Skincare’s for life, not just for Christmas

Author: Lubna Khan-Salim

Ladies, if you’re anything like me then a beauty product or two is likely to appear on our Christmas wish lists this year. As much as I love the miracle that is makeup, as a skin specialist I believe that skincare is really the best investment to look after and protect your skin as you age. And no, you don’t need a 20-step routine or to break the bank to get better skin in 2021.

Here are a few of my favourites that will make fabulous presents, with results lasting way past the big day. So grab a pen.

Cleanser
I love CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser (under £10). Very effective at removing dirt and grease, this formula contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which keeps the skin clean but also hydrated. This is also great for acne sufferers, containing niacinamide to calm inflammation and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.

Antioxidant
After cleansing, reach for a serum that’s rich in antioxidants to protect and prevent dull, sagging and pigmented skin. Antioxidants should be used during the day, as this is when you are most exposed to sun and pollution.

I love iS Clinical Super Serum Advanced + (£74 15mls), a formula packed with vitamin C which acts as a safety net to minimise potential damage.

Sunscreen
My best ant-ageing advice? Always wear sunscreen during the day and be sure to apply it generously. Not only does SPF protect against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays to protect against skin cancer, it’s also one of the best antiaging products you can buy as 90% of skin ageing is caused by UV damage. I always recommend anything SPF30 plus and there are so many formulas on the market for specific skin types.

Retinoids
One of the things I’m known for is achieving beautiful glowing skin with in-clinic treatments. A great way of achieving that glow at home is by incorporating a retinol into your routine.

Retinol, hailed as one of the top anti-aging ingredients, is a derivative of vitamin A and works by increasing the skin’s cell turnover. It is great for targeting pigmentation, texture concerns, fine lines / wrinkles and clogged pores.

Boot’s own brand No 7 Retinol 1.5% Complex Night Concentrate (£34) is a budget friendly retinol that actually does what is says- I love the lightweight formula that leaves you glowing.

Finally
For an ultra luxury treat, iS Clinical have just released the perfect gift set NEW YEAR SKIN CLEAR (RRP £180) it includes all the iS Clinical hero products to create a simple yet effective skincare regime to help optimize overall skin health for visibly brighter and clearer skin, great for all ages and genders. Definitely on my wish list for Santa.

For any specific skin concerns or help on finding the perfect skincare routine tailored just for you I’m only a DM away @timetobloom.uk (www.timetobloom.uk)

Lubna Khan-Salim is a Yorkshire based surgeon who trained and practiced in plastic surgery before moving into cosmetic aesthetics.