True Radical Honesty From Our Community

Do you know which skincare ingredients are fair game when you’re pregnant, and which most certainly aren’t? Not a problem, we’re here to make things a whole lot simpler…

Pregnancy brings incredible changes to your skin, including that infamous ‘pregnancy glow’ which often has the complexion looking the best it’s been in a long time. But it’s not all rainbows and butterflies. During pregnancy, you can also experience unexpected breakouts, extra sensitivities and dark spots that most certainly weren’t there before.

Is it wise, therefore, to overhaul your entire skincare routine during these transformative months? Or is it more prudent to simply be conscious of the changes happening to your skin so you can make informed decisions on what to use, what to avoid and how to maximize that glow?

We believe the latter. Here’s how…

What Happens To Your Skin During Pregnancy?

In a word, hormones. As your body goes through the important process of supporting a growing fetus and preparing for childbirth, your hormones go through significant changes. Of course, these fluctuations are crucial for the health of both yourself and your unborn baby, but their effects on the body can be huge. Tender breasts, mood swings, aches and pains are some of the obvious noticeable impacts. And then there are the visible changes to your skin. These include things like stretch marks, spider veins and skin tags which can appear anywhere on the body. 

When it comes to the face, the most common skin changes are:

Melasma

Often called the ‘mask of pregnancy’ melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that causes dark patches on the face. Studies show that melasma affects around 90 percent of pregnant women making it one of the most common skin concern during this time.

Acne Breakouts

Hormone fluctuations can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum and overload your skin with oil that it really doesn’t need. The result? Clogged pores and pesky breakouts.

Irritation

According to the American Pregnancy Association your body produces 50 percent more blood when you’re pregnant. This can be a great thing, often giving you fabulously glowing skin. However, this increase of blood flow, when combined with crazy hormones, can also increase skin sensitivities, making some skin types reactive and prone to itching, redness, dryness and flaking.

The Two Skincare Ingredients To Avoid During Pregnancy

According to popular belief you should steer clear of many active skincare ingredients when pregnant, including things like vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and benzoyl peroxide. And sure, these are all potent topicals that can cause irritation when used without due care. However, according to research, with the exception of two, most skincare ingredients act locally and therefore cause minimal risk to an unborn child.

The two no-nos to really be aware of? Hydroquinone and retinoids. 

Hydroquinone is a topical ingredient that’s extremely effective for lightening the skin and fading dark patches. This makes it very tempting for pregnant skin which can often being plagued with melasma. However, it’s estimated that somewhere between 35 and 45 percent of hydroquinone is absorbed into the bloody stream. Some research shows no links to adverse effects for an unborn child, but this absorption is a major red flag. Our advice? Don’t go there.

Better choices are to minimize sun exposure to avoid exacerbating dark spots, wear a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen like SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Facial Serum daily, and try safer skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide and exfoliating acids in small doses.

Retinoids are the holy grail for healthy skin, working hard to help minimize the visible signs of aging and simultaneously decrease the severity and frequency of acne breakouts by accelerating cell turnover and boosting collagen production. They’re very potent beasts, however, and should always be treated with respect. Especially when pregnant. Oral retinoids, in particular have been shown to cause birth defects so these should be avoided at all costs. 

And topical retinoids? While these are widely believed to be fairly low in risk, they’re best kept at arm's length to be on the safe side. This includes everything from tretinoin (a prescription retinoid) to milder retinol.

Instead, try bakuchiol which is nature’s gentle alternative to retinol and generally considered safe for use during pregnancy.

How To Build The Best Pregnancy Skincare Routine

The key to managing changes in your skin during pregnancy lies in using gentle, pregnancy-safe products. While widely deemed safe, there are questions around ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, high concentrations of salicylic acid, certain essential oils, phthalates and parabens so you might want to give those a wide berth. Other than that, being sensible with your skin, listening to its needs and treating it with tender loving care is the best way to encourage healthy, glowing skin during this time.

Here are five quick tips to help you along the way.

1. Avoid Over-Cleansing

Cleansing is vital to balance sebum and remove potentially pore-clogging debris from the surface of your skin. Just don’t go mad with stripping formulations that can screw up the skin’s important barrier function and exacerbate irritation. Stick with gentle, balanced cleansers and use lukewarm, rather than hot water to rinse the skin.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Apply a hydrating Hyaluronic Acid or Niacinamide Facial Serum after you cleanse and before moisturizing to boost moisture, help reduce inflammation and improve both the tone and texture of your skin. These ingredients are both safe and extremely beneficial for most skin types during pregnancy.

