What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is skin that is easily irritated and more reactive than normal skin. Symptoms of sensitive skin can include red, dry or tight skin which may feel hot or sore to touch. Symptoms may be constant, or come and go depending on what causes them. 

What causes sensitive skin?

There are many factors that may contribute to skin sensitivities. Skin conditions such as Rosacea and Eczema are often associated with sensitive skin as they can cause skin to be more reactive. Other causes of skin sensitivities may include extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or sun, stress, fatigue or even dietary habits.

How can I treat it?

There are many things to consider when looking after sensitive skin. In this post, we share our 5 top tips and some of our best product suggestions to help you calm and nourish your skin.  Keep reading to find out more!

1. Prioritize your cleansing routine

Pictured:  ARK Skincare's Skin Essential Pre-Cleanse & Make-Up Remover

Cleansing is one of the single most important things you can do for your skin. Throughout the day, bacteria is attracted to our skin through touch, sweat and environmental pollutants.

If bacteria is left on the skin, it can linger, grow and contribute to early ageing, pigmentation and breakouts. Therefore, double cleansing is essential for removing make-up, daily grime and excess oils to ensure skin is left thoroughly cleansed. 

If you are new to the idea of double cleansing, we have lots of helpful information in our previous blog posts including a Q&A with ARK Skincare’s CEO Tamsin Styles (here) and a step-by-step guide on how to cleanse your face properly (here). 

 You may also like to take a look at our Pre-Cleanse & Make-Up Remover. The effective oil based-formulation attracts excess oils and lifts grime and bacteria from the surface while nourishing the skin with a blend of essential oils. To learn more about this product and read some of our fabulous customer reviews, click here to head over to our website.

2. Cleanse your skin with lukewarm water

Cleansing with hot water strips skin of its natural oils & can exacerbate sensitivities, so it is always best to cleanse your face with lukewarm water instead. Lukewarm water helps to loosen the dirt and grime, but preserves your skin's natural hydrating oils.

Once you have finished cleansing, make sure to gently pat your skin dry with a cotton face cloth. Avoid rubbing your skin as this may cause irritation.

3. Use gentle skincare products to soothe and nourish your skin

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Perfectors 

If you suffer from sensitive skin, it is important to steer away from products with any harsh ingredients that may cause irritation. Instead, choose skincare products which contain high-quality natural ingredients that will gently soothe and nourish your skin. 

Here at ARK Skincare, all of our products contain a high percentage of natural ingredients, created with sensitive skin in mind. We ensure our formulations are FREE FROM Parabens, SLS, mineral oil, S.D. Alcohol, Formaldehyde, and Artificial Colours & Fragrances as we understand avoiding these irritants is the first step in achieving optimum skin health. 

We also use hard-working active ingredients in all of our products which are  carefully selected to help nourish and soothe the skin. Allantoin & Bisabolol are used in many of our product collections and are especially gentle, making them ideal for sensitive skin. 

Allantoin offers exceptional healing, moisturising, and soothing properties, making it perfect for use on sore or irritated skin. It is found naturally in most organisms, and is the active ingredient in Comfrey Root which has been used for centuries in medicinal preparations. 

Allantoin's anti inflammatory and highly efficient hydrating properties make it a skin calming "must have" for anyone with skin sensitivities. Clinical trials demonstrated a significant decrease in irritation; a reduction in redness; and an increase in moisture content after application. It can help heal and protect skin. 

Find Allantoin in the ARK Skincare Reverse Gravity Eye Cream; Hydrating Beauty Mist; Radiance Serum;  Plumping Lip Cream; and Intensive Hand & Nail Cream. 

Bisabolol, is found in soothing Chamomile, but can also be sourced from the Candeia Tree in Brazil. It is a natural remedy which soothes very sensitive and easily inflamed, or irritated skin, and can also assist the absorption of other active ingredients. It has anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been widely used for centuries to help calm and soothe and heal. In addition it can help fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone giving a brighter complexion.

Bisabolol is an active ingredient in the ARK Skincare De Stress Serum and the Conditioning Body Serum.

