Skin Archives - Conversations through the middle

Royal contender

March 31, 2011

I’m rather taken with Sensiderma Renew & Refine by Queen. The texture is creamy but it sinks into my skin easily and leaves a soft, non-sticky feel afterwards. It’s supposed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines – not that I have too many of them (ahem) – but I haven’t been using it long enough to be able to comment on that yet. It is a lovely moisturiser nonetheless and it is also unfragranced, which is a bonus if you have a sensitive nose or sensitive skin. It also avoids irritating ingredients.

I tend to use it all over my face and neck as I would my regular moisturiser but you can just apply it to just those areas that need a little help if you prefer.

I will report back in few weeks on the cream’s effectiveness at lightening lines and walloping wrinkles.

Hands that do dishes…

February 1, 2010

One thing I can guarantee at this time of year, without fail, my hands will become really dry and look ancient, while the skin on my fingers will crack and split in places and become really sore. It sounds horrible and it is, and it’s something that has been happening to me every winter since I was a child.

Many years ago I underwent a series of allergy tests but the doctors at the hospital couldn’t find anything obvious I was allergic to so they came to the conclusion that my hands got into such a state because of washing up and water. The doctor who spoke to me apologised for being ‘sexist’ but said it was because of all the cleaning/ washing dishes/ housework/ washing clothes that women do.

Well these days I never hand wash – the machine does it, I have a dishwasher and as for cleaning, my other half would laugh if somebody said I do too much housework. Yet my hands are still a mess.

So I’m on a mission to find the best hand cream to help them. And I have tried loads let me tell you. So far my favourite is by Dermalogica, but I’m open to suggestions if anybody can recommend others?

Caring for your skin – winter

November 12, 2009

I don’t know about you but the heating dial is well and truly on in our house. I am no fan of the cold, trouble is, central heating though making you feel warm and toasty, is awful for drying out your skin. That coupled with the havoc wreaked by the winter wind and rain, makes extra TLC for your face and body essential.

Try these top tips:

1) Don’t let the air in your home become too dry. Place water beside radiators to increase the room’s moisture content.

2) Many people swear by a richer moisturiser at this time of year to counteract the elements. You could choose one from your usual brand or try something new. Book a skincare consultation at the beauty counter of your local department store to experiment with new products or treat yourself to a luxurious facial at a health club or spa.

3) Take the opportunity to treat yourself to a new body cream. Be as extravagant as you dare and apply it to damp skin after bathing.

4) Remember to use sunscreen on your face even though it’s winter. Make sure your moisturiser contains at least SPF15.