If there’s one trend that’s bigger than natural beauty right now, it’s Australian beauty. Our unique easy going lifestyle shifts the way we use beauty products here compared to the rest of the world, and the rest of the world is starting to pay attention. I don’t know if it’s our laid back style by the water but everyone wants a piece of what we’re having.

Australian beauty brands understand what our skin needs in this harsh climate. Everything from lots of SPF to different texture moisturizers that are better suited to our skin. A Beauty is really taking off.

I feel like it was only a matter of time before we ditched the 10 step K Beauty routines, admit it, we’re too lazy to stick to it. We like easy and effective to match our attitudes and way of life. We have a natural glow from the surf and the sun that wants enhancement, not always ‘correcting’.

Watching the beauty landscape evolve over almost the past 2 decades I’m loving the explosion of Australian beauty brands happening now. It’s more than a conversation, it’s a movement. I’m so proud to say 80% of the brands we stock at the clinic are Australian made, and honestly, they’re some of our best performing brands. Skin and body care, tanning and sunscreens, they’re all amazing and made right here. Brands get it and are making amazing products to suit our skins needs naturally.

Australian beauty we love!

One of my most in demand brands Organic Spa is a professional brand that clients can’t get enough of. Made in the hinterland of Byron Bay, this brand is not only Australian, but certified organic and sustainable. Clients skin just glows on it, no wonder I struggle to keep it on my shelves!

Other notable cult brands are Eco Tan, Simple As That, Three Warriors, Byron Bay Skincare, Vita-Sol, Dermalist, MSKIN and Alexami. I’m so proud to stock all these amazing brands that have such a positive impact on clients skin.

For your A beauty fix we offer these products in our clinic treatments and our online store. You can get in touch with us to find out which products suit your skin best, via free online consultations. Get in touch here.

For a while now the anti anti-aging way has been growing. Women are turning their backs on the ‘anti-aging’ phrase in favour of more empowering words like pro aging. Women have been embracing their natural grey hair and life lines. This does not mean we have given up or let ourselves go, it’s more of a ‘being comfortable in your own skin’ phase. Personally I love it and am all for it. There’s nothing more empowering than a woman who is confident and comfortable in her own skin.

Don’t get me wrong if those ’11’ lines in the middle of your forehead really bother you then Botox away, this isn’t a judgemental place. What I’m taking about is women really embracing who they are unapologetically and not trying to be someone they’re not. For example my favourite Instagram page on this topic is “Goodbye Crop Top‘, it’s about moving through the older phases of life 40+ comfortably and not trying to hold onto the past of your 20s and 30s. Women really shine when they own who they are now what ever phase in life they are in. This is what the anti anti-aging way is about.

Releasing ourselves from the shackles of expectation (hello patriarchy) and living our lives to the fullest is the best way to get that glow. So what’s this got to do with the skin clinic? Everything! At the clinic there is not one ‘anti-aging’ treatment listed on purpose. We’re all about healthy, glowing skin. Our treatments reflect this philosophy, this is why we don’t offer highly inflammatory treatments that bully the skin into submission but rather work with your living external organ.

The best thing you can do for glowing skin is love yourself, really love yourself healthy. By this I mean, nourishing your body with beautiful healthy food, moving your body, allowing yourself to rest and being really happy in your own skin. That’s where the glow happens. Combine that with a little assistance to get your skin functioning correctly in the clinic and through beautiful home care and it looks effortless.

In the clinic

So, what are my recommendations for anti anti-aging in the clinic? Treatments that build up your skin and help to lift and firm, like Micro Current, Gua Sha and LED. As we age our cells need a little waking up and assistance to function on their natural 28 day cycle. Retinal is also essential to this and our non inflammatory version is amazing for helping skin regulate, with damage or side effects. Our Vitamin A infusion is our professional treatment, containing a potent 2.5% Retinaldehyde, 1,3 Beta Glucan, Niacinimide and Willow Herb. These calming, antibacterial and dermal remodeling ingredients offer the most effective peel on the market. Putting more ingredients into the skin rather than simply removing skin. Read more about that here.

