#READYFORTHEROAD SKIN

Choose from an array of super skincare treatments, and get costume-ready for the best Carnival ever! 

The VI Peel

Carnival is about transformation and this amazing treatment certainly does the trick! Not only does it perform well on diverse skin types and tones, it also works wonders in the smoothness department. The exfoliating peel successfully minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and reduces hyperpigmentation, making you look youthful, even-toned and dewy. Bonus: Very little discomfort and minimal downtime! 

There are other chemical peels that also yield great results, but make sure to schedule them far enough in advance of Carnival Monday and Tuesday so that your skin has time to bounce back. 

Microdermabrasion

A non-invasive treatment that exfoliates the outer layer of the skin, this process helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and sun damage by stimulating collagen production. The result? A more youthful and radiant skin tone.

Laser treatments 

Approaches like fractional laser resurfacing use focused light energy to stimulate collagen production and promote skin renewal. We generally have great results with reducing the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation, and scarring, while improving skin tone and texture, not to mention exceptional success at hair removal so you feel completely comfortable in your costume!

Botox and fillers 

It’s common knowledge, but worth repeating: by temporarily relaxing muscles, Botox reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, creating a smoother and more youthful look. Dermal fillers, meanwhile, add volume to skin, enhancing facial contours and restoring a plump, youthful appearance that will have you ready for your Carnival close-up. 

Customised facials

Facials are tried and true for good reason, offering everything from deep cleansing, exfoliation and extraction to the application of certain products to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. We can design a treatment that’s specifically targeted for your skin’s unique needs. 

Sunscreen 

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: wear a reliable sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, and reapply liberally during the day (ideally, every two hours). We have many lightweight options to choose from that will not feel heavy or interfere with your makeup.  

And the best tip of all? Have fun!

SETTING YOUR 2024 #SKINCAREGOALS

Here’s how to prioritise your skin’s health by setting goals and following up with the action needed to achieve them…

Commit to your routine in 2024; your skin will thank you!

CAN YOUR SKIN SURVIVE CHRISTMAS?

The overindulgence that comes with Christmas celebrations can be challenging for your skin health. From rich holiday treats to late-night parties, your skin definitely requires extra TLC at this time of year — especially if you want to continue the partying into Carnival! Here’s how to help your skin not just survive, but thrive…

Remember, you have to do more than usual in order to get your skin through this hectic time of year  — and seeing your skin glow will be the best Christmas present you can give yourself. 

ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE (RASH)

Pityriasis Rosea — or the "Christmas Tree Rash” as it is commonly called, thanks to its distinctive pattern that resembles fir tree branches — is a common, non-contagious skin condition that typically affects young adults. 

What causes it? Doctors haven’t quite agreed on this yet, but many believe it may be linked to viral infections, such as one of the many variations of the human herpes virus (not the same strains that cause cold sores or genital sores).

Christmas Tree rashes are characterised by an initial large, often scaly patch (usually on the chest or back) that precedes the eruption of smaller, similar rashes across the body. However, they’re usually harmless and resolve on their own within a few weeks to a few months. Most cases occur sporadically, without any known triggers, and don’t come with a whole lot of symptoms, though some people do feel as if they’re coming down with the flu (sore throat, fever, headache) and complain that the rash is itchy.

Treatment, therefore, mainly focuses on relieving discomfort with the use of moisturisers and, in some cases, topical steroids or antihistamines, though maintaining good skin hygiene and avoiding harsh soaps and hot water can also help soothe symptoms, as can staying cool and exposing your body to natural light.  

Many patients get nervous when the rash appears, however, because despite its benign nature, its appearance can look rather serious. It’s therefore best not to assume: come in and see us to get a proper diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.

Mothers-to-be: getting the rash while pregnant has been linked to a greater change of miscarriage and premature delivery, so it is imperative to advise your Ob/Gyn if you have the condition in order for your physician to be aware and monitor you for potential complications. 

MANAGING YOUR SKIN THROUGH MENOPAUSE

Perimenopause (which can begin as early as your mid-30s) and menopause (40+) mark the beginning of the end of women’s fertility, bringing with them physical and emotional changes. This includes shifts in skin health, thanks to hormonal fluctuations, primarily attributable to the decrease in estrogen. Fret not, though — we’ve got strategies to help you handle these skin transformations and look as radiant as ever.

Hydrate and feel great

As estrogen levels drop, the skin becomes drier and less elastic. Combat this by drinking plenty of water and using a moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help retain moisture and fortify your skin's barrier.

Be done with the sun

We’re not saying you don’t need Vitamin D. We are saying that once you’re in the sun, you’ve got to protect yourself. Menopausal skin is more susceptible to damage from UV rays, so use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) as a regular part of your skincare routine.

Make friends with the cleanse

Avoid harsh, alcohol-based products; a mild, hydrating cleanser will help maintain your skin's natural oils. Cleanse morning and evening to maintain healthy skin.

Be unapologetic

As much as the media harps on the fountain of youth, the reality is that people age — and it’s a gift many don’t get. You can gracefully embrace the change by using skincare products with retinol, peptides, and antioxidants that help support your skin though menopausal changes while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Eat smart

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, avocados, nuts, etc.) can improve your skin's health and elasticity.

Keep it moving

Exercise increases blood flow by delivering oxygen and nutrients and by managing stress, which is a major cause of skin issues during menopause. Introducing techniques like yoga and meditation into your daily routine will have a positive effect on your skin’s appearance.

Above all, be gentle with yourself. Skin changes during menopause are a natural part of the ageing process, but can take some getting used to. Be patient while you figure out the right combination of products — and lifestyle choices — that works for you as you gracefully navigate this new phase of your life, and still feel beautiful in your own skin.