Category: Skincare

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Introducing Bare Addiction: A Skincare Brand for Tween & Teen Skin

At Klira, we believe that using the right skincare treatments at the right time is essential for maintaining long-term skin health. That’s why we are thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with Bare Addiction—a leading skincare brand designed specifically for tweens and teens.

Formulated by Klira founder and consultant dermatologist Dr. Emma Craythorne, Bare Addiction provides effective skincare solutions designed for youthful skin concerns. Committed to natural ingredients, the brand offers gentle yet powerful formulations that support young skin. For teens struggling with problem skin but not yet ready for Klira, Bare Addiction is the perfect place to start.

Why Bare Addiction?

Bare Addiction’s approach to skincare combines the best of nature and science. Their range is thoughtfully crafted to address common teen skin concerns, including acne, oiliness, and sensitivity. The brand is committed to cruelty-free and ethically sourced products, ensuring that young skin receives gentle, effective care without unnecessary harsh chemicals.

What Makes Bare Addiction the Right Choice for Tween & Teen Skin?

Dermatologist-Approved Formulations

Developed in collaboration with Dr. Emma Craythorne, Bare Addiction products are designed to be both safe and effective for youthful skin.

Natural Ingredients

The brand prioritises plant-based, natural ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals that can cause irritation.

Targeted Solutions for Common Teen Skin Concerns

Whether dealing with excess oil, blemishes, redness, or sensitivity, Bare Addiction’s products provide targeted care to support clear, healthy skin.

How Does the Bare Addiction Routine Work?

Bare Addiction products are designed for daily use, fitting seamlessly into a simple yet effective 4 step skincare routine.

Step 1 – Cleanse:

Start with the Daily Foaming Gel Cleanser, formulated to provide a deep cleanse without drying the skin. It works to clear current breakouts while helping reduce the likelihood of future spots by removing excess oil, dirt, and impurities.

Step 2 – Boost:

Next, apply the Anti-Blemish Boost Serum—a lightweight, fast-absorbing serum designed to penetrate pores, manage excess oil, and target spot-causing bacteria. It also hydrates the skin, keeping it balanced and preventing dryness.

Step 3 – Treat:

Use the Rapid Action Spot Cream directly on problem areas. This targeted treatment helps reduce the appearance of spots without drying the skin, with key actives working to calm redness within 15 minutes and prevent long-term hyperpigmentation and scarring.

Step 4 – Protect & Repair:

Finish the routine with either day or night care based on the time:

AM: Apply the Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF30 with blue light protection, shielding young skin from UVA/UVB rays and artificial light from screens.

PM: Use the Nightly Refresh Moisturiser to hydrate and rebuild the skin’s natural barrier, while controlling oil production overnight.

Each product, and ingredients have been specifically chosen for young skin, and to work collectively to target common young skin concerns. Bare addiction offers a serum and night cream which most brands don’t offer in a tween/teen range. This allows Bare Addiction’s to be more specialised, for example their day cream offers an SPF30 broad spectrum with blue light (artificial light from devices) protection, whilst the night cream has actives to support repairing of the natural barrier, providing up to 24 hours of hydration and controlling oil production overnight.

Try Bare Addictions with Our Exclusive Offer

Want your teen to test the range? The Clear Skin Mini Kit is perfect for travel or trial, lasting up to 4 weeks. Experience the full AM & PM routine before committing to full sizes. Claim your Klira-exclusive 25% off below with code: KLIRA25

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How Klira Transformed My Skin: Victoria’s Skincare Journey

Victoria, SkinSize™ /07, is a London-based marketing and communications professional with a passion for running. She’s been hitting the pavement for 20 years, first lacing up at 18. A founding member of the ASICS Front Runner UK team since 2017, she’s also a dedicated coach at Canterbury Harriers, where she helps runners of all levels achieve their goals.

I first started using Klira in September 2024, I am six months in now and genuinely have the best skin of my life.

My skin was always clear growing up, and I can’t say I ever remember having significant issues in my twenties and early thirties, other than the occasional monthly hormonal spot. But in November 2023 I started to play around with some retinol products from another brand and it absolutely ruined my skin – I developed adult acne as a result of this, which I thought was just the normal purging cycle so persevered with its use, but my skin became worse and worse, and subsequently affected my confidence quite significantly. In March 2024 I stopped using the product that was affecting my skin so badly and stripped everything back to just a cleanser, moisturiser and SPF, which definitely helped, but my skin still wasn’t great, never felt clear, and continued to affect my confidence. I then read about Klira about two months prior to being matron of honour at my friend’s wedding and thought I’d give it a go as I was desperate for good skin. I was really concerned I may have another big purging episode but decided to take that risk, and I’m so grateful I did, as my skin didn’t purge at all and it just became clearer and clearer.