Pro aging treatments are available at South Yarra and Ulladulla daily, for the anti anti-aging woman.

When it comes to treating acne, I’ve personally found (after decades of experience) that a holistic approach works best. Sure you can peel your face off and it’ll go away for about 6 weeks, but if you’re not treating the root cause (HINT: it’s not on your face) the battle will just continue. The same goes for A-bombing your system with medications, the underlying condition will continue.

Diagnosis

So what do I look for when treating acne? Firstly I work out exactly what’s going on with you, inside and out. We do a thorough consultation and go through diet, lifestyle, how your acne is presenting on your skin, this gives me enough information to work out where to begin. There could be several things going on with severe acne or, a client could be really concerned about their one pimple a month. I treat all accordingly and there’s no cookie cutter one size fits all solution. You’re definitely not just directed to the products marked ‘for acne’ on my shelf. I stock a range of products for this reason, depending on your acne, sensitivity and oil flow, each person will require a different treatment.

Treating Acne Holistically

Then we talk about skin supplements. At the clinic we also have a range of supplements that are available over the counter for treating skin conditions. Training is provided by the various Drs and Nutritionists that make these products and my Diploma in Beauty Therapy qualifies me to discuss these basic lifestyle tweaks and recommend over the counter products. Over the years additional training has made me aware of how different things effect and trigger our hormones and also our sebaceous glands that can make acne worse. These supplements are designed to specifically bring these back into balance in relation to your skin. Approaching skin from internal as well as topical is where the magic happens, giving us more long term results for our clients.

Finally we delve deep into cosmetic chemistry. This is key to treating acne topically. All ingredients have a comedogenic scale from 0-5, 0 being totally non pore clogging and 5 being an acne nightmare. Basically we want everything you’re using to only add up to a 2 at the most, I work this out by reading each ingredient and emulsifier in each product and selecting products that we deem ‘acne safe’. Getting rid of the pore cloggers is sometimes half the battle. Then of course we want to pick out the active ingredients that are going to treat the condition. Ingredients that oxygenate the skin, exfoliate (gently) the skin and assist with cell turn over are preferred. More is not better! This delicate balance gets us the results you’re looking for in your skin.

In The Clinic

Our acne facial in the clinic is the ideal treatment to give you monthly boosts, which includes bacteria killing blue light LED. The Osmosis Vitamin A peel is also fantastic once we have settled down the breakouts.

We are treating acne daily at our South Yarra and Ulladulla clinics.

They say a change of scenery is as good as a holiday, and offering facial in Ulladulla is kind of both. This idyllic coastal town is surrounded with beautiful mountains and coastline, which draws holiday makers from Sydney and Canberra regularly. I grew up here and coming back as an adult is a very different change to the city, I love both. Having the opportunity to live between the two is an excellent opportunity for a major lifestyle change and getting the best of both worlds.

Moving to a place surrounded in natural beauty was an easy choice to open my natural beauty salon concept here. Offering unique treatments in a regional area, performing facial in Ulladulla offers the area variety that fits in perfectly with the easy load back lifestyle.

Because I choose natural and mostly Australian brands it reflects the spirit of the area as well as an extra element of sustainability and totally biodegradable products which is a win for our environment.

I choose natural and non inflammatory treatments and products to get long term sustainable results in the skin. I like to call it ‘building healthy skin for life’. Sure, it’s easy to go get a quick fix with a laser or invasive peel but I guarantee your skin will experience bounce back, reverting back to the condition you were trying to treat in the first place.

So what gets the results? Building the skin up and treating it like the living organ it is instead of an outer shell that needs to be blasted and bullied into line. Modalities like Gua Sha, LED, Micro Current and Vitamin A infusions do just this. They work with the tissue under the skin to lift and contour as well as put back into the skin to feed and nourish. Hydrated skin is happy skin! Using ampules to give an infusion of powerful ingredients, creamy organic masks to massage with and sustainable enzymes to gently lift dead skin and brighten skin is able to breathe and glow.

