A Glowing Report
WORDS BY LUKE SINGLETON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID NEWTON
The best exfoliators for now
Having now succumbed to the arctic advance of winter, we are reaching for our cosy overcoats, leather gloves and generous layers of woolly separates to embrace the season ahead… A change in temperature also necessitates some modifications to our skin-care routine. The pivotal detail here is skin texture; in brutal conditions, the texture of our facial skin is susceptible to hypersensitivity, overt dryness, and dehydration from the cold elements. Don't assume that simply lathering on expensive creams and serums will provide your skin with that much-needed restorative tonic! Moisturizers work solely to re-hydrate the top layer of our skin, and in winter invariably this means any dry and damaged skin cells lying on the surface.
Now is the right time to develop an effective exfoliation practice. Exfoliation removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the epidermis, giving products optimum chance of penetrating the skin. If done right, it can have dramatic results. Homecare exfoliation treatments are at their most sophisticated yet, as premium brands attentively pander to our ceaseless thirst for transformative effects and instantaneous results. I have diligently combed through the market for you to yield a selection of top-notch exfoliators and microdermabrasion treatments for the wintry spell ahead.
Kiehl’s: Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion
Kiehl’s micro-dermabrasion treatment is one of the best value exfoliators on the market. Effects are immediate and skin texture is enhanced after first use. Micronized shells clear away any damage to the epidermis, whilst Willow Herb restores. Only to be used 1-2 times a week (maximum 3 for tougher skin) my face was noticeably smoother and clearer, with facial lines and pores buffed and diminished, with a wonderfully soft luminosity to my skin. For a yet more powerful exfoliation, apply to dry, clean skin with moistened fingertips.
Darphin: Age-Defying Dermabrasion
Parisian brand Darphin have come up trumps with their extravagantly rich dermabrasion cream. Natural exfoliants Silica and Lava combine with the permeable power of exfoliating pearl particles to efficiently clear pores and soften fine lines. Light to touch, with the viscous texture of lemon mousse, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and soothes as it exfoliates, furnishing a much-needed powerful polish to tired, distressed skin. This is a luxurious antidote to the effects of weather damage.
La Prairie: Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator
Premier skin-complexion treatments attribute their effectiveness to ingenious, all-natural exfoliating ingredients that refresh and restore our skin condition. Swiss brand La Prairie use mineral-rich gem powders, and Rosa Centifola, to stimulate the natural process of cell renewal and dissemination. This violet-hued translucent wonder-gel, saturated with thousands of gleaming particles, rejuvenated my skin and left my face distinctly smoother, pores tighter, and skin-texture evened with increased transparency.
Sisley: Buff and Wash Facial Gel
One of Sisley’s top-selling products, this exfoliating facial gel combines natural plant extracts with essential oils of Exotic Verbena and Lavender, and has a wonderful organic scent. The refreshing aqueous gel texture gently cleansed and buffed my skin, but was substantial enough to clear away any dead skin cells and impurities, leaving in their place a visibly radiant complexion. The cool freshness of the botanical ingredients feels sensational and is gentle enough to use 3-4 times a week. For enhanced exfoliation, gently apply extra pressure to the fingertips when circulating the gel.
Frezyderm: Volpaderm AHA Cream
A new Greek brand to launch recently in the UK, Frezyderm's products are engineered to treat all skin types, without irritation. This innovative cream replenishes the skin surface whilst you sleep, using a unique combination of exfoliating and moisturizing agents that help rejuvenate your appearance by morning. Nourishing fruit acids gently remove dead skin cells provoking cell renewal. This cream has a pleasant non-oily, rich consistency, and if you like the central heating on during winter it may be a smart move to invest in a moisturizer with exfoliating propensity. A cream and exfoliator all in one.