cosmetic Chemist Lalita Iyer to clear up the facts on how to layer your skincare products, if wait times matter, and ingredients that you can and cannot combine together. Let’s begin by first understanding the structure of the skin. The skin’s uppermost layer is known as the stratum corneum which consists of about 10-25 rows of dead keratinocytes (also known as corneocytes) embedded in something known as the lipid matrix. The stratum corneum is essentially an excellent barrier which defends your skin against outside aggressors. Through the proper use of skincare products and a dedicated routine, you can help reinforce and maintain a strong skin barrier.

While the summer season brings hotter temperatures and sunnier weather, the downside is for many, hay fever sharply follows. Although hay fever itself is a medical condition, all that itching, sneezing and irritation can take a toll on your skin – particularly around the eyes. If that's you, keep reading as we share our advice for looking after skin affected by the symptoms of hay fever.

As travel restrictions begin to ease and temperatures rise, many of us are jetting off to tropical beaches and sunny resorts all over the world. So, to help you decide which skincare to pack and how best to look after your skin while on your summer holiday, we've broken down our advice for each step of your routine. Cleansers Cleansing is more important than ever whilst on holiday. Over the course of a day, your skin will experience a build-up of sebum (oil), sweat, SPF and general grime from being in the sea/pool. Many of us also cleanse our skin more frequently whilst on holiday (e.g., in the morning, before dinner and before bed). As you will be washing your face more often, choose a gentle formula to use in the morning and before dinner – milky cleansers are a great choice that won’t strip your skin. You can then reserve your double cleanse for your PM routine to remove any makeup and SPF. Use an oil cleanser as your first cleanse (as this will be lighter and may be more comfortable than a balm in the heat) and your usual cleanser as your second. 

As the temperature heats up, the warmer weather and humidity can cause changes in your skin. Regardless of your skin type, here are some pointers to keep your skin happy in warmer climates. Make sure you double cleanse in the evening. Increased sweat and SPF use will mean one cleanse isn’t enough. Use a balm or oil first and follow with a gel or cream. Or, you can use a single cleanser twice. Regardless of your skin type, lightweight moisturisers, such as gel, can help to reduce that greasy feel you may find from a thicker cream.

Thinking about launching your own skincare clinic? We asked Aesthetician and Founder of West Room Aesthetics, Dija Ayodele, to share her top business advice and all that she has learnt along the way. Tell us about how West Room Aesthetics came to life? The dream was to create a space where we could execute skincare to the most professional level but also educate and build a supportive community around women and skincare, especially black women. I wante

One of the most common skin concerns is hyperpigmentation. But what is it exactly? Hyperpigmentation is a term used to describe patches of skin that are darker in tone. This occurs when excess melanin (the pigment that gives your skin its colour) is produced. There are various types of hyperpigmentation and the cause can vary from age, sun exposure, hormonal changes and injury to the skin. So, what can you do about it? Here are our tips…  

Without a doubt, SPF is the most important step of your skincare routine. Regardless of your skin type, concerns or age, you should be wearing it every day - no matter the weather. Here, we debunk some common myths around SPF and its usage to help you understand how to properly protect your skin. 

You’ve likely heard plenty about the radiance-boosting benefits of vitamin C but did you know that azelaic acid is another ingredient that can be effective at brightening the skin? Here, facetheory Education Manager Claire Balas tells us all we need to know about the ingredient and their best-selling azelaic acid serum as found in The Brightening Box.

The products included in The Brightening Box are hand-picked by our Founder and Skincare Expert, Caroline Hirons. Read on to find out why she chose the products and to discover her top tips for dealing with dull skin. 

The first thing to know is that the INCI list is just that: a guide. While nobody is expecting you to know exactly what every single ingredient does (unless you are a cosmetic scientist), learning how to decode the INCI list can help you avoid buying products that don't suit your skin or live up to their claims. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often presents as red, sensitive, bumpy skin on the face. Changes are usually most active around the centre of the face (cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin).  Rosacea is common, affecting about 5% of people globally. It can occur in any skin type but is much more common in lighter skin tones and particularly in Celtic populations.