Partnering with some of the best brands in Australia for facial care as well as wellness products for good gut health we can help you achieve your skin goals. Some of our favourite Australian beauty brands offered with facials in Ulladulla are Organic Spa, Simple As That, Eco Tan, Vita-Sol and Byron Bay Skincare.

So come and say hi, you can shop on the shop floor or book one of our facial treatments here. I’m also working on a special spa style menu, coming soon. I can’t wait to meet you!

2020 ended up being the year of change, dare I say it, for the better?

We ‘pivoted’ (sorry I will never use that word again) to Zoom consultations, bought all our skincare online and somehow I ended up being a sought after beauty writer. All previous dreams came true in that respect. I also technically expanded the business with a new NSW location on the coast and more brands joining the clinic.

So it wasn’t all that bad. Everyone is loving the new zoom consultation format and it allows me to reach potential clients further than just our local area, next year I will be expanding and formalizing the program. This we stayed home and traded online, this was your top 5 you were loving this year;

Roccoco Pore Cleansing Oil

Organic Spa Cream Cleanser

Organic Spa Intense Moisture

Organic Spa Day Moisturiser

Zilch Acne Formula

Organic Spa was a hit this year; I seriously couldn’t keep it on the shelf, which is amazing. It’s understandable why, a product that is so gentle yet effective deserves the top spots. Not to mention it’s certified organic as well as sustainable, it ticks all the boxes. It kind of fit into the theme of the year with our need for nurturing.

That was briefly the year that was, now for next year.

Predictions for 2021, because this is really why you’re reading this.

I think at home beauty will still be big and our homes will continue to be our sanctuaries.

Self-care at home, people will want their bathrooms kitted out for that luxury time at home. Bath and body products along with candles will continue to grow, as ‘at home culture’ is here to stay for a while.

Sustainability will continue to be big and just as important as ever. Not just sustainable products but packaging that gives back to the earth as well. Whether it’s through plantable seed cards or biodegradable packaging that takes care of the earth. I see it evolving that way.

‘Natural’ products will just become products and the norm. We’ve come so far with more natural formulations; they’re more and more potent and active than ever. Even the cosmeceutical skincare in the salon is free from the nasty fillers and preservatives people no longer want. This is how it should be.

I feel like ‘wellness’ will evolve (again). But in a good way, wellness took a dark turn down conspiracy theory lane this year and the more extreme ends have broken away. We don’t have to ‘mourn’ the loss of ‘wellness’ how we saw it, rather I think it’s having an evolution that was much needed. A more scientific and practical approach melded into our everyday lives, rather than something fridge that was hard and made you think about your values. This makes it more accessible now and much easier for people to integrate with, and sets you up to succeed. Beauty wellness supplements will continue to grow and expand becoming a natural part of our routines.

Of course I could be completely wrong and we could be in for more of a sh*t show, but for now perhaps we can at least try to take our lessons from 2020 and turn our lives into something better, more evolved. May the force be with you.

I am back after what feels like most the year! In the rush for re-booking beauty treatments or ‘catching up for lost beauty time’ I’ve noticed a trend in requests for more invasive treatments. Treatments like microdermabrasion and skin needling. Asking people why they are seeking out these treatments I find a general trend in opinion that anything short of abrasive or needle treatments are a waste of time. This is your reminder that that is absolutely not true.

As a skin therapist who has been staring at skin for over 15 years, treatments that don’t wreck havoc on your delicate acid mantle consistently yield far better results in the long run. Trading inflammation for a quick fix will catch up with skin and often start to reverse the results you’re seeking.  Pigmentation will come back with a vengeance, your skin will suddenly be sensitive to ‘everything’ and those fine lines will make a re-appearance. Don’t get me wrong, treatments like skin needling have their place especially for scar revision, but they are not an everyday beauty treatment. Don’t even get me started on therapists that draw blood. At the clinic we have a talented surgical nurse that performs these treatments, and the benefits are, she is highly trained, has better numbing cream (bonus!) and can look after your health while performing a more invasive treatment.

