Category: FACE

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Sothys Reviews: Purifying Foaming Gel, Multi Action Eye Contour, Unifying Youth Serum

I was introduced to Sothys at the beginning of this year when I was asked to be a judge for a South African women’s magazine’s beauty awards. One of the products I got to assess was Sothys No2ctuelle Detox Resurfacing Night Cream. The PR for this highly regarded French spa brand saw my recommendation of the product and sent me some other products to try.

First, though, a bit of background on the company. Founded in 1946 in Paris by medical biologist Dr Hotz, Sothys started out as a beauty institute. When it was acquired by the Mas family in 1966, distribution of its products and services expanded to upmarket beauty salons and spas around the world. The Sothys range now includes face, body, sun-care, prestige and make-up products. There’s also a male Sothys range, which is not available in South Africa.

Regular readers of my blog will know that I am not fussy about such gender things. The main thing is that a product works for my skin concerns. I tried the following Sothys products for six weeks and these are my impressions:

SOTHYS PURIFYING FOAMING GEL

Skin maintenance all starts with a good cleanse and Sothys Purifying Foaming Gel did just that. Suitable for all skin types, it contains purifying and refreshing iris extract and soothing meadowsweet extract. My skin felt and looked gently cleansed after using this product. R490 for 125ml.

SOTHYS MULTI-ACTION EYE CONTOUR

As the area around the eyes is more delicate than the rest of the face, it’s often the first to show the signs of ageing. So I’ve always paid special attention to it. Wrinkles and dark circles are my thing, so any product that tackles these issues gets my vote. I applied this product for all skin types to the eye contour area morning and night, and enjoyed its absorbability. More importantly, I noticed how its high protection eye complex kept the ageing around my eyes in check. R895 for 15ml.

SOTHYS UNIFYING YOUTH SERUM

Serums are one of the most effective anti-ageing weapons around, as they are packed with higher concentrations of active ingredients. Best applied in small doses, morning and night, Sothys Unifying Youth Serum contains resveratrol molecules (a vine root derivative to reduce the appearance of dark spots) and vectorised peptide, marine exopolysaccharides and a pore refiner system to improve dermal functioning. It had a visible impact on my wrinkles and the overall condition of my skin, plus it was easily absorbed and didn’t create a greasy effect. R1 345 for 30ml.

VERDICT

As you can tell, I got great results from these products. What’s more, I used them at a time when things were very stressful at work, which always shows on my skin. So I am doubly impressed.

For more info on Sothys, read here.

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Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel Review

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel

As much as I love a good at-home face treatment, they rarely compare with the results one gets when having it in a salon. This was until I recently used Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel. It’s the brand’s strongest at-home peel and produces exceptional results.

“Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is the brand’s strongest at-home peel and produces exceptional results.”

As I get older, it’s not easy to achieve radiant skin. That’s because cell turnover slows down as we age. And did I mention the other pleasures of getting older: fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration and lacklustre skin?

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is designed to deal with these harsh realities with a highly effective combination of ingredients. According to Dermalogica, these include:

  • A unique complex of phytoactive alpha hydroxy acids to help reveal new and firmer skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by removing dulling surface debris without causing dehydration.
  • Fermented plant enzymes to help even skin tone by resurfacing the skin and accelerating cell turnover.
  • Australian caviar lime extract to smooth and brighten for a more radiant complexion.

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel

USING DERMALOGICA RAPID REVEAL PEEL

The product comes in a travel bag of 10 x 3ml tubes. As directed, I’ve been using one capsule a week and love the tingling I experience while the active ingredients do their thing. If you want super-quick results, you can use a capsule a day for the first three days.

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel

After rinsing my face with cold water, I can already feel how my skin is feeling smoother. Even better, I’ve received several compliments about the general condition of my skin.

If you want an at-home product that produces noticeably different results in the radiance of your skin and reduction of fine lines, Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is highly recommended. No downtime is required and the product is also artificial fragrance- and colour-free.

R1 450 for 10 x 3ml tubes in a travel bag with suction cups.