3. Patch Test Everything

Even ‘safe’ ingredients have the potential to irritate the skin, especially when it’s more sensitive during the hormone frenzy that comes with pregnancy. To avoid any mishaps and unwanted inflammation, always patch test your products before using them on a daily basis. Not sure what that means? We can help with that, right here.

4. Embrace Mineral Sunscreen

Although limited, certain research points to chemical sunscreens having the potential to have harmful effects on the human body so, to be safe, we recommend sticking with mineral formulations only. Mineral sunscreens like our SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen with Vitamin C use the FDA-recommended zinc oxide to protect the skin.

5. Give Botox & Laser Treatments A Rest

Gentle facials that incorporate pregnancy-safe ingredients can be a great way to boost the look and feel of your skin. Always consult with your facial or aesthetician first, however, and know that many dermatological treatments like chemical peels, laser treatments and injectables should be paused until after your baby has been born. The FDA classifies Botox, for example, as a category C pregnancy drug which means there’s insufficient evidence to determine its safety.

Let’s take a look at how to nail in-flight skincare, shall we? Because who wants to turn up to their destination with dry, dull skin? Answer: nobody.

Raise your hands if you dread that post-flight mirror check when, even though you’ve had a decent nap and drank your body weight in water, your skin looks dry, dull and as if you’ve not slept in 10 days?

We hear you.

Airplane skin is very real. How so? One of the reasons is that, while regular air has all manner of pros and cons of its own, airplane cabins use pressurized, recycled air. This recycled air is not only filled with who-knows-what, but it also has a very low humidity and, as you know, skin loves moistures which low humidity seriously lacks. This means that flying can cause all sorts of problems for the skin – even to the most resilient complexions. As skin saboteurs go, it’s right up there. 

How best can you get ahead of this skincare nightmare? By arming yourself with our ultimate in-flight skincare survival guide. Let’s do this…

4 Reasons Why Flying Messes With Your Skin

1. Humidity Levels Don’t Quite Cut It

Airplane cabins are expertly pressurized to protect you from the low air pressure at high altitude. Pressurized cabins are crucial for maintaining balanced oxygen levels, allowing you to a) breathe and b) not get altitude sickness. It’s important stuff and, in the grand scheme of things, being alive is far more important than having to deal with slightly cruddy skin. But still, the frustrating part is that pressurized air only contains around 10-20 percent humidity which is lower than most deserts. Your skin is not down with that, preferring a more moist 50-60 percent to keep it soft, radiant and hydrated.

2. Where Did All The Nutrients Go?

Low air pressure also slows down lymphatic drainage and reduces the levels of oxygen in your blood. This temporarily ‘starves’ it of all the essential nutrients it loves in order to remain glowing and healthy-looking.

3. UV Radiation Reaches New Heights

High altitudes = increased levels of UV radiation. We’ll just leave that one there.

4. Did Someone Say Circadian Rhythm?

As you’re probably aware, your body has a smart, 24-hour internal clock that helps to regulate its various functions and processes. This is primarily controlled by light and darkness and it allows you to operate on a daily basis, sending your body to sleep at night and keeping you functioning optimally during the day.

You can imagine what happens to this circadian rhythm when you throw a red-eye, long-haul flight or cross into a different time zone into the mix? It gets thrown right out of whack, making it harder for you to fall asleep at bedtime. And never underestimate what inadequate sleep can do to the state of your skin. Cue dryness, irritation, dehydration, even breakouts.

Your Pre-Flight Game Plan

1. Hydrate Yourself From The Inside Out

Set yourself up for skin success by skipping alcohol and caffeine a good 24 hours before take-off. These are super dehydrating and your skin has enough dehydrating triggers to come when the humidity levels hit rock bottom during your flight. Instead, drink plenty of water and herbal teas, and boost your diet with water-rich food like cucumber and watermelon.

2. Protect & Hydrate From The Outside In

On the day of your fight, make sure to cleanse thoroughly and layer on the hydration. We like to apply serum straight after cleansing to start the ball rolling, and our new SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Facial Serum is the perfect product for the job. Not only does it contain prickly pear and sunflower extracts to help the skin retain water and protect it from free radical damage, but SPF 30 is vital for shielding your skin from the intense UV radiation you'll experience closer to the ozone layer. Trust us, if you’re going to be sat next to the window, sunscreen is non-negotiable.

