Skin Care

A simple, effective routine has just three steps to begin with: cleanse, moisturise, and protect with an SPF in the daytime. Start gentle, introduce one new product at a time so you can spot anything that does not suit you, and build up from there once your skin is happy - you do not need a shelf full of products to look after your skin.

Peptides are small chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins like collagen, and in skincare they are used to help support firmer, smoother-looking skin. They are a gentle, well-tolerated ingredient found in many serums and moisturisers.

A good rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest: cleanser first, then any watery toners or serums, followed by heavier creams and moisturiser, and finally sunscreen in the morning. This helps each product absorb properly.

AHAs (like glycolic and lactic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid) are exfoliating acids: AHAs work on the skin's surface to smooth and brighten, while BHAs get into the pores, which suits oily and blemish-prone skin. Introduce them slowly, do not overdo it, and always wear SPF, as they can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

Urea is a moisturising ingredient that both hydrates the skin and, at higher strengths, helps soften and gently exfoliate thickened or very dry skin. It is common in creams for very dry skin, cracked heels and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.