Congratulations, you’re getting married! The dress? You’ve got a vision. The venue? No sweat, the Pinterest mood boards have started too. But wait, when do you start your skin preparation? Should you be adjusting your skincare routine? And when? Where to start! I too was a bride last year and I know the entire process can feel completely overwhelming, and that’s without worrying about skin preparation on top. So, fear not, here is my tried-and-tested simple guide. Let’s get into the details…

Let’s set the scene. You’re going to an overnight festival - be that Glastonbury, Bestival, Reading or any event that might involve sleeping in a tent - and need to compile a stash of skincare to take with you that you will actually use. While you’ll likely be having too much fun to even think about doing a full a.m. and p.m. skincare routine, we’ve created this simple guide to help you look after your skin while you’re there.

The cause of breakout-prone skin is varied and can be down to a number of reasons but first of all, let’s clear a few things up (no pun intended): There is a difference between breakout-prone skin and acne.  Acne is a chronic skin condition.  'Breakout-prone skin' is skin that is consistently prone to breakouts every so often or on a consistent but sporadic basis.

Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant. It is a widely used ingredient in skincare and is usually added to products to help combat blemishes and visible pores. Niacinamide is one of the two common chemical forms of vitamin B3 – nicotinic acid (niacin) and niacinamide (nicotinamide). The main difference between the two lies in their chemical structures - niacin contains an acid group and is therefore more acidic (lower pH), whereas niacinamide contains an ‘amide’ group and has a higher pH.

Do I really need to use sunscreen every day? Are natural products safer to use than those containing synthetic chemicals? I totally get that there are 101 questions that one may have when it comes to skincare. Sometimes it can truly feel like a minefield trying to find the right information. As a pharmacist, I get asked a lot of questions about skin concerns and how ingredients work. Here are my answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

The beauty industry is full of jargon, particularly when it comes to natural skincare. Marketed terminology is loaded with meaningless, empty adjectives that confuse and ‘greenwash’ customers. The truth is, messaging around ‘natural skincare’ isn’t definitive within the cosmetics and wellbeing industry — there’s no legal definition. Therefore, many brands use this to their advantage and throw around words such as ‘nasties’ ‘clean’, ‘non-toxic’ and ‘natural’; creating a meaning of their own.

Hair, be it hair care, hair styling or hair health, is a subject that receives extensive coverage, but we often neglect to give the same consideration to what lies underneath – and by that I’m referring to the scalp. So, it’s high time we gave it the attention it deserves, because looking after your scalp is a vital part of achieving lovely, healthy hair growth.

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a type of retinoid. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives – some common examples are retinal, retinol and retinyl retinoate.  Retinoids are widely known as the gold standard for reversing the signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. They can also reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and help to normalise skin function, reducing excess oil production and unclogging pores – making them beneficial for acne-prone skin.

Eczema is a skin condition that causes itchy, red, dry, and flaky skin. It’s common – affecting almost 1 in 5 children in the UK and up to 1 in 10 adults. The term eczema is often used interchangeably with dermatitis. There are a number of different types of eczema or dermatitis, with the most common ones being:

Oily skin is one of the four primary, traditional skin types and is caused by an overproduction of sebum (oil). It is predominantly genetic but can also be triggered by hormones and diet, or skin that is dehydrated - more on this later.

One of the most recognisable ingredients over the past few years, vitamin C is a true powerhouse in skincare. Although its notoriety lies in its brightening capability, its antioxidant function makes it suitable for treating an array of skincare concerns.

Is Black skin really so different to Caucasian skin? Although there are many similarities and to some extent yes, skin is just skin, Black skin does have some clear physiological differences, which are important to take into account.

