Winter S.O.S.
Beauty goodies to see you through the cold spell.
Kate Duggan: www.wordsbykateduggan.co.uk
If your skin is feeling dry and tight at the moment, a sheet mask could be just the ticket. Look for one with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin to hold on to moisture and fight the signs of ageing. The skin689 Bio-Cellulose Hyaluron Face Mask contains hyaluronic acid, along with coconut extract and an amino acid complex to nourish skin. As with all sheet masks, it’s a little fiddly to use, but feels lovely and refreshing when it’s on and the end results are definitely worth it. Softer, more hydrated skin, in just 20 minutes. And at £5.90, it’s an affordable weekend treat. See www.skin689.com.
An American skincare brand has released the world’s first vegan, plant-based topical collagen formula. Algenist’s serum is designed to replace lost collagen and contains Omega-rich microalgae oil. As with many things, there’s no long-term gain without short-term pain. In my case this meant that I had to contend with several large pimples breaking out in the first few days of using the serum. However, my skin soon got used to it, and did look plumper, smoother and much more refreshed after just a couple of weeks. All in all, I’m impressed. Genius Liquid Collagen is available from www.SpaceNK.com for £90.
Central heating and icy winds don’t just wreak havoc on your skin – they can also leave your hair feeling dry and lacklustre. Faith in Nature’s Seaweed & Citrus Shampoo and Conditioner include natural extracts, such as wild harvested seaweed to ‘feed’ your hair with minerals and antioxidants. As with all Faith in Nature products, they’re free from parabens and harsh ingredients, so very gentle. Suitable for all hair types, they leave your locks feeling healthier, smoother and shinier. £5.35 each from www.faithinnature.co.uk.
Sore, cracked hands can be a real pain over the colder months. Unfortunately, some hand creams can actually make the situation worse, particularly if they contain artificial perfumes. Dermalex is a specialist skincare range aimed at sufferers of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. The Hand Irritation Cream can help with dry, cracked skin, itching and other signs of irritation. You’ll also want to look for a gentler hand wash or soap that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulphate, which can dry your skin and aggravate skin conditions. From £12.99, www.dermalex.co.uk.
It may be cold outside, but it won’t be long before it’s time to pack the winter woollies away for a few months. If you’ve been neglecting your nails under warm gloves, now’s the time to treat them to some TLC. Nails Inc Superfood NailKale Base Coat is enriched with kale, aloe vera, lemon, ginseng, pomegranate and grape extracts to nourish and strengthen your nails. Use it on its own for a glossy nude finish, or as a base coat for your favourite coloured polish. £15, www.nailsinc.com