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Do you really need a 10-step skincare routine?

With interest in skincare surging more than ever, more complicated routines have become a common practice, where people use numerous products in an effort to deal with problems like acne, dark spots, dryness, and even skin ageing.

Meanwhile, the term ‘skinimalism’ has emerged as well, which focuses on using basic skincare products. Neither of these two approaches is better than the other. A skincare regimen works only if it is able to maintain a healthy skin barrier and address the specific issues people face.

Understanding the skin barrier

The skin barrier is the protective mechanism located in the outermost layer of skin that acts as the initial form of protection against any environmental irritants, allergens, and microbes. In addition, the skin barrier also ensures adequate hydration of the skin by reducing the loss of water from the skin.

Any damage to the barrier results in conditions like dryness, irritation, redness, sensitivity, and inflammation of the skin. Application of too many products or introducing new products frequently also leads to skin barrier damage, especially for sensitive skin.

Benefits of a minimal skincare routine

A minimalist skincare routine involving just three components, which include a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and regular application of sunscreen, is more than enough for the majority of people to achieve good skin health. Some benefits associated with adopting a minimalistic skincare approach include:

  • Elimination of the chances of skin irritation and interactions among different ingredients
  • Making it easier to pinpoint what causes irritation
  • Improves consistency in the skincare approach
  • Promotes a healthy skin barrier
  • Decreases chances of contact with fragrances and preservatives
  • Reduction of redness, dryness, and irritation

When multi-step routines can be helpful

A multi-step skincare regime does not necessarily imply something bad. Some skin conditions might be helped through the proper incorporation of other products into one’s routine. Acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and signs of aging usually require more than the essential three skincare ingredients. Some of the extra products might be:

  • Retinoids to help with photoageing and acne
  • Vitamin C as an antioxidant and skin toner
  • Niacinamide for barrier function and sebum production control
  • Azelaic acid to treat inflammation, pigmentation, and acne

It is essential to make sure that the products that are incorporated are for a particular reason and not just due to popularity.

More products do not always mean better results

One widespread misconception is that using more products promotes healthier skin. This is far from the truth, as using too many products on the face may lead to irritation, incompatibility issues, and weakening of the protective barrier.

The skin that has been exposed to several active ingredients may react to them rather than withstand them. Healthy skin does not necessarily need a complex skin care routine.

Finding the right balance

Many people believe that the more items used, the better the outcome will be. It has been observed that over-layering increases the probability of irritation as well as skin barrier dysfunction.

Most dermatologists advise using cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen first before anything else. An effective skincare routine does not depend on the number of steps used but on how well it protects the skin and maintains skin barrier functions.

A good routine must be personalised to meet the skin requirements of the individual. It is also important to recognise that skin health is influenced by factors beyond topical products. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, proper hydration, and stress management play a crucial role in supporting skin barrier function and overall skin appearance. 

(The author is a dermatologist at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru)

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.

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How To Build A Travel-Ready Skincare Routine In 5 Steps

How To Build A Travel-Ready Skincare Routine In 5 Steps

According to Hari Ram Rinwa, Founder, Ashpveda, “Planning a trip is exciting, but choosing which skincare products to pack can be overwhelming. The change of climate, dry aeroplane air, long days of sightseeing, and an irregular routine can quickly take a toll on your skin. The trick to having a travel-friendly routine is to keep it simple.” This is how you can create a smart, streamlined skincare routine that travels well.

How To Build A Travel-Ready Skincare Routine In 5 Steps

1. Begin with a Gentle Cleanser

Travelling exposes your skin to sweat, sunscreen buildup, pollution, and unfamiliar water, making a gentle yet effective cleanser essential to remove residue without disrupting your skin’s natural balance. Oil-based cleansers are particularly effective at breaking down sunscreen and daily impurities while helping maintain the skin barrier. Jojoba Oil works beautifully in this role. Cold-pressed and lightweight, it cleanses thoroughly without feeling heavy and preserves skin hydration. It also doubles as a nourishing lip and hair treatment, making it a versatile, travel-friendly essential for a simplified routine.

2. Add a Hydrating Serum

Cabin air and temperature changes can leave the skin looking dull and dehydrated, making moisture support essential while travelling. Applying your hydrating serum on slightly damp skin helps improve absorption and keeps skin feeling supple rather than tight or fatigued. For those with oily skin or travelling to warmer destinations, a few drops of Grapeseed Oil can help regulate excess oil without clogging pores. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it especially suitable for humid climates, keeping the skin balanced and comfortable throughout the journey.