Bigger is always better, right? Wrong. We know you want more bang for your buck, but are high-percentage actives more effective or just an excuse for brands to charge more? Let’s add up the numbers. Is percentage chasing based on marketing or science? I blame attention-seeking single-ingredient serums. Marketers have got wise to our instinct that bigger is better, and the market is now flooded with high-percentage serums out to impress. Building a skincare routine can seem overwhelming, and number comparisons make it so much easier to choose. They’ve sparked a war between marketers and formulators - and the marketers are winning. New products should be inspired by skincare innovation rather than a trendy ingredient with a good PR.  Are high-percentage actives always more effective?  No, not necessarily. Every ingredient has a recommended percentage regarding performance and safety, backed up by evidence formed by the manufacturer.  I see a lot of ‘stealth sensitivity’ in my clinic. The use of too many high-percentage actives can overstimulate the skin and lead to breakouts and/or sensitivity – just not straight away. Your skin never forgets, and eventually, it will go on strike. Many actives are just as effective at lower percentages, so you don’t have to pay more for a higher percentage and risk upsetting your skin barrier. The delivery system and formulation are far more important than the percentage Formulations are far more complex than one key ingredient: you need good quality, bioavailable* ingredients that can penetrate into your skin to work their magic.  Suppose an overenthusiastic marketeer markets a 10% active serum. It will just loiter on the surface without a sophisticated delivery system. Your skin barrier is like a bouncer, and nothing gets in without an invitation.  *bioavailable - The ability of a substance to be absorbed and used by the body.   Your barrier loves these super-effective, low-percentage actives: (Please note: the percentages below are to be used a guide to indicate a comfortable yet effective range.) VITAMIN A: Build up slowly if your skin is new to gold standard anti-ager vitamin A, or risk irritating your skin and peeling like crazy. Retinyl Palmitate A gentle soul – no need to worry about the percentage. Retinyl palmitate is like a starter bra and will help sensitive skin build up a tolerance to retinol, which is more like a plunge bra. Retinol Percentage range: 0.01%- 2% Easy does it. You will still get great results from a low percentage, but it will just take longer. Your skin is in no rush. Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) Percentage range: 0.2-0.5% The new kid on the block. This retinoic acid ester doesn’t need to be converted to retinoic acid (Tret), so it promises to be just as active but without irritation.  Retinaldehyde (retinal) Percentage range: 0.05–0.1% The strongest retinoid without a prescription. Unimpressed by retinol? It’s time to upgrade to retinal. Also a great option for skins that can’t handle Tret, no matter how much you buffer. Tretinoin (prescription strength) Pure retinoic acid is much more potent than retinol, so you will need a dermatologist to prescribe this for you.  Prescription range: 0.025-0.1%   L-ASCORBIC ACID (pure vitamin C): A tricky one to formulate. The most important part of Vitamin C is the stability, not the percentage. A high percentage is completely useless if it oxidises and turns brown.  Percentage range: 5%-15%   NIACINAMIDE: The market is saturated with 10% niacinamide serums but you can also see great results at a lower percentage. Percentage range: 2%-4% Barrier repair Collagen production Balances oil production Percentage range: 4%-5% Blemishes  Hyperpigmentation   AHAs: Less is definitely more when it comes to AHAs, with the pH being far more important than the percentage. (Ideally, the pH needs to be between 3 to 4 to exfoliate without aggravating your skin). As a therapist, I cringe at 15% glycolic acid toners and serums – leave your poor skin barrier alone! Percentage range: You only need 5-8% to see a real skin difference.    Your skin barrier wants the final say: Patience is a virtue There is no rush. You can achieve the same results with a lower percentage, it’ll just take longer.    Qualifications - NVQ 2 & 3 Beauty Therapy

The world of skin care can be confusing. Do you need to wear SPF when its cloudy? Should you be popping your spots or leaving them well alone? Is exfoliating daily too much? To confuse things further, social media platforms can be the wild west when it comes to skincare advice because what is posted isn’t always fact checked, resulting in misinformation to be spread. For example, drinking celery juice won’t give you “perfect” skin.  

You've probably heard a lot about acids in skincare. They sound a bit scary, but also excitingly powerful - what exactly do they do, and do you need to use them? Here's the lowdown on the most common acids in skincare. 

We are over halfway through the month of Ramadan, and for many within the Muslim community, this means they have been fasting from dawn to dusk, abstaining from eating and drinking whilst focusing more on reconnecting with their faith and spirituality. 

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, inflamed, flaky and itchy. The most common form of eczema is atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. In severe cases, the skin can crack, weep and even bleed. Whilst the exact cause of eczema is unknown, evidence has shown that there is an issue with your skin barrier function.

Along with parabens, fragrances and essential oils, artificial blue light from digital devices has fast become the next “nasty” to fear, according to the sometimes-questionable world of skincare marketing. Particularly following the increase in screen time throughout the pandemic. But you needn’t worry, as we’re here to give you the facts and quash unsubstantiated claims made to sell you a product out of fear.

