Luxury skincare products are often made with the finest ingredients to provide the maximum benefits for the skin. Products can include serums, creams, masks, and more, and they may be formulated with natural extracts, antioxidants, and other advanced skincare ingredients.
Don’t let the word ‘luxury’ put you off though. Quality skincare products are becoming increasingly more accessible and affordable, and there are many simple techniques that you can easily add to your skincare routine to improve your skin’s health and appearance. But first up, let’s talk about what ingredients you might want to look out for.
What are the best ingredients to look out for in skincare?
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance that helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump. It can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and can be beneficial for people with dry or dehydrated skin.
Retinol
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It can also help to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. It can also help to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that can help to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines, and dullness. It can also help to reduce the appearance of pores and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
Ceramides
Ceramides are lipids that are found naturally in the skin and play a key role in maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. They can help to keep the skin hydrated and healthy-looking.
Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that can help to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines, and dullness. It can also help to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Double cleansing
Double cleansing is a two-step skincare routine that involves using two different cleansers to thoroughly cleanse the skin. The first step is to use an oil-based cleanser, which is effective at removing makeup, oil, and other impurities. This is typically done by massaging the cleanser onto the skin and rinsing it off with water.
The second step is to use a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities and leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed. This step is typically done by applying the cleanser to the skin and rinsing it off with water. Double cleansing can help to effectively cleanse the skin and improve its overall appearance.
So, what are the benefits of double cleansing?
More effective
Double cleansing is more effective at removing impurities and makeup than using a single cleanser. The oil-based cleanser can effectively dissolve and remove oil-based impurities, such as makeup and excess sebum, while the water-based cleanser can remove water-based impurities, such as sweat and dirt.
Gentle cleansing
Double cleansing can be more gentle on the skin than using a single cleanser, especially if the second cleanser is a gentle, pH-balanced formula.
Improved skin texture
Double cleansing can help to improve the overall texture of the skin by removing impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and contribute to the appearance of dull, lifeless skin.
Better retention of skincare products
Double cleansing can help to improve how well your skin retains skincare products by removing any impurities that may otherwise block the penetration of active ingredients.
Hydration
Double cleansing can help to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which can help to prevent dryness and maintain hydration.
Face mists
Face mists are a great way to refresh and hydrate your skin throughout the day. Look for mists that contain hyaluronic acid, which is a powerful substance that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Spray the mist onto your face and neck, and then gently pat it into your skin to help it absorb. In addition to using a face mist during the day, consider using a facial mist at night as part of your skincare routine.
These mists are designed to be used after cleansing and before moisturising, and they can help to prep the skin for the products that follow. Facial mists that contain ingredients like rose water and aloe vera are known for their calming and soothing effects.
Here’s our tips on using face mists:
- Make sure to cleanse your face thoroughly before applying a face mist. This will help to remove any impurities and allow the mist to be absorbed more effectively.
- Hold the bottle about 6 inches away from your face and spray the mist evenly over your skin. Be sure to close your eyes while misting your face to avoid getting the product in your eyes.
- After misting your face, gently pat the mist into your skin using your fingertips. This will help to ensure that the product is absorbed properly.
- After misting your face, you can continue with your usual skincare routine, including applying toner, serum, and moisturiser as needed.
Why should you use a face mist?
Hydration
Face mists can help to hydrate the skin, especially during warmer months when the skin is more prone to drying out.
Refreshment
Face mists can provide a refreshing burst of moisture, making them perfect for use on hot days or after exercise.
Cooling effect
Some face mists contain ingredients that can provide a cooling effect on the skin, making them ideal for use during hot weather.
Soothing
Face mists can help to soothe irritated or sensitive skin. Ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile can help to calm and soothe the skin.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine because it removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores. This can help improve the texture and tone of your skin and leave it looking radiant and glowing. There are two types of exfoliants: physical and chemical.
Physical exfoliators
Physical exfoliators are products that contain physical abrasive agents, such as grains, beads, or brushes, that mechanically remove dead skin cells. Examples of physical exfoliators include facial scrubs, brushes, and sponges. Physical exfoliators are best for people with normal to oily skin, as they can be more effective at removing excess oil and unclogging pores.
