Wellbeing Journal
FACE FACTS: YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ANTI-AGEING SKIN CARE
What is ageing skin?Ageing skin occurs when skin changes in appearance and texture over time, from natural or environmental aggressors. It might seem obvious, but it’s important to understand the truth behind ageing skin, so you can treat it effectively, and – most importantly – minimise it where you can.There are a few myths and misconceptions regarding age-related skin concerns. The main one is that ‘ageing’ relates to ‘middle or old age’, which isn’t necessarily so. Skin ageing is a natural process, and begins as early as your 20s, as this is when your body slows its collagen and elastin production.Collagen, your skin’s natural fillerCollagen is the naturally occurring protein responsible for your skin’s plumpness and shape, firmness and strength. It originates from the Greek words for ‘glue’ and ‘producing’, which makes sense as collagen binds connective tissues such as skin, cartilage and tendons.As production of collagen begins to decline with age, skin starts to sag and wounds take longer to heal. Collagen also doesn’t just degenerate organically – it can also be damaged prematurely. Top causes include dehydration, smoking, ultraviolet (UV) light, diet and stress (more on these later).Want supple skin? Look to elastinLike collagen, elastin is another naturally occurring protein in your body, and again, the clue is in the name. Elastin is responsible for your skin’s elasticity – pinch yourself and watch your skin snap straight back to normal. That’s thanks to elastin.Unfortunately, repetitive facial expressions like smiling and frowning result in the gradual erosion of elastin fibres. It’s why you often see fine lines around the eyes and mouth, and across the forehead. Compromised elastin also causes sagging around the jawline and neck.Your hormones on ageingAs hormones levels change, so does the skin. Hormonal ageing in women is defined in part by declining oestrogen levels, which affects the production of collagen and elastin. During menopause, this is increasingly more pronounced. Oestrogen also impacts melanin production and distribution, and when paired with UV damage, can result in skin pigmentation or age spots on the hands, face and chest.UV light and photoageingPhotoageing refers to the long-term effects of the sun on your skin, as a result of UV light exposure. The sun is the single greatest cause of premature and accelerated skin ageing. Australians are particularly susceptible to UV damage – not only because of the ozone layer and high levels of UV radiation, but also due to our cultural tendency for leisure outdoors. Sun damage can cause coarse, uneven and dull skin, as well as pigmentation and age spots, redness and burning, and premature lines and wrinkles.Genetics also play a role in photoageing. People with fair skin are far more likely to suffer visible signs of sun damage than those with darker skin. That said, we all need to take precautions when in the sun, as it’s easier to avoid than undo any potential harm. A broad spectrum sunscreen like our Sun Specialist SPF40 High Protection Cream provides high-level protection against UVA and UVB rays, and also helps skin stay hydrated.AA17_Blog_AA_BlogBanner-v.1Apart from natural ageing and photoageing, what are the other causes of ageing skin?EnvironmentAir-conditioning, extreme weather conditions and pollutants can all accelerate skin ageing over time. Wearing gloves when you do housework, gardening or home repairs helps preserve the skin on your hands, which is one of the very first places to show signs of ageing.SleepYour body restores itself during this time, so it’s important to get your beauty sleep. A well-rested face is sure to appear more rosy, fresh and plump. Conversely, fatigued skin looks dull and uneven in tone.DietPoor nutrition will eventually show up on your skin. To optimise your diet for younger-looking skin, eat less salt, sugar and processed foods, and increase your intake of whole foods and fresh fruit and vegetables high in vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants.DehydrationYour skin will thank you for increasing your daily water intake (as well as foods high in water). But it’s also important to cut back on dehydrating substances like caffeine, alcohol, salty foods and sugary drinks.SmokingApart from its other significant health dangers, smoking can speed up premature ageing, as well as impair the skin’s ability to heal itself. People who smoke long-term are also more likely to develop thick, leathery skin and a sallow complexion.ExerciseRegular exercise stimulates circulation and helps your skin appear more vibrant, even as it ages naturally. Of course, the flow-on effects of exercise – such as better sleep and a healthier approach to life – are also likely to improve your wellbeing, which can only benefit your skin.HealthExtreme or extended periods of stress, emotional turbulence, illness and other adverse circumstances can influence your health, and therefore your skin. During these periods you’re also more likely to neglect skin care rituals, experience sleep issues and make poor food choices.GenesAs we’ve noted, those with fairer skin are more susceptible to sun damage, but other genetic