3. Go Heavy On Moisture, Light On Makeup

Lock in all that hydration with a rich, but non pore-clogging moisturizer that can be reapplied as needed. Reapplication is highly recommended for long-haul flights so, if you can bear it, skip makeup completely to allow you to reapply without worrying about annoying foundation getting in your way.

PRO-TIP: Avoid trying new skincare for a week or so before flying. This will help avoid irritation which can be exacerbated by dry airplane cabins. 

Your In-Flight Skincare Strategy

1. Don’t Cleanse During Your Flight

This is messy and too tricky in those cramped bathrooms which, tbh, are probably not the cleanest after being used by numerous other people. If you do feel the need to freshen up, apply some travel-sized micellar water over your face and neck.

2. Pop A Sheet Mask In Your Carry-On

Hydrating sheet masks are flight skincare gold. Sure, you might get a little side-eye from other passengers as you sit back and relax for 10-15 minutes looking like something from a horror movie, but the benefits will be so worth it in the end.

3. Reapply Moisture

After your sheet mask has done its job, it’s wise to lock moisture back into your skin. Make sure to clean your hands first with a gentle sanitizer, then reapply your favorite, non-comedogenic lotion and follow with sunscreen. This time, SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen with Vitamin C is going to be your BFF. It’s loaded with antioxidants, works immediately and is the perfect size for your carry-on.

PRO-TIP: Long-haul flights call really screw up your circadian rhythm, so take an eye mask and ear plugs to help you sleep at weird times.

Your Post-Flight Recovery Program

1. Resist The Urge To Cleanse Like Mad

It’s tempting to want to do away with all that in-flight grime after landing, but harsh cleansers that are overloaded with drying ingredients like strong surfactants and unnecessary preservatives will compromise skin that’s already feeling a little delicate. Of course, feel free to cleanse your skin once you arrive at your destination but go gently with a plant-based, kind-to-skin formula like Vitamin C Brightening Cleanser.

2. Exfoliate While You’re At It

A little gentle exfoliation is great for clearing out post-flight pores, improving circulation and waking up sluggish skin. Plus, the simple act of physical exfoliation is enough to make you feel immediately better. We’re all about Vitamin C Gentle Face Scrub which hits that sweet spot of being just grainy enough to feel like it’s doing a good job, without feeling like it’s removing an entire layer of your skin! Smooth it over damp, clean skin on arrival, gently working it all over your face and neck, then rinsing well with lukewarm water.

3. Hit The Moisture Reset Button

Post-flight is the time to repair and restore your skin so continue to layer on hydrating serums and moisturizer, morning and night. A rich night cream is going to be particularly beneficial for your first night back on solid ground as your skin does its best repair work while you’re asleep. Try Vitamin C Deep Hydration Night Cream.

PRO-TIP: Try a two-minute massage as you cleanse to wake up post-flight, sluggish skin. Simply work your hands over your face in circular motions to boost blood flow and restore your glow.

Correct skincare application is a great way to amp up your routine with little effort and zero cost. That makes it a no brainer in our eyes, agreed?

Applying your skincare products correctly might not seem as important as the ingredients they contain, but your technique can actually make them work harder and more efficiently. Of course, if you slap your moisturizer on like you’ve not a care in the world, it’s not going to harm your skin, per se, but wouldn’t you rather know how to get the best from each and every product in your regime? Getting more bang for your buck in the process and helping your skin be the best version of itself?

We know where we stand on that one.

So on that note, here’s a quick guide on how to correctly apply the most important products in your skincare routine.

How Best To Apply: Cleanser

Washing your face feels like a pretty elementary step in your routine but, trust us, a few tweaks to your cleansing technique are guaranteed to make a huge difference. Of course this depends on the formulation, but the general rule is that gels and foams are best applied to damp skin because water helps them emulsify so they’re able to cut through oils and surface debris. Cleansing oils, creams, lotions and milks, on the other hand, work more efficiently when they’re undiluted, so you’re better off applying these to dry skin.

Whatever formulation you choose, try to spend two or three minutes massaging the cleanser into your skin to get the best results. Use circular motions all over your face and neck, and concentrate on areas like the side of your nose where sebum can become trapped.

Once you’ve massaged it all over for a few minutes, a great trick is to leave the cleanser on your skin for an extra minute before rinsing. This helps to really soak up any extra debris that might be lurking around. Then rinse thoroughly with warm – NEVER HOT – water and pat dry with a clean, cotton face towel.

How Best To Apply: Toner

After cleansing, comes toner which is great step for topping off your cleansing routine and treating the skin while gently preparing it for the rest of your skincare regime.

