Rosacea Favourites

Having rosacea is one of the main reasons I wanted to learn about skin science and skincare. These products are ones I recommend to my clients, consistently use myself and rebuy when they run out. 

You can find all these products in my rosacea favourites list

Physical Sunscreens

I was asked for recommendations of a lower-priced oil-free sunscreen in my Facebook group and I vowed to do my research. Now I don't use or recommend chemical sunscreens so these are all physical/mineral sunscreens. When you are looking for a mineral sunscreen the ingredients will be Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide and then nano or non-nano. This refers to the size of the particles, I prefer non-nano as this means less is absorbed into your system. I have of course done a YouTube video talking you through all of this. 

The pros of these are they are better for your skin, better for your body, better for the environment and can actually help a lot of problems such as sensitivity, prickly heat and eczema. The cons are they can leave a white caste or take longer to absorb. Below I've listed ones I would recommend checking out, I've put the pros and cons of each as I see them and whether I've tried them or not. 

☀️ Pai British Summertime - I've tried this one and it's the one I currently use if I am using an un-tinted sunscreen. Pros - absorbs well, nice ingredients, British brand. Cons - I don't love the smell but it doesn't linger

Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream

 Anyone else find it really difficult to find a good moisturiser? One that ticks all the boxes. Me too. I try to avoid silicones in my products and I'm pretty much silicone free but I'll freely admit that my favourite moisturiser is Origins Make a Difference Plus + which not only contains dimethicone but is also not technically cruelty-free (they are owned by Estee Lauder). 

I've also heard not great things about Honest Beauty but on the hunt for some new products I bought the Hydrogel Cream based on good reviews, price and ingredients and I've been using it for 3 weeks now and you know what? I really like it. 

Avene Cicalfate - LMB 60 Cult Products

What happens to the skin when you go through the Menopause?

Our skin can change so much during menopause but it's often overlooked as something that 'happens to all women' and we must just get on with. Going to your GP can help, as soon as you feel an inkling of peri-menopause go and talk to them. The right GP will help you navigate this time as its different for everyone. And here's what you need to know about your skin during the menopause. 

 

Acne - What it is and What Ingredients can Help

Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition consisting of whiteheads, blackheads, inflammatory lesions and spots. It includes increased sebum, irregular skin shedding, inflammation and an increase in propinobacterium. Successful treatment will aim to reduce oil production, speed up skin cell turnover, reduce inflammation and fight the bacterial infection. Reducing inflammation is particularly important in reducing the occurrence of scarring.

Initial treatment plans include topical application of products such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or antibiotics. Next there will be systemic treatments such as oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments (such as the contraceptive pill) or isotretinon.

If you suffer from acne it's always a good idea to go and see your GP and/or a dermatologist but if you are looking for products to help then these are some ingredients to look for. I know it's tempting to go from a strong cleanser and having clean skin is incredibly important, however, over stripping the skin is going to cause increased sebum production and more problems.

🎈 Salicylic Acid
This softens keratin, removes whiteheads and blackheads, is mildly anti-inflammatory and works as an exfoliant, encourages and regulates skin shedding and therefore prevents the clogging of pores and hair follicles. It also decreases the secretion of sebum.
Garden of Wisdom Salicylic Acid 
Mario Badescu Anti-Acne Treatment
Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Exfoliant

🎈 Benzoyl Peroxide 
Reduces sebum, inhibits the growth of acne bacteria and gets rid of blackheads and spots. It takes around 4 weeks to start working and because it can cause skin irritation so it's best to build up your usage of it.
Acnecide 5% 

🎈 Sulphur 
This is used to treat various skin conditions as it's anti-inflammatory and it's antibacterial properties properties stops the growth of some bacteria. It also absorbs excess sebum. You don't want to overdo this as it can increase sebum production and can change the skin barrier.causes mild shedding of the top layer of skin. Helps clear away dead skin. It's a natural occurring mineral found in hot springs, clay and volcanic ash. Can soothe rosacea by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria. Its an essential part of collagen production.
Kate Somerville EradiKate Cleanser
Dr Dennis Gross Clarifying Collodial Sulphur Mask
Indie Lee Clearing Mask

🎈 AHAs 
Glycolic acid is the most frequently used as it induces desquamation and exfoliation of keratin. They also have antimicrobial properties and uses often see significant improvement by 45 days.
Superdrug Glycolic Toner
Garden of Wisdom Glycolic Toner 

🎈 Retinoids 
Dermatologists have agreed that these are essential in the treatment of acne. They regulate skin shedding, help reduce the amount of blackheads and whiteheads and are anti-inflammatory.
Garden of Wisdom 5% Retinoid 
Skinceuticals 0.3 Retinoid 

🎈 Niacinamide 
Helps keep your skin hydrated and firm. Soothes acne and rosacea as it's a great anti-inflammatory. Encourages the production of ceramides which for a protective barrier. Works best at a concentration of 5%. Helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss. Helps slow the transfer of melanin so helps with pigmentation.
Garden of Wisdom Niacinamide Serum

Recently for the Facebook group I did a chart of my favourite products for oily skin which might be helpful for you.

