As a Melbourne skin therapist and salon trainer I am Thalia Hayes and I have had my share of clients who have put an end to a good facial by putting on full makeup or some strong acid before their skin has had a chance to recover, or by going out in the sun. With this country’s heat, dry winters and the way the weather turns on you, plus the UV, it is easy to make trouble for yourself. But post-facial care need not be made complicated. A calm approach and some consistency are what count.

What To Do In The Aftermath

In the first couple of hours the aim is to see to the skin barrier. Think of your face as a newly painted door once it has been in professional hands: you can appreciate it but do not run furniture over it.

Make sure to get some aftercare advice from your therapist before you go, and ask what was applied and what to stay away from. There is a difference in the care required for an extraction facial versus a peel or enzyme treatment. Any reputable service will tell you when to put active ingredients back in play and if the skin calls for more moisture. For ongoing support, consider a professional facial service.

A First-Day Checklist

For the remainder of the day keep things uneventful. Put off any exercise or time in the sauna that will have you hot and flushed; friction and sweat are no good for skin that has just been treated. Wash your hands prior to any contact with your face and do not rub at it.

• Cleansing should be with lukewarm water and nothing but a mild cleanser, and only if you are told to.
• A broad-spectrum sunscreen and a basic moisturiser will do in daylight.
• Leave blemishes and rough or flaky skin alone rather than picking or scrubbing.
• And put aside the notion that drinking more water is going to fix any irritation come morning.

Some would have you believe in piling on the products for quicker results. Yet put five serums on top of exfoliated skin and you will have stinging, breakouts and redness to show for it. Make an aftercare regimen you can recall even when you are worn out.

The Australian Sun

After a facial, and certainly one involving exfoliation or anything that makes the skin feel warm, steer clear of direct sun. Treated skin is apt to be more reactive to UV and you risk uneven pigmentation and damage.

Do not be fooled by a cool morning in Melbourne or the wind and clouds, check the forecast. The Bureau of Meteorology has a UV Index that can top 11 and they advise on protection from an index of 3. Their figures are a good reference for current conditions.

Physical Cover and SPF

Your last step in the morning should be an SPF 50+ as per the directions. Reapply if you are out and about, swimming or in a sweat. A hat and sunglasses may not have the glamour of a serum ad but they are far more useful.

Should you need to get somewhere after your appointment, take the tram or train where you can and make use of covered walkways. An hour by a sunny window is best avoided. You can make it to the car in a short walk but perhaps leave the long beach afternoon for later.

Makeup Is Best Delayed

The prudent thing is to forgo makeup for a day or so, in the case of a peel or extractions all the more so. Of course if your therapist has other instructions from the treatment then you follow them. Makeup brings bacteria and preservatives to bear on sensitive skin and sponges and brushes add to the friction. If there is a wedding or work function coming up, book the facial a day in advance instead of making it a last minute affair.

Getting Back To Cosmetics

Once you do start wearing makeup again, have clean tools and new products to hand. If the skin is flaky or tight, heavy foundation is not called for. A mild cleanser will do to take off your makeup in the evening, or follow what your therapist has put you on. There is no need to rub at the skin in an effort to dislodge the very last of the mascara.

Then there is the matter of expectation and reality. While a facial will put hydration back into the skin and make it smoother, less congested in appearance, one should not be under the impression it is a sure thing for flawless skin come an important occasion. In some instances the outcome is simply more at ease and comfortable skin as opposed to anything like an instant filter.

Calm, Hydrating Products

What you put on after a facial ought to be in support of the skin barrier. A hydrating serum, moisturiser and gentle cleanser with lukewarm water are fine provided the skin can handle them. Make it a straightforward routine, eschew any strong scent, abrasive bits or a host of unfamiliar ingredients.

Those with dry, tight skin may find a facial oil of use but it is by no means a must. Oils serve to limit water loss, they are not a stand in for sunscreen or a moisturiser. For the acne-prone, an oil should be taken up with care and put aside if it seems to cause congestion.

A Short Routine

In the 24 to 48 hours following a treatment, most will find this sufficient while the skin gets used to things: in the morning cleanse, put on a hydrating product if you have been told to, then moisturise and apply your sunscreen. At night, just cleanse and moisturise.

Once you are back to your usual way of doing things, add in a product here and there so as to tell what is causing any irritation. A patch test is a good idea if you have had reactions in the past.

Hold Off On The Strong Actives

Unless your therapist says to go ahead, keep active ingredients at bay. With the skin barrier in a state of flux, lactic or salicylic acid, retinoids, a potent vitamin C, glycolic acid, scrubs and the like will sting. There is nothing to be gained by putting your whole routine back in place right away. Let the skin return to normal, free of any odd heat or tenderness, which for most will be 24 to 72 hours, longer in the case of a peel or something more intensive.

One At A Time

When you are ready, you can put the actives back but do it in stages. Have one on in the evening and do not mix exfoliants. If you are on a prescribed retinoid or acne medication, check with the professional or your therapist as to when to resume.