Chemical exfoliators
Chemical exfoliators are products that contain chemicals that help to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. Examples of chemical exfoliators include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). Chemical exfoliators are best for people with dry or sensitive skin, as they are typically gentler than physical exfoliators.
It is important to choose the right type of exfoliator for your skin type and concerns. People with dry or sensitive skin should generally use a chemical exfoliator, while those with normal to oily skin can use either a physical or chemical exfoliator. It is also important to follow the instructions on the product label and not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to irritation and dryness.
Face masks
Face masks are an indulgent way to give your skin some extra TLC. There are many different types of masks available, each with its own unique benefits. For example, clay masks are great for absorbing excess oil and removing impurities, while sheet masks are packed with nutrients and can help hydrate and plump the skin. Choose a mask that addresses your specific skin concerns and use it once or twice a week for best results.
In addition to using a face mask once or twice a week, consider using a facial mask every night as part of your skincare routine. These masks are designed to be left on overnight and can provide intense hydration and nourishment to the skin.
Look for masks that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which are known for their hydrating and plumping effects. Simply apply the mask to your face and neck before bed and wash it off in the morning for glowing, radiant skin.
Eye cream
As the skin around the eyes is particularly thin and delicate, it is one of the first areas to show the signs of ageing. To help combat dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines, it is important to invest in a quality eye cream.
Consider seeking out eye creams that contain ingredients like caffeine, retinol, and peptides, which have been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving the overall appearance of the skin. By using a targeted eye cream, you can help to nourish and protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
Here’s why eye creams can be beneficial for the delicate skin around the eyes:
- The skin around the eyes is delicate and may be prone to dryness, which can lead to the appearance of fine lines and a lack of radiance. Using an eye cream can help to moisturise and hydrate this area, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, an eye cream can be an essential addition to your skincare routine, helping to keep the skin around your eyes healthy and radiant.
- There are many different types of eye creams on the market that are specifically formulated to target these concerns, and they may contain ingredients such as retinol, peptides, and antioxidants, which are known to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Eye creams that contain ingredients such as caffeine, vitamin K, and/or retinol may help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.
- Some eye creams contain SPF or other protective ingredients that can help to shield the skin from the damaging effects of the sun and other environmental factors.
Using an eye cream that is specifically formulated for the delicate skin around the eyes is crucial, as it is prone to irritation and sensitivity.
It is also important to choose an eye cream that is suitable for your skin type and addresses any specific concerns you may have, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, or puffiness. By selecting an eye cream that is tailored to your unique needs, you can effectively nourish and protect the skin around your eyes.
Facial roller
Facial rollers are a popular skincare tool that can help improve the tone and texture of your skin. They are typically made of jade or rose quartz and are designed to be rolled over the face in a gentle, massaging motion. This can help improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, and it can also help reduce puffiness and inflammation. Use your facial roller in the morning and evening for best results.
Here’s how to use a facial roller:
- Make sure to cleanse your face thoroughly before using a facial roller. This will help to remove any impurities and allow the roller to glide more smoothly over the skin.
- Start by rolling the facial roller over the centre of your face, using gentle, upward strokes. Be sure to avoid rolling over any areas of the face that are broken or irritated.
- Once you have finished rolling over the centre of your face, work your way outwards towards the hairline and jawline.
- After rolling over the face, you can also roll the facial roller over the neck and décolletage to massage these areas.
- After using the facial roller, you can follow up with your usual skincare routine, including applying toner, serum, and moisturiser as needed.
Serum
Serums are a must-have in any skincare routine. These lightweight, highly concentrated products are packed with powerful ingredients that are designed to target specific skin concerns. After cleansing your skin, apply a serum before your moisturiser to give your skin an extra boost of nourishment.
There are many different types of serums on the market, each formulated with a unique blend of active ingredients like antioxidants, peptides, and more to help address everything from fine lines and wrinkles to uneven skin tone and dullness. To get the most out of your serum, look for one that contains ingredients that are known to be effective in improving the appearance of the skin.
