The Very Best Skincare Advice We Were Given In 2021
From mandatory mask-wearing and facing the polluted office commute again to finally enjoying a proper summer with friends and family, 2021 is bound to have taken a toll on your skin.
You might have had to contend with maskne, heatwave-related sun damage or stress-induced spots to pinpoint a handful of gripes. Through it all, the industry's best skincare experts have been on hand to impart their stellar advice.
Over the past year we've spoken to some of the biggest names in beauty for their take on all things healthy and happy skin, including London's best facialist Jasmina Vico, renowned aesthetician Dija Ayodele and sought-after dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto — and that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Ahead, we round up the very best skincare advice we were given in 2021 and how it can serve you well into next year.
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Enter: stem cells.
"I like to use skincare products which contain stem cells and growth factors in the evening," Jasmina told R29 this year. "Stem cells simply rejuvenate your skin," which makes them a great addition to any pro-ageing skincare routine if you're keen to boost your skin's bounce and radiance. "They can be plant-based or animal-based and you can even grow your own in a lab, though that will cost you thousands," she added.
The pro mentioned that she is a fan of skincare brand Bioeffect. From serums to moisturisers, the brand uses stem cells derived from barley. We rate the Bioeffect Hydrating Cream, £60, and EGF Day Serum, £115.
R29 rates Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream, £30, or CeraVe's Facial Moisturising Lotion, £13, as both are kind to sensitive skin.
"Our sebum is amazing for our skin," she said earlier in the year. "Firstly, it has its own natural antioxidants in it," she mentioned, referring to vitamin E. This deflects environmental stressors, such as pollution. Teamed with SPF, vitamin E can act as an extra shield against the sun. Dr Craythorne also says that oil is a great natural moisturiser. "Oil coats our skin and provides a great barrier," said Dr Craythorne. "It's just so good for our skin."
"After just one session which lasted for just 15 minutes, my skin was visibly brighter, my pores smaller and fine lines reduced," Vicky wrote. "The best bit is that there was absolutely no downtime at all. When I left the clinic, I felt like I finally had the no-makeup skin that everyone aspires to these days." Gripes like sun damage may take a while longer to treat, as Vicky mentioned in her article, but regular treatments could be beneficial.
If you're interested in laser or any other skin treatments, be sure to visit a trained doctor or nurse.
Daniela isn't the only pro to rate NuFace. In a recent Instagram live video, consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto said she liked the NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device, £175. "It has created a temporary lift," she told viewers. "If you're looking for a home device that you find relaxing to do and that's going to give you a temporary lift, I have been surprisingly pleased."
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