A facial is not the time to go after every blemish. Extractions have a way of making a breakout stand out before it is over with. Picking only brings on more inflammation and marks; hands are not the finest instrument in the bathroom.

Tailor Your Care

The aftercare for a sensitive or an acne-prone complexion will differ. It depends on the treatment, the weather and your own skin.

Dry And Sensitive

With dry skin the aim is to stem water loss. Hot water and long showers are best avoided; put on your moisturiser when the skin is still a little damp. In southern Australia the heating indoors and the winter air can compound any tightness. Sensitive skin calls for less experimentation. No essential oils or harsh exfoliants and do not rub. Should a product burn, put it down and go back to basics.

Acne-Prone

Consistency is key. A cleanser and a light moisturiser that is not going to leave you feeling greasy. Leave the post-facial bumps alone, do not try to scrub the roughness off. You may have some breakouts from the extractions or sweat. If the congestion is not abating, get a plan from your therapist rather than run out and put three new acne products in your basket.

Make Allowances For The Weather

In Australia the climate will dictate your aftercare. Treated skin can feel tight in the dry air or uncomfortable with the humidity and sweat. One finds different conditions in the Top End between wet and dry season than in the cooler climes of Adelaide or Melbourne.

One does not want to put an intensive facial on the calendar in northern Australia right before some outdoor activity in the heat of the year. Between the humidity, heavy rain and the odd cyclone warning, travel is no comfort and one will be sweating. Then there is the summer bushfire smoke and heat to set off sensitive skin; a period of indoor recovery is often the wiser course.

Plan for the conditions at hand

An aggressive peel or a lot of extraction is best put aside if an event is but a day away; go with something hydrating and mild. Make sure you are not off to the beach or for a long hike, nor doing hot yoga or any work outdoors the next day. A facial is more of a pleasure when one’s time is not as full as a sardine tin.

In winter you should have a lip balm, sunscreen, moisturiser and a good cleanser to hand. In more humid climes, bring tissues to blot sweat without rubbing and a clean hat along with your sunscreen. A humidifier has its place in a dry room, provided it is well cleaned and not seen as a replacement for your moisturiser.

When to get assistance

Some facials will leave you with a little redness, tightness or small bumps for a while. Normally these will abate and not get worse. The therapist will tell you what to expect from the treatment.

But should you experience blistering, pus, a rash that is spreading, marked warmth or redness, or pain and swelling of an increasing nature, put in a call to your skincare professional. For anything as serious as difficulty breathing or severe swelling indicative of an allergic reaction, medical attention is called for.

Make a note of things

Note the products and treatment and the onset of any symptoms. Photographs in natural light are useful if matters progress. It is all information a doctor or therapist can use to determine if an ingredient, exfoliation, infection or an allergy was to blame, or nothing to do with the facial.

Some of the more common questions I am put by clients on how to tend to their skin post-facial

The answer in brief tends to be to be patient and apply less product and more sunscreen.

On the 4-2-4 Rule

This cleansing method calls for four minutes with an oil, two with a foaming cleanser and another four to rinse. Not a standard in any medical or professional sense and the rubbing can be excessive for aftercare on sensitive skin. Heed the provider and be gentle.

Afterwards?

Stick to a broad-spectrum sunscreen, moisturiser and a cleanser of the gentler sort with lukewarm water. Let the skin settle before you make up or get active and stay out of the sun and heat. Do not pick at blemishes or hasten the peeling.

An Australian brand for mature skin?

Needs being what they are, there is no one brand to crown the best. Mature skin can be dry or prone to acne and pigmentation. Look to the ingredients and tolerability and take some professional counsel instead of going by the label.

The seven steps of a facial

You will not find a clinic that adheres to a rigid seven-step order. Depending on the state of your skin and the treatment, there may be a consultation, some steam or softening, massage, a mask and so on.

Is exercise out of the question?

For the balance of the day it makes sense to forgo the sauna and any strenuous exertion or very hot shower. Friction and sweat are irritating. If your face is sore or uncharacteristically red, hold off and let the therapist advise you.

Aftercare need not be complicated

The soundest advice for Australian skin is to shield it from the sun, be kind to the barrier and allow any irritation to pass. Adapt to the dry air of winter or the humidity.

A facial of merit will provide you with the necessary knowledge, not a cupboard of things bought in a panic. Have some common sense and give your skin a quiet day; it is in no need of a rescue operation.

The post Facial Aftercare Tips For Australian Skin appeared first on blu-indigo.

Im Olha Po, founder of Cosmetic Tattoo Studio Melbourne Face Figurati here, and this question comes up a whole lot more often than you might think in consults. Clients will say, ‘My lip blush looked softer after summer’, or ‘Why do my lips look patchy when I’ve only been using a glossy plumper?’ Usually the problem isnt just the lip product itself its the mix of ingredients, how often you use it, your UV exposure, and just how reactive your lips are.

Why This Matters For Your Lips

Your lips are basically super thin-skinned and totally exposed to Melbourne’s weather. Wind, heaters, coffee, spicy food, sun, and all that. All of that combined is just piling on. If you have a lip tattoo, this is especially important because understanding lip pigment retention differences is not just about the pigment I implant—it’s about how stable your skin barrier is.