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel

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Mincer Pharma Reviews: Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10 and Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron

I’d never heard of Mincer Pharma until recently when I started spotting it on Instagram. I’m vain enough to take care of my skin as I approach 50, so I was keen to try this Polish pharmacy skincare brand.

“I’m vain enough to take care of my skin as I approach 50, so I was keen to try this Polish pharmacy skincare brand.”

Mincer Pharma has an impressive selection of product ranges. These include Oxygen Detox, Vitamins Philosophy, Vita C Infusion, Antiallergenic, Antitiredness, Daily Care, Hyaluron, Folic Acid and Argan Life.

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron

I was sent two products from the Neo Hyaluron line for dehydrated, mature skin: Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10 and Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream. Both are packed with anti-ageing hyaluronic acid goodies.

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10

WHY HYALURONIC ACID IS SO IMPORTANT

The Mincer Pharma website gives a good explanation why this active ingredient is so important in the fight against ageing:

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in all living organisms. In humans it is responsible, among others, for proper hydration and firming the skin. Spectacular effects of hyaluronic acid result from the fact that it has very strong properties of bonding collagen fibres and of binding water molecules, thus enhancing firmness and nourishment of the skin. Hyaluronic acid is not only acting deep in the skin, but it also forms a protective coating that prevents loss of moisture. Unfortunately, with age it decreases in our tissues. 

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10 and Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream contain a quartet of hyaluronic acid active ingredients for deep hydration and rejuvenation: cross-linked hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid microspheres, pillar hyaluronic acid and molecular hyaluronic acid.

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream

I have used these products for more than a month and have already starting seeing results. My skin looks fresher and firmer, definitely more hydrated and (I like to think) the wrinkles are looking a tad less noticeable. These results are all the more impressive when I consider that we’ve been having a relentless heatwave here in Johannesburg for quite some time.

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10, R260 for 50ml, and Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream, R260 for 50ml.

Mincer Pharma Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10 2

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3 Best Face Masks For Men: L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask, Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men, Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

Face Masks For Men - Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

The last time I blogged about face masks for men (read here), I mentioned the numerous benefits of using a face mask. I also wrote about how for every skin concern you might have, there’s a mask just waiting to be applied to your face.

Fortunately, men don’t need to be beaten with a stick any more to use a face mask. Thanks to Instagram, if anything, they now have to be reminded to wash the thing off. Show time over!

“Thanks to Instagram, men now have to be reminded to wash the thing off. Show time over!”

Face Masks For Men - L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

I’ve been using the following three face masks for men with good results.

L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

Even in my late 40s, I still have to deal with pesky blemishes. That is, the odd pimple and lots of blackheads caused by clogged pores. So this recent addition to the L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks line-up had my name written all over it. All the masks feature a trio of pure clays (kaolin, montmorillonite and ghassoul). These absorb excess sebum, eliminate imperfections and clarify the complexion, respectively. Although officially for women, I reckon they are great face masks for men.

Face Masks For Men - L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

MEN TOO: Although officially for women, L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks are great masks for men.

Featuring blemish-fighting marine algae, L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask gets the big thumbs up from me for being easy to remove/apply and how it gently clears the skin. I enjoyed the fact that I had less problems with black heads after using this product. And the blue cream looks great on the face, if Instagram is your thing.

R127 for 50ml.

Face Masks For Men - L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men

If you prefer to clear your pores with a peel-off mask, this gel product is for you. Volcanic ash and activated charcoal have become very trendy in recent years (this product contains both).

“Adsorption acts like a magnet for dirt, oil and other impurities.”

Dr Sejal Shah, founder of Smarter Skin Dermatology in New York City, explained to Reader’s Digest how it works: “It works through a mechanism called adsorption, similar to bentonite clay and charcoal. Adsorption is basically an electrical attraction that causes substances to stick together. So it acts like a magnet for dirt, oil and other impurities. It also exfoliates the skin.”

Face Masks For Men - Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men

As with all peel-off masks, there’s a lot of fun to be had peeling this gentle, but deep-cleansing mask from your face. Call yourself a five-star pro if you can do it all in one piece. And no, I could not establish which volcano specifically the ash used in this product comes from.