As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Sandra Lee always urges people to resist popping their own pimples because it can often do more harm than good — making spots worse and leading to scarring and potential infection. She is aware however, that most of us will not listen to that. With this in mind, we asked for her expert advice on how to pop a spot properly.

Collagen is a protein found in the dermis layer of your skin. It's very important for the structure of your skin and is responsible for its firmness and bounce. As we age, collagen production slows down. The sun’s UV rays also damage collagen. Collagen loss is one of the main causes of thinning skin, wrinkles and a rougher texture. So, it's no big surprise that one of the most hyped-up supplements in skincare is collagen. 

Widely considered as the gold standard skin ingredient, unless you’re new to skincare, you will have likely heard of retinol. Much-loved by dermatologists and aestheticians alike, it’s best known for its ability to significantly improve the appearance of the skin, especially lines, wrinkles, and sun damage.

If there is one positive that came out of the past few years, it’s the rise of small businesses and professionals moving towards starting their own side hustle. Thinking about launching your own skincare brand? We spoke to Gemma Murari, Founder of Luneia Skin Wellness, about how she created a successful indie skincare business.

When you think about breakouts you automatically picture a teenager with a few spots. But while there is still a stigma attached to the age we experience them, it is becoming more and more apparent that breakouts do not discriminate against age.