3. Select a Moisturiser that Supports the Barrier Function

Your moisturiser should adapt to your destination and climate. In moderate or humid weather, a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula works well to keep skin balanced without feeling heavy. For colder or drier environments, richer nourishment becomes essential to prevent dryness and discomfort. Sweet Almond Oil provides deeper hydration and lasting nourishment, making it ideal for dry skin and cooler climates. To further support your skin during long flights or sudden weather shifts, add a drop of Vitamin E Oil to help strengthen the skin barrier and maintain resilience.

ALSO READ- From Pre-swim Lotions To SPF: How To Protect Your Skin Before Swimming

4. Never Skip Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

Sunscreen is a must, whether you’re exploring the outdoors or flying at high altitude. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that is not greasy and is easy to apply under makeup. To save space in your luggage, use a tinted moisturiser with SPF to hydrate, protect, and perfect your skin in one step. Reapply often, especially when travelling to tropical or high-altitude areas.

5. Bring an On-the-Go Refresher

Travelling on long-haul flights can cause your skin to look fatigued. Keep a refreshing, hydrating mist with aloe or rose water in your bag to instantly revive your skin. Alternatively, bring a multi-functional oil such as Jojoba Oil to spot-treat dry areas of your skin, cuticles, and lips.

Smart Travel Skincare Tips

The key to building a travel-friendly skincare routine lies in choosing intelligent, multitasking essentials that deliver effective results without adding bulk to your luggage. By focusing on cleansing, nourishment, barrier support, and climate-appropriate care, you can create a streamlined routine that adapts effortlessly to changing environments. Opting for pure, skin-safe formulations that perform well across different climates makes packing simpler and more practical. Versatile oils can help maintain skin balance, hydration, and resilience, ensuring your skin stays healthy, refreshed, and radiant despite long journeys and fluctuating weather conditions.

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Best Amazon Prime Day Hydrating Skincare Deals for Glowing Summer Skin

Best Amazon Prime Day Hydrating Skincare Deals for Glowing Summer Skin

What Is Prime Day? 

Prime Day is Amazon’s massive annual shopping event exclusively for Prime members, featuring major discounts across pretty much every category imaginable. Think of it as Black Friday in the middle of the year, with limited-time lightning deals, celebrity-loved finds, beauty steals, tech markdowns, and viral products all competing for your attention.

Over the years, Prime Day has become one of the biggest shopping events online, with other retailers often launching competing sales at the same time. Whether you’re stocking up on household essentials or finally buying that item sitting in your cart for months, Prime Day is known for delivering some of Amazon’s lowest prices of the year.

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5 Anti-Ageing Habits That Go Beyond Serums and Creams

5 Anti-Ageing Habits That Go Beyond Serums and Creams

According to Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology, Artemis Hospitals, “Anti-ageing is often linked with expensive serums, creams and cosmetic treatments. Healthy ageing really starts from within. Of course, skincare products may help improve the look of skin. How we eat, sleep, move and manage stress has a far greater impact on how we age than any cream we put on the surface. Developing healthy daily habits can help you keep your skin youthful, your muscles strong, your mind sharp, and your overall well-being for years to come.”

5 Anti-Ageing Habits That Go Beyond Serums and Creams

Prioritise Quality Sleep

Sleep is one of the most potent anti-ageing tools. While you sleep, your body mends damaged cells, creates collagen, and recharges your energy. Sleep deprivation can cause dull skin, dark circles, wrinkles and increased stress hormones that speed up the ageing process. Adults should try for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night for good health and healthy ageing.

Eat for Longevity

A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins provides nutrients that help protect cells from damage. Berries, spinach, tomatoes and green tea are all antioxidant-rich foods that help fight free radicals that contribute to premature ageing. Drinking enough water is critical for the skin to be elastic and for the body to be able to process things.

Stay Physically Active

Exercise does more than keep the body fit. It aids blood circulation, builds muscles and bones, raises energy levels and aids the health of the heart. Physical activity also triggers the release of hormones that help repair tissue and reduce inflammation. Even a daily 30-minute walk can bring huge anti-ageing benefits.