To learn more about our soothing products and learn more about the key-active ingredients we use, click here to visit the ARK Skincare website. 

4. Keep to a simple and consistent routine

While we know it can feel tempting to try lots of different products with the hope to treat sensitivities, doing so may overstimulate your skin and actually do more harm than good.

To keep your skin calm, resist the urge to chop and change between lots of products. Instead, create a simple routine with a selection of high-quality products which is easy for you to stick to. Consistency is key. 

Have you ever heard of a skin cycle? The skin cycle is where a new skin cell is formed at the deepest layer of the epidermis and works its way up to the surface of the skin. On average a skin cycle is 5-6 weeks. Therefore, we would recommend trying any new products for at least 6 weeks to see results. 

If you know your skin is particularly sensitive, we would always recommend patch testing any new products on a small area such as the side of your neck before applying it to a larger area to ensure your skin reacts well.

It is also a good idea to add new products to your routine one by one over a matter of days. This means that if your skin were to react to a product, you will be able to determine which one it was and narrow down which ingredients your skin may be sensitive to. 

5. Remember to apply your SPF 

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer 

The sun’s ultraviolet rays (UV) rays can cause multiple skin issues including premature aging, pigmentation and increased sensitivity. SPF products help to shield skin from these harmful ways and ensure it is kept protected. Look out for broad ‘spectrum’ protection which will protect your skin against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) radiation. You can learn more about the importance of wearing SPF by visiting our blog. 

ARK Skincare’s Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer offers broad spectrum protection as well as working as your daily moisturiser and the perfect make-up primer, tackling 3 jobs in one. 

If you are experiencing soreness, redness, irritation, inflammation or tightness please do look at our collection of products curated for such concerns.

ARK Skincare’s Sensitivity & Redness collection is filled with products that utilise natural ingredients with proven soothing and anti-redness properties to de-stress and calm irritated skin, reducing the signs of redness. Plus, each of these formulations have undergone independent testing to verify their suitability for sensitive skin. 

To learn more about our products, you can visit our website www.arkskincare.com, or follow us on social media! @arkskincare 

For personal recommendations, please contact our customer care team who will be more than happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Sensitivity & Redness Collection, formulated for sensitive skins

Here at ARK Skincare, all of our products are created with a high percentage of natural ingredients, with sensitive skin in mind. We ensure our formulations are FREE FROM Parabens, SLS, mineral oil, S.D. Alcohol, Formaldehyde, and Artificial Colours & Fragrances as we know that avoiding these irritants is the first step in achieving optimum skin health. 

In this week's post, we focus on a selection of products which contain botanical complexes clinically proven to soothe, calm and protect. Plus, these formulas have all undergone independent testing to verify their suitability for sensitive skin.

Skin Perfector De-Stress Serum 

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Perfector De-Stress Serum

Are you suffering from stress or fatigue? The combination of stress and tiredness can often have a negative impact on your skin, leaving it feeling tight, dry or irritated. 

ARK Skincare’s De-Stress Serum is especially designed to protect the skin against pollution, environmental factors and stress. Packed with antioxidants, this highly protective serum acts as a second skin, helping to shield stressed, tired skin. 

Vitamin E offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, whilst Grapeseed Oil provides a silky feel to the skin. Bisabolol, found in Chamomile, also works as an anti-inflammatory and helps to calm and soothe irritation. Rasmaranic Acid defends against free radicals (these are unstable molecules that can cause damage to your skin cells).

This serum is perfect for those whose skin is suffering from stress, fatigue or environmental damage as it works to bring the skin back to optimal health. 

Apply 2-3 drops directly onto clean, dry skin before moisturiser, or mix into your moisturiser and apply together.

Skin Perfector Anti-Redness Serum 

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Perfector Anti-Redness Serum

Do you suffer from redness, facial flushing or tightened, sensitive skin? ARK Skincare’s Anti-Redness Serum has received numerous positive reviews and has helped many of our lovely customers who suffer from skin concerns to reduce the appearance of redness. 

