I’d say today officially begins the countdown to spring, however this week’s weather is a reminder that winter is still with us. Along with chilly temps and snow, your skin may also be reminding you that the season hasn’t changed yet.
Putting yourself at the top of the list
While yesterday was all about celebrating your beloved, today I’d like to suggest that you put the focus squarely on yourself and reflect on what you are doing to look after you. I’m not talking about one-off treats that make you feel good in the moment (even if I love Donna and Tom's approach), but rather relying upon regular activities that make self-care a priority.
Do you: use retinol?
Whenever I’m asked about skincare, I inevitably suggest products containing Vitamin A. This dynamo ingredient strengthens skin, stimulates collagen and elastin and locks in moisture. Retinol is a super-strength form of Vitamin A and while it requires patience during usage, the results truly justify its delicate handling.
Inspector Gadget at your service
On the list of items that excite me, gadgets give me a special thrill. Whether they are mechanical device or just an ingenious piece of kit, I am a firm believer that gadgets make life easier. I can spend hours drooling over specialty kitchen items or waxing lyrical about my AirPods.
So when you marry gadgetry and skincare, that’s a real bonanza for me. Here are a few gadgets that have made it into my homecare routine.
Feeling 18 again
A few of my favourite things
It’s the time of year where lists recapping the best of the past 12 months are everywhere. And because I love a list, I’ve used this concept to inspire skincare items that I can’t be without. Well, let’s be generous and call them skincare-related, remembering that I believe good skincare is the foundation on which everything else is built.
Hand gestures
In the winter, my hands can become as chapped as my lips. Even though I apply facial serum and moisturiser to my hands on a daily basis (just what’s left on my palms), when the mercury drops and the air gets drier, I need to pay special attention to maintain softness. Particularly as rough hands make for a less than enjoyable treatment for my clients.
Take time to clean your face, completely
Lip service
While I’ve got my face hydration programme down pat, with season and travel modifications, I have routinely been plagued by dry lips, particularly in autumn and winter. In the spring and summer, they stay fairly well hydrated, but with the slightest dip in temperature, they seem to lose all moisture retention properties.