R29.95 for 15ml and R99.95 for 175ml, Dis-Chem stores nationwide.

Face Masks For Men - Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men

Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

Want cleaner, firmer, more radiant skin? Yes, yes, yes please. Dead Sea mud is renowned for purifying pores, hydrating and exfoliating skin, and reducing fine lines, among others, due to its rich mineral content. All Mineraline (an Israeli brand) products are made from this mud.

Face Masks For Men - Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

I’ve tried Mineraline products before. You can read my reviews of their Purify Gentle Foaming Face Cleanser, Hydrate Super Hydrating Day Cream and Time It! Serum here. So I was looking forward to trying this product. I’m glad I did, because it gave my skin voomah each time I used it. The aloe vera and allantoin also helped soothe my skin. It’s easy to apply/remove, but like all peel-off masks works best on a clean-shaven face. It’s also very reasonably priced.

R95.00 for 100ml, Dis-Chem stores nationwide.

Face Masks For Men - Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

 

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Essential Skincare Products For A Healthy-Looking Glow: Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex, Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum, Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser, L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask, Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

Essential Skincare - Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

I haven’t blogged about essential skincare products for a while. However, I have a good excuse. I’ve been testing some very worthwhile products, which I will tell you about below.

Essential Skincare - L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask

Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser

I generally prefer washes or gels when it comes to cleaning le visage every morning and night, mainly for textural reasons. But I decided to give this cream cleanser a go, because I’ve heard good things about this South African brand. I’m glad I did, as it does a handsome job at cleaning the face, without stripping the life from it. Featuring anti-oxidant witch hazel and moisture-binding golden seaweed, it’s suitable for all skin types. R325 for 100ml, www.drgobac.com.

Essential Skincare - Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser

L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask

I was introduced to this range last year (read here), so was very keen to try the latest additions to the L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks line-up. All the masks feature a trio of pure clays (kaolin, montmorillonite and ghassoul). These absorb excess sebum, eliminate imperfections and clarify the complexion, respectively. Featuring skin-evening yuzu lemon extract and natural exfoliators, L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask is recommended for facial skin that needs a bit of lightening (yes, please!). It earns essential skincare points for being easy-peasy to apply/remove and the pretty noticeable results it produces. R127 for 50ml.

Essential Skincare - L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

My skin often needs intensive moisturising. So it was more than happy to be treated recently to a twice-daily dose of this gel product. It’s loaded with powerful ingredients, such as deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid, skin-softening vitamin E and astringent tree mushroom extract. A big thumbs up to this essential skincare product for the way it’s easily absorbed and the cooling effect it has when applied to the skin. The refreshing smell is not too shabby either. R299 for 75ml.

Essential Skincare - Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum

Vitamin c has been shown to strengthen the skin’s natural defence systems against pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. But producing it in a form that can be easily delivered to and absorbed by the skin is another matter entirely. Fortunately, the smart researchers at Dermalogica have come up with a way to remedy this problem. Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum contains an ultra-stable form of vitamin C and other powerful ingredients. Together, these combat the above-mentioned problems and help the skin to protect itself. Some of these ingredients include: skin tone-evening ascorbyl methylsilanol pectinate, skin-firming palmitoyl tripeptide-5, dirt-removing lactic acid and antioxidant-rich chia seed oil. I used this product religiously twice-daily for over a month and was super-impressed by how healthy my skin looked. R1 495 for 30ml, www.dermalogica.co.za

Essential Skincare - Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum

Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

The reason I’ve included this foot-care product among various facial products is simple. While I’m fairly disciplined at taking care of le visage, my heels tend to be much neglected. I have a feeling I’m not the only one who behaves this way. The result? Unsightly and very sandal-unfriendly feet. So for the last few weeks I’ve been slathering on this product after giving my feet much-needed attention (read here for more tips). It contains anti-fungal neem oil and super-moisturising shea butter. The rosemary oil is great for circulation and combating unpleasant smells. R89.95 for 100ml, exclusive to Dis-Chem, www.dischem.co.za

Essential Skincare - Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

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Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% Review

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%

Regular readers might remember that I was on a retinol mission towards the end of last year. I was starting to see good results with Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair and was eager to try the more potent version, Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%.