My point is, the whole point of skincare and treatments is to REDUCE inflammation in the skin, not increase it. Inflammation is whole root of skin conditions we’re trying to fix, balanced happy skin doesn’t breakout, flush or age as quickly. It also heals better when things go wrong. The key to younger looking skin is sustainable care for your skin. Skin treatments that add value to the skin like LED or microcurrent, intense ampules infused that deliver vitamins to treat conditions we’re combating. I guarantee you will have much better skin in the long run if you step away from abrasive treatments that trash your acid mantle.

Repeat after me – stronger is not better

My tips for getting and keeping amazing skin;

Find a skin expert who will discuss your concerns and do a thorough skin consultation, including lifestyle and diet.

Get a treatment plan and home care plan – 70% of skincare is home care!

Be consistent with your monthly skin treatments, this is important for ongoing care and tweaking of your skincare as we improve your skin.

Do your skincare routine morning and night, that’s where the gold is.

Adjust supplements and lifestyle factors to keep your body in optimal health for glowing skin inside and out!

Skincare is not created equal, and neither are the ingredients in skincare that make it up.  A common misconception that comes up in the clinic constantly is the fact that a client is ‘already using’ a Vitamin C, A, Hyaluronic Acid etc when this is recommended to them. That might be true, and I’m not just trying to sell you something more but which Vitamin C is that? L-ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Phosphate or AA2G? Or is it a plant-based antioxidant like Kakadu Plum or Strawberry? There are many variations across different vitamin categories and knowing you’re using the correct ingredient for your skin is key. One version might be better for sensitive skin and another would be better to treat your acne.

Part of my role as a skin therapist is to match the right product and ingredients to your skin, to address your skin concerns. So if you’ve been ‘self diagnosing’ and buying online with educated guesses but not really getting anywhere, it’s time to turn to a professional therapist. Your concerns will be listened to, skin examined, lifestyle discussed, as well as eating habits and medications or supplements taken, and then after a full consultation we can make our recommendations.

My philosophy is natural and organic skincare is better on the skin. I believe that the power of plants, especially combined with potent cosmeceutical ingredients in skincare can really work wonders on the skin. It’s like comparing a fruit and vegetable rich healthy diet to a white food diet. You get so much more nutrients from plants with a broader scope of antioxidants and vitamins.  There’s so much more out there than just Vitamins A, B, C and Hyaluronic Acid (to name the bog 4 lots of people just focus on).

While we’re on the subject of plant-based ingredients, do you know where it was grown and sourced? Was it just a standard farm, or a certified organic farm? Is it from Australia or overseas? This can also play a huge role in the quality of the ingredient. For instance brands like Organic Spa must source high quality certified organic farmed ingredients to meet their Australian Certified Organic status. So just using cheap non-organic Ylang Ylang oil (for example) in the formula won’t cut it. You really do get what you pay for so if something is cheap but makes a bunch of claims, think about the level of quality of ingredients in that bottle you’re buying. There’s no way companies can make high quality, active products for $20 or less. Just like food there’s also ethics to consider, I really could go on.

Next time you’re out to find new skincare, ask yourself, does it look quality? Does it have certifications if I want Organic or Vegan or Cruelty Free? Then, if you have a concern that you really want to get fixed, speak to a professional with an arsenal of professional skin, knowledge and experience behind them to help get you the results you’re after.

Want to hear more on this topic? Our IGTV features Belinda discussing this and more, link here. We also make professional recommendations for our clients in our South Yarra and Ulladulla clinics.

This is probably not the most interesting blog I’ve written but is one of the most important at this time. As we start to re-open there are new health regulations to keep you and us safe and healthy and limited the spread of the virus.

