Dr. Niki Ralph as featured in The Gloss
Thank you again to @sarahhalliwellbeauty and @theglossmag for inviting @drnikiralph to share her tips on achieving optimum skin health at home during this time.
.
Among Dr Ralph's top tips, she suggested introducing a double- cleanse to your routine where possible, to remove makeup and SPF, some of which are oil-based and can cause build up along with the sweat, dirt and debris of a usual day. She recommends starting with a micellar water, something gentle and hydrating, and then using a water-based cream cleanser, removed with a damp cotton pad, allowing for the emulsification of the product on the skin and aiding with deeper cleansing of the pores.
.
Exfoliation is key to all hardworking skincare routines and Dr Ralph is a fan of chemical exfoliators, such as Biologique Recherche's Lotion P50. However, she advises those who suffer with Rosacea or eczema or have very sensitive sin to introduce chemical exfoliators very slowly and only when the skin condition is under control. For very sensitive skin, La Roche Posay's Effaeclar Clarifying Lotion is a great daily exfoliator, especially for those with oily skin.
.
Dr Ralph also advises not to squeeze your spots, ever! And avoid using nappy creams or any barrier creams on congested areas. Stick to your usual double-cleanse and exfoliate routine, adding a bi-weekly purifying mask such as Biologique Recherche's Masque Vivant to bring the breakout under control. Effaclar Clay Mask from La Roche Posay is a great pharmacy alternative.
.
When asked what treatment she would book when lockdown is over, Dr Ralph said Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) would be ideal for her right now as she has been working daily with a face mask and full face and neck visor and has started to notice the impact on her skin. As this is unlikely to change in the near future, PRP will help her skin's regenerative process kick in as well as boost collagen and elastin production.
.
You can read the full feature and all of Dr Ralph's tips on thegloss.ie.