PicoSure for Melasma Treatment at Jacqueline Brennan Mosman

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At Jacqueline Brennan, we understand the challenges that come with melasma – the stubborn pigmentation condition that can affect confidence and self-esteem. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce PicoSure, a game-changing treatment for melasma that promises to transform your complexion. Join us as we delve into the benefits, considerations, and unparalleled results of PicoSure for melasma at Jacqueline Brennan.

Understanding Melasma: Melasma, characterised by patches of dark, discolored skin, often affects the face, particularly the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. While it’s not harmful, melasma can be frustrating to manage and may impact self-confidence.

The Power of PicoSure: PicoSure harnesses the power of picosecond technology to target melasma with precision and efficacy. Unlike traditional treatments, PicoSure delivers ultra-short pulses of energy to break down pigment particles without damaging surrounding skin. This innovative approach stimulates collagen production, leading to brighter, more even-toned skin over time.

Benefits of PicoSure for Melasma:

  1. Precision Targeting: PicoSure precisely targets melasma pigmentation, minimising the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.
  2. Minimal Discomfort: With its rapid pulses and advanced technology, PicoSure ensures minimal discomfort during treatment, making it suitable for all skin types.
  3. Quick Results: Experience visible improvements in melasma after just a few sessions, with optimal results achieved over time.
  4. Little to No Downtime: Unlike traditional laser treatments, PicoSure requires minimal downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

Considerations and Expectations: While PicoSure offers promising results for melasma, it’s essential to manage expectations and adhere to recommended treatment protocols. Depending on the severity of melasma, multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. Additionally, sun protection and a tailored skincare regimen are crucial for maintaining results and preventing melasma recurrence.

Why Choose Jacqueline Brennan: At Jacqueline Brennan, we’re dedicated to providing personalised, results-driven skincare solutions. Our team of experts is trained in the latest techniques and technologies, ensuring your safety and satisfaction throughout your melasma treatment journey. With our commitment to excellence and unparalleled patient care, you can trust Jacqueline Brennan to help you achieve radiant, melasma-free skin.

JB x

Elevate Your Skincare Routine with PicoSure by Cynosure: The Ultimate Guide to Radiant Complexion Renewal

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Introduction: Prepare to embark on a journey to flawless skin perfection with Jacqueline Brennan’s latest offering: PicoSure by Cynosure. Elevating the standards of skincare luxury, this cutting-edge laser treatment promises transformative results, targeting a myriad of concerns with precision and efficacy. Join us as we explore the unparalleled benefits, minimal downtime, pain considerations, and the rationale behind integrating this revolutionary technology into our menu.

Benefits: Experience a rejuvenated complexion like never before with PicoSure by Cynosure. This state-of-the-art treatment offers an array of benefits, including:

Melasma: PicoSure harnesses the power of picosecond technology to target melasma with precision and efficacy.

Skin Rejuvenation: Stimulate collagen production for firmer, smoother skin and a more youthful appearance.

Acne Scar Reduction: Diminish the appearance of acne scars and blemishes, restoring confidence and clarity to your complexion.

Pigmentation Correction: Address hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and age spots for a more even and radiant skin tone.

Minimal Discomfort: Experience minimal discomfort during treatment, with most clients describing the sensation as mild tingling or warmth.

Downtime: Say goodbye to extended downtime and hello to immediate results with PicoSure by Cynosure. Unlike traditional laser treatments that may require days of recovery, this innovative technology boasts minimal downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities with ease. Experience radiant skin without the inconvenience of prolonged redness or discomfort, and embrace a newfound confidence in your complexion.

Pain Considerations: At Jacqueline Brennan, your comfort is our top priority. Rest assured, the PicoSure by Cynosure treatment is designed with your comfort in mind. While individual pain tolerance may vary, most clients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, often likening it to a light snapping sensation. Our expert technicians are dedicated to ensuring your experience is as comfortable as possible, utilizing advanced numbing options and soothing techniques for optimal comfort.