factors can also influence your skin’s appearance. Some people inherit beneficial genes, but even in those cases, taking care of your skin pays big dividends (and balances out the luck factor).NeglectForgetting to apply sunscreen, using poor skin care products or not adhering to an anti-ageing skin care ritual hinders your skin in both the short and longer term.AA17_Blog_AA_BlogBanner-v.2The tell-tale signs of ageing skinFirst signs of ageingAs we’ve seen, ageing skin affects a range of age groups. There are early signs and symptoms of skin ageing that can begin as early as your mid-20s, especially when external influences come into play. These include:Early sun damage, such as frecklesDry skinDull or fatigued skinLoss of colour or glowOur Herbal Recovery Signature Serum contains a concentrated blend of natural ingredients that help improve skin dullness, restore radiance, and minimise the appearance of fine lines. It helps smooth, revitalise and protect for skin that visibly glows.Visible signs of ageingThe first visible signs of ageing are often seen in women in their 30s. This is commonly the first time many women express their age-related skin concerns, and begin to search for simple and effective, natural solutions for:Fine linesLoss of firmnessIrregular or rough textureUneven skin tone or complexionWe created our Purely Age-Defying Firming and Tightening Serum specifically to address these visible signs of ageing. Its concentrated plant extracts target the appearance of wrinkles, loss of firmness and uneven skin tone to leave your skin looking rejuvenated.Advanced signs of ageingIn later years, as cells turn over less frequently, essential collagen and elastin production slows. As menopause approaches, we see more pronounced signs and symptoms of ageing. These include:Deep-set wrinkles and linesSlack, loose or sagging skin and loss of liftLoss of fat beneath the skin, occasionally leading to a gaunt appearanceAge spots (also known as sun spots), discolouration and pigmentationTransparent, fragile skin due to thinning of the topmost skin layer, the epidermis‘Leathery’ appearanceSpider veinsThe botanical oils in our Nutri-Define Superior Retexturising Facial Serum work to address the advanced signs of ageing and improve luminosity and hydration, for younger-looking skin that looks plump, luminous and regenerated.Your anti-ageing skin action plan–prevent and restoreAs we’ve seen throughout this anti-ageing skin guide, caring for your skin should start as early as possible. Your best chance of keeping your skin looking youthful and healthy for longer is to promote your overall wellbeing, through good lifestyle choices and a great skin care ritual. These combined are your key to preventing premature ageing, so you can experience your best skin at any age. Natural ageing is, of course, inevitable and unavoidable, but you can minimise its effects. Choose pure and powerful anti-ageing skin care that restores balance, smoothness and hydration. And whatever stage of life you’re living, don’t forget to celebrate it in full by looking and feeling your best every single day.
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THE JURLIQUE SKIN CARE CHALLENGE
blog-wellbeing-button-downl-challengeOver the course of 14 days we encourage you to add and build new and healthy skin care habits to help your skin be in the best shape possible.Start small and continue to add one tip per day for the next 14 days until your new skin care habits are rituals that you look forward to indulging in every day. They don’t take long and you will look and feel great.Before you start your Skin Care Challenge visit a local Jurlique store or counter and ask your Beauty Expert to recommend the products your will need to complete the challenge. We have samples that you can take home for almost every step to get you started.Download the Jurlique Skin Care Challenge
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR SKIN TYPE
We all want to look and feel our best, so when it comes to your complexion, tailoring your skin care ritual to your skin type is key. But how do you know which skin type is yours? The way your skin appears and behaves can tell a lot about what’s going on behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to your overall skin health and well-being.Read on to learn how to identify and understand your skin type, so you can achieve your skin care goals.Dry skinA rough, flaky complexion that feels tight after cleansing is typical for anyone with dry skin. Dry skin can occur with external conditions that disturb your skin’s capacity to retain moisture (like extreme cold or heat), resulting in a thin, patchy surface. However, dry skin can also be a matter of genetics. The biggest issue with dry skin is prolonged dehydration can actually increase your chances of sensitivity and premature ageing.For dry skin types, boosting hydration during your skin care ritual is essential. When cleansing or exfoliating, choose natural, hydrating formulas that won’t strip your skin’s oil, and opt for rich moisturising creams and serums that deeply hydrate to restore skin health.blog-4-supporting-img-623x313-v2Ageing skinAs time goes by, our skin’s appearance and texture changes, affecting firmness, elasticity and moisture. Drier