Twice a year – autumn and spring – when temperatures indoors and out start to change, skin can turn rather mutinous. Treating sudden changes in moisture and hydration levels are key to keeping skin calm and content as the radiators threaten to jolt back into life. Cleansing well every morning and evening, using hydrating products and incorporating an oil into your routine should keep skin balanced and happy.
Clinique Pep-Start Pout Restoring Night Mask (€18)
A fragrance-free, super thick lip mask, this is best for problem lips which desiccate entirely as soon as central heating goes on. You’ll wake up to plump, soft lips, and can wear it during the day if needed.
L’Occitane Immortelle Cleansing Balm (€36.50)
This is a delectable addition to the luxe Immortelle skincare family. It smooths on beautifully, melts away makeup and emulsifies with water. Though I don’t love the shape of the glass pot, which makes getting every last trace out a slight struggle, and wish there were more in it, the product inside can’t be faulted.
Seoulista Beauty Instant Facials (€8.99 from Dunnes Stores)
These Korean inspired sheet masks are affordable and instantly effective. The Super Hydration version is my favourite. Try it prior to applying makeup for an event for a perfect, hydrated base.
Kiehl’s Crème de Corps Oil to Foam Body Cleanser (€18 for 75mls/€40 for 175 mls from September 20th)
The legendary Crème de Corps range has been expanded to include this shower oil. It cleanses thoroughly but gently and doesn’t dry out the skin or exacerbate existing dryness.
Clinique 2-in-1 Cleansing Micellar Gel (€23)
Clinique is releasing some excellent skincare basics lately, and this micellar cleanser can be tissued off or removed with a wet flannel. It makes a lovely, refreshing second cleanse or morning cleanser for any skin type.
Glamglow Glowsetter Makeup Setting Spray (€29)
Artificial heat tends to suck foundation inward, leaving it looking and feeling uncomfortable on the skin. Keep it refreshed with a good facial mist. This one has the perfect light distribution, a delicious fragrance, and both sets and freshens makeup without looking overly damp on skin.
Mixa Cica Repair Body Lotion for Very Dry Skin (€8.95)
There is no fluff or faff to this – just an excellent product. It leaves a protective film over the skin without leaving an unpleasant residue. It is deeply comforting and highly effective on very dry skin.
Botanics 100% Organic Nourishing Facial Oil (€14.99)
The primary oil in here is sweet almond, though there are a number of others including rosehip, making it a very lovely concoction indeed. At under €15, it is a worthy purchase and will work on all skins except those which are reactive to essential oils.
Product of the week: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 (€58)
Retinol is the most effective damage-reversing skincare you can buy. This one is a good dosage for beginners. Use one or two nights weekly on clean skin and always wear sunscreen during the day as it sensitises skin to sun damage.
