Jul
When it comes to skincare, there is a huge array of products on the market, many with confusing ingredients and claims on the bottle.
If you want to get the best bang for your skincare buck, it is better to stick to a few well-researched ingredients, and use them consistently. It takes a minimum of 6 weeks, and sometimes longer, for a new regime to start showing beneficial effects in your skin. Using a simple regime, that fits into your lifestyle is better for your skin in the long term than using a huge array of different types of products intermittently.
So where do the ABCs fit in?
All basic skincare regimes should include a cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen that suits your skin type.
Oilier skin types need more active cleansers and lighter moisturisers and sunscreens.
Dry and sensitive skin types need gentle cleansers and richer more hydrating moisturisers and sunscreens.
Then we like to add active serums, depending on your skincare needs.
Most regimes will include a B and a C serum, usually in the morning, and an A serum, usually at night.
So what do these serums do?
A is for Anti-ageing, Anti-pigment, Anti-wrinkles
Applying Vitamin A topically in the form of retinol or retinaldehyde can include the following benefits:
- Prevent wrinkles due to its ability to increase collagen production, as well as improve and reduce existing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Brighten dull skin by exfoliating at a cellular level, which results in brighter and smoother-looking new skin.
- Regulate oily skin, reduce bacteria in the skin, both of which help to minimise breakouts.
- Fade dark age spots, sun spots and hyperpigmentation and even out complexion over time.
Vitamin A can initially cause a few side effects if introduced too quickly or at a strong dose. Since retinol is such a powerful ingredient, it can cause the skin to redden or peel, as well as flakiness, dryness and even some breakouts. Typically, it just takes a little time for the skin to adjust.
B is for Battles inflammation, Blocks pigment, Balances oil production
Niacinamide or Vitamin B3 is a true multitasker and can benefit every skin type and condition.
- Antioxidant and anti-ageing. As we age our sugars and proteins in the skin cross-link giving the skin a yellow colour. Niacinamide can prevent this oxidation process from occurring.
- Enhances skin barrier function through an increase in ceramides and intercellular lipids.
- Blocks pigment production.
- It prevents the skin from losing moisture content through its ability to increase ceramides and free fatty acids in the skin.
- It stimulates microcirculation in the skin, giving the skin a healthy glow
- Assists in acne control/prevention by helping regulate oil production.
C is for Collagen production, and Clear and luminous skin.
Vitamin C is packed full of free-radical fighting antioxidants.
Vitamin C is a must in your skincare routine if you are wanting to target ageing, pigmentation, sun damage and dullness.
- Vitamin C encourages your skin’s natural healing processes and promotes healthy collagen production
- Decreases the appearance & reocurrence of irregular pigmentation
- Reduces swelling & irritation with anti-inflammatory properties
- Helps to clarify & brighten the complexion
- Works to provide protection against damage from free radicals & UV rays
- Vitamin C firms the skin & improves overall texture
At Southern Cosmetics, we have lots of options for different skin types and concerns. We can advise you how and when to incorporate these products into an effective skincare regime, and how they can complement other modalities such as laser and peels.
Skincare consults are available with our dermal therapists and doctors, either in person or online, and can be booked by phoning us on 95331100
Dr Jenny Kimmins,
MBBS, FRACGP, Dip.Derm
Cosmetic Physician, Fellow CPCA.