The clocks have sprung forward, the weather is starting to get warmer and spring has officially begun! We are so looking forward to the longer days and some normality returning in the next few months… 

Now is the perfect time to be thinking about how you can adapt your skincare routine for the change in season. With that in mind, in this post, we share our 7 top spring skincare tips to help you keep your skin looking fresh, radiant and glowing.

1. Practice a Double Cleansing Routine

If there is one thing you should know about the team at ARK Skincare, it’s that we’re passionate about double cleansing. 

If you didn’t cleanse your skin properly, your pores may become congested which could lead to unwanted skin concerns, meaning that cleansing thoroughly is one of the most important things you can do to keep your skin clear and healthy. 

 Cleansing thoroughly also helps to create a clean surface before applying your skincare products, helping them to absorb properly into your skin.

For your first cleanse, choose an oil based cleanser. Oil cleansers are very efficient ways of removing make-up, dirt and excess sebum from the skin. Cleansing oils also prevent congestion and shine without stripping away natural oils needed for healthy balanced skin. 

Once you’ve removed make-up and grime from the surface, it’s time to clean deeper. For your second cleanse, opt for an age specific cleanser with high-quality ingredients. The second cleanse will help to ensure your skin is left thoroughly clean while the active-ingredients help to nourish your skin.

2. Wash your make up brushes

It’s time to be honest...When was the last time you cleaned your make-up brushes?

 We know it may feel like a chore, but the truth is that keeping your brushes clean is extremely important for your skin’s health. 

Overtime, make-up brushes accumulate bacteria, oil and dead skin cells. So, if you use your brushes over and over without cleaning them, you will increase the risk of spreading bacteria to your skin which can lead to skin concerns such as clogged pores, break-outs and dullness. 

Get into the habit of cleaning your brushes regularly to reduce a buildup of bacteria. Experts suggest cleaning your tools once a week. Keeping brushes clean will also keep the bristles soft and be less irritating to the skin. It also reduces the risk of contaminating your make-up products. 

3. Spring Clean Your Skincare 

At this time of year many of us find it useful to have a spring clean and sort through our things - but have you tidied your skincare recently?

If you are someone with a collection of lots of different products, now may be a good time to sort through what you’re using and what you may need to get rid of. Especially during lockdown, time can often pass without us realising, so it may be time to check those expiry dates too! 

You may also like to think about cleaning where you store your skincare products. We know how grubby make-up bags and draws can get...

4. Use a clean mask with every use and make sure to wash regularly 

Ideally, each time we go out, we should be using a fresh face mask every time to reduce the spread of the virus, and also spreading bacteria to our skin.

Throughout the pandemic, many have opted for reusable masks. While there are many benefits to reusables, like being more environmentally friendly and choosing our own designs, it can also mean many of us become guilty of wearing the same mask over and over without cleaning it as regularly as we should be. 

Wearing a mask is not very kind to our skin to start with. It covers our mouth and nose, trapping our breath and creates a warm, moist environment for bacteria to grow. So, not  only can re-wearing your mask make it less effective, but can also risk spreading more bacteria to your skin. 

To avoid spreading bacteria to your skin, have 3-4 reusable masks to hand so you can alternate while you wash your used ones. 

5. Don't Forget to Exfoliate

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Triple Action Exfoliator

With the warmer weather on its way, it’s time to buff away winter skin and reveal a brighter and more luminous complexion.

 Have you tried ARK Skincare’s Triple Action Exfoliator? 

This clever formulation exfoliates the skin in three different ways with three different exfoliants: physical, fruit acid and enzymatic.  The physical exfoliant is made from bamboo particles which gently slough through dead skin and grime from the surface, leaving skin with a smooth, polished texture. 

Alpha Hydroxyl Acids from Bilberry, Sugar Cane, Sugar Maple, Orange and Lemon increase the range of cell renewal, helping to diminish scars and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The Skin Regenerating Enzyme dissolves desmosomes (adhesive proteins that can cause dead cells to build up on your skin), to release dead skin cells, fade pigmentation and improve nutrient absorption. 

Gently massage into the skin and follow the instructions depending on your age. Click here to learn more! 

6. Don’t forget to apply (and reapply) your SPF!

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer 

The warmer weather is on its way and along with the sun comes stronger UV rays, meaning it’s important to layer up your SPF to keep your skin protected. 

Time to reach for ARK Skincare’s Skin Protector SPF30 Primer. This award winning formula provides broad spectrum sun protection (from UVA and UVB rays) while Hyaluronic Acid Booster helps to smooth and hydrate skin. Apply alone as a daily moisturiser, on top of your age intelligent moisturiser for added sun protection, or as a primer before applying make-up. 

Make sure to re-apply throughout the day for maximum protection.

7. Add a Layer of Hydration 

Pictured: ARK Skincare's Hydrating Serum 

During the winter months, skin has been hiding under our scarfs, jumpers and cosy loungewear, but now that the warmer weather is here, skin is exposed more to the surrounding environment and therefore, prone to dryness. Make sure to apply a nourishing moisturiser and body lotion to keep your skin soft and supple. 

If you’re looking for an intense boost of hydration, try ARK Skincare’s Hydrating Serum. Cucumber extract hydrates and improves elasticity, whilst Laminaria Algae traps water molecules in the skin to prevent water loss. Perfect for those suffering from dry or rough skin. Simply apply 2-3 drops to cleansed skin, or mix into your daily moisturiser for an added layer of hydration.

We hope that you find these tips helpful in the transition into spring... Do you have any other skincare tips you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you! Tag us at  @arkskincare. 

To learn more about the products mentioned and the rest of the ARK Skincare range, head over to our website! www.arkskincare.com

Dry skin, chapped lips, sore hands?