Rationale Behind Integration: Jacqueline Brennan is committed to providing our clients with the latest advancements in skincare technology. The decision to introduce PicoSure by Cynosure to our menu stems from our unwavering dedication to offering unparalleled results and personalized solutions. After thorough research and evaluation, we are proud to partner with industry-leading innovators to bring this transformative treatment to our esteemed clientele, empowering you to achieve the radiant complexion of your dreams.

Conclusion: Experience the epitome of skincare luxury with PicoSure by Cynosure at Jacqueline Brennan. Rediscover confidence in your complexion as we redefine skincare standards and unveil a world of possibilities for your skin. Say goodbye to skincare concerns and hello to a radiant, rejuvenated complexion that exudes confidence and vitality. Schedule your consultation today and embark on the journey to flawless skin perfection with Jacqueline Brennan.

JB x

I Tried the Augustinus Bader Facial at Jacqueline Brennan. Here’s Why It Lives up to the Hype

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Hannah Gay heads to Sydney’s North Shore to experience a premium Augustinus Bader Facial at Jacqueline Brennan.The Sydney suburb of Mosman is a hub of beauty and aesthetic services. Featured as one of many upmarket spots dotted around the area is Jacqueline Brennan’s namesake clinic. What separates Jacqueline’s space from the pack is that it is one of few Sydney beauty destinations offering services utilising Augustinus Bader.The cult skincare line has earned fans in the likes of Kim Kardashian, Victoria Beckham and Jennifer Aniston. Despite the brand this year launching into the consumer space with MECCA, it has retained its aspirational status. Only those business owners able to match Augustinus Bader in its premium reputation have been elected as partners.In 2023, Jacqueline celebrates three years at her uber sleek digs. Her Mosman clinic spans 110 square-meters and features four modern treatment rooms. The skin aficionado began her career training in the field that she says “laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable path”. Jacqueline undertook work both in Europe and Australia under the mentorship and guidance of “some of the industry’s finest professionals.
She describes opening her own clinic in a foreign country as one of the most significant leaps in her career; “a challenging but rewarding endeavor”. Nearly a decade on, Jacqueline is proud of her achievements, having grown and expanded her client address book. “These milestones represent the culmination of dedication, hard work, and the support of those who have influenced my journey,” Jacqueline tells Professional Beauty.Jacqueline’s success has garnered her the reputation as one of the city’s must-visit spaces for skin health; so-much-so that the Augustinus Bader facial occupies her treatment menu. Her relationship with the brand developed organically after tracking its growth over the years. “Serendipitously, I had a mutual friend in Germany who recognised our shared passion for skincare and kindly facilitated our introduction,” Jacqueline explains. “This connection allowed me to forge a meaningful partnership with Augustinus Bader – a brand I’ve long-admired and now have the privilege to collaborate with.”The business owner cites the brand’s “cutting-edge science” and “superior ingredients” as key distinguishing factors. “Their commitment to cellular rejuvenation and personalised skincare regimens creates remarkable results. Multifunctional  simplify routines, while the brand’s partnership with industry professionals ensures a luxurious and effective experience. In my opinion it’s this unique synergy of science, quality, and personalisation that sets Augustinus Bader apart in the skincare market,” she says.Augustinus Bader products utilise a patented TFC8® formula. Read more on this unique ingredient here.The Jacqueline Brennan ethos centres around a commitment to the inner beauty and outer confidence of her clients. Taking on a holistic approach, “we believe that true radiance comes from a harmonious balance of self-care and self-assurance. [We] ensure that each individual’s unique beauty is celebrated and nurtured all in a beautiful environment,” Jacqueline says.
Jacqueline’s ethos mimics that of the Augustinus Bader brand, rooted in a history of ground-breaking research and respect to the individuals’ unique biology – “from skincare to clinical practice to biotech research, all our advances are grounded in a belief that the body is its own best therapist”, as noted on the brand’s website.Multi-faceted, the Jacqueline Brennan x Augustinus Bader facial involves a series of steps designed to relax the body and invigorate the skin. Every product used, from the mask to the body oil, belongs to Augustinus Bader. It includes a detailed cleanse, extractions, an LED session, and luxurious hand, arm, and decolletage massage. The best part? Therapists’ ability to perform a relaxing and effective lymphatic facial massage. The process involves kneading along the jawline and upward movements through to the tops of the cheeks. Cold stones are also used to perform gua sha along the face and cool the skin post-LED. For 1 hour 15 minutes, clients can expect the perfect synergy of efficacious treatment with an opportunity to truly unwind.Also offered at Jacqueline Brennan are three equally popular treatments, Jacqueline flags, including RF microneedling, Laser Genesis, and their luxurious Bespoke facial. Her typical clients are interested in ageing naturally (and slowly). “They are well-informed and highly motivated to look their best for as long as possible. These clients are committed to regular treatments and skincare routines as part of their strategy to maintain a youthful appearance and prevent further aging effects. Their dedication to preserving their natural features and achieving long-lasting results is a testament to their proactive approach to self-care,” Jacqueline adds.
Despite her success, Jacqueline feels that the industry is changing, and fast. Areas like sustainable skincare, personalised regimes using AI and natural ingredients, tech-driven innovations are all ones to watch. She is looking ahead at the possibility of opening a second clinic, “offering an extended range of skincare options and treatments, further enhancing the services and choices available to clients, while continuing to provide top-tier skincare solutions,” she says.