Stress Management

Long-term stress can accelerate the ageing process by promoting inflammation and interfering with hormone balance. It can also cause bad sleep and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Practising mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing and spending time in nature can all help to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.

Protect Your Skin Naturally

While there are benefits to skincare products, simple habits such as wearing sunscreen daily, not smoking, limiting alcohol intake and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure can prevent premature wrinkles and pigmentation. Such preventative measures often have more long-term benefits than expensive treatment.

Anti-ageing isn’t about looking younger overnight. It is about establishing good habits that will pay off for your body and mind over time. The real foundations of ageing gracefully and staying vital at every stage of life are quality sleep, proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, skin protection and mental engagement.

Image credits: Freepik

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.

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5 Exercises To Try At Home

5 Exercises To Try At Home

Show Quick Read

Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom

  • TV star Gauri Pradhan suggests face yoga for natural beauty.
  • Exercising facial muscles improves tone, reduces wrinkles, and fine lines.
  • Specific exercises include Fish Face, The Poser, and Brow Line Eraser.
  • Consistency with face yoga enhances overall self-care routines.

Expensive skincare products, salon services and complex cosmetic regimens are frequently linked to radiant skin But according to TV star Gauri Pradhan, one of the best beauty techniques doesn’t involve expensive products or specialized tools. After more than 20 years in front of the camera, the Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi star recently disclosed that face yoga has been an important component of her beauty regimen. The actress claims that maintaining a naturally lifted and renewed appearance can be achieved by routinely exercising the facial muscles.

According to Gauri, there are around fifty muscles in the face, neck and lips many of which are hardly used. In order to improve facial tone, promote circulation and lessen the appearance of typical issues including smile lines, forehead wrinkles, droopy eyelids and double chins, face yoga focuses on engaging these muscles through specific movements. 

ALSO READ |Trying To Lose Belly Fat? Experts Say You’re Probably Focusing On The Wrong Exercise

5 Face Yoga Exercises Shared By Gauri Pradhan

  • Fish Face: Gauri suggests beginning with the Fish Face exercise, which involves making a fish-like look by sucking the cheeks inward. Hold the pose for around 30 seconds, then progressively extend it as your facial muscles get stronger. It is said that the activity will lessen the appearance of smile wrinkles and help clarify face contours.
  • The Poser: In this exercise, the face is turned to one side and the palms are joined above the head in a namaste stance. Hold the position for roughly 30 seconds while extending the tongue toward the nose, then switch to the other side. Gauri claims that it may help lessen the look of a double chin by engaging the muscles in the neck and jawline.
  • Brow Line Eraser: Try to elevate the eyebrows without letting wrinkles form by placing both palms firmly across the forehead. Perform multiple sets of the exercise, repeating it about 20 times. The goal of the workout is to reduce noticeable forehead lines by strengthening the muscles in the forehead.
  • The Caterpillar: Gauri also recommends gently crawling across the eyebrow region with the fingertips. This exercise, when done with light pressure, strengthens the muscles surrounding the eyes and may help enhance the stiffness of the eyelids while lessening the appearance of crow’s feet.
  • Cheek Caterpillar: Apply a mild moisturizer, then make a fish-face expression and move your fingers gently over your cheeks. It is thought that this workout, which targets the cheek muscles, will eventually result in a more defined, toned, and elevated appearance.

ALSO READ |Is Jaggery A Healthy Alternative To Sugar? Truth About Diabetes And Blood Sugar

Consistency Is Key

The simplicity of face yoga is one of its main benefits. You can do the exercises at home, on breaks from work, or even while doing everyday chores. Face yoga shouldn’t be seen as a substitute for skincare, hydration, sun protection, and a healthy diet, but experts say regular self-care practices are still crucial for keeping skin looking good. Gauri’s message is simple: it may occasionally be necessary to rely less on chemicals and more on regular wellness routines in order to get a natural glow.

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Dermatologists say some patients' skin improved when they stopped everything except two products

Dermatologists say some patients’ skin improved when they stopped everything except two products

The
rise and burnout of maximalist beauty

Remember when the holy grail of
beauty was a 10 step, or more, K beauty routine? Double cleansing,
toning, layering essences, serums, sheet masks,
moisturisers – it sounded like a recipe for glowing skin, but
also bank account exhaustion and utter bathroom chaos. Eventually,
the collective enthusiasm fizzled into fatigue. People realised
that not only were their shelves overflowing, but so were their
schedules and their skin’s stress levels. Too many products did
more than drain wallets and time; over layering could actually
overwhelm the skin barrier itself.