What most people get wrong is assuming that a lip oil is totally harmless just because it says ‘hydrating’ on the label. A lip oil can feel lovely, but if it’s got all sorts of fragrances, essential oils and flavourings, or ingredients that are super sensitive to UV light, it can still cause a whole lot of trouble.

How Different Products Behave

Lip oils tend to just sit on the surface of your lips and stop them from drying out, but some of them have got all sorts of additives like citrus extracts, peppermint, cinnamon oil, and shimmery bits that can irritate your lips. So when people ask ‘Do lip oils cause lip darkening or lip oil hyperpigmentation‘, it’s not a silly question at all.

Chemical plumpers on the other hand work by making your lips swell slightly. Some formulas have got capsaicin and other triggers in them, and also some strong fragrances. Peptides and hyaluronic acid products for lips are generally gentler, but even those can be a problem if the formula gives you stinging, flaking skin or just keeps your lips in a constant state of irritation.

What Actually Changes Colour

Let’s get to the bottom of this one. Most pigmentation problems happen because your lip skin has reacted to something, rather than a gloss just chipping away at the pigment like paint stripper. Concerns about lip neutralisation and PIH safety come up especially when inflammation, UV sensitivity, and the skin barrier getting disrupted are involved.

In my clinic, I see this happening when people’s lips just suddenly start healing unevenly, or look all dull and patchy faster than they should, or develop all these patchy brown areas around the vermilion border after using all sorts of tingly products.

Inflammation Can Trigger Darkening

Repeated irritation can lead to this thing called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – where the skin starts to produce more melanin in response to the irritation, especially if you’ve got medium to darker skin or a tendency to get pigmentation. So when searches for “how often do lip plumpers cause darkening” come up with no clear answer, it’s because it all depends on your skin type, how much sun you get, and what kind of product you’re using.

Sun Makes It Worse

Some lip products out there contain ingredients that can actually make your lips more sensitive to the sun and that’s never a good thing – especially when you live in an Aussie summer and spend your days at the beach, or just cruising around Melbourne without any lip protection. When you add all that to the mix, the chances of lip neutralizer for dark lips or becoming uneven are a lot higher. And it’s no secret that sun damage is a major contributor to lip darkening and tattoo colour loss.

Barrier Damage Speeds Fading

If your lips are constantly on the go, with new skin being flaked off and regrowing all the time, it can have a pretty negative impact on your lip tattoo. See, issues with healing can definitely influence bold lip tattoo colour longevity, and that’s when you start to see the colour of your tattoo looking a bit blotchy. And let’s not forget, when it comes to cosmetic tattooing, if your skin isn’t healing properly it’s going to be a lot harder for the tattoo to last as long as it should.

What The Evidence Suggests

The dermatologists – like Dr Mariwalla – have been saying this for ages, the combination of irritation and inflammation can make a real mess of your skin pigmentation. And we all know what happens when you add UV rays to the mix – it just makes it all a lot worse. Companies like Paula’s Choice Australia have been pretty vocal about how certain ingredients in products can cause skin irritation – something that can really compromise the integrity of your skin.

Look – I know it’s tempting to get a bit nitpicky with the details here – and I’m not disputing the fact that we don’t have loads of studies that directly test the impact of certain lip products on tattoo pigment. What we do know though, is that the indirect effects of irritation, inflammation and sun damage can really do some damage to your lip tattoo – long before any chemical destruction of the pigment molecules starts to happen.

Natural Lips Vs Lip Tattoos

Natural lip color comes from the perfect blend of blood vessels, the thickness of the tissue and melanin. Lip tattoo ink, on the hand, sits on top of the skin and gradually starts to fade after a bit because of the body’s immune system kicking in, sun damage, skin replacing itself and basically the wear and tear of daily life. When clients come to me with the question ‘do lip plumpers fade lip tattoos’ my answer is usually this: they might not actually break the pigment apart, but they can still make a lip tattoo look less fresh if you keep irritating the skin.

At Face Figurati I’ve got to be extra careful with clients that have known issues with sensitive lips, or a history of cold sores, eczema around the mouth or previous lip tattoos that just didn’t hold their color. It’s these people who are most likely to get caught out by a lip product that seems harmless at first.

What Catches Clients Off Guard

Expectations vs reality: that new lip blush looks amazing at first, but as it heals it softens off by a third to half. If you start using lip plumpers too early you can mess with the healing process, get some uneven swelling and so on. Most of the time one session will give you a nice, subtle tint, but a lot of clients need a follow up appointment at 6 to 10 weeks to get the colour just right.

Appointment time usually runs at about 2.5 to 3 hours, and most people can go back to work the next day if the swelling is mild. But how long it takes for it all to settle down can really vary depending on your skin type, how you look after yourself after the treatment and the time of year. In Melbourne especially (where it can get pretty windy and dry) your lips might take longer to settle down.