My skin has never looked as good as it does now, six months in to using Klira. It really has changed my life and boosted my confidence dramatically. It’s also created such a simple and streamlined routine which is great as I travel a lot and don’t want to carry a plethora of products with me all the time. My morning routine is: gentle cleanser, eye cream, moisturiser and SPF 50. And my evening routine is the same but using my Klira treatment after cleansing and leaving out the SPF. I don’t have any botox or fillers and I also don’t wear any skin makeup like foundation or concealer, yet you can see the clarity and great condition of my skin in my most recent photos. 

Not only has Klira cleared my skin, it also helps with anti-ageing which I’m super conscious of as a runner. My skin is put through a lot with my training, particularly as I train on the coast and so I’m always subjecting my face to the pretty brutal weather conditions where I live. I train six times per week, which breaks down as four runs (two easy, one interval or hill session and one longer) and two strength sessions. At the moment my race focus in 5K on the road (current PB is 19:05 but aiming for a sub 19 in the next year) and half marathons in the mountains; both of which can be pretty gruelling. I’ve also raced road marathons, ultramarathons and triathlons over the past few years and am never afraid to say yes to new adventures, but all of those things take a toll on my skin and so finding a product like Klira has really been a game-changer for me as I feel like I’m taking the right steps to keep my skin in great condition whilst subjecting it to all the things that set my soul on fire. 

To find out your SkinSize™ and order your own Klira Special, take the free SkinSize™ Analysis. Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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Peptides In Skincare: Why Klira Uses Them

Hydrolysed collagen peptides – often called “Botox in a bottle” – are some of skincare’s hydration heroes. They’re brilliant moisturisers that reduce dryness and wrinkles by increasing hydration in the skin’s outer layer (known as the stratum corneum).

Peptides are also thought to be involved in cell signalling, specifically in telling the skin to rebuild and repair itself by making more collagen (although the evidence is still emerging).

Incorporating peptide products into your skincare routine is generally far more effective for increasing your natural collagen levels than taking a collagen supplement!

The Klira Special offers the most personalised formula for facial skin on the market—with each special containing up to 11 hand-selected ingredients (including peptides!) that work in synergy for your SkinSize™.

Not to mention the new Body Special, which allows you to achieve similarly excellent results across your chest, hands, and body skin.

What are peptides in skincare?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that support hydration and help improve skin resilience. By attracting and retaining moisture, they keep the skin plump, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Beyond hydration, some peptides also act as messengers, signalling the skin to boost collagen production via its natural repair mechanisms.

It is a common misconception that peptides are absorbed into the skin and used to make collagen. Instead, peptides trigger the skin to produce collagen naturally.

This potential role in firming and strengthening the skin is why peptides are widely used in advanced skincare formulations. However, research into their collagen-stimulating effects is still developing.

 Why Klira uses peptides in skincare

At Klira, we harness the power of peptides to enhance skin hydration and overall health.

Personalised formulation:

The Klira Special is the most customised skincare formula available, containing up to 11 expert-selected ingredients—including peptides—designed specifically for your SkinSize™.

Comprehensive skincare:

The new Body Special extends these benefits beyond the face, providing targeted hydration and repair for areas like the chest, hands, and body. 

How peptides fit into your skincare routine

If you’re looking to enhance skin hydration and support long-term skin health, peptides are a valuable addition to your skincare routine. Here’s how to get the most out of them:

Use peptides consistently:

Regular application helps maintain hydration and reinforces the skin barrier. You can apply your Klira Special nightly, as the final step in your skincare routine, to achieve this.

Pair peptides with other actives:

They work well alongside ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid for hydration and Ceramides for barrier repair. The Klira Special already combines these ingredients for you.

Layering peptide skincare products:

For dedicated peptide users, you could consider a peptide eye cream after your nighttime moisturiser, and before your Klira Special. We love the CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream with Peptide Complex, which hydrates the delicate skin around the eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet. 

Your guide to the perfect peptide skincare routine:

Mornings:

Cleanser: Wash your face with a gentle, lipid-replenishing cleanser, that maintains moisture without stripping the skin. We love La Roche-Posay Lipikar Syndet AP+ Cream Wash and Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil.