Skip
care: the minimalist evolution of K beauty

As Dr Tiffany Libby, double
board certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, puts it: ‘Skip
care’ is basically a minimalist remix of K beauty. The idea is
fewer but more intentional products, each serving multiple
functions. Skip care isn’t about laziness or neglect – it’s a
thoughtful response to ingredient overload and barrier fatigue. K
beauty once celebrated endless steps of hydration and treatment;
skip care flips the script, putting skin health and protection
front and centre.

This pivot didn’t come out of
nowhere. Consumers now know a lot more about their own skin health.
As Dr Dilip notes, years of piling on acids, retinoids, vitamin C,
exfoliants, mists, and masks have left many grappling with
reactive, sensitive skin. Ironically, and perhaps to the dismay of
product hoarders everywhere, Dr Dilip hears from patients that
their skin often looks best when they temporarily eliminate
everything but a gentle cleanser and sunscreen. When irritation
subsides, the real effects of active ingredients beneath the
redness can finally be appreciated.

How
skip care works: less is powerful

The backbone of skip care?
Multifunctional products – think hydrators and antioxidants and
barrier supporters, all rolled into a single bottle. As Dr Libby
explains, a modern moisturiser might also include ceramides,
niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants. Multitasking means less
stacking, but you’re still targeting multiple pathways involved in
ageing and inflammation.

Dr Dilip prefers these
thoughtfully compounded products because they naturally curb the
urge to over layer, helping keep the skin barrier happy. Less truly
is more. Dr Libby observes that lowering the product count actually
improves skin consistency and cuts down on irritation, especially
for anyone who’s ever had a moment matching active ingredients like
they’re playing ingredient bingo. Keeping the barrier intact is
key, and packing on acids, retinoids, and exfoliants can disrupt
the skin’s microbiome, increase water loss, and ultimately sabotage
skin health.

There’s also a practical
benefit: people are simply more likely to stick with a basic three
step routine than a daunting dozen steps. According to Dr Dilip,
simpler routines also make it way easier to identify what truly
works versus what’s causing trouble – and, cosmetically, calmer
skin tends to look healthier anyway.

  • Your skip care ‘core
    four’:
  • A gentle cleanser
  • Moisturiser
  • Sunscreen
  • One targeted treatment based
    on your goals

What can you skip? Redundant
toners, overlapping serums, and excessive exfoliants vying for the
same job. As Dr Dilip wisely says, if products are doing the same
thing, you don’t need all of them.

Dr Libby advises focusing on
ingredients proven to work, rather than catching every trend
blowing through the beauty aisles. Skip care is especially helpful
for those with sensitive skin, anyone too busy for a ritualistic
face ceremony, beginners, and even those recovering from
overzealous active ingredient experimentation. It’s also handy for
managing eczema, rosacea, or a compromised barrier.

Smart simplicity: not about neglect

Here’s a PSA from both
experts: minimalism is not a hall pass to skip actually treating
genuine issues like acne, melasma, or photoageing. In these cases,
you might still need a dermatologist’s game plan with some targeted
steps. There’s a fine line between intelligently simplifying and
just abandoning your skin altogether. Dr Libby’s biggest warning?
Don’t drop crucial measures like daily sunscreen or evidence based
treatments, think retinoids, simply for the sake of shaving down
your regimen.

Mistaking skip care for
‘avoiding all actives’ is a trap too. Some actives are your skin’s
best friends when used properly. Plus, just because something is
labelled ‘natural’ or ‘minimal’ doesn’t automatically mean safer.
The true goal? Intentional, thoughtful skincare – not bragging
about using the fewest products possible.

So, how do the pros suggest
you start? Spot which products overlap, narrow your focus to one
main active at a time, and always keep that barrier support a
priority with multifunctional picks. Ultimately, it’s about skin
health, not overstimulation.

Conclusion: your streamlined skin
renaissance

The skip care trend isn’t about dropping the
ball on self care – it’s about finding balance and making choices
rooted in genuine
skin health. If you’ve been nursing burnout from complicated
routines, consider this your permission slip to simplify. Let your
skin breathe, celebrate calmer mornings, and remember: more isn’t
always better, and simplicity can be the secret glow up you never
knew you needed.

