Editor’s Letter: August 2023 | Quick Beauty Fixes For Mums On The Run

Is it just me, or has this summer been jam-packed? It’s been a shock to the system. Last summer’s lockdown was more or less housebound and not having to be anywhere, and this year has left me with my guard down. Besides running around after two boys and dogs, there’s been a flurry of invitations socialising, parties and weddings.

I have to say, my 47-year-old skin is starting to show signs of flagging, and we’re only halfway through the summer holidays.

However, the Covid-19 pandemic threw us plenty of life lessons, apart from the seriousness of the loss, heartache and stress. It was also a time for inner transformation, where we learnt some valuable (and practical) lessons.

You know the ones – where we were moonlighting as hairdressers and beauticians and orchestrating our pro-facial regimen. Even the mighty Michelle Obama confessed on her podcast to a friend and journalist Michele Norris that she’s picked up a few new skills in quarantine. “Not to put anybody out of work,” she said, “but this time has taught me how to do my own waxing, do my nails.” She added, “There’s a lot of stuff I’m figuring out; if I want it done, I gotta figure out how to do it. But that’s how we were raised, right?”

Absolutely.

Thankfully with the emergence of tech and online tutorials, we’ve had some help along the way. Firstly, I’ve been tuning into the Clarins Self-care Sunday, where the brilliant skin experts and beauty coaches show you step-by-step how to practise the proper techniques. Check out the next one here, Sunday 14 August, that looks at the ‘power products’ that will be the game-changers in your at-home regimen.

Secondly, it’s all about finding the right products. And wow, didn’t skincare up its game?

Take the Clarins Beauty Flash Peel, £38 – it must be one of the quickest and easiest skin resurfacing products to use at home. You don’t even have to rinse!

 

Apply with the built-in brush applicator to a clean, dry face and leave on for 5-10 minutes. Then you use your favourite nighttime product over the top.

 

The gel formula is loaded with glycolic and salicylic acids that work to remove dead skin cells, clear out pores (which will make them appear smaller) and really refine the skin texture.

 

I didn’t have any peeling or nasty aftereffects either – which can happen with some products. So, depending on skin type – you can use up to 3 nights per week to boost radiance and help with sun damage and pore minimising. Don’t just take my word for it; 93% of women also noticed their skin looked renewed.

 

I’m using it along with Reduit Boost. A super smart beauty device with a massage tool and light therapy in one that you can use with your existing skincare regimen to maximise the results. It fits into the palm of your hand and, when used over the surface of your face, allows for deeper penetration of active ingredients. Scientific studies have revealed that it will up the effectiveness of products by 2.4 x for antioxidants, 2.2 pro-ageing and 5.6 hydrating products versus fingertips alone.

If you want to know more about the benefits of Red Light Therapy, check out our guide here.

 

Both products are giving those pro-spa results at home – and if that’s something that gives me back more time with the children this August – I am all for that.

Stay cool, keep hydrated and enjoy your summer!

– Sarah Joan Ross

 

WORD OF THE MONTH

 

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