Vitamin C & peptide serum (optional): If you’ve mastered daily SPF and Klira use, the next step is adding Vitamin C in the mornings. Some serums even combine Vitamin C and peptides—like the Obagi Professional-C Peptide Complex Serum. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant shield against pollution and oxidative stress, gradually brightening skin.

Moisturiser (optional): If you have dry skin, try the CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream SPF 30, which contains peptides for extra hydration.

SPF (non-negotiable!): There’s no point in using peptides if you’re not protecting your skin with broad-spectrum SPF daily. The most science-backed approach for youthful skin is broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection. Dermatologists highly recommend La Roche-Posay UVMune 400 SPF50, which suits all skin types. If you’re on a budget, check out The Altruist SPF50, designed by dermatologists for affordability. Remember: reapply throughout the day for optimal protection!

Evenings:

Cleanser: Same as above.

Moisturiser: A night cream is essential when using Klira. Apply your evening moisturiser 30-60 minutes before your Klira Special. We love La Roche-Posay AP+M Moisturiser—Dr Emma raves about this on her After Hours Skin Clinic podcast.

Eye cream (optional): As mentioned above, CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream is an excellent choice.

Klira Special: Your ultimate, personalised prescription skincare. Klira contains peptides that signal collagen production and Tretinoin, which speeds up skin cell turnover—helping to unclog pores and slow signs of ageing.

The Body Special: Don’t neglect your body’s skin! Prevention is better than cure, and the peptides in our Body Special will help maintain smooth, youthful skin over time. 

FAQs

Are peptides safe for all skin types?

Yes! Peptides are gentle and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

How long does it take to see results with peptides?

Most users notice improved hydration within a few weeks, with firmer, smoother skin appearing gradually over time with consistent use.

Can peptides replace Retinol or vitamin C?

Peptides work best alongside other active ingredients. We suggest starting with a simple routine: SPF in the morning and Klira at night (which already contains a retinoid). After a few months, you can introduce Vitamin C in the mornings.

Which is better—Hyaluronic Acid or peptides?

If hydration is your main concern, Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains moisture. If collagen support and anti-ageing are your focus, peptides signal the skin to boost collagen and elastin production. The best option? Use both! The great news? Klira Special contains both.

Final thoughts

Peptides are a key player in Klira’s science-backed formulations, helping to maintain youthful, hydrated skin. Whether through the Klira Special or Body Special, or both, incorporating peptides into your skincare routine supports skin health and long-term radiance.

Discover your personalised formula today!

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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How Klira Loves Your Skin: A Comprehensive Guide to Skin Health and Sustainability

At Klira, we believe that skincare is more than just a routine—it’s an act of love. As a loyal Klira customer, you’re already showing your skin the care it deserves, and we’re here to return that love in every way possible. Here’s how Klira is dedicated to loving your skin and the environment: 

Klira Loves Your Skin Barrier 

Your skin barrier is your first line of defence, and Klira is committed to protecting it. Our custom formulas are carefully crafted with ingredients that cushion and nourish your skin barrier, allowing it to embrace more active ingredients. With components like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, aloe, ceramides, and fatty acids, our products protect your skin from dryness and irritation, making it easier to maintain a healthy, resilient complexion. 

Klira Loves Your Collagen 

Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and bounce, and Klira is here to support it. Our potent active ingredients are scientifically proven to regenerate your collagen, reducing existing wrinkles and fine lines while preventing new ones from forming. With Klira, you can rejuvenate your skin, bringing back that youthful glow and confidence. 

Klira Loves the Environment 

At Klira, we are deeply aware of the environmental impact of the cosmetics industry. While skincare is essential, it often comes with a lot of waste. That’s why Klira’s minimalist approach to skincare combines the most important ingredients in a single formula, reducing the need for multiple products and excessive packaging. Our glass bottles and refill options are fully recyclable, reflecting our commitment to loving and protecting our planet, Mama Earth. 

Klira Loves You 

Klira was founded by dermatologists with a mission to streamline skincare, making powerful ingredients accessible without the need for costly dermatologist visits. We want to ensure that you truly understand your skin, its needs, and how to treat it right. Too many people buy products without knowing their SkinSize or proper diagnosis. With Klira, you get access to decades of dermatological expertise, both in your custom formula and through direct contact with our dermatology team. We’re here to make sure you—and your skin—feel the love. 

