When it comes to skincare, staying ahead of the curve can make all the difference to your glow. From trending techniques to tried-and-true routines, the way you apply your products can be just as important as what you use. In this article, we’re diving into five innovative skincare methods that are making waves in the beauty world, as well as the products you need to get you started. Each method is designed to enhance your skin’s health and performance, helping you get the most out of your routine
Laddering: Building Your Skincare Routine Step-by-Step
Laddering is a skincare technique that involves gradually introducing potent ingredients—like Vitamin A (retinol) or Vitamin C—into your routine so your skin can adjust without becoming irritated or overwhelmed. Think of it like climbing a ladder: you start on the lowest rung and slowly work your way up. This might mean beginning with a product that contains a lower concentration of an active ingredient and using it once or twice a week, then increasing frequency or strength over time. This method helps strengthen your skin barrier, reduces the risk of reactions, and ensures you get the full benefit of powerful actives.
We recommend: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 is a concentrated night cream formulated with 0.3% pure retinol to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone. Designed with soothing botanicals, it helps minimise irritation while promoting cell turnover for smoother, more radiant skin.
Flooding: Intensifying Hydration with Layered Moisturisation
Flooding involves applying multiple layers of hydrating products to deeply moisturise the skin. Start with a hydrating toner to replenish moisture, followed by a serum packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid to attract water to the skin. Apply a rich moisturiser to seal in hydration, and consider adding a facial oil for an extra boost. This technique is particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin, leaving it plump and supple.
We recommend: Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum
A fast-acting serum combining three retinol technologies and hyaluronic acid to reduce wrinkles and boost hydration. It also contains a blend of peptides and antioxidants to soothe and protect the skin.
Cycling: Alternating Products for Balanced Skin Health
Cycling entails rotating different skincare products to prevent skin adaptation and address various concerns effectively. For example, use a retinol-based product at night for a week, followed by a week of hydrating treatments. This approach allows the skin to benefit from diverse ingredients without becoming tolerant, ensuring continuous improvement and minimising potential irritation.
We recommend: Skin Republic Retinoid Complex 1% Serum
A velvety formula containing a 1% retinoid complex in squalane, designed to reduce visible signs of aging. Clinical studies have shown that 95% of users experienced smoother skin after two weeks, with significant improvements in elasticity and firmness over four weeks.
Sandwiching: Enhancing Absorption with Product Layering
Sandwiching involves applying products between layers of moisturiser to enhance absorption and effectiveness. After cleansing, apply a thin layer of a targeted treatment like a serum or acne medication. Follow with a generous layer of moisturiser, and once absorbed, apply another thin layer of the treatment. This technique ensures that active ingredients penetrate deeply while minimising potential irritation, leading to more noticeable results.
We recommend: Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream
A medium-weight moisturiser that provides 48 hours of continuous hydration, smoothing and improving skin texture. It contains lecithin to moisturise, aloe vera gel to nourish, and cucumber, arnica, and mallow extracts to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Fasting: Giving Your Skin a Break from Active Ingredients
Fasting in skincare refers to periodically reducing the use of active ingredients to allow the skin to reset and strengthen. For instance, after using potent treatments like retinol for several weeks, take a short break to let the skin recover. This practice can enhance the skin’s responsiveness to treatments and reduce the risk of irritation, promoting a healthier complexion in the long run.
We recommend: Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance
An ultra-nourishing daily face cream for dry and dull skin types, leaving the complexion soft, supple, and youthful. It contains a blend of plant-based ingredients to hydrate and restore the skin’s barrier function.