RETINOL RECAP

I have been using Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% for almost two months. But first a quick refresher on why retinol is such a big deal.

Retinol is known to be highly effective in combating fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and free radicals.

Retinol is potent stuff, but it loses much of its strength when exposed to light or air. So Dermalogica uses fancy-sounding micro-encapsulation technology to protect it.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%

ALL ABOUT RETINOL: A graphic representation of the Dermalogica retinol sphere. Image courtesy of Dermalogica.

USING DERMALOGICA OVERNIGHT RETINOL REPAIR 1%

As retinol can cause a bit of a reaction, it’s recommended to go easy when first using it. So while I wanted even more noticeable results, I also decided to be sensible and use the Buffer Cream that comes with it. So for the first week, to allow my skin to adjust, I diluted the Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% with the Buffer Cream. I then used the Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% by itself.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% Buffer Cream

Retinol can also can the cause the skin to be sensitive to sun exposure. So I have been extra vigilant about applying sun protection and avoiding full-on sun.

RETINOL RESULTS

The condition of my skin has definitely improved over the last few weeks. While I still look 40-something, I like to think am looking less like a frazzled 40-something. It’s also been good to get compliments about my skin looking more “vital” and “alive”.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%

For more information on retinol, you can read my post on Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair: https://fragroom.com/2017/10/27/dermalogica-overnight-retinol-repair/.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%, R1 680 for 25ml.

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Mask And Ye Shall Receive… An Abundance Of Benefits

Face Mask - L’Oréal Pure Clay Purity Mask

We’ve come a long way from the days when only women (and enlightened gay men) used face masks to improve the condition of their skin. There’s been a big change in the last five years, as more men discover the benefits of regularly using a face mask at home. And, hallelujah, no one will question your masculinity. If anything, expect a lot of questions if you’re looking unnecessarily haggard.

Face Mask

THE BENEFITS OF USING A FACE MASK

In case you need a reminder about the benefits of using a face mask, here’s a recap:

It’s your SYS (save your skin) buddy, if your most visible (and biggest organ) needs a quick and urgent rescue. And the good news is that there are numerous choices for every skin concern (oiliness, dryness, blackheads, acne, sensitivity, dullness, ageing).

It’s a holiday for your face, especially if you’re not actually going on a holiday. Regular use of a really good mask can fool people you’ve just come back from somewhere cool and exotic.

It’s the perfect excuse to slow down and relax for essential self-care/self-maintenance.

It’s messy and fun. It is for me, anyway.

Face Mask Fun

GOOD MESSY FUN: Just one of the perks of using a face mask.

It makes for a great Instagram post, if that’s your thing.

“It’s the perfect excuse to slow down and relax for essential self-care/self-maintenance.”

FRAGROOM FACE MASK RECOMMENDATIONS

It’s always best to choose the right face mask for your skin concern (and budget). I have been getting a lot of joy from these three products:

Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Double Action Detox Peel Off Mask (R850 for 75ml)

If you’ve used the Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Peel & Reveal Mask, you can expect the same top results from this product from its more upmarket Prevage range. This detox mask lifts the impurities (caused by pollution and dirt) from the skin for a brighter, smoother, pore-reduced complexion. It does this through a combo of ingredients that include antioxidants, a polymer blend and tree mushroom extract. The peel-off process (after 20 minutes) never fails to amaze me. What a strange man…

Face Mask - Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Double Action Detox Peel Off Mask

L’Oréal Pure Clay Purity Mask (r149.95 for 50ml)

I used the L’Oréal Pure Detox Mask a few months ago and was impressed with the results. You can read that post here: https://fragroom.com/2017/09/01/beauty-products-for-men/. L’Oréal Pure Clay Purity Mask is another goodie from the Pure Clay range. Featuring a blend of three pure clays and eucalyptus extract, it cleans and mattifies the skin without sucking the life out of it. It’s highly recommended if you’re prone to excessive sebum production and need a gentle oil-slick mop-up. I also like that its packaging features lots of easy-to-understand information.

