Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and taking care of it goes beyond just looking good; it’s about feeling confident in your own skin.
In the past six months, searches for ‘skin tips summer’ are up by 115%1, which highlights the pressures we feel as we approach the summer season.
Considering AVON’s new £16 Anew Skin Renewal Power Cream2 launch, which has been created with 10x Protinol Technology to restore years of collagen loss3, the global beauty company has spoken to Dr Pyal Patel AKA The Blushing Doc, an NHS GP specialising in Dermatology, on her secrets to a radiant summer glow, skin confidence tips and her go-to skincare routine essentials.
My secrets to radiant skin
Each skin texture differs, with some more prone to blemishes and breakouts than others. However, we can all take steps to achieve a radiant glow, especially in the summer. “For me, radiant skin is healthy, confident skin”, affirms Dr Pyal. “Wear a minimum of SPF factor 30 daily. In the summer you can make the switch from a cleanser to a moisturiser to reduce oils and ensure that you’re exfoliating at least once or twice.”
“I have oily skin, so I can tolerate exfoliation more than twice a week, says Dr Pyal. “It’s very important to know what works for your skin type, for example if you have dry skin, I’d only recommend once a week.”
Why your diet impacts your skin
It’s no surprise that what you eat can impact your skin health. “Try to opt for high water content nutrients that will hydrate the skin from the outside, found in salads, oranges and cucumbers. Additionally, fruits and vegetables carry antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative damage. Try to cut down on sugar, as too much can lead to premature aging. Instead, focus on omega 3 foods, such as fish, which will target dryness and reduce inflammation in the body. A balanced diet leads to good skin health and vitality”, advises Dr Pyal.
Is protinol the new retinol?
From next year, EU has announced a restriction on popular skincare ingredient, retinol. Speaking about the new laws, Dr Pyal thinks it’s a good move, “Having a restriction on retinol prevents people from doing wrong to their skin. High contents of retinol can lead to damage to the skin barrier, which leaves the skin vulnerable to the sun.”
“The Anew Skin Renewal Power Cream from AVON ticks many boxes for me. It’s packed with powerful ingredients such as protinol, an amino acid which works faster than retinol without any side effects that we commonly associate with cell turnover, and my favourite, niacinamide, which is a form of vitamin B3.
It’s affordable and can save time each day by simplifying your morning and evening skincare routine. Finally, it’s safe. For me, safety profile is very important. I know I’m not doing any harm when I’m recommending this product for people to use twice a day,” says Dr Pyal.
Age-defying products are not good for younger skin
AVON recently conducted a survey3, which revealed that one in 20 women admit to using age-defying products before the age of 16. “This is really worrying statistic and as a mother, it does sadden me that children feel like they need to use age-defying skincare products to look a certain way”, says Dr Pyal.
“Young skin is vulnerable, and using these products damages the skin barrier, increases an already young cell turnover, and leaves it open to external stressors which can even cause dermatitis. It’s only from the age of 25 that we start losing hyaluronic acid, collagen and elasticity in the skin. All young people need is a few products which moisturise their skin without harsh ingredients,” confirms Dr Pyal.
My key skin confidence tips
“I used to have acne, and I still get the occasional breakout, so I understand the impact skin can have on your confidence”, says Dr Pyal.
“Skincare is important; however, it all starts from within, and self-love. Ageless beauty starts with understanding that your self-worth should never be linked to what your skin feels and looks like.
“I would say that the first step is accepting that ‘perfect’ skin isn’t real. Normal skin has fine lines, wrinkles, pores and redness. Acceptance is hard, and comparison is natural, so limit social media, and instead, find a skincare routine that works for you, and not what your favourite influencers are using.”, shares Dr Pyal.
My go-to skincare routine
“I’m simple – and always look for ways to cut corners and reduce my multiple step routine! For me, it’s the key cornerstones of a good, healthy skin barrier; cleansing, moisturising and sunscreen. I also like to use 1-2 anti-aging products, such as a vitamin A derivative or protinol, both morning and night”, shares Dr Pyal.
“I think it’s important to be flexible, I like to switch my products a lot to adapt my skin based on its needs, such as a moisturiser which has SPF embedded in. I do think we’re too busy for a 16-step routine, and it isn’t realistic to maintain. Less is more and allows you to give your skin much needed TLC,” explains Dr Pyal.
My top tips for wearing make-up in the heat
“In the summer, it’s ideal to leave your skin bare, however if you have skin issues such as acne, you might want to apply make-up. Ensure your products are oil free and non-comedogenic. This will keep you complexion light, but still provide coverage.”
For those who want to go bare faced, Dr Pyal shares her secrets, “My saviour is tinted SPF, as it provides you with coverage and protection. Cooling mist is also a must have, I keep mine in the fridge and spray over my face to reduce excess sweating. Keep it as light and basic as you can!”