Again, depending on the formula, most toners are applied using a cotton pad but try to stick with reusable options which can be thrown in the laundry after each use. Regular cotton wool pads may seem ‘natural’ but they’re not compostable and require tons of water and energy to produce.

As your application technique goes, this one is pretty straightforward. Simply soak your cotton pad then lightly sweep it over your skin without using too much force – you don’t want to drag the skin as this can cause surface damage.

We like to start at the center of the face, swiping upward and out to help lift the skin. And remember to use both sides of the pad to ensure a thorough tone.

How Best To Apply: Face Serums

Hard-working and extremely beneficial to your skin, facial serums should always come after toning (or cleansing if toning isn’t your jam) and before moisturizing. This is because they’re thinner, more lightweight and have a smaller molecular structure than moisturizers, enabling them to penetrate the skin deeper and more efficiently. If you apply moisturizer first this will leave a barrier on the surface of your skin, stopping your serum from getting its job done.

Because of their concentrated nature, only a small amount of serum is ever needed – one or two drops is often the sweet spot. Use your dropper to apply your serum to the palm of your hand, then work it between your hands to help you distribute it more evenly. To apply, gently press and tap it into all areas of the face and neck, using upward movements but with very little massaging motion. Instead, allow the serum to absorb naturally into the skin.

How Best To Apply: Eye Treatments

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face so when it comes to applying eye creams and gels it’s imperative you go gently. Like, super gently.

Go for a small amount of product (a pea-sized amount is usually enough for both eyes) and use your ring fingers rather than your forefingers to apply it. This ensures you apply less pressure to this fragile area – smart huh? Some people like to smooth their eye treatment around the eyes but we prefer to tap the product around the entire orbital bone area as this not only helps to stimulate circulation but also reduces drag and potential damage.

Important note to remember: always allow your eye treatment a minute or two to sink in and settle before moving on to moisturizer and/or makeup.

How Best To Apply: Moisturizer

You might be tempted to rub in your moisturizer with a strong, firm hand but, as with most of your skincare regime, a lighter touch is always best. Saying that, however, giving your skin a little workout while your moisturize is never a bad idea!

How much moisturizer do you need? Roughly a quarter-sized amount should be more than enough for your entire face and neck, but always read the label on your product – it’s not just there to look pretty, you know.

Warm your product for a few seconds between your hands (as long as they’re clean, of course!), then use your hands and pads of your fingers to work it all over the face in circular motions, working up and out towards your hairline. This light, massage approach will improve blood flow and encourage lymphatic drainage to pep up dull, tired skin and really get your glow on.

How Best To Apply: Sunscreen

Finally, one of the most important steps: sunscreen. Unless you’re doubling up with a super-smart SPF serum (which we can help you out with, right here!), sunscreen should always be the last step in your skincare routine. Also, unlike the rest of your formulations, it’s the one you can slather on to your heart’s content. In fact, on this occasion, more is definitely more.

Most experts agree that about ½ teaspoon or a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen lotion ensures adequate protection for your face and neck. Squeeze it into your hand then smooth a good layer all over your skin. Oh and if you’re going to be spending lots of time outside, reapply frequently. No arguments.

Facial toner is the most underrated skincare product around. But it can transform a 'meh' complexion to the most radiant skin of your life.

Everyone’s skincare routine is different. Your skin type, lifestyle, available funds and dedication to the cause all play their part in how much (or, of course, how little) attention you pay to your skin. However, one thing is clear. No matter how much of a skin afficionado you are, and how many serums are stacked on your bathroom shelves, you still might not use a facial toner on a regular basis. 

And that’s a real shame.

You see, today’s toners are a far cry from those alcohol-laden, redness-causing, eye-watering liquids you might have doused over your teenage skin back in the ‘80s. They’re now more sophisticated than ever, combining new technologies with advanced ingredients to offer all manner of game-changing benefits to your face – whatever your skin type. 

Here’s what we know…

What Is Toner, Exactly?

Facial toners bridge the gap between cleansing and treatment products. They’re liquid, water-based formulations and are usually applied with a cotton pad or spritzed straight onto the skin post-cleansing. What’s the point, we hear you ask? Well, their main job is to soak up any excess oils, dead skin cells or debris left over after cleansing. This not only helps to keep your pores clean and clear, but removing these barriers prepares your skin to fully take on the incredible ingredients in the rest of your routine.