Reduce Rosacea Redness With Laser Genesis

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If you’re struggling with redness and rosacea, you’re not alone. Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing redness, irritation, and sometimes even pain. However, there is hope for relief! Laser Genesis, a non-invasive laser treatment, can help reduce the appearance of redness and broken capillaries associated with rosacea and other skin conditions. In this article, we’ll explore rosacea, Laser Genesis, and how this innovative treatment can help you achieve healthier, clearer skin.
UNDERSTANDING ROSACEA AND REDNESSWHAT IS ROSACEA?Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. It causes redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. While it is most common in middle-aged women with fair skin, rosacea can affect anyone at any age. CAUSES OF ROSACEAThe exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but researchers believe it may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some potential triggers include:Sun exposureHot or cold temperaturesStressSpicy foodsAlcohol consumptionCertain skincare products SYMPTOMS OF ROSACEARosacea presents with a range of symptoms, including:Persistent rednessVisible blood vesselsSwelling and inflammationDry, rough, or scaly skinBurning or stinging sensations




LASER GENESIS: AN OVERVIEW
WHAT IS LASER GENESIS?
Laser Genesis is a non-invasive, FDA-approved laser treatment that gently heats the upper dermis of the skin. This process stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of redness, broken capillaries, and other skin imperfections.

HOW DOES LASER GENESIS WORK?
Laser Genesis uses a specific wavelength of light that targets the hemoglobin in blood vessels. The heat generated by the laser causes the blood vessels to coagulate and collapse, eventually being reabsorbed by the body. This reduces the appearance of redness and broken capillaries on the skin’s surface.

LASER GENESIS FOR REDNESS AND ROSACEA
EFFECTIVENESS OF LASER GENESIS
Laser Genesis has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of rosacea and redness. Studies have reported significant improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall appearance following a series of Laser Genesis treatments. It’s important to note that results may vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment.

TARGETING BROKEN CAPILLARIES
One of the key benefits of Laser Genesis is its ability to target and treat broken capillaries. By collapsing these vessels, the treatment reduces the appearance of redness and inflammation associated with rosacea.

REDUCING INFLAMMATION AND REDNESS
Laser Genesis not only targets broken capillaries but also helps reduce inflammation and redness. The gentle heating of the upper dermis stimulates collagen production, which can help improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.