This popular formulation contains a botanical complex which is clinically proven to calm and protect irritated skin. A blend of ingredients including Solomon’s seal, Arnica & Cypress help to decrease inflammation and stop redness in its tracks, minimising the appearance of redness associated with Rosacea. 

Sunflower Oil soothes and maintains moisture levels by protecting the skin's natural barrier, helping to keep it feeling soft and supple. Defensil reduces itching, dryness and flushing. 

Perfect for people of all ages who struggle with redness, facial flushing or itchy, inflamed skin. Our Anti-Redness Serum will leave your skin feeling cool and calm with redness and irritation diminished. 

Apply 2-3 drops directly onto clean, dry skin before moisturiser, or mix into your moisturiser and apply together.

Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque & Gua Sha Jade Facial Tool 

The perfect weekly treatment for those suffering from dry or dull looking skin.

ARK Skincare’s Hydration Injection Masque drenches the skin in hydration, helping to boost moisture levels and offer 24 hour protection against water loss, helping to keep the skin feeling soft and plumped. 

A vitamin blend helps to restore vibrancy - Vitamin A to regulate collagen synthesis; Vitamin B5 for smoothness; Vitamin C to fade pigmentation & Vitamin E to prevent free radical damage.

Hyaluronic Acid optimises water circulation of water through all skin layers, helping to keep skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Sugar Beet & Abyssinian Oil intensely nourish the skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth. 

Perfect for anybody suffering from dry, dull or sensitive skin. The bioactive ingredients ensure skin looks rested, restored to health, and with a youthful glow.

 Use once or twice per week. Apply a thin layer to cleansed skin, avoiding the delicate eye area. Leave on as stated below, depending on your skin’s age-related needs:

 Teens and twenties: Leave on for approximately 5 minutes.

Thirties and forties: Leave on for approximately 10 minutes. 

Fifties and onwards: Leave on for approximately 20 minutes. 

Use overnight for an intensive treatment. 

Remove with a cloth soaked in hand-warm water. Pat dry.

Skin Essential Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Essential Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer

Exposure to the sun is a common sensitivity for those with rosacea. Protect your skin with our SPF 30 Primer which acts as your skin-perfecting daily defence by shielding skin against UVA & UVB rays.  

Shea Butter works as a natural UV filter, protects, nurtures and regenerates skin cells whilst working as an anti-inflammatory. Sunflower, rich in Vitamin E, soothes, calms, heals and hydrates, making it suitable for those who suffer from skin sensitivities such as eczema or acne. Hyaluronic Acid optimises the circulation of water throughout all layers of the skin. The airbrush finish also makes this the perfect primer to apply before make-up application for a flawless complexion. 

Perfect for those who are looking for a daily moisturiser, sun protector and make-up primer all in one or those who are looking for an additional boost of hydration and SPF protection to apply on top of their daily moisturiser. 

Apply a generous amount to cleansed skin in the morning, alone or over your moisturiser, before applying make-up

Skin Essential Hydrating Beauty Mist 

Our intensely refreshing beauty mist helps to cool and calm irritated skin. Ideal for those prone to facial flushing, it soothes and protects whilst adding a veil of hydration.

An Amino Acid Complex mimics the skin's natural moisturising function to soften and smooth, while Hyaluronic Acid aids hydration, reduces roughness and relieves dry skin. Goji & Blue Lotus provide high concentrations of essential nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants with detoxifying and antioxidant properties. The perfect handbag savior, make-up refresher and hydration hit throughout the day. 

Before make-up: Spritz onto cleansed skin before proceeding with a serum or moisturiser to trap an extra layer of moisture into the skin. 

For a dewy look: Spritz after applying powder makeup to give a dewy finish.

To refresh makeup: Spitz over face prior to reapplying or touching up makeup. It ensures make up reapplies with ease.

To refresh, cool and calm: Spritz as required when hot and bothered in warm climates; when travelling; or when feeling flushed. The natural scent of wild water mint will revive you.

During exercise: Spritz to cool, calm and refresh. Perfect for use during a yoga or Pilates class.