 The colder weather and lack of Vitamin D in the winter months is proven to have an affect on your skin - but we're here to help!

In this post, we share our top tips on how you can protect your skin and give it everything it needs to thrive.

1. SPF is still (very) Important!

Just because we have less sun doesn’t mean you should put away your sunscreen. While UVB rays tend to be a lot weaker, UVA rays can still penetrate through clouds and reach our skin meaning we’re still at risk of damage. Therefore, it’s extremely important to remember to apply SPF to ensure you’re protected.

ARK’s SPF 30 Primer is the perfect daily moisturiser, make-up primer and skin protector all in one. It is also a broad spectrum SPF meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays so you can rest assured that you're taking care of your skin.

You can read more about the importance of SPF here. 

2. Keep Hydrated 

“Healthy skin starts from within…”

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. If your skin is not getting a sufficient amount of water, the lack of hydration can present itself by turning your skin dry, tight and flaky, so make sure to keep your fluids up! The NHS recommends between 6-8 glasses a day. 

3. Say no to hot water...

A hot bath or shower can often sound tempting when it’s so cold outside, but hot water can actually strip the skin of its moisture, leaving it sore, red and irritated. Instead, turn the temperature down a little. Lukewarm water is always best. Moisturise straight after bathing or showering to lock in moisture. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing to avoid irritation.

4. Use moisturising skincare products 

 Choose a moisturiser with high quality ingredients to give your skin the treat it deserves. ARK Skincare offers three Age Intelligent Moisturisers, specifically designed with hardworking ingredients to treat each age range. 

• AgeProtect Skin Vitality Moisturiser for teens & twenties
• AgeDefend Replenishing Moisturiser for 30’s and 40’s 
• AgeDefy Nourishing Moisturiser for 50s and onwards

You may also like to take a look at our Skin Perfector Hydrating Serum which is targeted specifically to dryness. Laminara Algae cocoons skin in hydration by trapping in water molecules, while Cucumber Extract improves elasticity and plumps fine lines.  

5. Keep up your weekly treatments 

Give your skin the extra boost it needs by adding in weekly treatments to your skincare routine.

ARK Skincare’s popular Triple Action Exfoliator gently scrubs away dead skin and debris from the surface, helping to leave skin feeling smoother and looking more refreshed. 

Then our Hydration Injection Masque contains a multivitamin blend of Vitamin A to keep skin supple, Vitamin B5 to hydrate and soothe, Vitamin C to brighten and Vitamin E which offers antioxidant protection. Hyaluronic Acid drenches the skin in moisture and prevents any moisture loss. The perfect treat for thirsty skin!

You can view both of our Skin Perfector treatments by clicking here. 

6. Protect your lips

Suffering from chapped lips? 

The colder, dryer  weather can often dry out your lips too so it’s important to remember to keep some lip balm at the ready. ARK Skincare’s hardworking Advanced Action Lip Plumping Cream helps to hydrate and soothe the whole of the mouth area. Plumping peptides help to plump the skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while Macadamia Lipids help to restore the skin's hydrolipidic film, maintain softness and prevent dryness.

7. Look after your hands!

While washing your hands so often (especially this year!) it’s important to remember to pat your hands dry properly too. Otherwise, as water evaporates it can draw moisture out of the skin. 

Keep your hands soft and supple with ARK Skincare’s Intensive Hand & Nail Cream. Raspberry Seed Oil and Cocoa Butter Intensely hydrates and helps to prevent moisture loss while Amino Acids encourages strong healthy nails.

Ever feel like your skin needs a bit of oomph? Many things can affect your skin - your diet, environment, the weather, or perhaps not cleansing as often as you should. But don’t worry,  we’re here to help! In this post, we focus on our top tips to help you achieve a natural glow this summer. 

1. Start With a High-Quality Cleanser 

ARK Skincare is passionate about cleansing. We strongly believe that it is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. Always make sure to double cleanse to ensure you remove any airborne bacteria, pollution or dirt that is attracted to your face. It will also help the skin care products you apply to work their magic properly!

Tip: Start with ARK Skincare’s Pre-Cleanser and follow up with your Age Intelligent Cleanser. 

2. Exfoliate Once Or Twice a Week

Another important step to a good skincare routine is exfoliating. This helps to buff away any dead layers of skin and reveal a bright, healthy complexion. ARK Skincare’s Triple Action Exfoliator includes Bamboo Particles which gently remove any grime from the surface while fruit acids and enzymatic action create exceptionally smooth skin.

3. Add a Serum

Choose a serum to help give your skin a boost with nourishing active ingredients. ARK Skincare offers a range of six, each specifically designed to tackle each specific skin concern. For our glow seeker’s, we recommend our Radiance Serum - it’s rich in vitamin C which brightens dull skin for a glowing, energised complexion. 

4. Eat Well 

We all know "healthy-looking skin comes from within". So make sure to choose foods which your body will thank you for. Experts suggest to “eat the rainbow” and pack as many colours as possible onto your plate to get all the vitamins and minerals you need for a healthy diet, (while remembering treats now and again, of course!) 

5. Stay Hydrated

As we all know, drinking water is crucial. Not just for our skin, but our entire body. So make sure you’re drinking plenty throughout the day - especially in the summer months!

Give your skin an extra boost by using hydrating products. Take a look at our popular Hydrating Serum - the perfect cocktail for thirsty skin, or our Hydrating Beauty Mist for a spritz during the day.

To view our full range of products, visit the ARK Skincare website. Should you ever need any help or product advice, please email office@arkskincare.com or call us on 0203 740 3303. We'd love to hear from you! 

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