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Author Archives: Hilary Lowry

  1. How to treat Sunspots & Pigmentation.

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    If you have sunspots, scarring or pigmentation that you don’t enjoy seeing there are several highly effective treatments and products available to improve if not completely remove them.

    The facts:

    Sunspots are caused by repeated over exposure to the sun, they are often referred to as liver spots and most commonly appear on the face and hands. Whilst sunspots are not harmful, you should seek advice if you are concerned. Sun exposure is also responsible for premature ageing, fine lines and wrinkles.

    Pigmentation problems are linked to poor melanin functioning ( melanin is responsible for giving your skin its colour). Hyperpigmentation can make spots on the skin appear darker. Hyperpigmentation is often confused with a common pigmentation disorder called melasma, for some people this is caused by hormonal changes such as pregnancy and will often disappear over time, for others melasma can last for years and would require treatment by a dermatologist.

    Any type of spot can lead to acne scarring, these scars can be stubborn and no single treatment is best for everyone. Treatment will depend on the severity, scar type and skin type.

    Treatments

    • Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL) Otherwise known as a photo rejuvenation IPL uses laser technology to target pigmented cells. When cells containing a lot of melanin or haemoglobin are treated, the target heats up and is destroyed within a few thousandths of a second. In addition to removing pigmentation this treatment increases collagen production for a more youthful complexion. Typically, we recommend three treatments at four weekly intervals, a suitable treatment plan would be discussed with you at your initial consultation. Photo rejuvenation is also very effective in the improvement of acne scarring.
    • Chemical Peels are used to improve the skins appearance, minimise pore size, improve acne scarring, fine lines, sunspots, and rough skin, they are designed to exfoliate your skin and encourage it to renew itself by creating fresh new skin cells. The depth of the peel will depend on the objective and condition of the skin. Mesoestetic chemical peels typically used include glycolic acid, mandelic acid salicylic acid, lactic acid or combined liquid peels. The different types of chemicals cause a controlled injury, each penetrating through to a different skin depth, then peeling away to reveal a new layer of skin.
    • If you haven’t tried a microdermabrasion treatment before, it is worth thinking about. The treatment involves tiny crystals projected onto the skin to remove the outer layer of your skin. The vacuum action of the machine then pulls and raises a small section of skin to work on, it creates mild swelling and brings some of the impurities to the surface, it then collects the used crystals and dead skin for disposal. It is basically an exfoliation and skin rejuvenation treatment that leaves the skin looking brighter and feeling smoother.

    Products

    It’s no secret that protection from the suns radiation is a must in skincare, so if you are holding off on the sunscreen because summer is often a slow starter in the UK, I’m going to avoid a lengthy lecture and encourage you instead, to apply an SPF daily all year round. Skin-ageing UV rays don’t care how hot it is.  If you’re not spending extended periods outdoors, SPF moisturisers applied properly will adequately protect our skin.

    Some of our favourites include:

    • Environ Rad SPF 15. A mineral sunscreen containing zinc and titanium  dioxide to protect against free radicals, its creamy texture is easily applied and suitable for use under make up.
    • Environ Mela Fade Cream, a technology advanced Vitamin C cream used to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone
    • Dermalogica Solar Défense Booster SPF 50. This SPF really sinks in and feels lightweight, is great under makeup I have quite dry skin but this, on top of the Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance, makes my skin look and feel luminous, dewy, and well hydrated.
    • Mesoestetic Anti-ageing body tan mist SPF 30. This is a NEW and amazing product. I absolutely love this. Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Antiaging Body Sun Mist SPF 30 contains the optimal combination of physical, biological and chemical filters provide maximum effectiveness and protection. This innovative spray mist is invisible and has a fresh texture that’s immediately absorbed for fast and effective sun protection. Added Vitamin E provides an antioxidant and protective action. This Sun Mist SPF 30 can be applied to wet or sweaty skin without leaving behind a greasy residue. Mesoestetic’s Collagen pro-47 formula protects and increases the presence of high-quality collagen in the skin for smoother and firmer skin.

