Skin-barrier care: when your glow routine needs a gentler approach

Our take on the glow routine

It’s easy to add one more serum when you’re hoping to improve your skin. A new exfoliating toner, a retinol, a mask for the weekend—before long, your routine has become quite a project.

We like a routine you can understand and keep up with. You should know what each product is there for and feel comfortable asking whether you still need it. If your skin has become sensitive, that’s a good moment to review what you’re using before adding anything else.

Think back to when the change started. Did you introduce a product, use an exfoliant more often or have a treatment recently? Make a quick note on your phone so you don’t have to remember everything during your appointment.

Give your routine a little breathing room

Go gently with exfoliation

Flaky skin can make you want to scrub, but more exfoliation may leave it feeling even drier or more irritated. Be particularly careful if you’re also using retinol, acids or other active products. Avoid exfoliating sunburned skin or any area with broken skin.

If a non-prescription scrub or acid is irritating your skin, pause it and ask for advice. If you use a prescribed treatment, check with your doctor before changing it. A photo of the products you use is helpful when we’re discussing your facial.

Keep the basics comfortable

A gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a moisturiser that suits your skin are a sensible starting point. Ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid can help with moisture, but you don’t need a separate bottle of every ingredient to have a good routine.

Pay attention to how products feel on your skin. Persistent stinging is a reason to stop and ask for help, even if a product has been recommended by someone you trust.

Make space for sun protection

Whether you’re heading out for lunch, spending time in the garden or getting ready for a South African summer holiday, keep sun protection part of your day. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, follow its application instructions, and make use of shade, a hat and protective clothing.

Can you still have a facial?

Message us first if your skin is sore, irritated or unusually sensitive. We can discuss whether to adapt your appointment or give your skin more time. If symptoms are getting worse, or your skin is painful, cracked or bleeding, please see a doctor or dermatologist.

Our facial menu includes a 60-minute Deep Cleanse Facial at R450, along with dermaplaning, nano-needling and microneedling. We’ll talk about your skin before deciding which option makes sense. A facial cannot promise to fix every cause of dryness or irritation in one visit.

Once your skin feels settled, you can start thinking about your next goal. If you’re curious about the different needling options, our nano-needling vs microneedling guide is a useful place to start.

What to tell us before your visit

You don’t need to arrive with all the answers. A few details will help us have a useful conversation:

• The products you currently use, including any active serums.
• Recent waxing, dermaplaning, peels or other facial treatments.
• How your skin feels and when you first noticed a change.
• Any diagnosed skin condition or prescribed treatment.
• An upcoming event or holiday you’re planning around.

We want you to feel at ease asking questions. If you’re unsure whether to book yet, a WhatsApp enquiry is a good first step.