It’s not always easy knowing which products and treatments are right for your skin type. And if your complexion has gone haywire this year, or you’re struggling with fine lines and wrinkles, you might be wondering how to get things back on track.
To find out how best to mitigate the signs of ageing, we caught up with Dr Naomi, Cosmetic Physician and founder of the Manse Clinic in Sydney, to answer some of your most pressing skin questions.
What’s your number one rule for keeping skin youthful? Is it really as simple as cleanse, tone and moisturise?
The short answer is no, according to Manse, who advocates for incorporating actives into your routine to really target the signs of ageing.
“I love a complex 10-step routine, but in terms of classification, a great way to think about it is ‘protect, prevent and correct’,” says Manse. “We need to protect the skin from environmental damage; we need to prevent skin flaws and if they do occur, then we need to correct them. This is the path to flawless and youthful skin.”
We hear about lots of ‘wonder’ ingredients. If a person wants a really simple skin routine, what hero ingredient would you suggest they look for?
“Obviously sunscreen, vitamin A and vitamin C would be my simplest routine,” says Manse.
In short, sunscreen will protect the skin from damaging UV rays, vitamin A will help with skin cell turnover and vitamin C is vital for treating fine lines and wrinkles. To really brighten your skin, try a product like SkinCeuticals C E Feulic Serum, which is rich in antioxidants, thanks to a potent blend of vitamins C and E and ferulic acid. In combination, these ingredients work together to protect the skin against environmental aggressors and neutralise free radicals caused by exposure to UVA/UVB and ozone pollution. The result? A brighter, firmer, smoother-looking complexion.
How much of skin ageing is caused by environmental factors?
While Manse acknowledges that genetics definitely play a part when it comes to ageing, environmental factors can’t be ignored.
“Both are important, but only one you can change, so work on your lifestyle choices!” says Manse. “A significant per cent of skin ageing is due to sun damage and smoking. A low BMI may be associated with increased perceived age. Air pollution is also a factor.”
What’s the number one skin concern you see among your patients, and what’s your solution/suggestion?
According to Manse, the primary concern of many Australian women is related to our harsh climate.
“The number one issue I hear about is pigmentation,” says Manse. “My solution is to use sunscreen, vitamin A, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum, Skinceuticals Advanced Pigment Corrector and other topical brighteners.
“In terms of in-salon treatments, I recommend IPL, QSwitch laser and other energy based devices to fight pigmentation.”
What skincare products should we invest in/splurge on, and what can we save on?
In this case, Manse thinks more is more.
“Splurge on everything! Sorry, if I had to choose, I’d say you could splurge on serums, save on cleansers,” she recommends.
Our pick? SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum, which is universally acknowledged as the anti-ageing OG.
I’m 30+. What skincare ingredients should I be using?
Unfortunately, collagen starts breaking down in our bodies at a rate of 2per cent per year once we hit our mid-20s. This is when fine lines, wrinkles and dullness can kick in.
“After the age of 30, you definitely need a sunscreen, vitamin A, vitamin C and antioxidant combination,” says Manse. “Vitamin B is a must and you should replace your age-related reduction in hyaluronic acid. And of course every brightener you can get your hands on!”
What one thing would you say to anyone and everyone regarding their skin?
Considering we live in a country with some of the harshest UV rays in the world, Manse’s advice is spot on: “After prevention and staying sun safe, please have regular skin checks. You need to get cancers early. Start good skincare and in-clinic treatments early, and always look after your neck when you’re looking after your face.”
Brought to you by SkinCeuticals
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