Face Mask - L’Oréal Pure Clay Purity Mask

Diego Dalla Palma RVB Skinlab S.O.S Gel Mask (r525 for 75ml)

It’s the first time I have tried a product from this Italian brand and it’s well worth checking out if you need big-time and super-quick hydration. Its 51+3 Hyalu Complex contains a cocktail of amino acids, vitamins, trace elements, minerals, ceramides, hyaluronic acids and, um, cellular osmo-protectors. This means a deeply moisturising treatment. Grande!

Face Mask - Diego Dalla Palma RVB Skinlab S.O.S Gel Mask

 

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Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair To The Rescue

Anti-Ageing - Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair

A month ago I posted about my pigmentation blues (https://fragroom.com/2017/09/29/how-to-treat-pigmentation/). At that stage I had already started using a variety of products and treatments. There was a degree of containment (not eradication), shall we say. Since then I have been using Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair.

Dermalogica

GIMMICK FREE: I’m a big fan of Dermalogica’s science-first approach to skincare.

Firstly, because I am a big fan of Dermalogica’s gimmick-free, science-first approach to skincare. Secondly, because retinol is a particularly crafty weapon in the fight against the signs of ageing skin, including pesky pigmentation.

“As a retinol rookie, I decided to use Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair, with its 0.5% concentration of this powerful active ingredient.”

Dermalogica recently launched their clinical-strength Overnight Retinol Repair 1%. But as a retinol rookie, I decided to use Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair, with its 0.5% concentration of this powerful active ingredient. I am definitely going to use the more potent version in the future. I am impressed with the results of Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1%

SUPER-RETINOL: Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 1% is on the must-try list.

There have been no miracles with Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair. Thankfully, the American skincare company makes no such promises with its products. What I have noticed, though, is a general improvement in the condition of my skin over the last month. (Of course, it also helps that I have been wearing a hat and SPF way more frequently than I used to.) The pigmentation has not been substantially reduced. That’s a medium-term goal which requires longer use of the product. But people have commented on how good my skin is looking in general. I have been telling them, “Big thank you, it’s the Dermalogica retinol product I have been using.”

If you’re planning on going the retinol route, there’s stuff you need to know. Dermalogica were most helpful in providing the essential facts below.

What is retinol?

Retinol is a pure form of vitamin A and is used to treat skin ageing and acne. Our skin converts topically applied retinol into retinoic acid.

“Retinol is a pure form of vitamin A and is used to treat skin ageing and acne.” 

What are the benefits of using retinol?

Where do we start? It improves skin texture, wrinkles, thinning of the underlying dermis and loss of skin elasticity caused by photo-ageing and normal ageing. It also stimulates new collagen synthesis and the formation of hyaluronic acid, which keeps the skin tissue plump and hydrated. Good news for those with pigmentation: retinol stimulates cell turnover and renewal.

Anti-Ageing - Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair
What about the side effects of retinol?

Due to the potency of the highly active molecule, the skin may react to retinol treatment in the early stages of use. Some of these reactions include itching, burning and peeling. It’s advisable to build your skin’s tolerance to retinol when you first start using it by applying it on alternate nights for the first week or so.

Dermalogica Buffer Cream

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair also comes with a Buffer Cream. I mixed it with the retinol product to further dilute its strength until my skin had adapted to it. Pregnant and lactating women and those on prescription medication for acne should not use retinol.

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair

What about the sun?

It’s even more important than usual to wear a sunscreen (SPF30+) during the day when using retinol. Skin is extra sensitive to UV exposure when using it. This doesn’t mean you can’t use a retinol product when the sun is out. But if you’re expecting to spend long periods in the direct sun (for example, an outdoor concert or beach holiday), it’s wise to temporarily stop using it before and after prolonged sun exposure.

Sun Protection - BioNike

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair, R1 480 for 30ml.

