Everything you need to be savvy about skin care

How can you know which products are worth the money when formulas have never been so complex and sophisticated? 

According to a recent study, one in three women in the UK says they are worried about ageing but haven’t done anything about it. 

The research suggests that the reason for this is consumers are baffled by the range of products available and don’t know where to begin. 

We’ve put together some simple rules to help you discover what you need. 

CLEANSE PROPERLY 

Thorough cleansing is an essential part of every skincare routine.

Choose a nourishing water-soluble cleanser and use morning and evening with a vibrating cleansing gadget such as the Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, £79 (clinique.co.uk). This simple change can make a big difference to your skin in just two weeks. 

WEAR SUNSCREEN 

Ninety per cent of lines and wrinkles are caused by sun exposure so an SPF is the ultimate anti-ageing skincare essential.

Make sure when you choose a moisturiser to opt for a formula which contains an SPF of at least 30. 

DON’T OVERDO IT 

There are endless products on the market but be careful you’re not using too many. Layering multiple creams can alter the pH level of the products, making them less effective.

I recommend using a cleanser, serum, moisturiser and sunscreen in the morning and a cleanser, serum and night cream in the evening. A weekly mask helps to keep skin healthy. 

WATCH FOR SENSITIVITY 

If you’re using the wrong products for your skin type the chances are your complexion will look dry, dull and lacklustre.

Have a skin analysis with your favourite brand or find a beauty salon with a therapist trained in understanding skin who will be able to recommend the right products for you. 

BEWARE MIRACLE CLAIMS 

Facial ageing involves more than just skin texture. Over time facial muscles start to sag which leads to loose skin. Creams work well on fine lines and roughness but can’t counteract sagging. Unfortunately there is no such thing as a facelift in a jar.

The only way you’ll achieve dramatic results is with non-surgical treatments such as thread lifts, fillers and muscle-relaxing injections to soften lines, or lasers and peels that change the structure of the skin and have long-lasting results. 

KNOW YOUR INGREDIENTS 

We’ve listed our essential ingredients for great skin below. 

Coenzyme Q10: This powerful antioxidant speeds up cell repair and aids healing. It’s particularly beneficial for menopausal skin. 

Hyaluronic acid: Found in the deeper layers of the skin this natural product can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Used in a cream it helps plump and soften skin. 

Retinol: Derived from antioxidant vitamin A this rejuvenates the skin by helping cell turnover. It also boosts cell production and collagen formation. 

Glycolic acid: This fruit acid is a brilliant exfoliator and also stimulates collagen production. 

Pentapeptides: These amino acids are small enough to penetrate the epidermis (the outer layer of your skin), stimulating collagen production and helping to keep wrinkles at bay. Matrixyl is one to look out for. 

Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant intercepts skin cell damage, boosting collagen production and counteracting sun damage. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect. 

Vitamin E: Another superantioxidant, this helps protect skin cells from UV light, pollution, cigarette smoke and other damaging free radicals. It also increases the effectiveness of sunscreen. 

For advice about cosmetic surgery and treatments consult your GP. For more of Lesley’s tips see lesleyreynolds.com