Share the Love 

When you care for your skin with Klira, it’s a relationship that gives back. Our products are designed to make your skincare journey as rewarding and effective as possible. Share the love with someone special and introduce them to Klira—because when you love your skin, Klira loves you back.

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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What Does a Dermatologist Do?

The Importance of Dermatologists

When it comes to skincare, there’s often confusion about the roles and expertise of various skin professionals. While aestheticians and cosmetic doctors play important roles in skin health, a dermatologist’s training and expertise are unmatched when it comes to diagnosing and treating skin conditions. But what exactly is a dermatologist, and what sets them apart from other skincare professionals? Let’s break down the role of these skin experts and why their knowledge is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

What Is a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists are trained to manage over 2,000 different skin conditions, ranging from common issues like acne and eczema to life-threatening diseases like melanoma. Their extensive training allows them to provide comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of skin concerns. Continue reading What Does a Dermatologist Do?

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Using Topical Retinoids in Winter: A No-Nonsense Guide

Winter can be a challenging season for skincare, especially if you’re using topical retinoids. But here’s the key takeaway: consistency is non-negotiable. Retinoids are proven to reduce wrinkles, reverse photo damage, treat acne, and rejuvenate your skin—but only when used daily. Stopping and starting disrupts these benefits, so sticking to your routine is crucial.

Why Consistency Matters

The science behind retinoids is clear: their transformative effects come from consistent use. Studies that showcase their benefits are based on daily application. When you use retinoids consistently, you’re allowing your skin to adjust and fully reap the rewards. While winter might tempt you to pause, doing so could set back your progress.

That said, winter can be hard on your skin. Cold air, low humidity, central heating, and even friction from scarves or coats can compromise your skin barrier, leading to irritation. The solution isn’t to stop but to adjust your routine to protect and support your skin.

Adjusting Your Retinoid Routine in Winter

Keep Applying Your Retinoid Every Day

The golden rule? Don’t skip your retinoid. If you notice irritation—commonly around the nose, chin, or cheeks—it’s fine to temporarily avoid those areas while they recover. But continue applying it to the rest of your face. Some dryness or redness is normal and signals that your retinoid is working. It’s stimulating your skin to renew and behave more youthfully. Embrace these minor discomforts as part of the process.

Support Your Skin Barrier

A strong skin barrier is essential for tolerating retinoids in winter. Here’s how to build a supportive routine:

/01 Choose a Gentle Cleanser

Opt for a hydrating, non-stripping cleanser to avoid exacerbating dryness. Some excellent options include:

  • Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser
  • SVR Topialyse Oil Cleanser
  • Hada Labo Oil Cleanser

/02 Use Moisturiser Strategically

To counter dryness, apply moisturiser either before or after your retinoid:

  • Before: If your skin feels extra dry, use a moisturiser as a buffer before applying the retinoid.
  • After: Apply a generous layer of moisturiser at night after your retinoid.

Recommended moisturisers:

  • La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M
  • CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
  • Aveeno Dermexa

For sensitive skin, try:

  • La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cream
  • Cicaplast Baume AP+M

/03 Reapply Moisturiser During the Day

Harsh winter conditions can dehydrate your skin. Don’t hesitate to reapply a thick layer of moisturiser during the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors in cold wind or snow. Protect your skin with a scarf as well.

Simplify the Rest of Your Routine

Winter is not the time to overwhelm your skin with active ingredients. Stick to a simple routine:

  • Gentle cleanser
  • Retinoid
  • Rich, soothing moisturiser

Avoid exfoliants or strong acids that could further irritate your skin. A streamlined routine helps your skin better tolerate the retinoid.

Managing Irritation

Even with the best routine, occasional irritation can happen. Here’s how to manage it:

  • Skip Irritated Areas: If certain spots are red or peeling, avoid applying the retinoid there until they settle. Continue using it on the rest of your face.
  • Scale Back Temporarily: If irritation feels excessive, reduce your retinoid application to every other day. Resume daily use as soon as your skin adjusts.
  • Embrace the Process: Minor redness or peeling is a sign the retinoid is working. While severe irritation isn’t ideal, these signs indicate your skin is renewing and improving.

Long-Term Benefits

Retinoids are a long-term investment in your skin. While winter may be challenging, the benefits compound over time. By staying consistent now, you’ll set yourself up for healthier skin when spring arrives. Remember:

  • Use a gentle cleanser.
  • Support your skin barrier with a rich moisturiser.
  • Adjust application as needed but stay consistent.