or duller skin than usual, as well as sun damage and the beginning of fine lines, can indicate age-related skin concerns. That said, it’s never too late to slow the ageing process by gracefully combating dryness, dullness and visible signs of ageing. Vigilant sun care and deeply hydrating moisturisers with pure, potent natural ingredients can help protect skin – no matter what your age.Tip: avoid harsh cleansers or exfoliants as they dehydrate, compounding moisture loss and the potential for sensitivity. Deeply nourishing creams and oils can help rejuvenate moisture and target problem areas like lines and wrinkles, as well as skin tone and firmness.Sensitive skinSensitive skin is easily irritated by external stimulants, evident in the red, blotchy symptoms that follow. You may notice itchiness, visible rashes or hives, swelling, or a tingling, stinging or burning sensation during skin reactions. Sensitive skin is more common in paler tones, the skin surface thinner and more translucent, making sensitive skin extra susceptible to environmental conditions and effects (for example, sunburn and photo-ageing).As sensitive skin types are prone to drying and irritation, avoid products with ingredients like artificial colours and fragrances. Natural skin care products with botanical extracts such as Calendula can also help soothe red skin and rebalance sensitivity.Oily skinYour skin’s sebaceous glands are responsible for the production of skin oil, or sebum. This can be influenced by many things, but the most common factor is hormones (think back to your skin during adolescence). When too much sebum escapes through your pores, a shiny, oily complexion results, with the additional problem of facilitating blemishes. Large, open pores can be an indication of oil production, but visibly smaller pores can also generate oily skin conditions – in the latter case, the culprit is likely to be skin care product-related.So what can you do? While it’s tempting to look for products that eliminate sebum, harsh ingredients can dehydrate skin – which can actually increase oil production. With oily skin types, cleansing gently but thoroughly, and finishing with a light moisturising lotion to rebalance oiliness, can help keep your skin’s oil production in check.Normal skinNormal skin is actually quite unusual, as other skin types are much more prevalent. Normal skin is clear and even, with a well-balanced surface that retains moisture, and minimal breakouts.Normal skin indicates healthy circulation, although impurities can occur from time to time, depending on individual skin care rituals. The trick for normal skin types is maintenance, so gentle, natural skin care products that focus on balance are best.The subtle differences between each skin type are a reality for all of us, whether we’re dry, ageing, sensitive, oily or normal. Identifying and understanding your skin type, and what it needs to look and feel its best, is the key to unlocking your skin’s wellness.What skin type are you, and what tips and tricks have you learned on your journey to skin wellness? Let us know on Facebook.Want more natural skin tips and tricks? Download the Jurlique Skin Care ChallengeSign up to the Jurlique newsletter for more on how to care for your skin, naturally.
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GO WITH THE GLOW – HOW TO GET YOUR BEST SUNLESS TAN EVER
Summer and a sun-kissed tan go hand in hand, even if you don’t live along the coast. But the sun can be damaging to your skin and can cause premature ageing.Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. Sunless tanning products can help you achieve a bronzed body, without the dangers of baking in the sun – so you can have glowing skin all year round.Here’s the top six tips you need to get your best sunless tan ever:1. Go with the right glowThe first step is choosing the right self-tanning product for your skin.Sunless tanning options include sprays, mousses and lotions. Tanning lotions are the most hydrating, and can be applied to clean skin like a regular moisturiser. Lotions also tend to offer more even coverage, layering well for dramatic effect.2. Wax on, wax offHair removal is next on your pre-tan checklist. Wax or shave well before application (around 24 hours prior), to provide less hair resistance for tan absorption. This also minimises the chance of accidentally nicking colour away with your razor.3. Smooth operatorThe golden rule of sunless tanning: smooth skin equals self-tan success. Pamper yourself by taking the time to prepare and nourish your skin for a flawless tan.Showering prior to application washes away excess oil, while an exfoliation glove helps buff away dead skin cells (or remnants of a previous tan). This ensures the best base for a fresh application – smooth, soft skin.Make sure to moisturise rough patches, like the wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, feet and hairline, as an uneven surface can result in a patchy, streaky tan.4. Clever handiworkIt’s easy to create a natural shade across your entire body, including the palms of your hands. Avoid orange-tinted palms or residue beneath your fingernails by using latex gloves when applying your sunless tan.To apply tanning lotion to the back of your hands, use a cotton wool ball