First, know your skin type.

You may laugh, but many people really don’t know what their skin type is. If you’re not sure, it’s possible you could be doing everything wrong in your skincare regime.

There are five basic skin care types: oily, combination, sensitive, dry, and ageing/ sun-damaged. Each is characterised by how much or how little oil is produced in the skin. This is influenced by a number of factors, including genes, age, diet, stress levels, medication, sun exposure - even your skincare regime itself. That’s why it’s so important that you treat your skin according to your skin type. Otherwise you could end up creating imbalances and potentially damaging your skin.

Choose the description that fits your skin best:

1. Type 1: Oily
   Oily skin is shiny (particularly in the T-zone), often with enlarged pores, and is usually prone to blackheads and blemishes. You may experience some tightness too.
2. Type 2: Combination/normal
   Skin is generally smooth, with medium pores, good circulation, even texture and healthy colour. Cheeks can be dry while the t-zone can be oily. (About 70% of women have combination skin.)
3. Type 3: Sensitive
   Sensitive skin tends to be thin and delicate with very fine pores. It flushes easily, is often allergic, and can be prone to rashes and broken capillaries without the right treatment.
4. Type 4: Dry
   Dry skin feels very tight most of the time, but especially after cleansing. This skin type usually shows fine wrinkles, flaking and red patches. In women of colour, skin may also appear dull from the build up of dead skin cells.

Book a complimentary Skin Analysis at any HeavenV Spa if you’re unsure about your skin type. One of our experienced therapists will be happy to assist you.

3 daily steps to healthy, beautiful skin:

Step 1: Cleanse

Your skin faces a daily assault from the elements every time you walk out the front door. Pollution, sunlight, germs, oil, dirt, make up – everything seeps into your pores and aggravates the skin. That’s why it’s so important to cleanse twice daily to remove all impurities. You’ll improve the condition of your skin, which in turn, will keep it looking healthy, vibrant, youthful and radiant.

Always choose a facial cleanser that’s right for your skin type, and use it morning and night. Cleansing your skin in the morning removes built up oil and dead skin cells, while at night, it helps your skin breathe and regenerate after the day’s exposure.

Cleansing with care.
Moisten your face with lukewarm water – never hot or you’ll risk bursting blood vessels. Apply a small amount of facial cleanser, and gently smooth the product over your skin in light, circular movements. Massaging the product into your face boosts circulation; so spend a few minutes doing it. Then rinse off with lukewarm water and gently pat your face dry.

If you’re still a fan of the old-fashioned bar of soap – we urge you to reconsider. The harsh, stripping agents in soap could be seriously compromising the condition of your skin. Throw it away and start using a quality cleanser today.

HeavenV Recommends:
MD Formulations Cleanser - £25
ESPA Hydrating Cleanser - £22.50
ESPA Foaming Cleanser - £21

Step 2: Tone

This is the step people most often skip in their skincare regimes. Toning may not seem as essential as cleansing and moisturising, but it boosts the effectiveness of both. Toners remove all traces of cleanser remaining on the skin; it closes the pores to protect your skin from moisture loss - which invariably happens when cleansing your face – and it provides nutrients which restore the pH balance of your skin.

Tips on healthy toning.
Pour a little toner onto a cotton pad and then pat it gently over your face and neck – avoiding the eye area. Never rub toner onto your skin, and always apply it to a freshly cleansed face. If you have sensitive skin, try using a Rosewater facial toner instead of the usual alcohol-based solutions, as these may dry out your skin.

HeavenV Recommends:
ESPA SpaFresh from £18.50

Step 3: Moisturise

Moisturisers provide vital skin conditioning nutrients to keep your skin healthy, supple and full of natural radiance. Always follow your morning and evening cleansing and toning treatments with a moisturising lotion or cream. In the morning, use a day formula, which is lighter and protects your skin from environmental damage. At night, use a night formula, which supports the skin’s natural regeneration, prevents moisture loss, and slows down the ageing process.

Making moisturiser work for you.
Moisturisers are designed specifically for different skin types. So it’s vital you get the one that’s right for you. If you choose a moisturiser that’s for dryer or more damaged skin than yours, you risk blocking pores and creating irritation. If you choose a moisturiser that’s too light, you’ll be disappointed with the results and won’t meet your skin’s needs. Whatever your skin type, we recommend using a moisturiser with SPF 15, at minimum.

Carefully apply the lotion or cream to your face, avoiding the eye area. (We recommend using a special eye cream or eye gel to treat the delicate skin around the eyes.) Start at the centre of your face and massage outwards to give your skin a lift all over. Remember to let the moisturiser soak in for a few minutes before applying foundation on top, and don’t forget your neck! Apply using upward strokes towards the face.

HeavenV Recommends:
MD Formulations Moisture Defense Antioxidant Range from £36
MD Formulations Moisture Defense Antioxidant Eye Cream £41
ESPA 24 Hour Moisturising Complex £41
ESPA 24 Hour Eye Complex £35

Weekly skincare boosting extras

Enhance your daily skincare regime with a weekly exfoliation, mask or peel to deeply cleanse and nourish your skin. These treatments encourage cellular repair, boost collagen production, and visibly tone and firm the skin.

Facial masks and peels

Clay mask are great at drawing out toxins and deeply moisturising the skin at the same time. As always, choose the mask or peel that suits your skin type and use it once a week as a soothing, detoxifying treatment.

HeavenV Recommends:
MD Formulation My Personal Peel System Kit £36
ESPA Essential Mineral Mask £27.50

Exfoliation

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, promotes circulation, and improves the skin’s overall texture and appearance. It helps your skin absorb moisturiser better and actually accelerates cellular regeneration, too. We recommend exfoliating once a week – so be careful not to overdo it. Scrubbing too hard or too often will create irritation.

HeavenV Recommends:
MD Formulations Face & Body Scrub £28
ESPA Refining Skin Polish £25.50

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