Online consultations

We have always been a by appointment only clinic but now this will be strictly enforced with consultations taking place online and via zoom before your first appointment. If you are a current client of the clinic and don’t feel comfortable attending appointments yet for any reason we will continue our free skin chats via zoom as part of our ongoing service.

In clinic hygiene and social distancing

You will also notice changes at the clinic. We strictly can only have the person attending their appointment in the treatment room with a therapist at one time. We can also only have one person in the waiting area at one time. If you are out with a friend they will have to get a coffee while you see us. Parents with teenagers can join us on zoom to discuss skin and treatment plans.

There is hand sanitiser available when you walk into your appointment. Our bed will be made up slightly differently as well to comply with strict hygiene regulations. Our menu has also changed to a sleeker higher performing slimmed down version of the old menu to get you the results you need without any unnecessary extra time in the clinic.

Our therapists and myself will be using PPE to keep you safe. The use of masks and gloves protects you while you visit us. There will be extra time allowed in between clients for a thorough clean down of the clinic in between everyone. This will limit the amount of appointments available but we will do the best we can to fit everyone in. If you are late to your appointment and we don’t have enough time to fit everything in you will be re-scheduled. I will also be working limited hours for the rest of the year, please refer to our available slots in our booking system. If you desperately need a new skincare routine simply book a consultation online and we can post you out your products. A fresh consultation will not be necessary when you decided to have a treatment.

Conditions of entry

Before your appointment our reminder text will reiterate that you need to disclose if you have been overseas in the past 14 days, have had any contact with someone who has traveled overseas in the past 14 days, or have any cold or flu symptoms. By turning up to your appointment you agree that you have not recently traveled and are symptom free. Please be understanding if we have to re-schedule you because your therapist is feeling unwell.

In clinic testers

All testers will not be available for client use. If you would like to see a product please ask and your therapist will get it for you. Our entire back bar product for your treatment will be decanted fresh from a sanitized back room, minimizing the amount of bottles in the treatment room constantly being touched during treatments.

Payments

All our payments will now be processed online or via our square POS, we no longer accept cash.

Contact tracing

All bookings are required to provide accurate contact information like phone numbers or emails for contact tracing purposes.

Our staff will have the COVID safe app downloaded to their phones, it is not a requirement of you our clients but if you have it, it will allow for ease of contact tracing if necessary.

Thank you!

Finally a massive thank you to you all for being amazing during these difficult times. I will continue to strive to give everyone the highest quality of service and I’m looking forward to having everyone back in the clinic enjoying our amazing new treatment menu.

I’m excited to announce new LED treatments to the clinic! My choice of LED is Celluma Pro.

About Celluma

Celluma is quite unlike any other low-level light therapy device available today. It is widely used by chiropractors, acupuncturists, wellness practitioners and skin specialists to treat a variety of musculoskeletal and skin conditions. Based on scientific research pioneered by NASA, the Celluma is a specialized light energy device FDA Cleared to treat: Diminished Local Blood Circulation, Muscle & Joint Stiffness, Muscle Tissue Tension, Muscle & Joint Pain, Muscle Spasm, Arthritis, Wrinkles and Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris. Celluma is also CE Certified in the European Union as a Dermal Wound Healing device.

Patented, pulsed-wave technology controlled by proprietary software algorithms add to the applicability of the Celluma.  It is a polychromatic device that delivers blue (465nm), red (640nm) and infrared (880nm) light energy simultaneously to safely treat a wide variety of conditions easily and affordably, both in a professional setting and at home. Each wavelength is absorbed by different molecules that act as a signaling mechanism for different cellular processes. For example, some reduce inflammation and some kill bacteria, while others enhance localized circulation.

Its unique flexible design and extra-large light panel (over 15” x 8”), facilitates effective energy absorption by tissue and molds closely to the body to enhance energy delivery.  Its flexibility affords previously considered “awkward” areas such as elbows, shoulders or ankles to be treated with ease. In addition, Celluma’s portable, affordable, lightweight design permits easy and frequent use.

What does Red LED do?