COMPARING LASER GENESIS TO OTHER TREATMENTS
INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL) THERAPY
IPL therapy is another popular treatment for rosacea and redness. It uses a broad spectrum of light to target blood vessels and reduce inflammation. While both Laser Genesis and IPL can be effective, Laser Genesis is often considered less painful and more targeted in treating specific skin concerns.

TOPICAL TREATMENTS
Topical treatments, such as creams and gels, can help manage rosacea symptoms, but they may not be as effective in treating broken capillaries or severe redness. Laser Genesis offers a more targeted approach to addressing these issues.

ORAL MEDICATIONS
In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to help manage rosacea symptoms. However, these medications may have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. Laser Genesis offers a non-invasive, drug-free alternative for treating rosacea and redness.



CONCLUSION
Laser Genesis is a promising treatment option for those suffering from rosacea and redness. Its ability to target broken capillaries and reduce inflammation can lead to improved skin health and appearance. While results may vary, many patients have experienced significant improvements following a series of treatments. If you’re considering Laser Genesis for your rosacea, consult with a qualified professional to determine if this treatment is right for you.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW MANY LASER GENESIS TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS?
The number of treatments needed varies depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Typically, a series of 6 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart is recommended for optimal results. Your practitioner will help determine the appropriate treatment plan for you.

IS LASER GENESIS PAINFUL?
Most patients describe the sensation during Laser Genesis treatment as a warm, gentle tingling.


CAN I WEAR MAKEUP AFTER LASER GENESIS TREATMENT?
Yes, you can apply makeup immediately after the treatment, as long as your skin is not irritated or broken. It’s important to use gentle, non-irritating products and avoid exfoliating agents for a few days following the treatment.

IS THERE ANY DOWNTIME AFTER LASER GENESIS TREATMENT?
There is minimal to no downtime associated with Laser Genesis treatment. You may experience mild redness or swelling immediately after the treatment, but this typically subsides within a few hours. Most patients can return to their normal activities right away.

If you suffer from conditions like Sun Damage / Excessive or Diffused Redness / Large Pores / Uneven Skin Texture & Tone / Wrinkles & Fine Lines / Scars / Rosacea (facial redness) then A Laser Genesis treatment could be suitable for you. Call 02 9888 5534 today for a skin analysis consultation or book online now.

“The Slick Trend: Slugging – How to Do It Right, Avoid Common Mistakes, and Why Vaseline May Not Be Ideal for Your Skin”

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The skin industry is always buzzing with new skincare trends and routines, and one that has gained recent popularity is “slugging.” But what exactly is slugging, how do you do it the right way, what are common mistakes to avoid, and why might Vaseline not be the best choice for this skincare practice?

What is Slugging?

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick occlusive moisturiser, the trending petroleum jelly or what I would recommend a facial oil or rich moisturiser, to your face before bedtime. The goal is to create a barrier that seals in moisture, preventing water loss and promoting hydration.

How to Do Slugging the Right Way

Start with Clean Skin: Before slugging, ensure your face is clean and free from makeup and dirt. Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and pat your skin dry.Apply a Pea-Sized Amount: A little goes a long way with occlusive products. Use a small amount of your chosen moisturiser to avoid clogging your pores.Focus on Key Areas: Concentrate on areas prone to dryness, such as the cheeks, forehead, and around the eyes. Avoid applying the product too close to the eyes to prevent irritation.Massage Gently: Gently massage the moisturiser into your skin using upward, circular motions. This promotes absorption and ensures even coverage.Leave Overnight: Leave the product on overnight, allowing it to work its magic while you sleep. In the morning, wash your face as usual.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overuse of Product: Applying too much moisturiser can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Stick to a thin layer for best results.
Using the Wrong Product: Not all occlusive moisturisers are created equal, be sure to choose one that is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
Neglecting to Cleanse: Failing to cleanse your face before slugging can trap dirt and impurities beneath the occlusive layer, potentially leading to skin issues.