Your future self will thank you for sticking with your routine. Winter may test your commitment, but with the right adjustments, you can keep your skin on track.

Stay consistent, stay moisturised, and keep going strong. You’ve got this!

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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Discover Your SkinSize™: The Future of Personalised Skincare

The mass skincare industry has long relied on generic skin types—oily, dry, combination, and sensitive—but these categories are far too simplistic to address the true diversity of individual skin needs. For example, many people mistake dryness for sensitivity or fail to realise that oily skin can also be a sign of sensitivity. These broad categories simply don’t capture the full picture of what your skin truly requires.

Enter SkinSize™, developed by Dr Emma Craythorne, a revolutionary concept that redefines how we understand and care for our skin.

By learning your unique SkinSize™, you can select the right products tailored specifically to your skin’s needs. This personalised skincare approach not only helps you achieve optimal results but also minimises waste, making your skincare routine more sustainable. No more guessing games or trial and error – just one expertly curated product containing all the active ingredients your skin requires.

What Is a SkinSize™?

Your SkinSize™ is a unique profile of your skin’s characteristics, determined by key factors such as your skin’s barrier health, hydration levels, sensitivity, and oil production. Unlike traditional skin types, SkinSize™ goes deeper, offering a precise understanding of your skin’s functional needs.

This detailed analysis ensures you no longer need multiple products to target different concerns. Instead, your SkinSize™ enables you to use a single, expertly formulated product designed to work harmoniously with your skin.

How Do We Determine Your SkinSize™?

To find your SkinSize™, we use advanced dermatological insights and a highly specialised test. The SkinSize™ test involves assessing your skin’s biology and behaviour through a comprehensive questionnaire. This data allows us to map out your unique SkinSize™, which serves as the foundation for your bespoke skincare solution.

Unlike a standard skincare quiz, the SkinSize™ approach is science-led and designed to deliver unparalleled accuracy. It’s this precise understanding that makes all the difference in achieving healthy, balanced skin.

Take the SkinSize™ Test

Ready to transform your skincare routine? Taking the SkinSize™ test is simple and fast. By answering a series of targeted questions about your skin’s condition and behaviour, you’ll unlock your unique SkinSize™ profile.

With this information, you’ll gain access to a personalised product – The Klira Special – containing all the active ingredients your skin needs—nothing more, nothing less. This means fewer wasted products, reduced environmental impact, and a streamlined routine that saves you time and money.

Discover your SkinSize™ today and experience the future of skincare. Take the test now at Klira Skin.

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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The Essential Guide to Understanding and Boosting Collagen

What is Collagen? 

Collagen is a vital protein that plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of our skin, muscles, bones, cartilage, and hair. Often referred to as the “scaffolding” of the body, collagen provides the framework that keeps our skin firm, elastic, and youthful. There are about 28 different types of collagen, but Type I collagen is the most abundant in our skin, accounting for approximately 80-90% of our skin’s collagen content. 

As we age, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decline, typically starting in our mid-20s. This decrease in collagen leads to signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and reduced skin elasticity. Understanding how collagen works and how to boost its production can help maintain youthful skin and overall skin health. 

How to Boost Collagen Production 

Maintaining or even boosting collagen levels as we age is possible through a combination of dietary choices, topical skincare products, and certain dermatological procedures. Here are some effective ways to support collagen production:

Dietary Changes

What you eat plays a significant role in your skin’s health and its ability to produce collagen. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can provide the building blocks necessary for collagen synthesis. 

  • Protein-Rich Foods: Foods like chicken breast, fish, egg whites, and bone broth are excellent sources of the amino acids needed for collagen production. These foods contain glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are essential components of collagen. 
  • Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant is crucial for collagen synthesis. It helps stabilise the collagen molecule and provides protection against damage. Foods rich in Vitamin C, such as bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, and kiwi, should be a staple in your diet. 
  • Limited Sugar Intake: High sugar intake can lead to glycation, a process where sugar molecules attach to collagen fibres, making them stiff and brittle. Reducing sugar consumption can help maintain healthy collagen levels. 
  • Collagen Supplements: While the jury is still out on whether collagen supplements provide benefits beyond those of a balanced diet, some studies suggest that they may improve skin elasticity and hydration. If you choose to take supplements, look for hydrolyzed collagen, which is easier for the body to absorb. 