What types of serums should I use?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance that helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump. A serum containing hyaluronic acid can be beneficial for people with dry or dehydrated skin.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It can also help to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. A serum containing retinol is best for people with mature or sun-damaged skin.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. It can also help to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. A serum containing vitamin C is suitable for most skin types.
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that can help to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines, and dullness. It can also help to reduce the appearance of pores and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. A niacinamide serum is suitable for most skin types.
Ceramides are lipids that are found naturally in the skin and play a key role in maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. A serum containing ceramides can be beneficial for people with dry or dehydrated skin.
It is important to choose a serum that is suitable for your skin type and concerns and read the label and be aware of any potential allergies or sensitivities you may have to certain ingredients. Serums should be applied after cleansing and toning and before moisturising.
Don’t neglect your neck and décolletage
The décolletage is the area of skin on the upper chest and neck, just above the collarbone. The skin on your neck and décolletage is just as delicate and sensitive as the skin on your face, yet it is often neglected in skincare routines. Make sure to include your neck and décolletage in your skincare routine to keep this area looking youthful and radiant.
Use the same products that you use on your face and be gentle when applying them. Some people may also choose to use treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy to improve the appearance of the décolletage.
Use a facial oil
Looking for a way to give your skin some extra TLC? Try using a facial oil! These luxurious and highly effective products are packed with essential fatty acids and other nourishing ingredients that can help improve the appearance of your skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, there’s a facial oil out there that can help address your specific skincare concerns.
Some of the best facial oils to look for include jojoba oil, rosehip oil, and argan oil, which are known for their hydrating and nourishing properties. To use a facial oil, simply apply a few drops to your face and neck after cleansing and before moisturising for for radiant and healthy-looking skin.
Try a facial massage
Want to pamper yourself while also giving your skin a boost? Consider adding facial massage to your skincare routine! This relaxing and indulgent treatment can help improve the tone and texture of your skin by boosting circulation and lymphatic drainage. It can also help reduce puffiness and inflammation, leaving your skin looking and feeling its best.
When massaging your face and neck, be sure to use gentle, circular motions, and pay extra attention to areas that are prone to wrinkles and sagging, such as the forehead, jawline, and under the eyes. You can use your fingers or a tool like a jade roller or gua sha to perform the massage. Not only will your skin look and feel great, but you’ll also enjoy the relaxation and stress-relieving benefits of the massage itself.
Use a facial steam
Facial steams are a great way to open up the pores and remove impurities from the skin. Fill a bowl with hot water and add a few drops of essential oils, like lavender or tea tree oil. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head to create a steam tent. Stay in this position for a few minutes, and then use a facial scrub or brush to exfoliate your skin. This will help remove any impurities and leave your skin looking radiant and glowing.
Use a facial peel
Facial peels are a powerful and effective way to improve the tone and texture of the skin. These peels use powerful ingredients, like AHAs and BHAs, to penetrate deep into the skin and exfoliate dead skin cells. This can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and it can also help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and scarring. Use a facial peel once or twice a week for best results.
Use a facial toner
In addition to using a facial toner as part of your skincare routine, consider using a facial toner as a makeup setting spray. These toners are designed to be used after moisturising and before applying makeup, and they can help to prep the skin for a smooth and long-lasting makeup application. Look for facial toners that contain ingredients like rose water and witch hazel, which are known for their calming and soothing effects. Simply spritz the toner onto your face and neck and pat it into the skin for a refreshing and hydrating boost.
While luxury skincare products can be a nice indulgence, they are not necessarily required for achieving healthy, glowing skin. In fact, there are many simple, budget-friendly hacks that can help improve the health and appearance of your skin. For example, drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help to keep your skin moisturised and glowing.
Additionally, using natural ingredients like honey, avocado, and coconut oil as part of your skincare routine can provide valuable nutrients and moisture to your skin. Finally, getting plenty of sleep and managing your stress levels can also be beneficial for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.