Why Vaseline May Not Be Ideal for Your Skin

While Vaseline is a popular choice for slugging due to its affordability and availability, it may not be the best option for everyone. Here’s why:
Purity Concerns: Vaseline is a purified form of petroleum jelly, but some individuals prefer alternatives with fewer potential impurities. Look for medical-grade petroleum jelly or other occlusive products with cleaner formulations if you have concerns.
Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to petroleum-based products like Vaseline.
Comedogenicity: Vaseline is considered non-comedogenic, but it can still potentially clog pores in some individuals, leading to breakouts. If you’re prone to acne, it’s crucial to be cautious when using occlusive moisturisers.

I’ve always been a believer in the power of effective skincare, even before slugging became a trendy term. There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing that I’m taking extra steps to care for my skin, and slugging with my night moisturiser and a facial oil has been a practice close to my heart for as long as I can remember. It’s not just about following the latest beauty fads; it’s about nurturing my skin and giving it the attention it deserves. This routine has consistently delivered results that I can see and feel, from the way my skin looks more radiant to how it feels smoother and better hydrated. It’s a personal choice that aligns with my skincare philosophy, and it’s become a comforting and effective nightly ritual that I cherish.

Here’s Why …

1 Hydration: This dual approach allows you to lock in moisture effectively. Your night moisturiser provides a base layer of hydration, while the facial oil acts as an additional barrier, preventing moisture loss and ensuring that your skin stays well-hydrated throughout the night.
2 Customisation: Layering a facial oil on top of your night moisturiser provides the flexibility to customise your skincare routine. You can choose a night moisturiser with specific ingredients tailored to your skin concerns and then select a facial oil that complements or enhances those benefits. This customisation can be particularly useful for addressing specific skin issues or achieving a particular skincare goal.
3 Enhanced Skin Barrier: The combination of a night moisturiser and facial oil can strengthen your skin’s natural barrier. This barrier plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from environmental stressors and retaining moisture, promoting overall skin health.
4 Extra Nourishment: Some facial oils are rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that provide nourishment to your skin. By applying a facial oil on top of your moisturiser, you ensure that these beneficial compounds have a better chance of being absorbed into your skin, offering additional skincare benefits.
Reduced Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): Transepidermal water loss is when moisture evaporates from the skin’s surface. The occlusive properties of the facial oil help minimize TEWL, ensuring that your skin retains moisture for a more extended period.
5 Improved Skin Texture: Many people find that combining a night moisturiser and facial oil results in smoother, softer skin with improved texture. This can be especially beneficial for those with dry or rough skin.
Comfort: The feeling of a facial oil on their skin over a heavy cream or moisturiser. Facial oils tend to be lightweight and can provide a comfortable, non-greasy feel.
6 Radiance: Depending on the facial oil you choose, you may experience a healthy glow or radiance, which can give your skin a more vibrant appearance.

JB x



Tip – Give your body the same care and attention you give to your face.
Call 02 9888 5534 today for a skin analysis consultation or book online now.
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Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian are all obsessed with this cult skincare -Augustinus Bader

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Founded by a world-leading stem cell specialist, the brand has rapidly become a celebrity favourite, counting VB, Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, Margot Robbie, Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington among its fans. And a panel of more than 300 beauty industry pros voted The Cream as the Greatest Skincare Product of All Time, adding to the huge 52 awards it has won.

The brand’s blue and bronze bottles grace many an Instagram feed

Backed by three decades of research, the brand was founded by Professor Augustinus Bader, a German biomedical scientist and physician. Having closely studied the technologies that activate the body’s capacity to heal from wounds without surgery or skin grafts, Bader created a covetable line of skincare and body products that stimulate cellular renewal to dramatically improve the complexion. 