    For advice on any of the treatments and products discussed in our blog please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

  2. Habits of people with great skin.

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    With consistency, the perfect skincare routine will work for you all year-round but have you ever wondered what those people with great skin use in their skincare routine or what, if any skincare treatments they have?

    Sun Protection definitely comes top of the list. Proper UV protection is by far the most important step in any skincare routine, all year round but especially during the summer when UV rays are at their strongest.SPF should be applied every day to areas that are exposed such as the face, neck, chest, ears, and hands.

    Correctly cleanse your face & neck. This might sound obvious but it is important when cleansing to ensure you are cleansing right into the hairline ( an area often overlooked and prone to breakouts) and include the neck area. We recommend double cleansing as the second cleanse removes any last traces of make up and debris. A foaming cleanser is great for an oily/ combination skin and a cream/ gel cleanser typically better for a sensitive/ dry skin.

    Retinol, yes or no? For most people yes as long as it is introduced slowly. Retinol has many benefits for the skin, it minimises fine lines and wrinkles, increases collagen production, improves elasticity, improves acne and brightens the skin.

    Retinol can however cause sensitivity for some people, symptoms include irritation, dryness, burning, redness and itching. Always seek advice from a qualified aesthetician before purchasing retinol, we highly recommend incorporating Vitamin A into your regime starting with a low level Vitamin A moisturiser to allow the skin to acclimatise.

    Use Non Comedogenic Products. Using products that will not clog the pores is a no brainer. Jane Iredale mineral make up is one to think about. Jane Iredale products are clean, vegan and cruelty free make up products that will nourish and protect your skin.

    Digestive problems can cause skin problems so a healthy diet will help you maintain a healthy and radiant skin. Look for foods high in anti oxidants such as broccoli, carrots, spinach, beetroot, avocado, dark chocolate, strawberries, blueberries to name but a few. Antioxidants protect your cells against free radicals. (The body generates free radicals in response to environmental insults such as UV rays, smoke and air pollution). Our favourite supplements from Advanced Nutrition Programme such as Vitamin A, C and D can be incorporated into a healthy diet.

    We all get scars or other marks such as age spots, high colour and thread veins. There are a variety of reasons for this such as hormonal imbalances, acne or sun damage. Topical treatments do work to fade or completely remove these skin concerns. Skin Rejuvenation laser treatments are very effective and will also decrease the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and cheeks. Laser treatments can also treat loss of skin tone and produce a clear, healthy and more youthful complexion. ( A patch test is required prior to your first treatment).

    To keep your skin looking its best, approach your skincare routine like a ritual.

  3. Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Omegas+ for Dry Skin Solutions

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    There are many omega-3 products out there that claim to provide incredible benefits, some obviously better than others. But which ones really work? 

    I have been using Skin Omegas+ for about 3 months now. I can see a change in my skin already and am now a total convert. Omegas are like an internal moisturiser.

    A good moisturiser is essential when it comes to a healthy glow however sometimes the best way to fix your skin is from the inside out with skin supplements that actually work.

    Advanced Nutrition Programme, Skin Omega+ ensure skin cells are kept in tip-top condition, boosting hydration levels, improving radiance and prolonging a youthful complexion. The supplement combines omega 3 and omega 6 – with the addition of vitamin A to maintain healthy skin cells.

    In addition to their benefits to skin, these ingredients also maintain healthy functions across the rest of the body including vision, immune system, blood pressure, heart and brain! It improves the the barrier function of the skin and increases the skin’s hydration leading to a reduction in dry, flaky, dehydrated skin.

    Available in the salon or from our online shop.

    60 capsules £29

  4. The Benefits of Vitamin A in skincare

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    Vitamin A is talked about a lot in skincare these days, but what are the benefits for the skin? In a nutshell, Vitamin A skincare products help improve the overall health of the skin and keep your skin both functioning and looking its best.

    Just some of the many benefits of including Vitamin A in your topical skincare regime include:

    Minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    Protects against photodamage.

    Improves skin tone.

    Balances oil production and therefore improves acne.

    Reduces inflammation.

    Locks in Moisture.