with a small amount of product. A helpful tip – add a little body moisturiser to blend product into your wrists and fingers to avoid streaking. This also applies for any smudges or mistakes.Generally speaking, acrylic nails or gel manicures and pedicures won’t be affected by self-tans. However, to be on the safe side, wipe your nails after each application as this will prevent contact stains.5. Work from the bottom upThe best time to start the tanning process is 30 minutes after showering, when your skin is most absorbent. A handy trick is to finish your shower with a short burst of cold water to shrink pores – this maximises even coverage.Apply the first layer of sunless tan, starting from the feet and ankles, and work your way back up. Don’t forget to apply to your back and neck. Self-tans can discolour your hair and eyebrows, so protect your hairline with a barrier cream if you’re applying tanner to your face. Again, mix with a small amount of moisturiser for an even application.Any leftover product should be used for the back of your hands and feet, making sure to blend well at the wrists and ankles to avoid a ‘tanning sleeve’.6. Skin careThe best way to prolong your summer glow is with effective skin aftercare.Unless you’re using an express formula, avoid showering for at least 10-12 hours, and wear loose clothing to allow the tanner to absorb.When showering after a tan, don’t worry about the colour washing away. The cosmetic bronzer will wash off to reveal a gorgeous, sun-kissed tan.Apply moisturising cream after your first shower and continue moisturising daily to extend the longevity of your tan.And drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin for a glow that lasts all year round.You don’t need to spend a fortune in a tanning salon to get a sun-kissed tan this summer. Simply follow our six tips and get the glow you’ve always wanted.Shop the Story: Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner
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FACE FACTS: YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO SENSITIVE SKIN CARE
Sensitive skin is becoming more common. The rising incidence of food allergies and intolerances, as well as changes to the environment, have seen an increase in people citing sensitivity as a skin concern.Skin sensitivity can manifest in different ways at different times, making it sometimes difficult to identify and treat. The good news is that sensitive skin can be soothed and managed with the right approach to skin care.Let’s take a look at the symptoms and causes of sensitive skin.The telltale symptoms of sensitive skinDrynessTightness, particularly after cleansingRedness or blotchinessIrritation – during a reaction, symptoms can include: itchiness, visible rashes or hives (welts on the skin), swelling, and a tingling, stinging or burning sensationIn addition, signs of sensitive skin can also include:BlemishesPremature ageing (due to dryness)What causes sensitive skin?AllergiesSudden skin sensitivities can be caused by a reaction to an ingredient or product. This could mean you have an allergy, even if a product hasn’t troubled you before. People can develop allergies with exposure over time, so it’s best to check in with a doctor just in case. Dermatologists can conduct a simple and effective skin patch or prick test, so you can learn which ingredients to avoid to find the right skin care products for you.Medical conditions and medicationsMedically diagnosed skin conditions like dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, rosacea and eczema increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity. Once you’ve identified skin care products that are safe for use, being consistent and diligent about your skin care ritual will help manage any symptoms.Some medications can also increase skin sensitivity, especially with exposure to the sun. Common culprits are certain antibiotics and painkillers, so always read the information on the pack or ask your pharmacist – you may need to take extra care and stay out of the sun during treatment.EnvironmentEven normal skin can become sensitised when faced with heavy pollution or excessive sun, heat, humidity, air conditioning, cold, wind, rain or snow. For example, you may notice your hands and face feel drier and more sensitive during winter. Ensure adequate hydration, both inside and out – make sure you drink lots of water, and apply a rich moisturiser to protect your skin against the elements.GenesNaturally sensitive skin is often an inherited genetic trait, just like other skin types (including dry skin). Many of the medically diagnosed skin conditions listed above are also genetic to some degree. If you’ve had a predisposition to sensitive skin for a while, it might be time to visit your doctor.LifestylePoor nutrition, alcohol, smoking, stress, dehydration and even use of harsh chemicals like household cleaners can all sensitise skin over time. Elimination can help identify external aggressors to avoid.What you wearFinally, clothing and jewellery can affect sensitive skin. Coarse fabrics like wool often irritate, as well as the chemicals found in laundry products such as washing powders and fabric softeners. Nickel, a metal found in costume jewellery, has also been known to trigger contact