Skin Brightening

There are a few reasons why you may want to think about skin brightening, usually to lift dull looking skin, lightening areas of pigmentation and to create a healthy skin glow. Now is a really great time to work on getting healthy glowing skin as during the autumn/winter months we are less exposed to UV (the number one cause of signs of aging, pigmentation and damage to our skin). But it’s also a time of year where you may notice your skin getting duller and tighter and that’s mainly down to central heating drawing moisture from the skin and us going from the cold outside to warm inside and vice versa. Here are my tips on how to brighten your skin, what ingredients to look out for and some of my favourite products.

Modern Apothecary

I love a small brand that does a few products really well and Modern Apothecary is one of those. Their products are formulated using Cacay Oil which is naturally full of Vitamin E, Linoleic Acid and Retinol so it targets signs of aging, dehydration whilst providing a huge antioxidant boost to the skin. Research has shown that Cacay Oil can improve firmness, hydration, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, reduce redness and sensitivity.

I've been using three of their four products for the past couple of months and have really loved them, especially the Total Face, Hair & Body Hydrator and the Skin Elixir. A little of both goes a long way which makes these incredibly reasonably priced - the Skin Elixir is £19.95 and the Face, Hair & Body Hydrator is £14.95. And it's really lovely to work with such an ethical company.

Empties 2

The Empties bag is full so it's time to see what I've been using.

LimeLife Dew Date
Garden of Wisdom Hyaluronic Acid 
The Body Shop Camomile Cleansing Butter
Superdrug B. Multi Acid Pads 
Reusable Cotton Pads 
Geoorganics Peppermint Toothpaste 
Indeed Labs Hydraluron
Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara
LimeLife Mascara
LimeLife Perfect Sunscreen
Garden of Wisdom Azelaic Acid
Hourglass Diffused Light Ambient Lighting Powder
Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel
Clarins Eau Dynamisante 
Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer 
Garden of Wisdom Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid
Origins GinZing Tinted Moisturiser
LimeLife One Drop Wonder
Skincetuicals Retinol 0.3

Come and join in the conversation on Facebook at the Corinna Harrod Beauty Group - just send me a request and I'll add you. And don't forget to go and subscribe to my YouTube Channel

Some links are affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you click through and buy from them. There is no extra cost to you and if you are not comfortable with that then do feel free to open a separate window and google the product for yourself. If it is an affiliate link it usually means I've taken the time to find the best price available at the time of posting. 

Evening Skincare Favourites

These are my current evening skincare favourites. I've tried to be really consistent with what I'm using at the moment and it's really paying off. My skin is completely clear and all residual marks from hormonal breakouts have cleared.

LimeLife by Alcone Make-off Remover Spray
LimeLife Quench Cleanse
Garden of Wisdom Vitamin C & Ferulic 
Skinceuticals Retinol 
LimeLife by Alcone Sotoks
Garden of Wisdom Prickly Pear Seed Oil 

Some links are affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you click through and buy from them. There is no extra cost to you and if you are not comfortable with that then do feel free to open a separate window and google the product for yourself.

Come and join in the conversation on Facebook at the Corinna Harrod Beauty Group - just send me a request and I'll add you. Don't forget to sign up to my YouTube channel. 

Morning Skincare Favourites

My skin is looking the best it has done in years and I’m pretty sure these products are the reason why

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel
Superdrug B. Multi Acid Pads
Garden of Wisdom Hyaluronic Acid
LimeLife Dew Date
LimeLife Perfect Sunscreen 

Some links are affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you click through and buy from them. There is no extra cost to you and if you are not comfortable with that then do feel free to open a separate window and google the product for yourself

Come and join the Facebook group for more Live tutorials, tips and tricks - Corinna Harrod’s Beauty Inside & Out or send Corinna Harrod a friend request and I'll add you to the group. 

Black Friday & Cyber Monday 2018

I hate that we have this in the UK as we don't celebrate Thanksgiving BUT I also don't want you, dear reader, to miss out on some great deals that may really help with your Christmas shopping so here are my picks from the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals.

Teen Skincare

One thing I get asked a lot in the Facebook group is my recommendations for teenage skin. I have to say it's a question I always rather dread giving an answer to. Skin is so individual and hard to advise on without being seen and teenage skin is 100 times trickier. How hormones and puberty affect someones skin is completely unique and can change almost overnight.