What is acne? Acne is one of the most common disorders of the skin, affecting approximately 85% of us at some point in our lives. We are most likely to develop it during adolescence, triggered by the production of sex hormones known as androgens at the onset of puberty.  Acne subsides by the early twenties in many cases, however, it can persist into adulthood (over 25) and late-onset acne can also occur. Current research indicates that the number of adults with acne is on the rise. Although acne is common, the intensity and duration varies widely from one person to another, and no two journeys are alike.  What causes acne? There are four primary factors that interact to cause acne:  Excess sebum production by sebaceous glands. These are the tiny oil-producing glands that sit alongside our hair follicles. Build-up of dead skin cells inside the hair follicle. These cells mix with sebum forming a blockage or “plug” that obstructs the opening of the hair follicle (pore). If this blockage occurs near the surface of the skin, exposure to air causes the mixture to turn black. This is what gives “blackheads” their characteristic appearance. Cutibacterium acnes. This bacteria lives on the skin and thrives in airless, oily conditions like those found in hair follicles. It turns sebum into fatty acids, deactivating enzymes that normally put the brakes on inflammation. Release of inflammatory mediators. Once the brakes are off, cascades of chemicals are produced by skin cells, leading to the type of inflammation that causes acne. What are the risk factors for acne? Genes are likely to be involved in acne predisposition. Lending weight to this theory, there are high rates of concordance amongst identical twins (meaning that if one twin has acne the other is extremely likely to develop it as well). There is also a tendency towards severe acne in people with a positive family history.  Hormones. Our sebaceous glands are under hormonal control. In people who have acne, the glands are particularly sensitive, even to normal blood levels of these hormones. Surges in hormones e.g. during puberty, pregnancy or pre-menstrually can drive production of extra sebum. Medical conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), increase the risk of persistent acne and may be tested for by your doctor if you have other symptoms, such as irregular menstrual cycles, thinning of scalp hair and excess body or facial hair. PCOS has been estimated to affect approximately 8% of females of reproductive age. Population studies correlate acne with a Western diet. Eating lots of sugary or processed foods and drinks may increase breakouts. Dairy can be a trigger for some people too. Unfortunately, there is no simple test to confirm or exclude this, so the best way to work it out is to observe closely over a few weeks (e.g. 6-8 weeks) to see if you can spot a pattern. Does your acne flare up consistently each time you consume dairy during this period? If so, does it get better when you limit dairy for the same amount of time? Other lifestyle factors can also contribute. Stress, certain medications (e.g. oral steroids, progesterone-only contraception, some antidepressant or antiepileptic drugs) and inappropriate skincare product or makeup selection can aggravate acne. What does acne look like? Generally straightforward to recognise, acne can appear in different forms: Whiteheads (closed plugged pores) Blackheads (open plugged pores) Papules (small red bumps) Pustules (small pus-filled spots) Nodules and cysts (large, deep, tender lumps under the skin) Many people who experience acne have a combination of these different types. Acne is most likely to affect the face, however,  the trunk (back or chest) is affected in approximately 60% of cases. Adult female acne often affects the sides of the cheeks, jawline, chin, neck and upper torso. Teenage acne may be more prominent across the forehead, nose and chin, in the so-called T-zone distribution. In reality, there is usually some degree of overlap between these patterns. It is important to understand that acne can leave scars or discolouration on the skin, some of which might remain long after the acne has subsided. Common examples of these changes include: Dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or “PIH”)  Red marks (post-inflammatory erythema or “PIE”) Hypertrophic or keloid scars (raised, thick or lumpy scars) Atrophic scars e.g. rolling, box car or ice pick scars (pitted or indented scars)  What is “fungal acne”? Pityrosporum folliculitis is a yeast infection of the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. It is distinct from acne although some of the risk factors are similar e.g. high sebum production. Excessive sweating and hot, humid conditions can increase the risk too. It is most common in adolescent and young adult males, and typically affects the upper back and chest, although the forehead/ hairline, neck and chin can be affected too.  Pityrosporum folliculitis causes small, red pimples which may be itchy. These are very uniform in appearance, unlike acne where a mixture of blackheads and other types of pimple often appear together.  It is treated with antifungal shampoos, creams or tablets. Recurrence is common, even after successful treatment. How is acne classified? There are numerous grading systems used to define acne severity, but broadly speaking Dermatologists classify acne as mild, moderate or severe based on the number and type of spots, and the amount of skin involved.  Factors which indicate more severe acne include: Large number of spots Presence of nodules and cysts Presence of scarring Presence of psychological distress Acne and mental health Acne is a very visible condition, it often persists for months or years and it can leave permanent scars. Anxiety, depression and low self-esteem are common in people who have had acne, and it has been repeatedly demonstrated that the level of distress may not correlate directly with acne severity i.e. people with objectively mild acne may experience significant distress. Effective treatment of acne can relieve feelings of shame or embarrassment, and improve body image and self-confidence. How should I manage my acne? “The basics” First and foremost, keep your skincare routine simple and stick to it as much as possible.  One common acne myth is that poor hygiene causes acne. The role of facial cleansing in acne is to remove makeup, dirt and excess oil. Using harsh cleansers and scrubbing furiously at the skin can disrupt the skin barrier, increase inflammation and cause the skin to sting or burn. Cleansing twice-daily with a gentle soap-free cleanser tends to work best. Then, opt for a non-comedogenic moisturiser, sunscreen and makeup. Non-comedogenic makeup improves confidence and does not worsen the severity of acne nor delay response to treatment. “Actives” Magazines and social media abound with skincare products that claim to improve or reduce breakouts. Although largely untested in controlled clinical trials, many of these products are considered somewhat effective, particularly for people with mild acne i.e. blackheads, and occasional papules or pustules.  Adding products to your routine that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, sulphur or niacinamide may help reduce oiliness, promote exfoliation and calm redness associated with acne. You don’t need to try and incorporate ALL of these ingredients, however. Doing so is likely to cause significant irritation. Another nifty option in the over-the-counter toolbox, especially for those who are prone to picking spots, is the hydrocolloid plaster.  If you are already following a sound skincare routine, have tried a few over-the-counter products without success or have any of the features that indicate more severe acne, prescription therapy is likely to be required and should not be delayed in people who are starting to scar. Prescriptions Prescription creams (e.g. retinoids), the combined oral contraceptive pill, a trial of antibiotics or more specialised oral treatment options can be extremely effective when used in the right combination for you.  The best doctors to see for acne treatment are your GP in the first instance, and a Consultant Dermatologist if initial treatment is not helping. Light and laser treatments  These treatments show some promise in treating acne and may form part of a treatment plan. Data confirming their effectiveness is limited compared to prescription treatment and more studies are needed to know what will work best for most people.  Scarring The first step in managing acne scarring is to get the spots under control as early as possible. Once the acne is controlled, discolouration and texture does tend to improve to a degree over the following months. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 -50 sunscreen is an essential tool for helping fade dark or red marks from acne. There are various tools and techniques that can be used to improve the appearance of scars. Topical retinoids, microneedling, radiofrequency needling, laser, chemical peels, steroid injections and surgical scar revision are all possible options. These treatments carry their own risk of adverse effects so need to be carefully tailored to the individual by an experienced practitioner on a case by case basis. Managing Expectations  People having treatment for acne should be given reasonable expectations of the time taken for visible improvement, which is usually 2-3 months for most options. It is important to understand that acne may worsen or irritation may be more significant initially, with gradual improvement. Be patient, be open-minded and don’t lose heart. There is always something that can be done.   @drjustinekluk drjustinekluk.com    