reactions.Swapping materials for natural fibres like cotton and bamboo, as well as using laundry solutions suited to sensitive skin, may help. With jewellery, remove at bedtime and buy stainless steel or sterling silver (and not just plating) to protect yourself against possible irritation.AgeingAgeing skin and changes in hormone levels can cause skin sensitivity. While some aspects lessen with age (e.g. blemishes), some others increase (e.g. dryness) as skin layers weaken and become more fragile.How to manage sensitive skinCleanseJust like all skin types, sensitive skin needs cleansing too. A gentle cleanser for the face like our Soothing Foaming Cleanser helps remove impurities and rebalances sensitivity with the power of Lavender.Using gentle products with natural ingredients will protect the skin against environmental aggressors, preserving the skin’s natural defences.SootheLook to specially formulated products like our Nurturing Mask to help reduce redness to hydrate and soothe skin. A gentle treatment mask, it contains nourishing plant oils and calming natural botanicals like Aloe Vera.HydrateA light moisturiser in warm weather will ensure optimal balance and hydration for sensitive skin. Our Soothing Day Care Lotion is a light-textured moisturising lotion to help calm and protect against daily environmental aggressors.For overnight protection, deeply hydrate and soothe sensitive skin with a serum like Calendula Redness Rescue Restorative Treatment Serum. This helps provide a natural protective barrier and restore the skin’s epidermal defences.Of course, don’t forget to keep up your water intake, too.AvoidSeek out natural skin care products, without common irritants like artificial colours and fragrances.Steer away from harsh exfoliants as they can aggravate sensitive skin. Pat, don’t rub, your face and body after showering, and finish with a lightweight moisturiser.Discard and replace any old makeup or skin care products, as well as medications or other topical treatments past their expiry date.TestIf you have sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to patch test any new products before using them – especially if they contain unfamiliar ingredients. If you’ve never done this before, please consult your doctor.Key natural botanicalsCalendulaKnown for its bright yellow and orange flowers, Calendula has pronounced soothing properties and is used to rebalance sensitivity on the skin and throughout the body. Calendula is excellent for calming, restoring and hydrating sensitive skin.Our Calendula Redness Rescue Soothing Moisturising Cream with Comfort Complex deeply hydrates and soothes, while protecting skin from environmental aggressors.ArnicaThe Arnica plant has a bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that has been used in homeopathic medicine for hundreds of years. Arnica is typically applied to the skin to soothe sensitivity, helping to rebalance and cool delicate areas.Our Arnica Cream helps soothe and calm the skin.LavenderWidely celebrated for its calming properties, Lavender is a hydrating and calming extract, used to rebalance dryness on the skin, leaving it soft and refreshed. Lavender’s characteristic fragrance is often used to promote restful sleep and aromatherapy relaxation.Our Calendula Lavender Hydrating Essence pairs two powerful botanicals to soothe sensitive skin. It’s an aromatic cleansing pre-treatment that softens the skin surface, opens up pores and soothes the senses.While it’s a complex and dynamic skin type, sensitive skin is usually very manageable. It just takes the right skin care approach to soothe, comfort and maintain that all-important balance for sensitive skin.Shop the Story: Sensitive Starter Set
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DISCOVER A DEEPER LEVEL OF SKIN HYDRATION
Activate your skin’s ability to retain moisture.Keeping your skin well-hydrated allows it to function normally, stay healthy, and retain its smooth and soft appearance. But there are many factors that can cause skin to become dehydrated – from the natural ageing process, to exposure to elements such as air conditioning, weather and pollution.Our new and highly concentrated Activating Water Essence, rich in Marshmallow Root Extract, delivers lasting hydration while protecting your skin from moisture loss. It leaves skin feeling soft and healthy, and ready to absorb the full benefits of the rest of your skin care ritual.AWE16_Blog_Hydration_BlogBanner1What’s truly innovative about this product?It captures the vital living energy of plants, activating skin in 3 ways:HydratesDelivers continuous hydration* and lasting moistureConditionsSmooths skin to provide a soft, supple complexion.RevitalisesRevitalises and re-energises for healthy-looking skin.This is why our Activating Water Essence is the essential step in every skin care ritual.88% of women said their skin felt continuously hydrated*Try our NEW Activating Water EssenceAWE16_Blog_Marshmallow_BlogBanner1*Based on a clinical survey of 52 women aged 25 to 50 who used Activating Water Essence twice daily for 14 days. +Certified biodynamic by the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia. Jurlique’s products and farm are not certified by or affiliated with Demeter® USA or Demeter International.