If you suffer from sensitive skin and would like to learn more about these products, click here to visit our website. Should you have any questions or need further product advice, please feel free to contact us via office@arkskincare.com and our customer care team will be more than happy to assist you. 

Fore more product information, reviews and other latest news you can follow us on socials! @arkskincare

What Is Maskne?

Sadly wearing masks has now become a normal part of our daily routines. Whilst we all appreciate why they are needed in the fight against COVID-19 masks can unfortunately be uncomfortable for some, and may also cause skin concerns to emerge for others. The combined effects of friction from wearing a mask, together with the warm moist environment they create, can cause redness, sensitivity, and breakouts which are being called Maskne. Those with inflammatory conditions such as Eczema or Rosacea are particularly at risk.

Maske may result from both the physical irritation of using a mask, as well as the increased opportunity for bacteria to collect.

The human mouth is teeming with bacteria. Human bites can be as dangerous as or even more dangerous than animal bites because of the types of bacteria and viruses contained in our mouths. Each time we exhale we omit high levels of these bacteria and viruses, and by wearing a mask we trap them close to the skin. As the bacteria and viruses collect, they thrive and multiply in the warm humid environment. The increase in skin temperature caused by covering the face may also cause more oil to be produced by the sebaceous glands. Excess oil can block pores and hair follicles, trapping the bacteria, and causing breakouts and acne.

Face masks need to fit snugly to be effective, and the pressure and friction caused by face coverings can cause microtears to the epidermis which is thinner on the face than on other parts of the body. These microtears can allow bacteria to more easily penetrate the skin. Different types of masks may cause different issues to emerge. Fabric masks which are often made from cotton may absorb natural oils causing dryness and sensitivity, whilst surgical masks can cause more friction irritation. All masks should only be used once, and not touched during use. When using disposable masks remember to dispose of them responsibly, and use a new one each time required. For reusable masks make sure you carefully consider the detergent used to wash them with. Harsh laundry liquids and fabric conditioners may cause a whole host of other sensitivity issues!

We are afraid there is more bad news. Stress is also a well-known trigger for breakouts and sensitivities. We have all lived through very stressful times associated with the global pandemic and this, combined with the problems associated with wearing protective facial coverings discussed above, means we all need a fastidious skincare regime to combat the adverse effects seen as Maskne.

 What can we do to prevent Maskne?

Here are our top tips to prevent Maskne:

1. Use a clean mask each time a mask is required. Always dispose of single-use masks as soon as you remove them. Always wash reusable masks after they have been worn. Ensure you use gentle, perfume-free laundry detergent.
2. Avoid the use of makeup under your mask. This increases the chance for pores and hair follicles to become blocked.
3. Undertake a fastidious skincare regime to ensure skin is clean and hydrated. Look for FREE FROM products which do not contain known irritants.Ensure your products are rich in antioxidants to fight free radicals.
4. Do not overstimulate your skin. Use a balancing collection of products to clean and calm. Do not be tempted to use excessive products or switch regularly between treatments. Be consistent with your skincare regime. 

Shop our best picks for Maskne treatment and prevention here

How To Optimise Your Skin Care Routine To Prevent & Treat Maskne

1. Prioritise your cleansing routine

While wearing masks and breathing into them, we create a warm damp area for bacteria to grow, making double cleansing more important than ever to ensure our skin is clean. A first cleanse will help to remove any make-up, dirt and bacteria and the second will clean deeper into the pores, preventing any new blemishes. Opt for a high-quality cleanser with gentle ingredients that will clean the skin thoroughly without causing irritation. 

2. Remember your weekly treatments

Another way to prevent Maskne is by giving your skin a treat with a gentle exfoliator to scrub away dead skin and excess oil. This can help reveal a clearer complexion and avoid pores from becoming blocked. 

3. Choose a serum to treat your skin concerns

If you already have Maskne which needs treating, you may find a serum will give you the additional help you need to clear it up. Add a few drops of your serum of choice to specific problem areas, or simply mix in with your moisturiser before applying.

4. Be consistent with your routine 

Make sure to stay consistent with your products and routine to keep your skin balanced. Remember that less is more and a short yet simple routine will be easier to make a habit and keep up with. Choose products wisely by opting for natural ingredients you can trust will nourish your skin. 