How To Protect Your Colour

If you want to keep your lip colour looking healthy and stable, then keep it simple, in the best possible way. The safest lip products are going to be the ones that are plain and gentle on the skin, and don’t have a lot of added fragrances. Sexy packaging isn’t always a guarantee of healthy, glowing lips.

These are the tips I always give my clients in the clinic, whether they have natural lips or a lip tattoo:

• Wear a lip balm with a broad-spectrum SPF every day; lip protection is way more important than people give it credit for.
• Give the plumpers a miss if they contain capsaicin, menthol or cinnamon oil – if you’re prone to getting lip tattoos to fade quickly then it’s best to avoid them.
• Always patch test new products on a small patch of skin for a few days before using them regularly.
• After getting a lip tattoo, it’s best to steer clear of any products that are going to irritate the skin until it’s fully healed and cleared up by your artist.
• If you start to notice any burning, peeling, darkening or persistent dryness – stop using the product right away.

Choosing Better Formulas

If you like the look of lip gloss but don’t want to compromise on your lip tattoo, then look for hydration-based products that contain hyaluronic acid or peptides in a non-irritating base. Peptide treatments for the lips can sound a bit scary, but the peptides themselves are usually not the problem – it’s the rest of the formula that matters.

If you’re after a glossy look then go for the products that put hydration first and are non-irritating. I do need to be a bit more cautious with lip plumpers that are heavily scented, or have strong flavour oils, and products that rely on irritation to make the lips look bigger. I tend to go for products from brands like Paula’s Choice (in Australia) that are all about barrier care and gentle, nourishing formulas.

When To Get Professional Help

If your lips start changing colour unevenly, cracking or swelling, book in with a dermatologist ASAP. And don’t even think about throwing more products at a lip tattoo that’s healing patchy – get in touch with your cosmetic tattooist first. The fix is sometimes just time, and not another gloss to add to the mix.

At Cosmetic Tattoo Studio Melbourne Face Figurati, I’d rather put a treatment on hold until your lips calm down than try to work on irritated skin. Melbourne prices for lip blush are pretty standard – usually around AUD 450 to AUD 900, depending on your personal needs, and whether another session is included. If that’s all you can afford, focus on getting the shape and balance right, rather than trying to get a deep lipstick result.

Melbourne Conditions Change Everything

Seasons change, and with them comes different challenges for your lips. Summer’s got stronger UV to contend with, and that means a higher risk of fading or other lip blush colour changes. Winter’s got heaters, wind, and all that barrier stress which can set you back too. It’s no wonder clients who spend a lot of time outdoors, whether it’s cycling, walking or sipping coffee in the sun without SPF, tend to notice a faster shift in lip colour than someone who sticks closer to home and looks after their skin properly.

That’s why Olha Po always talks about lifestyle choices in a consultation – it’s just as important as the shade you choose. The best result isn’t the trendiest colour of the day; it’s the one that looks good on your skin and can be healed well too.

Final Thoughts And Next Steps

Are lip plumpers bad for you? Not automatically, no. It’s when you use irritating lip oils or plumping glosses long-term that you might start to see problems – darkening, dullness, and faster apparent fading – especially if UV and chronic irritation are part of the mix. Peptide treatments are usually a better choice if the formula is gentle and your lips can handle it.

If you’re not 100% sure whether your current routine is affecting your lip colour or healed lip blush, give Face Figurati a shout. I’m happy to walk you through your products, check over your list, and tell you honestly what you should and shouldn’t be using.

Summary

Lip oils, plumpers, and peptide products don’t usually mess with your pigment directly, but irritating formulas can still cause inflammation, UV sensitivity, and barrier damage that makes lips darken or tattoos fade faster. Just choose gentle formulas, wear some SPF, and keep active glosses away from healing tattooed lips, okay?

FAQ

Do Lip-Plumping Glosses Have Any Long-Term Consequences?

Yeah, if they cause repeated irritation. Stinging and dryness day in, day out may increase the risk of darkening – and make your lip colour look uneven.

Is It Bad News If You Constantly Use Lip Plumper?

It can be. Daily use of irritating formulas can cause all sorts of problems – skin barrier disruption, chronic inflammation, and more visible pigment changes.

Do Lip Oils Cause Lip Darkening?

Sometimes. Simple lip oils are less likely to be a problem, but if they’re fragranced or photosensitising, they might contribute to darkening in sensitive lips.

How Do Koreans Keep Their Lips Looking So Plump?

Makeup, hydration-focused care, and the odd cosmetic treatment. It’s rarely about overusing harsh plumpers, you know?

What Are The Downsides Of Lip-Plumping Gloss?

Temporary burning, dryness, irritation, weird patchy colour, and in some cases, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or faster-looking lip tattoo fading.

The post Do Lip Plumpers Degrade Lip Pigment? appeared first on blu-indigo.

Poiché sono in molti a chiedersi quale sia il reale rapporto tra Vitamina C e abbronzatura, e se questa sostanza sia davvero un supporto valido per la tintarella o se, invece, possa nascondere insidie durante l’esposizione solare, è utile fare chiarezza sul suo ruolo nella cura della pelle in estate.