Red LED stimulates collagen and elastin production and tissue repair which can reduce and even reverse the effects of aging and damage to skin and other bodily tissues. It does this by activating the cellular renewal process, while restoring and protecting the surface of the skin. The effectiveness of using red and infrared light therapy to stimulate rejuvenation in damaged tissues has been documented in more than 2,500 research papers, and approximately 100 double blind studies.

Are Red LED treatments safe?

Red Light Emitting Diode (LED) treatments are completely non-invasive and do not produce any thermal damage or pain. Treatments times are approximately 30 minutes and are generally perceived as pleasant and relaxing.

How does Red LED work?

The Red LED treatment is a gentle and natural procedure much like the process of photosynthesis, also known as photo bio-stimulation, the stimulation of life processes with light. The Celluma system uses both visible red and infrared light energy to stimulate your body’s own regenerative metabolism at the cellular level. By stimulating the body’s tissues to convert light energy into cellular energy (ATP), a Celluma treatment provides the energy your cells can use to:

– accelerate the production of collagen and elastin

– increase cellular permeability, allowing for increased cellular nutrient intake

– increase the removal of excess fluid and waste products from the cells

– increase the production of macrophage (scavenger) cells for the removal of toxins/excess pigment/scar tissue

– increase lymphatic drainage

– increase vascularization (blood flow) to the surface of the skin

Who needs and can benefit from Red LED?

As we all age, our skin loses some its ability to heal and reconstruct itself, components such as collagen and elastin, necessary in maintaining the physical appearance and vitality of skin, decreases in production; scar tissue, toxins and waste build-up (acne, wrinkles, sunspots, hyper-pigmentation, etc.) increases the appearance of physical flaws. Varying frequencies of low-level infrared and visible red light give the skin the necessary aid to reduce these, and many other, signs of aging. These wavelengths of light can also help with pain management, wound healing, and scar reduction.

How is LED light therapy different from laser treatment?

LED light therapy is a skin rejuvenation treatment using non invasive, non ablative Red light therapy, Blue light therapy and Infrared light treatment for anti aging skin care, facial wrinkles, acne treatment, stretch marks and more. LED is a safer, more effective and affordable alternative to laser treatment.

ACNE BLUE LIGHT or LED BLUE LIGHT

Acne Blue Light (or LED Blue Light) is the latest FDA-approved treatment for inflammatory acne (acne vulgaris). This state-of-the-art acne treatment utilizes non-UV light which kills acne bacteria in the skin and repairs cells which were damaged by inflammation.

How Does Blue Light Destroy Acne Bacteria?

Blue Light produces singlet oxygen in the skin, a bactericide that is deadly to P. acnes bacteria which causes acne. The chemical changes inside acne bacteria cause its self-destruction. This eradicates the bacterial colonization in the sebaceous glands. The gland’s sebum production slowly normalizes which reduces body’s immune response. With bacteria absent, skin’s inflammation gradually subsides which is followed by reduction in skin’s redness and pigmentation.

What Else Is Blue Light Used For?

Blue Light Treatment is extremely effective in stimulating the body’s immune response which encourages our own healing processes. Therefore, the treatment can be effectively used by itself or in combination with red light, and/or topical products. Blue light can be used on any part of the body including face, back, chest and buttocks. It is also incorporated in treatment protocols for collagen stimulation, pigmentation, wrinkle reduction and rosacea treatments.

Is Blue Light (LED) Treatment Safe?

Because acne blue light therapy does not emit ultraviolet (UV) rays, unlike other light therapies used in the past for treatment of acne and acne related conditions, it is extremely safe and can be administered in series of multiple treatments.