One thing we usually associate with teenage skin is spots and these can be caused by a number of things but one thing that can definitely help is making sure the skin is clean. Many products can go too far and overly strip the skin causing further damage and in some cases increased sebum (oil) production. A good cleanser will keep the skin clean without taking away too much oil or messing with the natural balance of the bacteria on the skin. A good cleanser is important because it will help to keep the pores clear from oil and dirt therefore helping to prevent spots and blackheads. If your teenager has acne you will need more than a cleanser.

Garden of Wisdom Vitamin C 23% Serum & Ferulic Acid

Not a very catchy title but the serum itself is wonderful, as is the whole Garden of Wisdom brand, but more on them another time. This Vitamin C is the strongest you will find, is combined with ferulic acid which will improve it's stability and is the real deal for those wanting help with skin tone, antioxidant benefits and pigmentation.

You can read all about Vitamin C here and Ferulic Acid here - I'd don't want to repeat myself too much but there are very few product featuring either of these ingredients that has really impressed me and this has.

Azelaic Acid

One ingredient that even I only came to hear about over the past year is Azelaic Acid but it's already become one of my most recommended products and incredibly popular in my Facebook group.

What is it?
It is a gentle exfoliating acid that you leave on the skin to unclog pores and improve skin tone and texture. The thing that drew it to me was it can improve skin sensitivity which very few ingredients do successfully. It is also an antioxidant and you know how I feel about those (if you don't you can read how I feel about them here).

Heliocare 360 Fluid SPF 50 Review

This is one of those products that has really grown on me. The day after I ordered it online I tried my mother's Dermalogica Sport SPF50 and loved it and wished I'd bought that instead. So poor old Heliocare was already playing catch-up before it had even arrived.

I'd also bought it on the spur of the moment, possibly after some wine (come on I'm not the only one), and I thought it was a tinted moisturiser. It's not. It looks like it is when you squeeze it out but it just sort of blurs some imperfections without giving any colour.

I grudgingly took it on holiday to Mallorca, I needed something that fitted in my hand luggage, wouldn't get confiscated and would work with just concealer if I wanted it to. 4 days later and I was converted! I really love this now and it's a recurring feature in my Bespoke Beauty Boxes I make for my clients.

Top Cleansers for Dry Skin

Let's not limit ourselves, these cleansers would work for all but oily skins, but dry skin recommendations I get asked for a lot so that's where I thought I would start. All three of these I use myself regularly, I have dry, sensitive, often reactive skin. This is not in order though possibly it accidentally is.

1. Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Balm
I love this though I can't exactly pinpoint why. Full of antioxidants, brightening but not astringent, easy to use. Good value for money, cruelty free. I'm 90% sure this would also work on oily skins but I haven't tried it on a client with oily skin so I can't confirm. Good enough for make-up and grime removal I mostly use this in the morning to prep my skin with antioxidants and because it has never caused a reaction and works well under make-up. £31

2. The Body Shop Camomile Cleansing Butter 
When people finally want to move away from a foam cleanser (step away from the foam cleanser people) this is the place I send them. It's affordable, easy to find and use and feels great on the skin. Once they have tried this there's no turning back. I've yet to find someone who doesn't love this. Use morning and evening I like to use as my PM cleanser as it's sooo easy and not too expensive so I can wearily slap it on without being too frugal. £10

3. Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm
This used to be my number 1 and I still love it but of late Oskia has slightly edged it out of the running. A tub of this will last you a long time. It feels incredible on the skin and gets all the make-up off. But this has made my skin react when it is at it's most sensitive, not irrevocably, I carried on using it once a day and it is, for me, the original balm cleanser. The one that really changed my skin and made me realise that what you use on your skin really can make a difference.

What's your skin type?

UVA vs UVB

I feel like everyone knows about UVB but not many people know about it's horrible big brother UVA. And it's really important you know about both. Not because I'm worried about you burning. You know that you need to be in charge of that. But because I'm worried about much worse damage and I am constantly being talked to about premature ageing. Want skin like a baby? Don't put your face in the sun and wear a high SPF all year round (and don't touch booze, but I'm not a crazy lady).

Skin Confidence

It's weird what life throws at you. I'm not superstitious (except for bloody magpies) but every now and again something will happen and I'll wonder if it's the world playing tricks on me. A really lovely friend of mine has seen the return of her cystic acne and I have been talking to her about it, wanting to get further into my skin science diploma to discover what I can to help her. Then, during the most amazing two weeks working at the Trinny London pop-up store in London where I met woman after woman with low skin confidence all of whom has lovely skin. Yes they had problems but around those problems they all had beautiful skin.

Dehydrated Skin

So a while ago on my Facebook group we were talking about dry vs dehydrated skin and it turned out that a lot of people didn't know the difference and didn't know what to do to contact dehydration. I decided to put together my 2 Week Rehydration Bootcamp everything you need to get your skin back on track.