Fotosensibilità o fotosensibilizzante? Sfatiamo un mito

Spesso i dubbi nascono dalla confusione tra due concetti molto diversi: “fotosensibilità” e “fotosensibilizzazione”.

La vitamina C (acido ascorbico) è una molecola fotosensibile, che, essendo instabile alla luce e all’ossigeno, tende a ossidarsi e a perdere efficacia se non opportunamente formulata e conservata.

Tuttavia, ciò non significa che sia fotosensibilizzante, cioè capace di aumentare la reattività della pelle alla radiazione UV.

La vitamina C, non rende la pelle più vulnerabile al sole, non la danneggia in alcun modo né favorisce eritemi o scottature, ma, al contrario, aumenta la resilienza dei tessuti cutanei.

Pertanto può essere una preziosa alleata nella skincare estiva se la si usa correttamente.

I benefici della vitamina C durante l’esposizione solare

Azione antiossidante e stimolo del collagene

L’azione protettiva della vitamina C, che comunque va sempre usata assieme a una buona crema solare dal PAO in corso di validità in presenza di raggi UV, è dovuta principalmente alla sua ben nota attività antiossidante.

Neutralizza i radicali liberi prodotti durante l’esposizione ai raggi ultravioletti−tra i principali responsabili di fotoinvecchiamento, danni cellulari, perdita di tono e comparsa di macchie−e, inoltre, promuove la sintesi del collagene, contribuendo a mantenere la pelle elastica e compatta anche sotto stress ossidativo.

Influenza sulla melanogenesi

Un punto spesso trascurato, ma cruciale per comprendere il legame tra vitamina C e abbronzatura, riguarda la regolazione della melanogenesi.

Infatti la vitamina C è implicata nella regolazione della produzione di melanina, agendo sulla tirosinasi, enzima responsabile della pigmentazione irregolare.

Questo non impedisce la normale abbronzatura, ma regola la distribuzione della pigmentazione, contribuendo a un colorito più uniforme e riducendo il rischio di discromie e iperpigmentazioni localizzate.

In altre parole, non ostacola la tintarella, ma aiuta a renderla più omogenea e duratura, limitando gli effetti collaterali tipici dell’esposizione solare eccessiva.

Come usare la vitamina C in estate

Formulazione e concentrazione ideali

L’efficacia della vitamina C dipende fortemente dalla sua formulazione.

In quanto sostanza instabile, deve essere inserita in prodotti a pH acido (idealmente tra 3 e 4), in forma pura (acido L-ascorbico) oppure in derivati più stabili come l’ascorbyl glucoside o il magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, che rilasciano lentamente il principio attivo.

Le concentrazioni efficaci per uso topico variano mediamente tra l’8% e il 20%, a seconda della sensibilità cutanea e della tollerabilità individuale.

Quando applicarla

Il momento ideale è al mattino, prima di spalmarsi addosso la protezione solare.

Contrariamente a un pregiudizio diffuso, l’utilizzo di vitamina C sotto la crema SPF è non solo sicuro, ma sinergico: migliora la protezione complessiva dai danni dei raggi UV e ne rafforza l’effetto barriera, senza sostituirla.

Uso interno: dieta e integrazione

Non meno rilevante è l’apporto della vitamina C per via interna, attraverso l’alimentazione.

Infatti una dieta ricca di frutta e verdura fresche (come agrumi, kiwi, fragole, peperoni, broccoli) e di altri alimenti favorenti l’abbronzatura e la riparazione dei tessuti cutanei sostiene la pelle dall’interno, migliorandone la resistenza allo stress ossidativo, soprattutto se assunti con regolarità nel periodo che precede e accompagna l’esposizione al sole.

Controindicazioni da non trascurare

È, però, importante considerare alcune controindicazioni all’utilizzo dell’acido ascorbico.

In concentrazioni elevate (oltre il 20%) o con pH molto acido, la Vitamina C può risultare irritante per le pelli molto sensibili, causando bruciore, rossore o desquamazione.

Se la pelle è “malconcia” e già compromessa da fattori esterni come sole, vento o cloro, è preferibile scegliere formulazioni più delicate o contenenti derivati stabilizzati della vitamina, in quanto sono meno reattivi.

Inoltre, la Vitamina C non va combinata con altri attivi potenzialmente irritanti, come acidi esfolianti o retinoidi, se non si è certi della tolleranza cutanea individuale.

Ovviamente, il suo uso interno ed esterno va assolutamente evitato qualora si manifestino reazioni allergiche o di sensibilità, come prurito, gonfiore, difficoltà a respirare o eruzioni cutanee.

Infine, va ribadito che la Vitamina C non sostituisce in alcun modo la protezione solare: se utilizzata senza l’applicazione di un filtro SPF adeguato, la pelle rimane comunque esposta ai danni provocati dalle radiazioni UV.

In ogni caso, anche se vitamina C e abbronzatura possono essere un’ “accoppiata vincente” nell’ottenere una pelle più sana e luminosa senza che invecchi anzitempo, la chiave è scegliere formule non aggressive adatte al proprio tipo di pelle senza trascurare mai l’applicazione di una protezione solare ad ampio spettro.

