As we go through our natural ageing process, there are tell-tale signs that begin to show on our face. I’m an advocate for embracing age and accepting the passing of time, but it’s no secret that a good skincare routine can delay the inevitable. Whether it’s dull, dry skin; dark or puffy circles under the eyes; or those pesky fine lines, we all want to find solutions to help us continue to age gracefully. I’m here to share my top tips for keeping the aging process at bay - so that you can look as good as you feel!
1. Moisturise – but do it right.
It will come as no surprise that one of the best ways to take care of your skin is to moisturise. But not all moisturisers are considered equal. Choose a serum and/or moisturiser that includes active ingredients that are both hydrophilic (attracts and absorbs water) and hydrophobic (can’t mix with water hence just holding it avoid it to escape).
Try the 001 London Alpha-Glow Flash Facial, containing hydrophilic Hyaluronate Sodium (lower molecular size than Hyaluronic Acid, more skin-adaptable) and hydrophobic Phospholipids that were designed to work in synergy, attracting and binding water to keep the skin's moisture at its peak. It also can be used as a serum, primer and night mask ensuring your skin is hydro-plumped at all times.
2. Sleep!
This is not only the easiest habit to start, it’s also free! We all lead busy lives, juggling work, family, hobbies, friends – the thought of reducing our time by sleeping more is scary! But at some point you need to put yourself and your health first.
The average adult needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night, but a study published by sleepcouncil.org.uk found that 70% of us get less than 7 hours, and a third average between 5 and 6 hours. Rebalance your wake/sleep cycle, even if this means having to relook at your priorities. Your body (and skin) will thank you.
3. Stay cool.
Sun damage is a big contributor when it comes to premature aging of the skin. It’s no secret that the sun's rays and strong/prolonged sources of indoor light (I’m looking at you mobile phones, laptops and spot lights) can cause temporary burns, pigmentation, collagen and elastin damage. Protect your skin with a high factor sunscreen and reverse existing damage with the 001 London CRYOpress.
Easy to use, the CRYOpress uses sub-zero temperatures to cool the skin, increasing blood circulation, pumping oxygen to the top layer of skin which would stimulate new cell growth and flushing impurities away from the skin. The cold pressure can also relieve inflammation caused by conditions that are exacerbated by heat, such as rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.
4. Drink more (unless it’s wine, sorry).
The average adult woman’s body is made up of as much as 50-60% water. With water being such a key element in keeping the human body functioning, it’s obvious to see why hydration is so important.
Our skin is our largest organ and it is the first part of the body that shows signs of dehydration. In order to have dewy, plump skin we should all be drinking AT LEAST two litres of water every day, that’s around four pint glasses.
And speaking of pints, part of hydrating your skin is cutting down on the types of beverage which don’t do the body good: coffee, wine, beer and spirits. We’ve all got that blotchy, red-faced uncle who drinks far too much, it isn’t a good look. If you’re going to drink, do it in moderation and make sure you’re alternating alcohol with a glass of water.
5. Cleanse.
Now when I say cleanse, I mean cleanse properly – wet wipes don’t count people! Let me be completely clear when I say that, NEVER WET WIPES. One swipe and all of the stubborn waterproof make up is dissolved, can you imagine how strong the cleansing agent is for it to remove that? By the time you’ve wiped the makeup from your face, all of your natural, healthy sebum will have been wiped away with it, leaving your skin extremely dry and prone to irritation.
It’s so important to cleanse your face with a proper, skin-friendly cleanser at the end of each day, especially if you wear makeup. But it isn’t just makeup that clogs those pores; SPF, sweat, dirt, dead skin, pollution - it all builds up on your face over the day. Carve out a few minutes to show your skin the love it deserves.