    Vitamin A needs to be introduced slowly into your regime as it can result in a retinoid reaction if used incorrectly*. Start by using two to three times per week. Environ skincare recommend a step-up approach to Vitamin A, usually starting on Skin Essentia AVST 1 or AVST Gel Moisturiser and gradually increasing the levels up to AVST 5. Only then would we recommend adding retinol serums.

    • A retinoid reaction includes redness, irritation, sensitivity, dryness, and peeling. The skin can feel very uncomfortable, and the side effects will often overshadow the benefits you are hoping to achieve.

    Environ products promote a healthier, smoother, and more youthful looking appearance. Some of our favourites include:

    Skin Essentia AVST Moisturisers 1-5 £50- £57

    Vita Peptide Eye Gel £57

    Revival Mask £58

    3D Synerge Filler Crème £79

    Avance Elixer  £85

    Vitamin A is commonly used to treat acne due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It encourages cell turnover and skin healing. Whilst using Vitamin A is not a quick fix for scarring, it may help repair damaged cells that cause scarring over time. Anyone considering using Vitamin A for acne should first chat to your GP.

    Although in this blog we have been talking about the use of topical Vitamin A, we do also believe that great skin starts from within. Vitamin A taken as a supplement helps with skin cell renewal and promotes skin rejuvenation. Advanced Nutrition Programme (ANP) recommend SKIN VITA+ 60 capsules £23. (Take one capsule per day) These capsules also contain Vitamin D to help support bone, muscle, and immune health.

    Foods rich in Vitamin A include:

    Salmon

    Dairy Products

    Eggs

    Carrot

    Sweet potato

    Broccoli

    Spinach

    For more information on Vitamin A and guidance on which products would suit you best, book a virtual consultation via link on website. All products mentioned here can be bought on our online shop.

  5. The Miraculous Effects of Vitamin A

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    Vitamin A is one of the most misunderstood nutrients in the world of cosmetics, yet it will do almost everything we need to keep our skin healthy and radiant.

    Our skin cells are generally deficient in Vitamin A and grow slower as we age. Vitamin A does not make the cells grow faster than they normally would it just restores the skin growth to normal. Topical Vitamin A helps skin to withstand environmental damage acting as a powerful sunscreen by absorbing UV rays and protecting DNA from damage. *

    If we keep the skin sufficiently rich in Vitamin A we prevent the signs of photodamage even when we go out into the sun. The levels of Vitamin A are not sufficiently depleted and the skin remains protected from UV damage.

    Vitamin A stimulates collagen production and locks in moisture, allowing the skin to retain more water with some puffing out of wrinkles.

    Regular use of topical Vitamin A will support healthy looking skin and minimise the signs of ageing and sundamage.

    Environ Vitamin A creams are available in different strengths, i.e. some have higher levels of retinol properties in than others, and the higher the levels, the higher the potential to impact the skin. Due to the very nature of how retinol works, it can cause the skin to become red, sensitive, dry and flaky in the early days until your skin gets used to it. It’s important to allow the skin to acclimatise to topical Vitamin A, starting at low levels before gradually increasing the levels. Follow the less is more rule to applying it, especially if you’ve never used it before or are trying out a new product for the first time.

    Over-the-counter products are a weaker version, which means the retinol they contain isn’t as potent as their prescription-strength counterparts.

    For advice on which products to use please feel free to book either a virtual or face to face consultation www.beautyhavenbelfast.com

    *Vitamin A Skin Science, a scientific guid to healthy skin.

  6. Our Fav Makeup Brushes …..

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    We all love a makeup brush, but with so many varieties on the market it’s all a bit overwhelming, you’re often left wondering where to start. There’s no doubt you’ll know what most brushes do, but putting them into practice can be an entirely different story, and also knowing which ones are actually worth the investment can be tough.

    If you are just starting out doing makeup, or can’t work out your powder brush from your blush brush, don’t panic, I have you covered. Whether your aim is to perfect that flawless foundation, achieve killer cheekbones or to perfect your brow, follow along as I break them down for you.