Solo così è possibile trarre il massimo beneficio senza esporre la propria pelle a rischi evitabili.

Domande frequenti su vitamina C e abbronzatura

È meglio usare la vitamina C di giorno o di sera?

Entrambe le opzioni sono valide. Tuttavia, applicarla al mattino offre il vantaggio di proteggere la pelle dagli stress ossidativi generati durante il giorno.
Di sera può essere utile in ottica riparativa e rigenerante, soprattutto in abbinamento ad altri attivi.

Qual’ è la forma migliore di vitamina C per l’estate?

In estate, per minimizzare il rischio di ossidazione, è preferibile scegliere derivati stabilizzati della vitamina C (come Ascorbyl Glucoside o Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) o prodotti in packaging airless scuri e opachi. Le concentrazioni ideali vanno dall’8% al 15% per pelli sensibili, fino al 20% per pelli più resistenti.

È meglio usare un siero puro o una crema alla Vitamina C?

Dipende dal tipo di pelle. I sieri hanno solitamente una concentrazione più alta e penetrano meglio, ma su pelli sensibili o già stressate è preferibile una crema con derivati più stabili e delicati.

Posso usare la Vitamina C in combinazione con altri attivi?

Sì, ma con cautela. Evita combinazioni con acidi esfolianti, retinoidi o altri ingredienti irritanti, a meno che la tua pelle non sia già abituata e tollerante.

L’assunzione di integratori alimentari a base di vitamina C migliora l’abbronzatura?

Non incide sui tempi e sull’intensità in cui ci si abbronza, ma contribuisce alla protezione e riparazione cellulare, migliorando la qualità della pelle e la sua capacità di gestire l’esposizione al sole.
Non è necessario, pero, usarli, dato che basta una dieta ricca di vitamina C per supportare l’abbronzatura in modo indiretto.

Altre “dritte” che possono tornare utili al tuo benessere in estate:

• Come fare la doccia per avere un reale sollievo dall’afa senza danneggiare la pelle
• Come rinfrescare la casa anche senza condizionatore
• Consigli professionali per mantenere i capelli belli e in salute nonostante l’estate

Credito foto in evidenza: Freepik.com

Antioxidants play a vital role in skincare by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to skin cells, leading to premature aging and various skin issues. By incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine, you can enhance your skin’s resilience, radiance, and overall health. This article delves into the significance of antioxidants, the various types found in skincare products, their benefits, and how to effectively incorporate them into your daily regimen.

Understanding Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body from oxidative stress, which arises from free radicals produced by environmental factors such as pollution, UV radiation, and harmful lifestyle choices. When free radicals accumulate in the body, they can lead to oxidative damage, resulting in inflammation, redness, and accelerated aging. Antioxidants combat this process, neutralizing free radicals before they can inflict harm. Different types of antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, green tea extract, and resveratrol, are commonly utilized in skincare formulations due to their efficacy and skin-friendly properties.

Benefits of Antioxidants in Skincare

Integrating antioxidants into your skincare routine can lead to numerous benefits that contribute to healthier, more youthful skin. Some of the primary advantages include:

• Skin Protection: Antioxidants shield the skin from harmful environmental stressors, providing a protective barrier against pollutants and UV rays.
• Anti-Aging: By reducing oxidative damage, antioxidants help minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
• Even Skin Tone: Antioxidants can aid in reducing pigmentation and promoting a more uniform skin tone, enhancing overall complexion.
• Hydration Levels: Many antioxidants possess hydrating properties, helping to maintain skin moisture and elasticity.
• Soothing Inflammation: Antioxidants can reduce redness and irritation, making them beneficial for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Types of Antioxidants Commonly Found in Skincare

Various antioxidants are utilized in skincare products, each offering unique benefits. Some of the most popular antioxidants include:

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin, boosts collagen production, and protects against UV damage.
• Vitamin E: Known for its moisturizing properties, vitamin E also aids in protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage.
• Green Tea Extract: This potent antioxidant helps soothe inflammation and offers anti-aging benefits with its high level of polyphenols.
• Coenzyme Q10: Naturally occurring in the skin, Q10 helps energize skin cells and reduce visible signs of aging.
• Retinol: Though primarily known as a vitamin A derivative for anti-aging, it also possesses antioxidant properties that enhance skin renewal.

How to Incorporate Antioxidants into Your Skincare Routine

Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine can be done with relative ease, whether through serums, moisturizers, or masks. To maximize effectiveness, consider the following steps:

1. Cleanse: Begin your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to prepare your skin for the applications ahead.
2. Apply Antioxidant Serums: Use a vitamin C serum during the morning for a brightening effect, followed by a moisturizer with complementary antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea extract.
3. Moisturize: Choose a moisturizer that includes additional antioxidants to lock in hydration and further protect your skin.
4. SPF Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to reinforce the protective properties of your antioxidant-rich products.
5. Night Care: In the evening, consider using a retinol or a night cream enriched with antioxidants to support skin repair while you sleep.

