Skin Care can be complicated so we want to make it as easy as possible for you to understand and most importantly get the results you’re wanting!
A skin care routine should consist of a cleanser, toner, serum, retinol or active ingredients (PM), moisturiser & SPF (am)
“Active ingredients” are the powerhouse parts of your skincare — the ingredients that directly target and treat specific skin concerns (like acne, ageing, pigmentation, or texture).
They’re different from the “base” ingredients (like water or oils) that just make up the formula. Actives are what actually create visible changes in your skin.
If you have never used a retinol or active ingredients before you need to build up a tolerance to it, so start with low percentages, your skin can go through a purging stage while you build up a tolerance, so be aware of breakouts, redness, dryness, or flaking, once your skin stops this, it means you’re ready to move up to the next strength.
You should not use active ingredients every night of your routine, cycle the active ingredients so you have nights where you’re only focusing on barrier repair.
Active ingredients are:
Retinol (Vitamin A): Speeds up cell turnover, smooths wrinkles, clears acne, boosts glow.
Vitamin C: Brightens skin, evens tone, fights free radical damage.
AHAs (e.g. glycolic, lactic acid): Exfoliate the surface for smoother, brighter skin.
BHAs (e.g. salicylic acid): Penetrate pores, reduce oil & breakouts.
Hyaluronic Acid: Deep hydration, plumps fine lines.
Niacinamide: Calms redness, strengthens skin barrier, reduces pores.
Peptides: Boost collagen, firm and smooth skin.