With all these tips in mind, here are ARK Skincare's top picks to help you prevent and treat Maskne.  

ARK Skincare's Top Products To Help You Tackle Maskne

Skin Essential Pre-Cleanse & Make-Up Remover

You might be asking yourself if you really need to cleanse twice and now more than ever, the answer is yes! Whether you wear make-up or not, a double cleanse is essential for healthy skin. The first cleanse will remove any traces of dirt, pollution and airborne bacteria from the surface of your skin and the second cleanse will clean deeper into your pores.

Our popular Pre-Cleanse and Make-up remover is described as a spa treatment in a bottle. It's great for removing the first level of grime while active ingredients such as Grapeseed, Avocado and Kiwi Oil deeply nourish skin and protect against dryness. Another key ingredient, Margosa Leaf Extract, destroys bacteria and inhibits its growth on the skin.

How to use: Apply onto dry skin before cleansing with dry hands. Massage in gently all over the face before adding water to form a thin liquid emulsion. Continue massaging then rinse off with warm water. Follow with your Age Intelligent Cleanser.

Age Intelligent Cleansers

After your first pre-cleanse, follow up with the second. ARK Skincare offers three age intelligent cleansers, with nourishing active ingredients specifically for each age group. 

Specifically designed for your teens & 20's

Banishes spots & excess sebum

The best cleanser for your teens and 20s. Our soap-free facial cleanser has been designed especially with younger skin in mind. It cleverly balances oily and dry areas to leave skin clear and comfortable. Natural ingredients ensure skin is treated gently while spots and excess sebum are banished. Your new best friend.

AgeDefend Conditioning Cleanser 

Specifically designed for your 30's & 40's 

Gentle formula, perfect for sensitive skin

The best cleanser for your 30s and 40s. This ultra-nourishing cleanser helps with skin’s natural exfoliation for a clear, radiant complexion. Effectively removes make-up & excess sebum leaving skin clean, plump and supple. Perfect for sensitivities as the natural ingredients soothe redness and inflammation too. 

AgeDefy Brightening Cleanser

Specifically designed for your 50's onwards

Reduces pigmentation, softens lines

The best cleanser for your 50s onwards. This rich creamy cleanser is the perfect choice for more mature skin. It effectively removes debris and impurities while treating the skin to a combination of vitamins, antioxidants and lipids. Skin becomes brighter and softer while lines and wrinkles are plumped. 

How to use: Apply to damp skin and massage in gently for 60 seconds before gently rinsing off with water. 

Skin Perfector Serums

If you’re looking to tackle specific skin concerns caused by Maskne, our hard-working skin-perfecting serums will make the perfect addition to your skin-care routine to help you battle them. 

Clearing Serum

Banishes bacteria, tightens pores

For a solution to spots and blemishes, our clearing serum is the one for you. Filled with anti-bacterial properties, it’s the perfect remedy for acne and can even help prevent it by regulating sebum production and reducing excess oil and shine.

Destress Serum

Diminishes look of fatigue

If you’re suffering tired or irritated skin, try our De-stress serum.  This highly protective serum acts as a second skin and helps to reduce the signs of fatigue caused by environmental and lifestyle stresses. Chamomile provides soothing relief for irritation and Vitamin E and Grapeseed Oil boost moisture levels, leaving skin feeling silky and supple.

How to use: Apply one or two drops directly to problem areas or mix in with your daily moisturiser and apply all over the face.

Triple Action Exfoliator

Our three in one exfoliating treatment with physical, fruit acid and enzymatic action has everything you need to give your skin a generous treat.

Bamboo particles help to gently scrub away dead skin, dirt and debris from the surface, creating a flawless, polished texture while Alpha Hydroxyl Acids (AHAs) from Bilberry, Sugar Cane, Sugar Maple, Orange and Lemon increase the range of cell renewal, helping to diminish acne scars and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The Skin Regenerating Enzyme dissolves desmosomes to release dead skin cells, fade pigmentation and improve nutrient absorption.