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side-by-side comparison of uneven textured skin with blemishes and smooth, clear, even-toned facial skin.

How to Get Smooth Skin: Best Skincare and LifestyleTips

Everyone wants soft, glowing skin, but dryness, bumps, acne scars, and dullness can make skin feel rough and uneven.

Learning how to get smooth skin does not have to be complicated or expensive.

With the right skincare routine, healthy habits, and effective ingredients, you can gradually improve your skin texture naturally.

In this blog, you’ll learn the causes of rough skin, simple tips for smooth skin, and realistic timelines for visible results.

Why Does Your Skin Deserve More Attention Than You’re Giving It?

Skin is the body’s largest organ, and what happens on the surface often reflects what’s going on underneath.

A consistent skincare routine does more than improve appearance; it protects against environmental damage, slows visible aging, and helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

Neglecting it over time can lead to dryness, breakouts, uneven tone, and increased sensitivity.

Good skincare also supports confidence, since how your skin feels day to day affects how you carry yourself. It doesn’t require an expensive routine, just the right habits, done consistently.

Easy Daily Skincare Routine for Smooth Skin

A few simple skincare habits can make a noticeable difference in skin texture. Start with these essential steps.

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Cleansing removes dirt, oil, sweat, and impurities that can clog pores and make skin feel rough.

Choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type, and avoid harsh soaps that can strip away natural moisture and damage the skin barrier.

Top Gentle Cleansers Suggestions: CeraVe, Cetaphil, Vanicream.

Step 2: Exfoliation for Smooth Skin Texture

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that cause dull and uneven texture.

Beginners can start with gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or mild physical exfoliants once or twice a week to avoid irritation and over-exfoliation.

Top Exfoliators Suggestions:

  • Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
  • Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
  • Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Step 3: Hydrating Toner or Essence

Hydrating toners and essences add an extra layer of moisture to keep skin soft and balanced.

Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera to improve hydration and support smoother skin.

Top Exfoliators Suggestions:

  • Thayers Hydrating Milky Face Toner
  • Paula’s Choice Nourishing Milky Toner
  • Fenty Skin Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner Essence

Step 4: Moisturizing Properly

Moisturizer helps lock in hydration and protects the skin barrier, which is important for every skin type, including oily skin.

Lightweight gel moisturizers work well for oily skin, while richer creams are better for dry skin.

Top Exfoliators Suggestions:

  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel.
  • CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.
  • La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer.

Step 5: Sunscreen Every Day

Daily sunscreen protects the skin from UV damage that can cause rough texture, dryness, dark spots, and premature aging.

Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher that feels comfortable for everyday use.

Top Exfoliators Suggestions: EltaMD, La Roche-Posay, Neutrogena.

What Causes Rough and Uneven Skin?

Rough and uneven skin texture can develop for many reasons, including dead skin cell buildup, dehydration, acne, sun damage, and unhealthy lifestyle habits.

When dead skin cells are not removed regularly, they can clog pores and make skin feel dull, bumpy, and rough.

Acne breakouts, scars, and enlarged pores can create an uneven surface, while inflammation may damage the skin barrier and affect overall smoothness.

How Long Does It Take to Get Smooth Skin?

Smooth skin doesn’t happen overnight, but consistent care can lead to visible improvements over time.

Timeframe
What You May Notice

After One Week
Better hydration, a healthier glow, and skin that feels softer to the touch.

After One Month
Improved skin texture, fewer dry patches, and a smoother overall appearance.

After Two to Three Months
More even skin tone, refined texture, and noticeably smoother-looking skin.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Smooth Skin

To achieve long-lasting results, combine your skincare routine with healthy eating habits and skin-friendly lifestyle choices.

1. Drink More Water

Drinking enough water helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside and improves its elasticity. Proper hydration can also reduce dryness, flakiness, and dullness that make skin feel rough.

2. Eat Skin-Friendly Foods

Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients help repair and protect the skin barrier. Adding fruits, leafy greens, and healthy oils to your diet can support naturally smooth and glowing skin.

3. Vitamins That Support Smooth Skin

Vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin E help protect the skin from damage while supporting collagen production and skin repair.

Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc also help reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.

4. Foods That May Trigger Rough Skin

Excess sugar, processed foods, and dairy products may increase inflammation or trigger breakouts for some people.