Enter his hero product: 

The Cream a light, refreshing and deeply hydrating moisturiser which promises to leave skin supple, plump and smooth. Using Bader’s trademarked TFC8 (Trigger Factor Complex), it guides key nutrients and natural ingredients into the skin to encourage an even and glowing complexion. This wonder product also defends against damage from environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays to build a stronger and more resilient skin barrier, promoting better skin health and radiance overall.

Also sure to give you a Hollywood glow are

The Cleansing Balm a rich and nourishing spa-worthy treat which melts across the skin to dissolve makeup and impurities, and

The Face Oil, a fast-absorbing formula to instantly hydrate. Products in the range are vegan and gluten free, and without parabens, fragrance, SLS and mineral oil which can each irritate sensitive skin. 

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEDIK8 CRYSTAL RETINAL CERAMIDE EYE CREAM

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Having used Retinol comfortably for years, I decided to jump in with Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 6 (also available in 3 and 10) As with all vitamin A products, you have to ease your skin in, so I incorporated Medik8’s eye cream into my evening routine twice a week for a fortnight. Vitamin A is a potent ingredient, so building up your usage over time gives your skin time to adjust and minimises any irritation. 

I do want to flag that Medik8 has used retinaldehyde, which is much closer to retinoic acid (the type of vitamin A our skin responds to). For simplicity I refer to vitamin A as ‘retinol’ throughout the review as it’s the umbrella term that so many of us use. The brand has spent years on this formulation to ensure it provides all the benefits of retinaldehyde without irritating the delicate eye area. 

Over the two weeks of using Medik8’s cream, I noted that my eye area felt smoother. The formula has the texture of a very light creamy serum. If you like your eye creams to feel light, almost like a serum, you’ll enjoy Medik8’s Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye Cream. I used a pea-size amount across both eyes and gently tapped it onto my skin after cleansing before bed. 

It’s clear that Medik8 has put a lot of work into this formula, and I have no doubt that it’s going to be as much of a success as the face serum.



HOW IT WORKS

Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye has been totally optimised to deliver retinal power to the delicate skin around the eyes. The eye cream targets signs of ageing specific to this area of the face; deep-set crows feet wrinkles, loss of firmness, dark circles, puffiness, dehydration lines and sensitivity. 

1. This innovative vitamin A eye cream features a twin-encapsulated retinal delivery system; two forms of retinal encapsulation come together to produce an ultra-slowed down, gradient-release of retinal into the skin. This minimises any potential for irritation, ensuring that Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye is extra gentle on the delicate eye area.

2. Ceramides work to nourish, visibly firm and support the thinner skin around the eye area overnight, helping to offset any dryness and sensitivity that can sometimes occur with vitamin A use. Ceramides are naturally found in our skin’s barrier, therefore replenish the skin with ease.

3. Next-generation hydrators hyaluronic acid filling spheres provide fast visible smoothing results. Prior to application onto the skin, the spheres are dehydrated. Once in the skin, they fill up with water and inflate, expanding within the depth of lines and wrinkles. This boost in volume can help to quickly visibly plump any tell-tale signs of ageing around the eye area overnight.

4. Chamomile extract is a soothing natural antioxidant that helps to support, comfort and calm the delicate eye area overnight.

If you’re looking to minimise deep lines and wrinkles and brighten dark circles, I think Merrick eight crystal retinal ceramide eye Merrick eight crystal retinal ceramics eye would be a wise investment – just start slowly and don’t forget your SPF the next morning!

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WINTER SKIN

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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WINTER SKIN 

20th June, 2022

I’m all about looking after my skin. In fact, it’s probably one aspect of my beauty routine that I choose to invest in because I know starting with a healthy complexion provides the perfect base for everything.I like having the option to choose whether I want forego makeup on a particular day or simply start with a good foundation from which to build a makeup look. A key aspect of that routine is having regular treatments with facialist Jacqueline Brennan. Her eponymous Mosman-based clinic is a haven and I often go there when my skin needs some serious TLC. I can attest that Jacqueline is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to skin, so I asked her to share her tips for dealing with winter skin. Read on to find out Jacqueline’s advice for looking after your skin now that temperatures have dropped.