Conclusion

Antioxidants play a crucial role in promoting skin health by combating free radicals, reducing inflammation, and combating signs of aging. By understanding the different types of antioxidants available and their unique benefits, you can make informed choices about the products to incorporate into your skincare routine. With proper application, antioxidants can lead to a brighter, more youthful complexion that withstands the test of time.

FAQs

Yes, layering antioxidant products can offer enhanced benefits. However, ensure that the formulations are compatible to avoid irritation.

2. How often should I use antioxidant serums?

Daily application, especially in the morning, is recommended for optimal protection against environmental stressors.

3. Are antioxidants safe for all skin types?

Most antioxidants are suitable for all skin types, but individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test first to check for irritation.

4. Can diet impact antioxidant levels in the skin?

Yes, consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can improve skin health from the inside out.

5. When should I start using antioxidant skincare products?

It’s advisable to incorporate antioxidant products into your skincare routine in your twenties to help prevent skin aging and maintain skin health.

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In questa pagina vi presento alcuni dei prodotti che ho ricevuto e che potete anche voi acquistare e provare!

 Olio spray corpo 6 SPF, UVA, UVB

protezione bassa, quindi per pelli già abbronzate.
La presenza di olio di Argan, Vitamina E,  assicura un’azione idratante e lenitiva favorendo l’elasticità cutanea.
Resistente all’acqua.
Piacevole profumazione al cocco.

RIVIGEN shampoo anticaduta fortificante che deterge delicatamente il cuoio capelluto, ristabilendo l’equilibrio fisiologico del capello, fortifica la chioma rendendola lucente e setosa.

CHRONO AGE® Crema Viso Riparatrice

Microemulsione ad azione riparatrice cellulare: sulla pelle giovane previene rughe, atonie, macchie, eritrosi, secchezza e disidratazione. Nel crono e foto invecchiamento ne migliora l’aspetto donando tono, turgore, elasticità e riducendo le rughe. Inoltre fortifica e protegge la pelle delicata e sensibile proteggendola da stress esogeni ed endogeni. Contiene una selezione di attivi naturali che esercitano un’azione riparatrice specifica su tutti i componenti della cute: acido alfa Lipoico, Quercetina, acido Fitico ed estratto di Papaia ad azione protettiva dall’invecchiamento cellulare; Isoflavoni di Soia ad azione ristrutturante del tessuto cutaneo, ATiPenergy® ad azione energizzante, Escina e Saponina dell’ippocastano, ad azione cicatrizzante, Vite rossa ad azione  vaso protettrice, Camomilla, Malva e Calendula ad azione lenitiva. La profumazione ha note fresche e piacevoli, adatta sia per lui che per lei. L’applicazione quotidiana garantisce una prolungata giovinezza, uno splendore massimizzato, una vitalità rinnovata. Modo d’uso: si stende mattina e sera, su pelle perfettamente detersa con leggeri movimenti circolari.

URBAN BASE UNIFORMANTE VISO ANTISMOG SPF 20

Perfezionatore dell’incarnato, contiene una straordinaria tecnologia “skin feel” a base di minerali e siliconi dermo affini che, a contatto con la pelle, minimizza imperfezioni, linee sottili e pori dilatati. Il sistema esclusivo di filtri solari 4UV Defence. garantisce una difesa quotidiana dai raggi UV in sinergia con l’innovativo KEL -3 Complex che crea un’efficace barriera contro l’inquinamento atmosferico. La sua texture leggera, si assorbe velocemente e favorisce la stesura e la tenuta del make up. Garantisce una pelle protetta da sole ed agenti esterni per l’intera giornata. Un viso dall’aspetto levigato e luminoso fino a sera. Modo d’uso: si applica tutte le mattine, sulla pelle detersa, dopo i prodotti di routine quotidiana (siero, crema contorno occhi, crema viso specifica). E’ un prodotto indicato anche per gli uomini, come post rasatura, leggero e incolore garantisce una protezione totale fino a sera da smog, fumo, sole ed agenti esterni ed è ideale anche per chi fa sport, per chi trascorre molte ore all’aria aperta o nel traffico cittadino.

CHRONO AGE® Crema corpo riparatrice

Caratterizzata da una texture morbida ed avvolgente, riattiva i processi chiave che regolano il rinnovo e il nutrimento cellulare riequilibrando la microcircolazione e la vita biologica della pelle. Contribuisce a prevenire efficacemente l’invecchiamento cutaneo, ripristina l’energia ed il metabolismo cellulare e rafforza le capacità difensive della pelle. Attivi importanti quali: acido alfa Lipoico, Quercetina, acido Fitico ed estratto di Papaia ad azione protettiva dall’invecchiamento cellulare, Escina e Vite rossa ad azione protettiva e stimolante del microcircolo per un miglior nutrimento tessutale e la prevenzione di cellulite ed edemi, malva tiglio camomilla ad azione emolliente. È un prodotto universale per il trattamento di ogni inestetismo, in particolare dona tono e vitalità alla cute del corpo rendendola più tonica, elastica e vellutata per una prolungata giovinezza, inoltre previene smagliature, cellulite, cedimenti ed atonie di addome, interno cosce e seno. Adatta a tutti i tipi di pelle, dell’uomo e della donna di tutte le età. Modo d’uso: si applica quotidianamente dopo la detersione con leggeri movimenti circolari.

