This 5-Step Routine is All You Need.

Step 1: Cleanse, then cleanse again.

We know… but it is technically the first step. After all, our skin accumulates dirt, sweat, dead cells and sebum after a busy day. Use a balm or oil-based cleanser to dissolve impurities, sunscreen and make-up, and do a second cleanse after. While the second cleanse isn’t 100% necessary for all, it can be worthwhile a variety of reasons - i.e. if you wear heavy make-up, use a mineral-based sunscreen or simply wish to enhance the efficacy of your skincare actives that follow your cleanse.

Tips: while you’re at it, enjoy some me-time and spend around 30 to 45 seconds to thoroughly massage the cleanser in. This is around 10 normal breaths and is a great opportunity to wind down.

Step 2: Treat.

You’ve definitely heard this before from us, because at the M-ethod™ we focus heavily on the right skincare actives to achieve your skincare goals. The most popular actives include the ABC’s of vitamins - retinoids (vitamin A), niacinamide and panthenol (vitamin B3 and B5) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). In fact, this was the topic of choice for Dr Mandy’s Masters dissertation! With over twenty clinical studies identified, many of which were randomised controlled trials, there is a substantial body of evidence behind the science of these skincare actives. But the research doesn’t stop there. Acids, such as azelaic, alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, are also known to be highly effective when incorporated correctly in the skincare routine.

Tips: start low, go slow, enjoy the glow! As we say it at the M-ethod™, great skin takes time. More speed definitely results in less haste when it comes to actives as they penetrate deep into the layers of the skin and take time to effect change on a cellular level. Using too many actives at once, or one active at too high a strength would risk skin irritation and make things worse.

Step 3: Don’t forget the eyes.

Again, if you have a specific concern, choose actives that can help target those. Certain new-generation retinoids are perfect for reducing fine lines, while vitamin C, peptides and caffeine work wonders for dark circles. Give some TLC to those beautiful windows to your soul!

Step 4: Moisturise.

All skin types need a moisturiser to reduce excessive dryness or oiliness. Aspecially after treating your skin with actives (which act to stimulate and regenerate the skin), you’ll need a moisturiser to restore and protect the skin barrier.

Tips: Moisturisers don’t have to be expensive or prescription-strength in most cases, but look out for specific ingredients that may or may not be suitable for your skin type. For instance, combination or oily skins won’t do well with comedogenic ingredients such as beeswax or shea butter, which are perfect for dry skins.

Step 5: Protect.

Despite all that has been said and done above skincare, all the above is irrelevant if you don’t protect your skin from light. This includes ultraviolet (UV)-A and UV-B radiation from the sun, as well as visible light. Emerging evidence suggests that blue light from screens speed up the ageing process. Furthermore, many actives cause the skin to be more sensitive to the sun. So sunscreen really is mandatory for all - throughout the seasons, indoors or out, regardless of age, gender or skin type.

Tips: Look for a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 that is broad-spectrum, meaning it offers protection against UV-A and UV-B radiation. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, more frequently if you sweat or do water activities.

Are you ready for your 5-step skincare routine? Book in with the M-ethod™ for a skincare consultation and your individualised aesthetic treatment plan.

References:

Dermatologic Therapy, 2004, Volume 17 Supplement 1, pages 16–25

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014, pages 606–612