What changes occur to our skin during winter?

Winter is harsh and can be unforgiving. As the temperature drops so does our skin’s ability to protect itself. The low humidity is dehydrating and can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and broken capillaries. However, with a few key changes and additions to your daily routine, your skin will stay balanced and healthy.

What are the biggest concerns regarding skin during winter?

Dryness

Cold, dry winter weather takes a toll on our outer skin layer. Unfortunately, the skin may not be able to naturally compensate for extreme cold, and microscopic cracks in the skin barrier may develop, which can lead to the loss of hydration and inflammation. Additionally, things we do to compensate (like long, hot showers) can exacerbate the problem by stripping the skin of the essential oils that normally maintain our healthy skin barrier.

Redness/Sensitivity  

Because of dryness, many people suffer from periods of skin redness during the winter. Because dry skin often looks more wrinkled and dull, many overcompensate by using products that contain alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids to help brighten the skin, but usually they just end up making redness and irritation worse.

Brown spots 

Brown spots that become more noticeable is another common winter skin symptom that can be both confusing and frustrating. Most people have slightly darker skin during warmer months because of increased sun exposure. Then as we move back into colder weather, this baseline colour fades, which can expose brown spots making them more obvious.

What changes do we need to make to our skincare routine during winter?

Here are my tips on how to heal dry skin in winter and keep your complexion glowing all season long.

  1. Cleanse gently
  2. Use an exfoliating toner 
  3. Keep your skin hydrated by apply hyaluronic acid twice daily 
  4. Use an oil-based moisturiser (not water-based) 
  5. Take advantage of targeted mask treatments
  6. Don’t forget your SPF every day!

Hot showers, heaters and cold air can be very drying and are all part of the cool weather during winter. What are the best ways to deal with dry skin? 

I always recommend my clients to treat their skin more gently in winter focusing on hydration and protecting the skin barrier.

I also recommend gentle exfoliation. The skin exfoliates itself with usage of proper products containing vitamin A. Specifically, Medik8’s Crystal Retinal. It does not create skin sensitivities as many prescription retinoids and retinols do, so it’s a very safe and super active product to work with. Applying ceramides and hyaluronic acid daily helps to protect and hydrate. 

I also recommend layering clothes at home to avoid drying central heating and lukewarm water instead of hot showers. 

What should we be looking for in a moisturiser during winter?

I would always recommend using a day cream with an added SPF in winter  – don’t forget that UVA rays are around us all the time, they can penetrate clouds, glass and are emitted from computer screens.

A great deal of your skin’s natural rejuvenation and repair process takes place at night.

I am a huge fan of ceramides in a winter moisturiser and ceramides make up at least half of the lipids in the skin barrier, which is the body’s first line of defence against the elements. Not only does the skin barrier keep invaders out, but it’s also responsible for keeping moisture in. 

I also look for hyaluronic acid a well-known skincare ingredient for dry skin since it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.

Lastly vitamin C – this antioxidant helps protect the skin from free radical damage which is said to be worse in winter. 

What treatments should we consider having during winter?

We tend to hibernate in the winter, as opposed to the summer months where we spend more time outdoors. Therefore, winter is a great time to get treatments that might have a little longer downtime or recovery time. It’s also a great opportunity to repair the damage that is caused by the summer months and sun damage.

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is used to treat redness, “sun spots” or pigmented areas of the skin as well as spider veins. This is a great treatment for winter months because staying out of the sun is crucial to the effectiveness of IPL. Sunlight can lead to darkening of the treated areas.

Anyone that visits my clinic knows I am a huge fan of LED Light Therapy and I recommend my clients to do it as often as possible, particularly if their skin is feeling dehydrated, sensitive or suffering from any skin conditions such as dermatitis in winter. I try to have light therapy 2/3 times a week!

