It goes without saying that the idea of combining a good skincare routine with quality aesthetic treatments is a winning formula. With combination therapy becoming increasingly popular we look at the benefits of combining treatments and why should you consider this lifestyle approach.
Is your skin a Versace gown or a Primark frock?
Think about it this way, a great dress can still look terrible with ill-fitting underwear! When you want to look your best, you make sure every element of your outfit is coordinated and thought through, even down to your ‘smalls’! Likewise, injectables are a great way to increase volume, add definition and renew youthfulness but if the overall condition of your skin is poor then the results will not be as good as they could be. Adding in treatments like skin boosters, micro-needling and chemical peels can go a long way in enhancing results. Adding to that, having a good skincare routine at home, not only prolongs these results but helps your skin to stay hydrated, regenerated, and healthy.
Just like you would look after a Versace gown, looking after your skin is just as important to maintain balanced, healthy, and glowing skin. There is no sense in having anti-wrinkle treatments if you plan to expose your unprotected skin to harmful UV rays afterwards just as there would be no sense in having a chemical peel if you don’t plan to cleanse and exfoliate regularly.
So why get Aesthetic Treatments at all?
Try as we might to stop the effects of aging, no one has found the fountain of youth yet! But a combined approach certainly helps.
Injectable treatments like Botox or Dermal Fillers are ideal for filling in lines and reducing the appearance of wrinkles, but they are temporary and need to be topped up every few months/years (depending on the treatment). By implementing a good skincare routine at home (including SPF application) and adding in skincare treatments like chemical peels and micro-needling, you can reduce existing damage, delay the effects of ageing, and get the most out of your cosmetic treatments. A combined approach gives the best results.
What makes a good skincare routine?
Starting a good skincare routine is no easy task with brands pushing 100 different cleansers, toners, and serums our way, not to mention the TikTok and Instagram Reel tips which are conflicting and confusing with endless product reviews. The problem is that everyone has different skin types and lifestyles and what works for a certain influencer or even a friend may not work for you. Finding the best options for your skin really comes down to preference and compatibility, but let’s look at the basic home routine steps to follow for a start…
To get the most out of a daily skincare regimen, no matter your skin type, you should stick to 3 easy steps:
The first and third steps are self-explanatory but let’s unpack treating your skin a bit more. When we talk about ‘treating’ we are looking at those problem areas like acne, wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. Basically, this is where products like serums, packed full of beneficial skincare ingredients, come into play. Adding in this middle step can go a long way to prolonging healthy skin over time.
Top Tip
Vitamin C Serum is an antioxidant serum which prevents the formation of free radicals and lessons the signs of aging over time. It is also considered the ‘Gold Standard’ antioxidant and should be used by everyone, regardless of their age. My favourite Vitamin C Serum: Medik8 C-Tetra Lipid Vitamin C Radiance Serum
Retinol, Retinol, Retinol
Used at night, this step forms a part of my routine without fail. Unclogging pores and increasing skin production, Retinol is a form of Vitamin A. It also helps to exfoliate your skin and increase collagen production. You can get Retinol in many forms including cream, gel, and serum but my go-to retinol is: Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Important: Retinol is a powerful anti-aging tool however, if you are prone to allergies or have sensitive skin, it might not be right for you. Retinol also makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which brings me to the next point…
Why is SPF so important?
Dermatologists will agree here – sunscreen is the most important step in any skincare routine.
The sun is the number 1 reason that skin ages prematurely so it’s a no-brainer that applying a daily SPF makes a difference. For optimum results you need around a 10p coin-size dollop of SPF30+ applied after your 3-step routine and before applying your foundation. Extending that application to your neck and décolletage area is always a good idea and then smoothing what’s left over your hands and wrists. To really maximise the SPF coverage, you can choose a moisturiser and even a foundation with added SPF – but don’t be fooled, this does not replace the need for applying SPF30+ as a stand-alone step.
Alumier MD Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum SPF 40 (Untinted) is our recommended choice.
How do I know which products I need for my skin?
At REclinic we consult with each patient and create a bespoke skincare plan with all the products prescribed through getharley.com, who deliver directly and look after each patient's skincare needs going forward.
How often should I be getting Aesthetic Treatments and Injectable Treatments?
At REclinic treatment is personalised to meet the unique goals of the individual. This ensures that you receive results that are specifically designed for you. The best way to formulate a combination therapy routine is to have a consultation with Martina to work out a bespoke treatment plan to give you perfect results for you and your skin.
Book a one-to-one consultation.
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