These foods can sometimes make skin appear rough, oily, or uneven.

5. Sleep and Skin Repair

Getting 7–8 hours of quality sleep gives your skin time to repair and renew itself. Poor sleep can increase dullness, dryness, and puffiness, and make skin look tired and uneven.

6. Stress Management

High stress levels can trigger breakouts, irritation, and excess oil production, which may affect skin texture.

Managing stress through relaxation, exercise, or healthy routines can help keep your skin clearer and smoother.

7. Clean Pillowcases and Towels

Dirty pillowcases and towels can collect oil, sweat, and bacteria that may clog pores and cause breakouts. Washing them regularly helps maintain cleaner and healthier skin.

8. Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching your face frequently can transfer dirt and bacteria from your hands onto your skin. This can increase irritation, clog pores, and cause acne, which can make skin feel rough and uneven.

9. Exercise and Blood Circulation

Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This can support a healthier glow and improve overall skin appearance over time.

Powerful Solutions for Common Skin Concerns

Knowing which ingredients benefit your skin can help you build a more effective routine for smooth skin.

  • Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates the skin, helping it look softer, smoother, and more plump by retaining moisture.
  • Niacinamide helps improve uneven skin texture while reducing the appearance of pores, redness, and excess oil.
  • Retinol boosts skin cell turnover, helping smooth fine lines, acne scars, and rough skin over time.
  • Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to remove excess oil and buildup, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid Lactic acid and glycolic acid gently exfoliate dead skin cells to improve dull, rough, and uneven skin texture.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to get smooth skin is not about following complicated trends or using expensive products.

Keeping your skincare routine simple and giving your skin time to adjust can help you see better and longer-lasting results.

With the right skincare routine, nourishing foods, and regular care, smooth and healthy skin is achievable for beginners.

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'I feel younger and more confident' with £20 off anti-ageing duo

‘I feel younger and more confident’ with £20 off anti-ageing duo

The anti-ageing cream and ‘elixir’ is a great addition to skincare routine (Image: zoranm via Getty Images) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

The quest for a skincare routine that genuinely delivers results can be a challenge, particularly when fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing start to appear. However, shoppers have been raving about a bestselling duo from French skincare brand Gatineau, claiming it transformed their skin almost instantly. Users say the products have “changed my complexion for the best”, with results restoring radiance and firmness to mature skin.

Better still, beauty enthusiasts can save 22% on a Gatineau bundle, ordinarily priced at £86, when purchasing through home shopping retailer QVC. Now available for £66.96, the Gatineau Age Benefit Night Elixir and Cream Collection comprises an advanced overnight concentrate and a face cream designed to unveil smoother, firmer-looking skin.

The set includes the brand’s much-loved Age Benefit Integral Regenerating Cream Dry Skin and Age Benefit Night Renewal Elixir, both crafted with more mature skin in mind.

For those seeking even greater savings, QVC is offering new customers an extra £5 off when they enter the code FIVE4U at checkout. This bundle forms part of QVC’s Glowtopia campaign, which showcases its most-loved beauty brands through carefully curated edits, exclusive deals and much more.

The campaign runs until 30th June, reports Birmingham Live.

Ideal for mature skin, QVC’s Age Benefit collection — tailored for those aged 50 and over — targets fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and dullness. The Night Renewal Elixir is highly regarded for its ability to restore a more youthful appearance — sometimes overnight — thanks to its powerful blend of ingredients, including cellynkage marine ingredient, artichoke leaf extract, and hibiscus.

Meanwhile, the Regenerating Cream smooths skin texture, boosts elasticity, and enhances radiance and can be used both day and night. Its makeup combines artichoke leaf, hibiscus extracts, red algae extract, calcium, sweet almond oil, avocado oil, and shea butter. These ingredients work together to soften fine lines and resurface skin, while delivering an intense surge of essential moisture and luminosity to dry skin.

The Night Renewal Elixir — as its name implies — is designed to be applied before a night-time moisturiser, allowing it to work its magic while users sleep.

Should this particular formula fall short of expectations, Elemis’ Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix delivers equally impressive results — though it comes at a steeper price of £115. Nevertheless, it has been specifically formulated to restore elasticity and firmness to the skin during sleep, making it an outstanding option for mature skin seeking swift and visible tightening.