How to use: Use once or twice per week. Apply to dampened face and neck. Wet hands and massage lightly into skin using circular movements, avoiding the delicate eye area.

Leave on as stated below, depending on your skin’s age-related needs:

Teens and twenties: Wash off after massaging in.

Thirties and forties: Leave on for approximately 2 minutes.

Fifties and onwards: Leave on for approximately 5 minutes.

Remove with a cloth soaked in hand-hot water. (Please note this product will not simply rinse off, it does need to be removed with a warm cloth. Using a cloth should make removal easy) Pat dry. 

Hydration Injection Masque

Rejuvenating treatment, restores vibrancy

Or rejuvenating treatment masque is the ideal weekly pick me up for skin which looks tired, stressed or lacking in radiance.

The masque instantly cools and calms and can bring instant relief to irritation and redness while Hyaluronic Acid drenches skin with moisture, optimizing the circulation of water through all skin layers and providing 24-hour protection against water loss - perfect for dry skin. It also includes a blend of hard-working vitamins to regulate collagen synthesis and protect against UV damage.

To view all of these products in full detail you can head over to the ARK Skincare website by clicking here.

If you need any help or product advice, please do get in touch via office@arkskincare.com or call the office on 0203 7403303 - we'd love to help!

In the meantime, keep remembering to wash your mask in-between uses to keep your skin as clean as you can!

As we all work together in the battle against Coronavirus be kind to your skin.

Take care & stay safe, 

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-the-Epidermis.aspx

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

https://www.verywellhealth.com/sebaceous-glands-1069374

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/beauty/skin/face-masks-become-mandatory-prevent-maskne/

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/cope-maskne-mask-related-acne/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-8374545/How-magic-away-Maskne-Thats-curse-spots-caused-Covid-mask.html

We’re certain we’re not the only ones who are thrilled to have some normality back after the unbelievable few months we’ve all had. However, keeping ourselves safe and well is still as important as ever, so as well as remembering to keep our distance and wear our masks in shops, washing our hands should still be a top priority. With that in mind, in this post, we'll be focusing on our popular Vitality Hand & Body Wash. 

Why It’s So Important To Wash Your Hands 

When germs and bacteria get into your body, they can make you sick. The most common way germs get into the body is through the eyes, nose and mouth - places we often touch without even realizing.  Bacteria from unwashed hands can also be transferred to other objects, like handrails, tabletops, or toys, and then transferred to another person’s hands. Therefore, it’s really important to keep your hands clean to avoid picking up or spreading germs around. 

How To Wash Your Hands

No, a quick splash of water under the tap doesn't count! To clean your hands properly, it’s really important to lather up with a good quality soap and use enough to ensure your hands are completely covered before rinsing them off. Always make sure to dry your hands properly too as this will help avoid them getting cracked and dry. To keep hands nourished, follow up with ARK's Intensive Hand & Nail Cream.

ARK Skincare’s Vitality Hand & Body Wash

Our popular hand and body wash is a firm favorite of many for its gorgeous scent and gentle, softening properties. Our soap-free wash is made from 98% natural ingredients, perfect for those who suffer from eczema or sensitive skin. 

Natural active ingredients include: 

• Coconut - An amazing natural cleanser which also helps to improve skin's texture. 
• Sea Minerals - Helps to strengthen the skin tissues, maintain the chemical balance of the skin, stimulate blood circulation and eliminate toxins.
• Vitamin B5 - helps to keep skin soft, smooth, and healthy. It is also deeply hydrating and helps keep skin quenched by absorbing moisture from the air. 

How & When Should I Use It?

 Our wash can be used as a hand or body wash - the perfect 2 in 1!  Use it on your hands, in the shower, or add to a running bath to create soft, fresh-smelling bubbles to soak in. 

Press & Awards

FINALIST - Best New Bath & Shower Product - Pure Beauty Awards 2019

“Gentle enough for use throughout all stages of pregnancy & beyond” Babyworld

"This is so beautiful, so hydrating, and clears up my eczema flare-ups with no problem!" - Boy Does Beauty, Skincare Blogger

Free Gift With Purchase! 