Topical Skincare Products

Certain skincare ingredients are known to boost collagen production and protect existing collagen from degradation: 

  • Retinoids: Members of the retinoid family, including retinol and Tretinoin, are proven to stimulate collagen production. They work by increasing cell turnover and promoting the synthesis of new collagen.  Tretinoin can be prescribed in your Klira formula should the Dermatology team see fit. 
  • Vitamin C: Topical Vitamin C serums can penetrate the skin to stimulate collagen production and neutralise free radicals that damage collagen. Using Vitamin C in your daily skincare routine can help maintain firm, youthful skin. 
  • Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide can support collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into most skincare routines. 

Dermatological Procedures

Certain in-office treatments can significantly boost collagen production by stimulating the skin’s natural healing processes: 

  • Microneedling: This procedure involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the production of new collagen as the skin heals. It’s effective for improving skin texture, reducing scars, and minimising fine lines. 
  • Radiofrequency: This treatment uses energy waves to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin. It’s a non-invasive option for those looking to improve skin laxity. 
  • Laser Treatments: Lasers can target specific layers of the skin to encourage collagen production. Depending on the type of laser used, this treatment can improve everything from fine lines to skin tone and texture. 
  • Injectable Fillers: Some fillers, particularly those containing hyaluronic acid, can stimulate collagen production in addition to providing immediate volume. This dual action helps improve skin elasticity and firmness over time. 

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.

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Tretinoin: The Best Ingredient for Youthful Skin 

When it comes to maintaining youthful, healthy skin, few products are as revered as Tretinoin. Also known by its brand names like Retin-A, Tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoid that has been a staple in dermatology since the 1960s. Originally developed to treat acne, Tretinoin has since been proven to combat signs of aging, making it a dual-purpose powerhouse in the world of skincare. 

What is Tretinoin? 

Tretinoin is a derivative of Vitamin A and belongs to the broader family of retinoids, which are compounds that have been extensively studied and proven to benefit the skin in multiple ways. Unlike over-the-counter retinoids like retinol, Tretinoin is much more potent and is only available through prescription due to its strength and potential for irritation. It works by speeding up cell turnover, which helps in treating acne, reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and increasing collagen production. 

The Benefits of Tretinoin 

Tretinoin is often hailed as the gold standard in anti-aging skincare for a reason. Its benefits are numerous and well-documented, making it a go-to for those serious about maintaining youthful skin. Here are some of the key benefits: 

  1. Generates New Collagen: Tretinoin stimulates the production of collagen, a vital protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles. Tretinoin helps reverse this process, making the skin firmer and more resilient. 
  2. Smooths Out Fine Lines and Wrinkles: By promoting cell turnover and collagen production, Tretinoin effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s one of the few ingredients with clinically proven anti-aging effects. 
  3. Prevents Collagen Degradation: Not only does Tretinoin promote collagen production, but it also helps prevent the degradation of existing collagen, ensuring that your skin remains youthful for longer.
  4. Promotes Blood Vessel Formation: Tretinoin encourages the formation of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves circulation and gives the skin a healthy, rosy glow. 
  5. Thickens the Epidermis: Over time, Tretinoin thickens the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, making it more resilient and less prone to damage. 
  6. Reduces Hyperpigmentation: Tretinoin can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone by promoting faster cell turnover and inhibiting melanin production. 
  7. Improves Skin Laxity and Texture: With regular use, Tretinoin improves skin laxity, making it appear more toned and youthful. It also smooths out rough texture, giving the skin a more even and refined appearance. 
  8. Increases Cell Turnover: One of the primary functions of Tretinoin is to increase cell turnover, which means that dead skin cells are shed more quickly, and new, healthy cells rise to the surface. This process helps treat and prevent acne, keeping the skin clear and vibrant. 
  9. Treats Acne: Tretinoin was originally developed to treat acne, and it remains one of the most effective treatments for this condition. By preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation, Tretinoin helps clear up existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. 

Using Tretinoin Safely 

While Tretinoin is highly effective, it’s also potent and can cause irritation, especially in those new to retinoids. It’s advisable to start with a lower strength and gradually build up your tolerance. Many dermatologists recommend beginning with applications two to three times per week and slowly increasing frequency as your skin adjusts. Higher strengths can lead to redness, flakiness, and sensitivity, so it’s essential to follow your prescriber’s guidance. 

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.