But that’s not all. Depending on their contents, a well-formulated toner can also balance your skin’s pH while hydrating, brightening, nourishing and protecting the barrier function. Some even contain hydroxy acids to help encourage healthier cell turnover and improve the tone and texture of your skin. Oh hi there 6% AHA, BHA + PHA Liquid Exfoliant.

More than the sum of their parts, toners really can turbocharge your routine to give you a much healthier-looking glow. But before we delve into some of the benefits of a well-crafted facial toner, let’s take a look at some common misconceptions…

Common Toner Myths: Debunked

The Myth: Facial Toners Dry Out The Skin

The Truth: Synthetic fragrance and harsh alcohols like isopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol (sometimes listed as alcohol denat) are the main offenders here, but most modern day toners avoid these. In fact, some even contain hydrating ingredients like rose water and hyaluronic acid to actually help reduce dryness. Who knew?

The Myth: Toners Are Really Only For Oily Skin Types

The Truth: Like all skincare formulations, there’s a toner out there for any skin type. You just need to look at the labels, read the descriptions, check out the ingredients listings and then make informed decisions to help find the perfect one to suit your skin’s specific needs.

The Myth: Facial Toner Is Just Fancy Water With A Big Price Tag

The Truth: Sure, toners contain a good amount of water, and yes, their consistency may feel thin and watery but quality toners, crafted by reputable skincare manufacturers like yours truly, contain all manner of effective active ingredients that offer visible benefits to your skin. So there.

The Myth: If You Tone You Don’t Need To Cleanse

The Truth: Toners can help lift traces of dirt, sebum, makeup and cleanser from the surface of your skin but, unlike cleansing products, they don’t contain emulsifiers which are designed to actually clean and break down stubborn debris. The fact is, toner cannot replace cleanser. And vice versa.

Game-Changing Benefits Of A Facial Toner

Toners have a lot to offer, boosting the efficacy of your entire skincare routine while significantly improving the look and feel of your skin. To follow, some of the different ways a toner can benefit your complexion.

1. pH Balancing

Everyday cleansing can disrupt your skin’s natural pH levels leaving it feeling and looking totally out of sorts. The happy place for your skin is around 5.5 on the pH scale which is slightly acidic to help prevent infection and dehydration. Cleansers, however, typically have a higher alkaline pH which can temporarily unbalance the skin, disturbing the barrier function and causing the sebaceous glands to overcompensate.

The good news is that gentle, hydrating toners – ones that avoid drying alcohol – step in to restore harmony quickly and effortlessly. 

2. Hydrating & Nourishing

Speaking of hydrating the skin, facial toners can be hydration powerhouses which makes them ideal for dull, dehydrated skin. 

Toners are composed mainly of water which, when combined with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, delivers a massive rush of moisture to the skin, plumping up the cells, reducing the appearance of fine lines and treating you to that coveted glassy glow you thought was the stuff of dreams.

3. Pore Minimizing

Enlarged pores can be a total pain so it’s vital to keep them clean and clear to minimize their appearance.

As a quick refresh, pores are microscopic openings found at the surface of your skin right at the top of your hair follicles where oil is produced and released to moisturize and lubricate the skin. 

Full disclosure, it’s physically impossible to shrink your pores. However, you can absolutely improve their visible appearance. How so? By keeping them free of oil and debris which can cause their walls to stretch and expand. As previously mentioned, toners are literally made for removing traces of debris left over after cleansing. And formulas that contain ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid? Even better for detoxifying those pores and tightening the skin.

Try our Ocean Minerals Super Toner.

4. Brightening

All the makeup in the world can’t make up (no pun intended) for a skin-brightening skincare routine. Ingredients like sodium ascorbyl phosphate (a derivative of vitamin C), retinol, glycolic acid, licorice extract and MSM put a lot of effort into improving the glow factor of your skin. 

Chemical exfoliators, in particular, are incredible for adding radiance to an otherwise drab complexion, and toning is one of the most effective ways to up your quota of chemical exfoliators. Our 6% AHA, BHA + PHA Liquid Exfoliant, for example, contains a harmonized blend of glycolic acid (the AHA), salicylic acid (the BHA) and gluconolactone (the PHA) to remove dead skin cells, accelerate skin turnover and reveal smoother, clearer, glowier skin. 

5. Protecting

A great toner will always contain an antioxidant or two. Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide and green tea work hard to neutralize free radicals. This helps to shield your skin from environmental bad boys like UV radiation and pollution. 

The truth is, antioxidants are an essential part of an effective skincare routine and, when coupled with broad-spectrum sunscreen are the best way to protect your skin from premature aging.