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Out, Damned Spot! The Pigmentation Blues

Lady Macbeth was lamenting something very different when she uttered this famous line in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. I have been muttering, “Out, damned spot!” a lot in the last six months. 2017 has been the year that pigmentation has paid me an unwelcome visit. Mostly, on my forehead and a scattering on my cheeks. In the space of six months, it has gathered pace on my face.

Pigmentation Face

DARK (SPOTS) MOOD: I got the pigmentation blues.

Pigmentation is ageing and I am vain enough to care about such things. So I have been educating myself over the last three months or so about pigmentation.

“I have been educating myself over the last three months about pigmentation.”

WHAT IS PIGMENTATION?

Very basically, pigmentation is the uneven colouring or darkening of the skin and manifests as spots or blotches on the face, the hands and the rest of the body. It’s easily confused with its altogether cuter cousin, freckles.

Pigmentation spots and blotches

PIGMENTATION OF MY IMAGINATION: An oh-so-artistic interpretation of those pesky spots and blotches.

HOW IS PIGMENTATION CAUSED?

Pigmentation occurs when the skin’s pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) go into overdrive as a result of damage to the skin. This produces an excess of melanin and dark spots appear on the skin’s surface. It’s caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, inflammation and some medications. The biggest cause of pigmentation, however, is over-exposure to the sun’s harmful rays. The bad news is that this sun-induced damage may have been caused a few decades ago and those sun sins are only making their appearance now.

Pigmentation protection

SEEING THE LIGHT: Even in the shade, the sun’s harmful rays can do their wicked work.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT PIGMENTATION?

It seems pigmentation can be treated in various ways, including skin-bleaching products. From my research, this is highly risky, so I have given it a miss. Some people swear by home remedies such as raw potato, apple cider vinegar and cucumber, which I have yet to try.  But I might make a salad while I am at it. So what have I tried so far to treat my pigmentation?

“Some people swear by home remedies such as raw potato, apple cider vinegar and cucumber, which I have yet to try.”

Pigmentation products

PIGMENTATION ARSENAL: Fighting back against the dark arts.

Blemish Control Laser And Biomagnetic Facial (R375 for 60 minutes)

I recently discovered that Dis-Chem, one of SA’s largest pharmacy chains, has ventured into the beauty salon biz with Skin Strategy (https://dischem.co.za/dis-chem-beauty-salons). The Blemish Control Laser and Biomagnetic Facial features on its menu of treatments. This facial uses “light peeling to reduce uneven skin tone and scarring by dispersing the clumping of pigment in the melanin-bearing cells”. My therapist Puleng was very knowledgeable and gave me a good talking-to about the importance of daily sun protection to prevent further pigmentation. Yes, m’am!

Pigmentation products - BioNike Defence Sun 50+ Pro-Repair Complex Melting Cream

I also noticed she used BioNike skincare products. So I have been using a selection of treatments from this well-established Italian brand that’s exclusive to Dis-Chem Skin Strategy beauty salons.

BioNike Defence B-Lucent Day Peel Brightening Cream Cleanser (R149.95 for 150ml)

This gentle cleanser and exfoliator is rich in polyhydroxy acids to treat photo-aged skin by encouraging cell turnover.

BioNike Defence B-Lucent Anti-Dark Spots Protective Cream SPF50 (R225 for 40ml)

An easily absorbed cream that’s packed with active ingredients and sun protection to reduce the appearance of current and future signs of pigmentation.

Pigmentation products - BioNike Defence B-Lucent Anti-Dark Spots Protective Cream SPF50

BioNike Defence Sun 50+ Pro-Repair Complex Melting Cream (R149.95 for 50ml)

A high-protection sun cream that defends the skin against UVA/UVB rays, free radicals and long-term damage.

I have also been using Eau Thermale Avène D-Pigment Light Dark Spot Corrector (R359.95 for 30ml). This cream contains soothing Avène thermal spring water and a trio of powerful active ingredients (melanyde, retinaldehyde and pre-tocopheryl) to combat current and future pigmentation.

Pigmentation products - Eau Thermale Avène D-Pigment Light Dark Spot Corrector

While none of the above-mentioned treatments have obliterated my pigmentation for good, in combination they are slowly starting to make a difference to my complexion.