Meanwhile, Liz Earle’s SuperskinTM Advanced Firming Serum-in-Moisturiser, £49, has earned praise for its botanical formula featuring acacia tree extract, rosehip oil and linseed extract. It’s claimed to leave skin ‘more resilient, firmer and rejuvenated and the appearance of wrinkles and wrinkles reduced’ within a fortnight.

As a 2-in-1 product, it also eliminates the requirement for a separate ‘elixir’ or serum.

However, Gatineau’s Age Benefit Night Elixir and Cream Collection should integrate seamlessly into existing routines, and it has earned enthusiastic feedback from skincare fans with a flawless five-star rating – the sole minor criticism noted by reviewers concerns the cost, with some describing it as ‘expensive’. Nevertheless, most believed the outcomes justified the expenditure.

QVC has dropped the price of the Gatineau Age Benefit Night Elixir and Cream Collection (Image: QVC)

One five-star testimonial raved: “This is an amazing product, instant glowing results, can’t tell you how Gatineau has changed my complexion for the best. I feel younger and so much more confident.”

Another added: “Best night serum I have used, amazing results can be worn alone or before night moisturiser, texture is amazing and smells divine.

“Saw improvement to my skin after only 1 week of using, fine lines less noticeable and a lovely glow to my skin. I would definitely recommend this product. I used the night moisturiser on its own before, which was fabulous, but together it’s a game changer for me.”

One customer remarked: “Trust me you’ll feel and SEE the benefits of this. Absolutely a must! My skin feels so smooth and radiant after. Love it.”

Reviewing the serum specifically, another user shared: “This has to be the best serum I have ever used! It’s absolutely a game-changer. I saw my face light up when I woke up the morning after the first use. I don’t know the science behind it, but I do know it actually works!”

While a further reviewer wrote: “The elixir is really amazing. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated, smooth and visibly refreshed. Moreover, I noticed improved elasticity of my skin. Must-have!”

One glowing assessment added: “Bought this a while ago, but only recently got around to using it. At first, I thought I was going to be disappointed, as being an elixir, I thought it would feel quite rich on the skin.”

They continued: “It absorbed very quickly and left a smooth matt finish. I applied age benefit on top. The following morning skin was smooth and hydrated. After using it for several days, my skin looked ‘cleaner’. I then realised why. The various areas of pigmentation on my cheeks had faded. Quite remarkable. I use it every night now and wouldn’t want to be without. Really stunned by how good my skin is looking.”

This pair isn’t the only markdown available on the QVC website in the run-up to summer. For those hoping to recreate a sun-kissed radiance that suggests they’ve just returned from a tropical getaway, the Laura Geller Supersize Bronze-N-Glow Baked Face and Body Bronzer has been slashed from £54 to £36.

Available in three shades, the compact is a radiant powder that offers a buildable colour and a luminous, glitter-free finish.

Those requiring a sun protection restock can purchase the Ultrasun Sun Protection 4 Piece Home and Away Spray Collection for £49.92, reduced from £87. The set includes four bestselling Ultrasun products, featuring its Face and Scalp UV Protection Mist, both a 100ml and 200ml bottle of the Sun Protection Spray, and an SPF30 lip balm.

For QVC’s full Glowtopia collection, see here.

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5 skincare benefits of coriander seeds 

5 skincare benefits of coriander seeds 

Follow this guide

What’s the story

African coriander seeds, commonly known for their culinary uses, are now making waves for their skincare benefits.
These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients that can do wonders for your skin.
From improving skin texture to giving it a natural glow, African coriander seeds are a natural way to take care of your skin.
Here is how you can use them in your skincare routine.

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COSRX Presents Peptides, Snail Mucin and PDRN as Key Skincare Solutions for Amazon Spring Deal Days

BioGaia AB’s subsidiary introduces a complete skincare routine for babies and children

BioGaia AB’s subsidiary, Biogaia New Sciences AB, is expanding its BioGaia® Skincare portfolio with two new products and an updated design across the full range. The expanded skincare line reinforces BioGaia’s ambition to apply its microbiome expertise beyond gut health, oral health and immune health, supporting healthy and balanced skin from the earliest stages of life.

Building on the success of BioGaia® Probiotic Ointment, the skincare range is extended with Gentle Balm to Milk Wash and Soothing Face & Body Lotion, creating a complete skincare routine for babies and children with dry, sensitive and atopic-prone skin: body wash for cleanse, face & body lotion for hydrate, and probiotic ointment for repair. The products are developed to work in harmony with the skin microbiome and are dermatologically tested for sensitive skin.

