Transitioning Skincare in NZ with Samira from Loft Beauty Lounge!

Calling all of our Australia and New Zealand fans! We tapped our friend Samira Sultan-Rouse from Loft Beauty Lounge in Christchurch, New Zealand, to run down some of her favorite products for transitioning skincare!
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The change of season is in full force here in New Zealand - Autumn is here! The clocks have gone back, the days are darker and shorter. So what does this mean for our skin?
The thing that is presenting itself daily in my clinic daily is dehydration and a lacklustre appearance to the skin. As the weather is still transitioning and is some what erratic - so is the use of air conditioning and heating in our vehicles at home and the workplace. Artificial heating such as heat pumps are drawing the moisture out of our skin and creating fine dehydration lines and a sallow appearance. Walking in from the cold air to warm inside environment isn't helping much either. This is why transitioning our skincare and incorporating some lifestyle adjustments to suit the elements and our environment is so important.
AMP UP YOUR ANTIOXIDANTS
Protecting your skin from external aggressors that contribute to the breakdown of collagen, trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and inflammation in the skin is important as the days are getting cooler. Consider incorporating a daily booster such as AFFIRM, PURE C or RADIANCE utilising powerful antioxidants such as:
  • L Ascorbic Acid
  • Vitamin E
  • Resveratrol
  • L-Superoxide Dismutase
  • Spin trap
PROTECT YOUR BARRIER FUNCTION
When your skins natural barrier is impaired - skin will feel tight and dry, water in the skin will evaporate faster (TEWL), skin can become sensitised with higher colour, textural irregularities appear and fine lines become more visible. Increase/maintain the integrity of your skins natural barrier function by consuming adequate fluids, consuming essential fatty acids in your diet and protecting it topically.
  • Essential fatty acids keep our cell membranes in tact, reduce inflammation, help us to produce good quality oil to lubricate the skin and prevent TEWL. Consume oily fish, avocado, raw nuts and flaxseed oil daily
  • 2.5 L water per day - includes herbal teas which are easier to consume when its cooling down outside
  • Topical moisturisers like HUMIDIFY, RESCUE + and EMULSION containing ingredients such as niacinamide, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, trehalose and hyaluronic acid will support barrier function
MASK IT UP!
If you're new to applying masks at home the change of season is great opportunity to experiment and infuse some goodness into your skin. Opt for moisture surging, glow enhancing or dual action masks such as PURE ENZYMES, GLOW or BIOSHAPE to give your skin a weekly boost. If your skin is really feeling the effects of the cooler weather - try leaving a generous application of a hydrating mask like RESTORE or RESCUE + on overnight for an extra burst of moisture.
DON'T SCRIMP ON THE SPF
Yes its cooler and you're spending more time inside - but the effects of UVA and UVB rays are still in full force (even when the suns hiding!). Consider trying an SPF that has the added benefits of peptides, antioxidants and hydrators built in - and don't forget to reapply during the day. PEPTIDE RICH DEFENSE and REFLECT are favourites!
 
For further advice on how to support and protect your skin through the change of season, be sure to see your COSMEDIX skin therapist for personalised  home care recommendations and in clinic treatments.
 
Check out Loft Beauty Lounge on Instagram!
Samira Sultan- Rouse: Beauty Therapist (NaSA, ITEC 2003) Dermal Therapist (AACDS, ITEC 2008)