SKINCARE
Dry, dehydrated skin is extremely common during winter, and many of us skip weekly exfoliation to protect our skin. However, without regular, gentle exfoliation, dead skin cells can build up on the surface, resulting in clogged pores, a lack of radiance, and bumpy or uneven texture.
If this sounds like you, it’ s time to slough off those dry winter skin cells. This can help serums and moisturisers penetrate deeper while improving skin texture, clarity and radiance.
A BEAUTY REGIMENT FIT FOR A QUEEN This spring, we’ re taking inspiration from Cleopatra, the Ancient Egyptian leader known for her highstakes political alliances and love affairs. Cleopatra famously bathed in milk to keep her skin soft and smooth. While extreme by today’ s standards, modern science suggests there was method to her madness.
Milk contains antioxidants, including vitamins A and E and beta-carotene, as well as lactic acid, a natural alpha-hydroxy acid( AHA) produced by the body. Lactic acid gently exfoliates the skin, helping dissolve surface build-up to reveal a smoother texture and brighter complexion.
The fats and proteins in milk would have moisturised Cleopatra’ s skin, while its antioxidants protected it and lactic acid exfoliated it. Centuries later, her beauty routine reminds us that gentle exfoliation and moisturisation are vital for healthylooking skin.
THREE KEY ACIDS Most of us aren’ t keen on bathing in milk, so what does mild, superficial exfoliation look like today? For gentle yet effective exfoliation, look for ** lactic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid **.
Lactic acid has larger molecules than glycolic acid, meaning it works more slowly on the skin’ s surface to remove dry and dead cells. It is a low-irritation option for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. It also acts as a humectant, helping skin retain water, stay plump, fade dark marks and appear brighter.
Glycolic acid is a water-soluble AHA derived from sugarcane. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate quickly and deeply, breaking the bonds between dead skin cells. It can smooth texture, brighten skin tone and stimulate collagen production. Glycolic acid suits normal, oily, combination and resilient dry skin, but may not be ideal for sensitive, very dry or rosacea-prone skin.
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid( BHA) that penetrates pores to dissolve excess sebum, clear dead skin cells and minimise blackheads and clogged pores. It is particularly popular for oily and acne-prone skin.
LESS IS MORE Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, causing redness, sensitivity, burning and breakouts. Once or twice a week is enough. Always follow exfoliation with a hydrating serum or moisturiser to restore moisture and protect the skin barrier.
As spring arrives, give your skin the gentle reset it needs for a softer, smoother and more radiant complexion. IB