For a limited time only, you can receive a FREE Vitality Hand & Body Wash when you spend over £49 this weekend! Head over to the ARK Skincare website to find out more. 

Many of us are experiencing dry skin as lockdown takes its toll. Feeling stressed, taking less exercise, and spending more time indoors can all affect our skin. Here are our 5 top tips and favorite products to help keep your skin hydrated. 

1. Say No To Steamy Showers

2. Remember your fruits and veggies! 

A daily dose of fruit and vegetables is essential for your diet. There is a proportional amount of water in these foods that can be absorbed by the body, helping to keep you hydrated and give your skin the vitamins it needs for a natural, radiant glow. 

3. Drink plenty of water

Hydration starts from within. Like the rest of your body, your skin is made up of water. We lose a significant amount of water every day, so it’s important to replenish your body to allow it to function at its best. The NHS suggests you should aim for 8 glasses a day. 

4. Go easy on alcohol 

One of the biggest effects alcohol has on the skin is dehydration. Consuming too much can lead to puffiness and inflammation. Alcoholic drinks are often high in sugar too, so overindulging too often can also lead to break-outs and dull complexion. It's important to enjoy a treat now and again but remember to stay mindful! 

5. Invest in natural skincare products 

Image: ARK Skincare's Hydrating Beauty Mist

Healthy, glowing skin is a great way to boost anybody's self-confidence.  When we look good, we feel great. Take care of your skin by opting for products with a high percentage of natural ingredients to help nurture and hydrate your skin. ARK Skincare offers three different age intelligent ranges, specifically designed for each age group, helping to achieve beautiful skin at every age. We also have multiple other ranges, such as our Skin Perfectors to help you tackle specific skin concerns and our Skin Essentials to help you create the perfect daily skincare routine. 

Here are some of our top picks to help you keep your skin hydrated:

Hydrating Serum

Cocoons skin with hydration

Our best-selling serum instantly hydrates dry, thirsty skin and locks in moisture. Ingredients include Laminaria Algae and cucumber extract which help to freshen and restore the skin’s texture and suppleness. Add 2-3 drops directly onto clean skin before moisturiser or blend with moisturiser and apply together. 

Reverse Gravity Eye Cream

Instantly tightens and hydrates skin, while fading dark circles & diminishing puffiness

This instant-effect eye cream contains multiple powerhouse ingredients to help lift, tone and hydrate the eye area. BeautifuleyeTM, created from Persian silk tree extract, is proven to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, while Amino acids boost moisture levels to plump skin and minimize signs of aging. Aloe Vera helps to calm and nurture dry, sensitive eyes. 

Hydration Injection Masque

A Rejuvenating treatment to restore vibrancy 

An intensive multivitamin hydration injection masque to quench skin, plump wrinkles and restore vibrancy. This rejuvenating treatment masque is the ideal weekly pick me up for skin which looks tired, stressed or lacking in radiance.

Rich in hyaluronic acid, this is the perfect product to drench skin with moisture and provide protection against water loss. Give your skin a boost with vitamin C to fade pigmentation, Vitamin E to prevent free radical damage and Vitamin B5 for smoothness. 

ARK Skincare’s Dehydrated Skin Rescue Kit

For a limited time only, you can purchase these three products, plus a tote bag as part of our Dehydrated Skin Rescue Kit for over 50% off. Click here to view on the ARK Skincare website.

References: 

Alyaka -  5 No-Nonsense Habits To Keep Skin Hydrated Naturally

Insider - Here's How Cutting Out Alcohol Can Affect Your Skin 

Elle - Real Affects Alcohol Can Have On Your Skin 

Cosmopolitan - How To Hydrate Your Skin

What is Eczema?

Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is the most common form of eczema, a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, dry and cracked. It can affect any part of the body but is most common on hands, the insides of elbows and the back of knees.

Causes of Eczema

Unfortunately, there isn’t one specific cure for eczema. Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and prevent flare-ups of symptoms.

Here are our top tips for managing symptoms and keeping them under control.