Seems like a no brainer to us.

Choosing the right skincare is extremely important. Especially when it comes to moisturizing.

Reckon you’re doing everything you can to help your skin stay healthy and strong… yet it still seems unhappy? It could be something as simple as using the wrong moisturizer. Because while it’s common to concentrate on the potent retinol, glycolic acid or vitamin C treatments in your routine, moisturizers are often given little thought. They’re all the same, right? Wrong. In fact, slapping ‘any old cream’ on your face can do more harm than good.

The good news is if your moisturizer is all kinds of wrong, your skin will not be shy in coming forward. You just need to look out for the red flags. 

Why Your Choice Of Moisturizer Matters

Moisturizing keeps dryness and flaky patches away and, of course, that’s super important – whatever your skin type. However, your moisturizer’s true role is to strengthen your skin’s barrier function so it’s able to naturally protect itself by holding in moisture while repelling environmental nasties that might, otherwise, cause irritation.

Of course, back in the day, the best moisturizer was thought to be petroleum jelly. And fair’s fair, things like Vaseline are pretty unbeatable when it comes to sealing moisture into the skin – just ask all those slugging fans on TikTok! But creating a seal on the surface of your skin is about all they offer. Nowadays, moisturizers are so much more than that, furnishing your skin with all kinds of goodness like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, natural botanicals and antioxidants. Combined with emollients and occlusives like shea butter and jojoba oil, these ingredients not only to help reduce water loss but they bring extra moisture, nutrients and environmental protection to the table. 

So, how to find the right moisturizer for you? Well, we believe that first and foremost you must look for the gentlest formula for your skin type; one that avoids common irritants like synthetic fragrance or parabens. Then it’s about listening to your skin and switching things up when your moisturizer isn’t quite hitting the mark.

Finally, remember that your skin changes all the time, so what worked for you in the summer might not be enough come the cold, dry winter months. Similarly, an age-old favorite you’ve been using since 2005 is not going to deliver the same moisturization your skin needs 20 years later. And your skin will give you fair warning with some not-so-subtle hints.

5 Signs Your Skin Is Begging For A Moisturizer Update

1. Your Skin Feels Crazy Dry – Even After Applying Moisturizer

If you experience tightness, peeling skin, flaky patches or tiny cracks in your makeup these are all tell-tale signs that your moisturizer is not offering the amount of water and oil-boosting TLC your skin is crying out for. 

Dry skin lacks oil, while dehydrated skin is short on water so make sure your moisturizer contains ingredients that work hard to replenish both. Avoid strong actives such as retinol and exfoliating acids, and stick with humectants like hyaluronic acid which draw water to the surface of your skin. These should ideally be combined with ingredients that balance sebum and help repair tiny cracks in the skin in order to keep TEWL (transepidermal water loss) to a minimum.

Our Vitamin C Brightening Moisturizer and Vitamin C Deep Hydration Night Cream are particularly great as they offer all-day AND all-night moisture replenishment while bringing harmony to dry, unbalanced skin. 

2. Oiliness Is Taking Over Your Face

If you have oily skin that’s way greasier than normal, or normal (ish!) skin that’s feeling kind of slick, your moisturizer could definitely be to blame. But don’t give up on it altogether. Do this and your skin will keep on producing more and more sebum to counteract the lack of moisturizer you’re offering. Bad move.

The key to successfully moisturizing oily skin is to keep your products light – gels and lightweight lotions are always winners. Avoid heavy ingredients like cocoa butter and coconut oil because these will trap oil at a surface level, making your skin feel sticky and greasy. Not to mention the havoc it can potentially create in your pores. One word: breakouts.

Again, go big on humectants and choose products containing jojoba oil which helps seal in moisture without blocking your pores. It’s also wise to layer up with a lightweight hydrating serum like Smoothing Collagen Serum if your skin needs a little extra love. 

3. Your Skin Is Red & Itchy

Facial redness can be down to all manner of issues, from chronic skin conditions like rosacea and psoriasis, to more temporary concerns like breakouts and irritation. 

If you feel like your red skin is thanks to the latter, you’re going to want to reduce the number of active ingredients in your skincare routine. Stop exfoliating for a while and lay off the retinol to see if that helps. You should also check the ingredients in your moisturizer because chances are there’s something in there of which your skin is not a fan. The most common irritants in moisturizers are fragrance, preservatives (notably parabens), benzyl alcohols and propylene glycol so avoid these if you can. Renewing Longevity Moisturizing Cream is a good choice because it contains a gentle, retinol alternative called bakuchiol and is specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

4. You’re Breaking Out More Than Normal

Instincts tell us not to moisturize the skin when it’s oily and breaking out, but this is a mistake. As previously mentioned, oily skin still needs moisture replenishment in order to remain balanced and healthy.