Gentle lasers such as Laser Genesis and treatments like Ultraformer, which firm loose skin with ultrasound energy, and radio frequency micro-needling treatments are safe to do year-round. All of these procedures represent non-invasive ways to target loose, sagging skin and wrinkles on the face, neck, and body with minimal to no downtime.

BEAUTYJACQUELINE BRENNANSKINCARE

  

KATE WATERHOUSE

VOGUE – Slather up: the best moisturisers to winter-proof your skin

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If you’ve ever slogged your way to work in cold weather in order to sit in an air-conditioned office and feel the moisture simply disappearing from your complexion (and sometimes soul) for the 9-5 you’ll understand that the winter months can be hard on your skin. Whether you have sensitive, oily, acne-prone, dry or combination skin, looking after it when the temperature dips is essential. One important way to ensure you have hydrated skin and enough protection to withstand, well, all of the elements, is to invest in the right moisturiser. 

Jacqueline Brennan, owner of skincare clinic Jacqueline Brennan, says you may need to adjust your routine in the cooler months.

“As the temperature drops so does our skin’s ability to protect itself. The low humidity is dehydrating, drying and can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and broken capillaries. Changing up your moisturiser from a light gel base in the warmer months to an oil base cream in the cooler months will help avoid this. Also noting an SPF is essential for both warmer and cooler months to protect the skin’s barrier,” she says.

One thing to be across in the winter months is understanding the difference between dry and dehydrated skin, and how the weather impacts this. “The basic distinction is that dry skin is a ‘type’ caused by a lack of oil production while dehydrated skin is a condition caused by a lack of water in the epidermis,” says Brennan.

“Cold air, dry indoor heat, low humidity levels, and harsh winter wind can all zap your skin of moisture. This can leave your skin flaky, irritated and less radiant.”

As for what to look for in a winter moisturiser, while it will differ according to individual skin needs, Brennan is a fan of products with ceramides lipids (fat molecules) that help the skin hold onto moisture and help the skin barrier to function.

“Ceramides are an essential component of the skin, making up half its outer layer. They are essential in supporting the skin barrier function and retaining moisture within the skin,” says Brennan. “The second powerhouse hydrator is hyaluronic acid that holds onto water and helps keep it hydrated and plump, hyaluronic acid is like a magnet to moisture.”

“I generally remind clients that, just like their wardrobe, their skincare routine may need to be a little more lightweight. Thicker moisturisers can lead to clogged pores, inflammation, and acne especially if you have acne-prone or oily skin. A lighter formula keeps moisture locked in without overwhelming the pores during a humid summer.”

Here, Vogue rounds up the very best winter moisturisers in Australia, because now is definitely the time to give your skin a little extra TCL.

The best winter moisturisers in Australia for 2022

For oily or acne-prone skin: Medik8

Don’t be tempted to skip the moisturiser when you have oily skin. As Jacqueline Brennan notes, you should seek out something lightweight that is enhanced with oil-control properties plus beta-glucan and niacinamide to boost hydration and soothe the skin. Meanwhile for acne-prone skin you’ll want something that mattifies the skin, refines pores and that is oil-free.

For mature skin: Mesoestetic

Jacqueline Brennan is a fan of Radiance DNA by Mesoestetic for mature skin in need of being deeply hydrated. “This product synchronises the cellular rest periods and reinforces the barrier function with an intense and long-lasting contribution of moisture, while firming up and redensifying the dermis,” she says.

For dry skin: Medik8

“From a person who has battled true dry skin all my life, my go-to will always be Ultimate Recovery by Medik8. An intensely rich, restorative cream for dry, compromised skin. Deeply hydrating and comforting, it creates a protective barrier to shield skin from everyday irritants while keeping moisture locked in tight,” says Jacqueline Brennan.