I prodotti si possono acquistare nei centri specializzati oppure online sul sito www.dermophisiologique.it

L’articolo Cambiamo la beauty routine con Dermophisiologique – parte 2 proviene da Isabella Radaelli.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place è un fondotinta a lunga tenuta e viene prodotto in una vasta gamma di tonalità cromatiche, tra cui si può scegliere quella più giusta, su misura, in base al tono e sottotono della propria pelle. Sul viso non ha l’effetto “mascherone”, ma è leggero e piacevole, lascia la pelle perfetta per ben 24 ore, copre le imperfezioni e uniforma l’incarnato, crea sul viso un naturale effetto opaco, non ostruisce i pori e non provoca la comparsa dell’acne, è molto resistente al caldo e all’umidità, non si trasferisce, non si strofina e non ossida.
Durante il giorno il fondotinta non avrà bisogno di nessun ritocco. Alla sera, prima di struccarsi, indipendentemente da quanto sia stata faticosa la giornata, ci si ritrova esattamente come ci si è truccati al mattino. Inoltre Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place ha un fattore di protezione solare SPF 10, quindi protegge la pelle dai raggi solari e, nota molto importante, è dermatologicamente testato, non contiene olio ed è senza profumazione. Non per niente il fondotinta Double Wear Stay-in-Place è il preferito di milioni di donne di tutto il mondo.
Ma quale scegliere? Il fondotinta deve mettere in risalto la sfumatura migliore della pelle. Dunque se la carnagione è chiara, bisogna scegliere un prodotto di color beige chiarissimo, dal sottotono neutro, che non sia né troppo giallo né troppo rosa. Mentre l’avorio è indicato solo per le pelli veramente molto chiare. Se la carnagione è media, il colore ideale tende al dorato, insomma in una tonalità calda. Per un’epidermide olivastra è meglio optare invece per una nuance terracotta, che tende a spegnere il grigiore. Infine, coloro che hanno la pelle scura si illumina con un fondotinta perlato che tende al rosato. Per esemplificare meglio, ecco di seguito una tabella che aiuta nella scelta della tonalità più adatta:
sottotoni freddi (C) – la pelle ha un incarnato rosa e si scotta facilmente al sole
sottotoni neutri (N) – la pelle non ha un incarnato evidente, né rosato né dorato
sottotoni caldi (W) – la pelle ha un incarnato dorato o olivastro e si abbronza facilmente.

L’articolo Colorito perfetto con Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place proviene da Isabella Radaelli.

La bella stagione – oltre a regalarci tante ore di luce e un’ampia varietà di frutti meravigliosi – porta con sé anche bellissime giornate di sole splendente. Questi ultimi giorni in particolare sono stati veramente sereni ed a tratti anche ventilati e, proprio grazie al vento, abbiamo potuto ammirare anche in città un cielo azzurro ed incredibilmente terso, simile a quello che si può contemplare nelle località marine.

In alcuni casi il sole estivo diventa quasi un amico lungamente atteso che non si vuol più abbandonare, si cerca quindi di trascorrere più tempo possibile sotto il sole per perdere il candido biancore invernale ed arrivare preparati alle vacanze ormai prossime.  In queste situazioni diventa assolutamente indispensabile proteggere la nostra pelle dai dannosi raggi UV che, come sappiamo, sono causa di cheratosi ed invecchiamento precoce.

Per quel che concerne le creme solari corpo, la scelta è piuttosto semplice perché il mercato ci mette a disposizione una vasta gamma di prodotti con buon INCI (come OMNIA, La Saponaria, Fitocose, Bjobj ecc…) mentre la scelta si fa più difficile per quel che riguarda la protezione del nostro viso poiché è più che mai necessario considerare anche il tipo di pelle.

Questa Primavera ho pensato di portarmi avanti e, dopo aver letto le numerose recensioni positive, ho infine deciso di provare una crema solare “made in Japan”:  Bioré UV Mild Care Milk SPF 30 PA++.  Si tratta di una crema dalla texture incredibilmente leggera e di facile assorbimento, non lucida e non unge assolutamente la pelle, è senza alcool  e senza profumo, è adatta anche alle pelli sensibili e – cosa non da poco – non irrita e non causa “esplosioni” alla mia pelle a tendenza acneica.  La confezione è da 120 ml e si può utilizzare sia sul viso che sul corpo, lascio qui di seguito l’INCI  in modo che ognuno di noi possa controllarlo e trarre le sue conclusioni.

INCI: Water (Aqua), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexyl Dimethoxybenzylidene Dioxoimidazolidine Propionate, Potassium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, PEG-32, Helianthus Annuss (Sunflower) Seed Oil, BHT, Squalane, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol.