SPRING CLEAN YOUR SKIN

It’s that time of year again - the cleaning products are out, wardrobe doors flung open - but have you ever thought about giving your skin a spring clean? Hectic routines and early morning starts mean that we often end up scrimping on skin care. But with many of us using the same skin routines we’ve had for years (this writer is also guilty!), it’s time to do away with the dusty bottles gathering on our shelves and go back to basics. Here are our best tips to give your skin a seasonal spruce...

EXFOLIATE DAILY A build-up of dead skin cells can lead to breakouts and a dull complexion - not what we want for the spring months ahead. The best way to counter this is by exfoliating, using products like scrubs, gloves and brushes. The action removes dead skin cells, but also stimulates blood flow, improving circulation throughout the body and rejuvenating skin tone. Make sure to use light strokes, and rinse with lukewarm - not hot - water.

SUNSCREEN UP As the sun comes out, many of us will be tempted to top up our tans. However, regular sunscreen use ensures that our skin resists the effects of photoaging - the wrinkling, spotting and loss of elasticity caused by the sun’s UV radiation. Combat ageing by making sure that your sunscreen has an SPF of at least 30, and apply daily, regardless of the weather. A foundation or primer with a in-build SPF is also a good way to incorporate sun protection into your beauty regime.

DO AWAY WITH WIPES Does your skin routine consist of a quick makeup wipe at night? If so, you’re not alone. Nearly 30% of UK women use makeup wipes, but what they might not know is that this cleansing method can cause more harm than good. Very few wipes contain ingredients that completely dissolve the makeup on your face, which means that you can end up rubbing the bacteria and residue around your skin, leading to clogged pores. A better solution (other than wearing no makeup at all!) is to use a regular cleanser, which packs a greater punch than face wipes, removing those last traces of dirt and giving your skin the deep clean it needs. HEALTH & BEAUTY

STAY HYDRATED The skin is composed of billions of cells, all made up of water. It’s no surprise then that keeping hydrated really helps skin to thrive and look its best. The rule of thumb is at least eight glasses a day, so make sure to keep a water bottle on you, particularly as the weather warms. This is such a simple way to tackle dryness, ensuring that your skin has a healthy glow for spring.

ADD RETINOL Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is one of the few ingredients that we can apply to skin to stimulate collagen. Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen in our bodies. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, fading age spots and any rough patches of skin. Make sure to introduce the ingredient to your skin in moderate amounts, as over exposure can lead to irritation and flaking. Products like Dr Sam’s Flawless Nightly Serum are great for beginners, combining 2% retinoid with other brightening ingredients.

WATCH WHAT YOU EAT Skin creams and masks can take you so far, but the best way to improve the look of skin is through a healthy diet. The skin is an organ after all - the largest in the body - and the best way to nourish it is through antioxidant-rich meals, with lots of fruit, vegetables and healthy fats from oily fish and nuts. Foods to limit are those high in sugar and dairy, as they will exacerbate skin conditions.

P I L E O N T H E P I L L OW S Sick of waking up with a puffy face and dark circles around your eyes? The problem could be the way you sleep, with around 30% of us using just one pillow at night. By simply adding an extra pillow to your bed - two is recommended - our heads are elevated, meaning that gravity is able to drain the fluid from around our eyes, reducing next day puffiness and pigmentation. The extra pillows will also make for a comfier night’s sleep! HEALTH & BEAUTY