How Light Energy Works

Specific wavelengths of light energy, when properly absorbed, up-regulates compromised cells. The light (photons) energy is absorbed by photoacceptors in the mitochondria and used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP produced then stimulates various metabolic processes, which can result in the repair and regeneration of cell and tissue components. In an article, “Therapeutic Light” –  by Chukuka S. Enwemeka, PT, PhD, FACSM , he wrote “other reported mechanisms of light-induced beneficial effects include modulation of prostaglandin levels, alteration of somatosensory evoked potential and nerve conduction velocity, and hyperemia of treated tissues. The resultant clinical benefits include pain relief in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, ankle sprain, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction, shoulder and neck pain, arthritis, and post-herpetic neuralgia, as well as tissue repair in cases of diabetic ulcer, venous ulcer, mouth ulcer, fractures, tendon rupture, ligamentous, tear, torn cartilage, and nerve injury.”

LED in Treatment

Blue, red and near infrared are the most commonly used wavelengths in LED phototherapy. These specific wavelengths are well researched and scientifically proven to produce therapeutic benefits. Blue penetrates through the epidermis and is known to kill P.acnes bacteria. Red penetrates into the dermal layer and has been shown to enhance collagen and elastin production through photobiostimulation of fibroblasts. Near infrared penetrates deepest and increases micro-circulation (tissue repair), decreases inflammation and attenuates pain. When treating a client, select the wavelength or program most appropriate for the condition being treated.

You can choose from our 30minute LED lounge treatments or go for a more in-depth facial treatment that includes a light peel.  LED can also be added to most facials as a boost.

The contraindications to LED treatments are:

• Do not perform LED therapy on someone who is Pregnant or Nursing (unless the client has written consent from her doctor).
• Do not perform LED therapy on someone with a seizure disorder (unless you have consent from the client’s doctor).
• Do not perform LED therapy when the application of “heat” or increased warmth to the skin is a contraindication to that skin type.
• Do not perform LED therapy if client is “photo-sensitive” Some disorders and medications can cause photosensitivity (unless you have consent from the client’s doctor). Do not perform LED therapy over known metastasis.
• Do not perform LED therapy if client is on steroidal medications.

If you’re unsure which treatment is suited to you please get in touch at the clinic and we will guide you on which treatments suits your skin and skin concerns best.

There’s a difference!

These three categories of products seem pretty straightforward right? But I actually hear heaps of confusion about how to use them properly. With the explosion of Instagram beauty enthusiasts a lot of mis-information is out there on what is what and how they should be used. Here’s my professional breakdown for you.

Serums

Serums are classified as lightweight gel or fluid that easily penetrates into the skin. If they are oily, they’re not a serum, they’re an oil. The light texture allows the serum to carry active ingredients deep into the skin. These are active ingredients you’re familiar with like vitamin c, vitamin a, plant extracts and peptides. Serums are the ‘cure’ for your skin conditions to help correct and balance your skin. Because of their texture we always apply these first before anything else after cleansing. You can find our serums here.

Oils

Oils are pure lipids, which help to replenish the lipids in your skin when you’re extra dry and flaky. Most people, especially under 40s are more dehydrated than dry and will need to reach for serums before oils. If you’re not dry and flaky than you’re most likely dehydrated and a hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid would be a better fit for your skin.

The best way to use oils is with your moisturizer. Skin needs water, oil and ceramides to be properly hydrated and balanced. When oils are used alone on the skin, it can cause low inflammation, which can cause the skin to become sensitized over time. So during those dry months when you’re feeling extra dry and flaky adding a few drops of oil into your moisturizer can really help. I recommend only doing this at night because excess oil on the skin during the day can be problematic with keeping makeup in place.

Moisturisers

Lock it in! Moisturisers are our heaviest skincare product and it locks in everything else underneath like our serums. It also gives us adequate hydration, and in professional skincare we can easily balance oily or combination skin.

Day moisturizers that contain and SPF are best used in the morning. I prefer the Eminence SPF moisturizers as they disappear into the skin beautifully and still allow makeup to sit well. You don’t want anything to greasy under your makeup!

Night moisturisers I prefer to be a bit heavier and I love to add a few drops of oil to ‘embalm’ myself at night. When I woke up in the morning my skin is always very soft and glowy. Discover our moistuisers here.

If you’re still confused about what you should be using at home we’re always available for a free skin chat.