Of course, you must avoid rich, heavy balms, butters and creams as these can worsen acne by clogging up your pores. But look for water-based formulas that are oil-free or contain only the ‘right’ kind of oils – aka those that are noncomedogenic (less likely to block your pores) – and you’ll be on a much better path to balanced, harmonized skin. Noncomedogenic oils include jojoba, sunflower, grapeseed and rosehip seed. Niacinamide, retinol and salicylic acid are also awesome for balancing sebum and accelerating sluggish cell turnover. Try Retinol Moisturizer.

5. Sun Damage Is So Very Real

If dark spots are becoming more and more noticeable (heck, even if they’re not!), you should seriously think about upgrading your moisturizer to one that contains broad-spectrum SPF and, even better, protective antioxidants. There are some fantastic formulas out there that not only shield your skin from UV radiation but add moisturization, boost collagen production or help to brighten dull skin. And they’re a far cry from the thick, hard-to-apply formulas you may remember from years gone by.

Our SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen, for example, is beautifully wearable and goes on like a dream. It can also be applied alone or over your favorite day cream depending on the level of moisture your skin needs.

(PS: Big sun protection news is coming from us real soon. One word: serum. We literally can’t wait.)

A well-designed skincare routine can transform the look and feel of your skin. And it really doesn’t have to be as complicated as you think.

Dealing with countless shelves of products, complex ingredients lists and advice from practically everyone you know makes navigating the world of skincare can feel like a daunting task. Especially if you’ve never previously given it much thought.

So, first things first, well done for being here and realizing that a consistent skincare routine is a great way to not only look after your precious complexion, but to also feel good about yourself. Secondly, know this: skincare does not have to be hard. Or overwhelming. Because although you could literally smother your skin with lotions, potions, oils and tinctures morning and night, you really don’t have to. In fact, it’s often better to stick with a handful of key, effective products that harness tried and trusted ingredients… and get the job done – without all the fuss and nonsense you’re led to believe you need.

Whether you’re unsure where to start or have suddenly found yourself drowning in an overly curated 15-step routine, here’s how to build a basic, effective skincare routine.

Why Skincare Matters

Your skin is your largest organ and, while it doesn’t pump blood around your body or enable you to breathe, it’s not just there to annoy you with all of its wrinkles and pimples. In fact, it’s extremely important for the health of your entire body. You see, skin regulates body temperature and hydration. It also allows you to perceive touch and detect pain. Not to mention it’s key role in protecting you from environmental stressors, infections, pollutants and harmful bacteria.

Just like the rest of your body, your skin needs help in order to remain healthy and functional – especially as it ages and its strength and stability becomes compromised. And that’s where skincare comes to the rescue. More specifically a well-designed skincare routine that helps to boost your skin’s protective barrier while maintaining optimum hydration and heck, even slowing down the visible signs of premature aging.

How To Figure Out Your Skin Type

Everyone has different skin – as well as varying goals and budgets – so before you start buying every skincare product you’ve ever heard of, it’s essential to know what you’re working with.

Your skin type fits into one of four categories: normal (ha, if only!), dry, oily and combination. Anything else (sensitive, acne-prone, mature skin etc.) is a skin condition, not a type. Of course, the condition of your skin is important too, but your skin type is the first place to start because this will determine the products that’ll suit you best. 

If you’re not sure of your skin type, wash your face and neck with a mild cleanser, then gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Don't apply moisturizer or, in fact, anything at all, just leave it alone for an hour or so. Then, go to a mirror and study your skin, using clean hands to touch and feel your skin as you scrutinize it.

OK, now what's your skin doing? If it feels tight and/or itchy and looks flaky in places, that means you have dry skin. If it's shiny and feels greasy – especially around the t-zone – then you have oily skin. Maybe it's a bit of both? If so, you have combination skin. And finally, if it's just peachy in each and every way then you're one of the lucky few with normal skin.

Once you know your skin type, it's way easier to build a routine that's in line with what your skin needs.

The 4 Essential Skincare Steps

No matter your skin type, everyone’s skin requires four core products for it to be as healthy and radiant as possible. Then, once you’ve got these nailed, you can expand your repertoire as you see fit. Just remember, less is generally more. Sure it’s smart to add toner, eye treatment and you can even alternate between two serums, but don’t overload your skin. It can have disastrous results. 