A microbiome-first skincare routine for babies and children
BioGaia® Skincare combines probiotics, prebiotics and carefully selected plant-based ingredients. The enhanced range supports key steps in skincare:

Cleanse – Gentle Balm to Milk Wash containing prebiotics, a gentle oil-based cleanser for delicate skin which cleanses without drying and stripping the skin of its natural balance.

Hydrate and protect – Soothing Face & Body Lotion containing prebiotics, designed to balance pH, hydrate, calm and support the skin barrier for daily care.

Repair and rebalance – Probiotic Ointment, preservative- and water-free, containing only three plant-based ingredients together with a live probiotic, for dry, sensitive and atopic-prone skin. The product soothes the skin and is proven to support the skin barrier and help maintain skin microbiome balance.

All products are certified microbiome-friendly through an independent third-party certification Kind to Biome.

Babies are born with delicate, developing skin, and up to 30 percent of children experience dry, reactive or atopic-prone skin. BioGaia® Skincare is designed to support the skin microbiome, the ecosystem of beneficial microorganisms that plays a key role in maintaining skin barrier function, comfort and long-term resilience, while helping to reduce irritation and dryness.

“With decades of probiotic and microbiome research, BioGaia continues to broaden the application of its science in microbiome health. We are encouraged by the strong demand and positive consumer feedback for our probiotic ointment, Aldermis, which highlights the need for effective, microbiome-friendly skincare solutions. We are therefore excited to expand the BioGaia® Skincare portfolio with new products and an updated design across the full range, applying our expertise to skin health for babies and children with sensitive or atopic-prone skin,” said Maik Lepatey, CEO of Biogaia New Sciences AB.

Availability:
BioGaia® Skincare products will be available in selected markets and have recently launched in China and the US.

References:
Gentle Balm-to-Milk Wash: Third-party clinical and instrumental evaluation including 14-day usage testing, ocular tolerability (clinical scoring + HET CAM), skin hydration (Corneometer®), transepidermal water loss (TEWL, Tewameter®); Human Repeated Insult Patch Test (HRIPT); Kind to Biome® Microbiome Friendly certification testing; and consumer perception studies. Data on file.

Soothing Face and Body Lotion: Third-party clinical and instrumental evaluation including 14-day usage testing, ocular tolerability (clinical scoring + HET CAM), skin hydration (Corneometer®), transepidermal water loss (TEWL, Tewameter®); skin pH testing, Human Repeated Insult Patch Test (HRIPT); Kind to Biome® Microbiome Friendly certification testing; and consumer perception studies. Data on file.

Probiotic Ointment: Third-party clinical and instrumental evaluation including 14-day usage testing, ocular tolerability (clinical scoring and HET-CAM), skin hydration (Corneometer®), transepidermal water loss (TEWL, Tewameter®), and skin barrier assessment; Human Repeated Insult Patch Test (HRIPT); in vitro skin and eye irritation testing (OECD 439 / OECD 492); soothing efficacy (lactic acid sting test); LongevityGuard® documentation; pilot microbiome analysis; Kind to Biome® Microbiome Friendly certification testing; and consumer perception studies. Data on file.

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Contacts:
Maik Lepatey, CEO of Biogaia New Sciences AB
Email: ml@biogaianewsciences.com
Phone: +44 7582749692

Elena Milenbakh, Head of Marketing at Biogaia New Sciences AB
Email: emi@biogaianewsciences.com
Phone: +46 769430558

About Biogaia New Sciences AB
Biogaia New Sciences AB is a wholly owned subsidiary of BioGaia AB, established in 2025 to advance microbiome research and innovation beyond BioGaia’s core focus areas. The company’s initial focus is skin health, developing science-based, microbiome-friendly skincare solutions for babies and children with sensitive or atopic-prone skin.

About BioGaia AB
BioGaia is a Swedish probiotics company that has been at the forefront of microbiome research for more than 35 years. BioGaia develops, manufactures, markets, and sells probiotic products focused on gut health, immune health, and oral health. The products are sold through local distribution partners or via own distribution in over 100 markets. The class B share of the Parent Company BioGaia AB is quoted on the Mid Cap segment of Nasdaq Stockholm. biogaiagroup.com

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