    The ‘must-haves’:

    Foundation Brush – Probably the most daunting of them all, but without a doubt, the most important. I’m sure you will agree with me when I say your foundation is the first makeup step you need to perfect, it’s your canvas. Now the question on everyone’s lips is – which one should you go for… the traditional flat tapered brush, the buffer brush, or the dense oval brush?

    The traditional foundation brush is flat with flexible bristles that are great for blending liquid or cream foundations. You should start in the middle of your face, where you need the most coverage and blend in an upward motion. For flawless, heavier coverage, a buffing brush is ideal. The densely packed bristles will buff product – including liquid, cream and powder – into the skin for a more natural look, without it looking cakey or any brush marks. Now, the one to watch is the dense oval brush. This brush seems to be the tool of choice at the minute and is fast becoming a classic. This type of brush is great for getting the most out of a full coverage liquid foundation creating an airbrushed finished.

    Kabuki Brush – Possibly the most underrated brush out there. This short-handled, densely packed brush with rounded bristles is ideal for absolutely everything; from powder/mineral foundations to bronzer and blush. My personal favourite way to use this is with bronzer to warm up the complexion and subtly sculpt the face.

    Concealer Brush – If you’d rather use a different brush for your concealer instead of your foundation brush, we’d suggest using a small rounded brush or flat-topped brush to pat concealer into the skin. This helps make blending more precise and allows you to get into the little nooks and crannies of your face.

    Powder Brush – We like to call this the obligatory brush, simply because your makeup bag shouldn’t be without it. This brush can be used to apply any type of powder, however, it’s particularly great for pressed or loose powder to set the base you’ve worked so hard on.

    Blush Brush – Blusher brushes tend to be either rounded or angled, and on the fluffier side, to pick up just the right amount of product. Swirl the bristles into powder blush and apply to the apples of the cheeks, guiding the product upwards towards your cheekbones. The blusher brush can also be used to apply bronzer if the kabuki brush isn’t working for you.

    All-over Eyeshadow Brush – Choose a brush slightly smaller than the width of your eyelid and one that is relatively fluffy, to help blend colour across evenly. There are two techniques we’re rather fond of: the windscreen wiper sweep and the circular motions approach.

    Blending Brush – If you find you’ve applied your eyeshadow a touch too harshly, or you’re using multiple shades, go in with a large and fluffy blending brush to smooth lines for a more natural blend.

    The nice to have ones:

    Stippling Brush – This is a flat-topped brush that helps you build coverage gradually. This brush is suitable for the application of any type of liquid and cream product, while the stippling motion warms up the product to blend it flawlessly for an airbrushed finish.

    Fan Brush – For the highlighter enthusiasts out there, the fan brush is a game-changer. This is a great brush for experimenting with your highlight because the bristles lightly pick up product for a softer finish, which can also be built up for a more intense look if desired. Sweep the ends of the bristles across your cheekbones in an upwards motion and rock that glow.

    Contour Brush– Whether it offers a flat top or angled tip, the contour brush is great for carving out the hollows of your cheeks for a killer contour. Don’t forget to suck your cheeks in like a fish.

    Lip Brush – For those with slightly smaller lips, a lip brush can often be a lifesaver – especially when working with a bold colour. As an alternative to applying lipstick straight from the bullet, use the lip brush to remove pigment from the lipstick and apply to lips for extra definition.

    Angled Liner Brush – The one with flat, densely packed bristles that becomes an essential tool when achieving winged eyeliner. Use with eyeshadow or cream liner products for a precise flick that gets right up to your lash line.

    Brow Brush – Often similar to the angled liner brush, this small, firm and densely packed brush is the one for brows on fleek. Having a spoolie on the end is an added bonus and you’ll soon find it’s a hard one to live without.

    Smudging Brush – This is the one for those of you wanting to master the smoky eye, its rounded tip will help you when transitioning colours, but It’s also great for smudging eyeliner or shadow across the lower or top lash lines.

    The sponge – The beauty sponge is not technically a brush, but it’s a great tool to have among your stash of brushes. Sponges are a sure-fire way of achieving a flawless foundation, and they work well for applying any cream or liquid product. Beauty sponges are particularly amazing for when you have more time in the morning as they can take a little longer than a brush to work their magic.

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