OH, SUN BEHAVE! 

The biggest change in my behaviour has been to use sun protection on a daily basis. I wouldn’t classify myself as a sun bunny but, up until recently, I used sun protection very haphazardly.

When I am being particularly virtuous, I apply the stuff up to three times a day. When I let this regimen slide, I am sure I can almost see the pigmentation multiply on my face. Me paranoid?

Pigmentation products - BioNike Defence Sun 50+ Pro-Repair Complex Melting Cream

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: Don’t forget the very high protection.

I have also taken to regularly wearing a hat à la Madonna. The pop icon doesn’t just do this for incognito purposes. She knows that it’s a particularly simple, yet effective weapon against ageing pigmentation.

“I have also taken to regularly wearing a hat à la Madonna. It’s a particularly simple, yet effective weapon against ageing pigmentation. “ 

RETINOL TO THE PIGMENTATION RESCUE

Next up for yours truly is a course of retinol. This vitamin A derivative is another essential in the fight against uneven skin tone. I have been hearing great things about Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair. And have just started using it this week. I will update you on the results in the near-ish future.

Pigmentation products - Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair

 

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What’s So Expert About L’Oreal Men Expert?

L'Oreal Men Expert.

The male skincare shelves at my local pharmacy are becoming increasingly busy with new arrivals. But even among all the clutter, the L’Oreal Men Expert range manages to stand out with its overtly masculine and you-can’t-ignore-me packaging that speaks to modern, active and successful men.

It also helps that the French beauty giant has pumped big bucks into its visibility by using F1 champ Lewis Hamilton as its global ambassador. Whether Mr H actually uses L’Oreal Men Expert is a moot point. I recently used some of the products from the ever-growing range that even includes a tattoo reviver. Unfortunately, that particular product is not available in South Africa.

Lewis Hamilton for L'Oreal Men Expert.

WINNING FORMULA: Lewis Hamilton for L’Oreal Men Expert.

These are my quick impressions of the following L’Oreal Men Expert products:

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Ice Cool Face Wash

Don’t know about you, but it’s not only my brain that needs a kick-start in the a.m. My face could do with some assistance too. L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Ice Cool Face Wash does the trick with its soap-free, pH neutral formula. It contains the very snazzy-sounding Cryo-Tonic and Active Defence System (ADS). These mean it refreshes, cleanses and reinforces the skin, without leaving it drier than a Cape Town drought.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Ice Cool Face Wash, R89.95 for 150ml.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Ice Cool Face Wash.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Black Charcoal Wash

Activated charcoal is known for its purifying properties. It attracts all the nasty stuff our skins are exposed to through the process of adsorption. Everyone from Clinique to Tom Ford now has a charcoal-based product of some sort. L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Black Charcoal Wash is the best mass-market charcoal product I have come across so far. This product takes on shine, blackheads, stickiness, dullness and enlarged pores with voomah. I love how the black gel transforms into a white lather. You only need a tiny amount of this high-performance baby to do the job, so best squeeze the tube g-e-n-t-l-y.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Black Charcoal Wash, R89.95 for 150ml.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Black Charcoal Wash.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturising Lotion

With vitamin C, anti-oxidant, the above-mentioned ADS and SP15, L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturising Lotion combats a variety of skin issues. These include dryness, dullness and sun exposure. I used it in the morning and evening, and noticed how easily it is absorbed. However, as I need a higher SPF for my, ahem, mature skin, I wouldn’t continue to use this product. I would recommend this one for gents in their 30s, though, as it’s a good all-rounder.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturising Lotion, R129 for 50ml.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturising Lotion.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Recharging Moisturiser

No doubt you’ve heard of creatine as a nutritional supplement. How about in a skincare product? Some studies suggest that when applied topically, it perks up the skin. And I could always do with some of that. The headline ingredient in L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Recharging Moisturiser is this organic acid. This product promises to revitalise and moisturise lacklustre skin when used morning and night. It’s no-nonsense stuff that works a charm. Cool packaging too!

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Recharging Moisturiser, R124.95.

L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Recharging Moisturiser.