Lifestyle

I'm a skincare expert and these are the 5 ways to tweak your routine

I’m a skincare expert and these are the 5 ways to tweak your routine in the autumn

  • Dr Nina Bal, from London, told FEMAIL how you should tweak your skincare 
  • Read more:  Is flooding the key to PERFECT skin? Or should you be slugging?

Autumn initiates a shift in scenery: changing leaves, cosy pumpkin spiced lattes and a refreshing crispness in the air.

And with cooler weather on its way, skincare takes centre stage as it tends to be a time when dryness, redness and breakouts become more prevalent.

During this season, it’s crucial to have a plan in place to ward off these troublesome effects.

To aid in seamlessly adapting your routine, FEMAIL consulted Dr Nina Bal, who provided her expert advice to guide you through the upcoming season.

She revealed her five pieces of  advice – including the products to use, and what you should avoid. 

To aid in seamlessly adapting your routine, FEMAIL consulted Dr Nina Bal, who provided her expert advice to guide you through the upcoming season

1. Use hyaluronic acid

Dr Nina explained: ‘Hyaluronic acid is one of the best ingredients for instant hydration – half a teaspoon is equal to three gallons of water!

‘Although there are many forms available, I advise using a serum since these absorb faster and have higher concentration levels.

‘Apply twice daily, morning and night, to see optimum results.

‘Hyaluronic acid also reduces fine lines and wrinkles, assists barrier-repairing function and protects against inflammation.’

2. Double cleanse…and steam

The expert advised double cleansing, saying: ‘Double cleansing involves using an oil-based cleanser or balm to remove makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser to clean the skin thoroughly.

‘Those with oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from using gel or foaming cleansers since these work to remove excess oil and dirt.

‘Meanwhile, people with dry skin can opt for cream or oil cleansers that hydrate the skin but don’t strip it completely.

‘It is vital to choose products that correspond to your skin type as this can be one of the harshest steps in your routine.’

Dr Nina revealed: ‘I usually steam my face before removing makeup as it opens pores and makes the entire process more effective.

‘To do this, I fill the sink with hot water – and sometimes scented oil – and hover my face above it for a couple of minutes.

‘Remember not to wash your face with this water as it could reverse the procedure and clog your pores.’

3. Avoid makeup wipes

Meanwhile she continued: ‘I recommend steering clear of makeup wipes as they can do more harm than good. 

‘Most are full of chemicals that strip the skin of its natural oils, causing it to become dry and dehydrated.

‘Makeup wipes are also terrible for the environment – one wipe takes at least 100 years to decompose!

‘Nevertheless, if you’re someone who loves using them, be sure to follow with a gentle face wash.

‘Many people fall into the trap of removing their makeup with only a wipe then moisturising straight away – especially after a night out.

‘This, however, is trapping dirt in your pores and could cause you to wake up with a breakout.’

4. Don’t rub your eyes

Dr Nina continued: ‘We should be very gentle in our approach to eyes, whether removing makeup or applying cream.

‘The skin in this area is extremely thin and the muscles are constantly working – hence it’s the first part of the face to show signs of ageing.

‘To remove makeup, soak a cotton wool pad with micellar water and hold over your eye for 10-20 seconds. Similarly, use a cotton bud to remove excess makeup from the lash line.

‘When applying cream, using your ring finger, gently pat in a circular motion covering the eyelid and undereye area.’

5. Apply SPF all year round

The expert revealed: ‘Many people forget that SPF should be an evergreen product in any skincare routine.

‘UV rays present themselves at the same strength, no matter the weather or season, and may result in premature ageing, pigmentation or skin cancer.

‘Therefore, it is vital to use a broad-spectrum SPF every day.

‘I suggest using a minimum of SPF 30 to provide an efficient level of protection. It should be applied both under and over makeup.’

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