1. Cleanse

Cleansing is one of the most important parts of your routine as it removes potentially pore-clogging impurities like excess sebum, dead skin cells, sweat, sunscreen, pollution, makeup and, well, you get the picture. Cleansing also gives your skin a fresh start, creating a clean canvas for the rest of your routine to function better. If you miss out on this important step all that grime will build up, causing blocked pores and potential breakouts and irritation. It’ll also create a barrier of debris that other products like serum and moisturizer will find almost impossible to penetrate. Not cool.

Our favorite cleansers are those that are void of skin-stripping alcohols and sulfates like SLS. These can be too harsh for all skin types, making dry skin drier and oily skin oilier. Instead, choose pH-balanced cleansers that remove the nasties without stripping away all the good stuff. We have four fabulous cleansers to choose from, all of which are kind to the skin but get the job done.

Final word on cleansing: always cleanse your skin with lukewarm, not too hot nor too cold, water and use gentle circular motions as you massage your cleanser all over your face and neck.

2. Treat 

Whether you choose to tone, apply liquid exfoliant or smooth on a serum next is totally up to you. In fact, you might even want to do a couple of the above if you’re really serious about tackling certain conditions or areas of your skin. Just remember not to overdo it with countless products between cleansing and moisturizing. Listen to your skin and find your sweet spot – we recommend two products at most.

The best way to truly target specific concerns is with a facial serum. Serums are light, fast-absorbing treatments that are usually clear and either gel- or liquid-based. Applied after cleansing and toning but before moisturizing, serums are made up of much smaller molecules than regular lotions or creams. This means they’re able to penetrate your skin faster and deeper than other, thicker products, helping to hydrate, protect, reduce breakouts, minimize the signs of aging and all sorts.

Check out our vast range of incredible serums right here and definitely give our new Caffeine Facial Serum a look. It’s a great one for all skin types, containing a fantastic blend of ingredients to rev up tired skin.

3. Moisturize

Moisturizing your skin is non-negotiable, whatever your skin type. If you have oily skin you might be fooled into thinking you don’t need it, but how wrong you would be. You see, without moisturizer, oily skin produces even more oil to compensate creating a whole vicious circle of oiliness. 

Look out for fragrance-free formulations, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin and make sure your moisturizer includes some classic humectant powerhouses like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or aloe – these draw water to the surface of the skin – as well as emollients or occlusives. Emollients like jojoba oil and shea butter are awesome for smoothing the surface of your skin and helping to seal in moisture, while occlusives like cocoa butter and lanolin create a thin barrier over the skin, again to seal in water. Occlusives are great if you have dry skin but if you’re prone to breakouts, you’d be wise to give them a miss and stick with emollients. Occlusives are notorious for blocking up your pores. 

Beyond this, keep your eyes peeled for brightening vitamin C, ceramides for strengthening your barrier function and retinol or bakuchiol for targeting aging. Oh, and btw, our range of awesome moisturizers cover all these… and more. 

4. Protect

Last, but not least, is sunscreen – the single, most important product you can use to seriously halt premature aging. Repeated exposure to UV radiation totally screws up your skin by degrading collagen and elastin and accelerating the onslaught of fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and dark spots. In fact, UV is responsible for somewhere between 80 and 90 percent of all external skin aging. Ouch.

Experts agree that for full daily protection you should stick with products that have an SPF of 30 or above and, equally, always choose a formula that uses the phrase ‘broad-spectrum’ on the label. This means it protects from both UVA and UVB. Important stuff, right there.

If you can’t be bothered to moisturize and apply sunscreen in the morning, no problem, our SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen with Vitamin C does the job of both. If you have dry skin, you might need a moisturizer underneath, but give it a go, it’s darn good! And remember, sunscreen should always be the last product you apply in your morning routine.

Finally, Don’t Forget These Important Skincare Dos & Don'ts

* Do exfoliate once or twice a week. This will keep your skin ticking over nicely, removing dead skin cells and brightening at a surface level.

* Do listen to your skin. It might not like retinol, for example or maybe it can’t cope with it every night. Tweak your routine as needed, you’ll get there in the end.

* Don’t over-complicate your routine. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, less is more.

* Do be patient. Products that work on a deep, cellular level (eg. serums) take time, so give them a month at least, preferably more.

* Don’t try a bunch of new products all at once. Gradually introduce them one at a time.

* Do patch test products first. Not sure how? No problem, we can help with that right here.