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NATURE’S HEALER: MARSHMALLOW ROOT
Most of us know Marshmallow as the pink or white confectionery. But the use of Marshmallow Root dates back to ancient times – and our ancestors knew there was much more to this plant than fluffy candy.Marshmallow Root’s botanical name, Althaea officinalis, reveals why it has been so revered throughout history. Althaea means “to heal” and the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates used Marshmallow as a wound treatment.Today, Marshmallow continues to be used to soothe and hydrate dry skin. The Marshmallow plant has short, rounded leaves and small, pale flowers. But it’s what’s in the root that makes this unique plant so effective. Marshmallow Root contains a high percentage of thick, syrup-like liquid called mucilage, which has intensive hydrating, softening and balancing properties.The Marshmallow Root’s ability to attract and retain water allows it to provide lasting hydration to the skin. It forms a protective barrier that helps rebalance dry skin and prevent moisture loss to leave skin feeling soft and smooth.This is why our founders, Ulrike and Jurgen Klein, made Marshmallow one of our founding crops at the Jurlique Farm more than 30 years ago. Today, we use Marshmallow Root Extract in over 70 Jurlique products, including our NEW Activating Water Essence.Activating Water EssenceWhat other ingredients are in our NEW Activating Water Essence?Calendula – Soothes, protects and moisturisesNeem – Conditions and soothesLavender – Hydrates and calmsRosemary – Invigorates and restoresHorsetail – Hydrates and balancesWitch Hazel – Clarifies and firmsNettle – Rebalances and refreshesPeach Leaf – Revitalises, regenerates and protectsIngredients
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THE ESSENTIAL STEP TO ACTIVATING SKIN HYDRATION IN YOUR RITUAL
Activating Water Essence is the essential step in every skin care ritual, and for every skin type.How to apply:1. Apply Activating Water Essence after your Toning Mist and before your serum. Your Toning Mist remains part of your cleansing ritual as it delivers instant and immediate surface hydration, and helps prepare your skin for Activating Water Essence.2. Pour a few drops of Activating Water Essence into the palm of your hand.3. Warm and gently press the essence over your face, neck and décolletage.4. Use morning and night as part of your Jurlique skin care ritual.Skin Care RitualWhere does Activating Water Essence fit into my ritual?Use your Activating Water Essence after your toning mist and before your serum. A mist prepares the skin whereas the essence activates deeper into the skin to provide the optimum environment to enhance the benefits of your serum.Try our NEW Activating Water EssenceActivating Water Essence
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FACE FACTS: YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO DRY SKIN
You know how you feel when your skin is healthy – beautiful, confident and happy. But what about when your skin is showing signs of distress?In this new series, ‘Face Facts’, we’ll cover your top skin concerns – like dry skin – by examining what they are, symptoms, causes and how to address them. Here, you’ll find the knowledge and tools you need to understand the forces impacting your skin, with a focus on reconnecting your body with your actions to address skin concerns in a holistic way.By nurturing your skin, you value and nurture yourself. Read on to learn how you can help your dry skin heal, to do just that.YOUR SKINYour skin protects your body from the world around you. It shields you from the elements, helps control body temperature and is responsible for your sense of touch.Skin is composed of two layers, the epidermis and dermis, and both have several layers of their own. The epidermis is your skin’s outermost layer and produces keratin, a protein that gives skin its protective nature (it also prevents moisture loss). The dermis is your skin’s underlying layer and produces collagen and elastin, proteins that give skin its strength and flexibility. The dermis is also where you’ll find the body’s oil and sweat glands, as well as hair follicles.Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so caring for your skin and paying attention to what it’s trying to tell you are essential for both your skin and your body’s health and wellbeing.WHAT IS DRY SKIN?Dry skin is moisture loss from your skin’s outermost layer, the epidermis.Epidermal skin cells have a 1-month cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. The topmost layers of epidermal cells, the stratum corneum and stratum lucidum, are the skin’s barrier zone, containing dead cells that hold water and waxy fat until they are shed. When functioning properly, these cell layers form snug grids, creating a waterproof matrix that safeguards healthy underlying skin.When your skin is dry, however, these cells lose moisture and shape, so their ability to protect underlying skin is compromised, with water escaping through the surface. The result? Visibly dry, scaly or flaking skin that feels rough to the touch. On the face, this is most common along its periphery, like your cheeks, jawline and chin (the ‘U-zone’).Prolonged dehydration increases your likelihood of sensitivity and premature ageing, so recognising dry skin as your skin in distress is the first step on the path to better looking skin.HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE DRY SKIN?Signs of dry skin can include:Scaliness or flakingRoughnessTightness, especially after cleansingAgeing, especially fine lines around the eyes where skin is thinnestWHAT CAUSES DRY SKIN? AND WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT?ENVIRONMENTDry air can cause dry skin. Seasonal extremes like cold winters and hot summers alter humidity levels, lessening the amount of moisture in the air and on your skin – icy winds and burning sun can make things worse. Even climate control like heating and air conditioning can dehydrate skin.To avoid this, cover extremities with extra layers like scarves and gloves that create a barrier against the winter chill; in summer, make sure to wear a hat and sunscreen. Indoors, a humidifier can counteract the effects of internal heating and cooling systems dehydrating your skin.Wild RosesHowever, if your skin is already dry, you will need to add moisture back in. A rich cream with Rose extract will replenish susceptible areas like your face and hands, and contains powerful antioxidants to improve skin health and vibrancy. Drinking more than 2 litres of water daily will also keep your body hydrated during times when skin is more prone to dryness.AGEINGAgeing can cause dry skin as your body’s hormone levels alter. Over time, estrogen production wanes, reducing the amount of collagen and elastin in skin – the proteins that give your skin its structure and elasticity. Skin oil (sebum) production also diminishes. The body’s thyroid function and metabolism slow, and cell turnover occurs less frequently, leaving dead skin cells to build up for longer on the surface. When menopause occurs, these dry skin contributors reach peak intensity, resulting in dry, itchy, and sometimes, cracked skin requiring regular attention and care.Anti-ageing CreamIn addition, sun damage caused by UV rays can cause dry skin, with photo-ageing giving skin a thick, leathery appearance.To combat age-related dry skin concerns, you need to prioritise pure, potent products that restore skin suppleness, plumpness and smoothness.At Jurlique, we’ve developed targeted pure and potent formulas to combine dry and age-related skin concerns. For visible signs of ageing, our Purely Age Defying Firming Face Oil smooths and evens the appearance of lines, tone, texture and wrinkles, and is best used overnight when skin restoration occurs. This moisturising oil contains ingredients like Safflower Oil to help re-forge the skin’s barrier function, as well as Avocado oil to moisturise more deeply.For mature skin with advanced signs of ageing, from deep lines and wrinkles to sagging and uneven texture, is the answer. This powerful anti-ageing serum helps skin feel retexturised and rejuvenated skin, with ingredients like Meadowfoam to deeply moisturise and soothe dry, itchy areas on the face, as well as Oat extract to form a protective film to protect against future dryness.DIETDrinking caffeine and alcohol dehydrates the body, with your skin directly seeing the effects. Recognising the impact of your lifestyle on your skin is pivotal to swapping these behaviours for new ones that will help your skin back to health.Healthy SaladLimiting caffeine and alcohol intake goes a long way to reversing the effects of skin dryness. If you’re really going to miss your morning coffee or tea, there are always other options, such as matcha, a type of green tea that gives you all the benefits of caffeine, but without the jitteriness or afternoon crashes.TOPICAL ACNE PREPARATIONSSome acne preparations can cause dry skin as a treatment side effect. Alcohol-based products, often recommended for their anti-bacterial properties, can lead to skin dryness and peeling, even irritation.Switch to a blemish cream with less drying ingredients, and products containing Calendula extract to help soothe redness and rebalance sensitivity.SKIN TYPESome skin types are simply dryer than others thanks to our genetics. If this is you, then preventative action, as well as looking out for dry skin symptoms (like tightness after cleansing and scaliness or flaking), will help you manage dry skin.If you’ve only just begun to experience dry skin, our Hydration Starter Set has everything you need to replenish and protect: Rose Moisture Plus Moisturising Cleanser, Moisture Replenishing Day Cream, Skin Balancing Face Oil and Rosewater Balancing Mist. This set targets dehydration and prevents moisture loss and environmental aggressors, using Rose extract to achieve your skin’s perfect balance of water and oil for optimum hydration.Your skin is a barometer for what’s going on in your body, and your life. Treat it well, and you’ll enjoy a long, happy relationship together.SHOP THE STORYMoisture Replenishing Day CreamMoisture Replenishing Day CreamRose Hand CreamRose Hand CreamPurely Age Defying Firming Face OilPurely Age Defying Firming Face OilBlemish CreamBlemish Cream 15mlHydration Starter SetHydration Starter Set
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