The products included in The Breakout Box were hand-picked by our Founder and Skincare Expert, Caroline Hirons. Read on to find out why she chose breakouts as a theme and why the products were selected.  Why did you choose breakouts as a theme? Irrespective of your age or skin tone, if you have oily or combination skin and visible breakouts, this is the Box for you.  The Breakout Box came to fruition as we know that quite a few older people bought into our Teen Box. Breakouts are something many of us experience at some stage in our lives and so I wanted to create a targeted routine designed to decongest, soothe and balance blemish-prone skin.  Why did you choose these products? Whether you’re experiencing large, painful, hormonal spots or a cluster of breakouts from a heavy weekend, I’ve chosen products that can help to tackle breakouts, no matter what the cause.   Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser: This gently foaming cleanser is ideal if you suffer from excess oil and blackheads. It removes dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin, thanks to the addition of glycerin and aloe vera.   Murad Daily Clarifying Peel: Working over time to decongest pores and resurface the skin, this multi-action peel is a triple-threat when it comes to breakouts. Addressing both the cause of spots and appearance of congested skin, it uses a powerful combination of glycolic acid, salicylic acid and a retinoid.  If you are new to acids, please start by using twice a week. Increase if you feel it is necessary.   REN Clearcalm Replenishing Gel Cream: When your skin feels oily, angry and congested, the last thing you want is a thick, heavy moisturiser. This soothing, lightweight gel cream is designed to boost moisture in breakout-prone skin, leaving it feeling calm and comfortable.    Votary Blemish Rescue Oil: This oil has been designed as a sophisticated alternative to traditional spot treatments which can be quite drying. It’s brilliant if you suffer from regular breakouts and want an invisible treatment that can be re-applied throughout the day without stripping the skin. What’s your advice for dealing with breakouts? First and foremost, work out what might be triggering your breakouts. Is it your hormones? Stress? Your skincare routine? Each of these factors can lead to breakouts, so it’s important to identify the potential cause when treating them.  On that note, treat the spots, take care of the skin. Don’t treat your entire face as if it’s covered in breakouts (unless it is!). Spot treatments such as the Votary Blemish Rescue Oil included in the Box, are brilliant for targeting localised areas.  I’ve also created a complete guide on types of spots and how to deal with them which you can read here.  Shop The Breakout Box.

One of your beloved products runs out; what do you do? Bin it? Recycle it? Keep it in an empties drawer for months (guilty)? The world of packaging and recycling products can be just as confusing as picking an actual product for your face in the first place.

Did you know that combination skin is the most common skin type?  As the name suggests, combination skin means you experience a mixture of skin types. Typically, this is seen as balanced skin (‘balanced’ being a far more accurate alternative to the widely used term ‘normal skin’ - because what is that exactly?) with oily areas - usually the t-zone - or balanced skin with dry patches.

We often think that skin concerns such as breakouts, are only caused by the products or lack of products we apply to our skin, however, that isn’t always the case. 

From at-home masks endorsed by celebrity users to clinic professional treatments from esteemed facialists like Teresa Tarmey and Andy Millwall, LED Therapy has truly hit the skincare world by storm. It was a huge trend in 2021 and it’s certainly not going anywhere fast, as its popularity continues to grow.  Now I can hear you asking, “what is LED?” Let’s get into the details, starting with the basics. 

Ready to start a solid skincare routine or simply want to make sure you’ve got your current one nailed? From which order to apply your products to the essentials everyone should include in their regimen, we’ve broken it down into an easy guide.

No matter what you identify as, if you have a face, you need a solid skincare routine. Whether that’s a basic cleanse and moisturise or a 6-step regimen. But a question that comes up time and time again is whether men need to use different skincare to women?

Originally used in medicine for its wound-healing abilities, Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is a humectant (attracts and retains water in the skin) and is touted for its ability to hold more moisture than popular fellow hydrator, Hyaluronic Acid.