6 Skin Hacks Your Facialist Wants You To Know

“Run your gua sha or metal spoons under warm water for a few minutes before using them in your morning or evening routine. Not only does it ensure they’re clean but the gentle heat will help to boost blood circulation and move stagnant fluid. For de-puffing around the eyes in the morning, go the other way and soak green tea bags in icy water. The combination of caffeine, antioxidants and the cold will help to shrink the blood vessels around the eyes to reduce redness and take down puffiness.” – Hadda Akrim, facialist & Dior Beauty wellness expert

“To perk up your skin when you’re going from the office to an event, try mixing a couple of pumps of serum or bit of moisturiser in with your foundation. Patting on a light layer of this will rehydrate the face and give you a natural, glowing look – as well as light coverage – without it feeling cakey or looking flat.” – Katharine Mackenzie Paterson, facialist

“I’ve always said that consistency is better for the skin than intensity. At-home microneedling, when done correctly and absolutely no more than once a week, is one of the most effective ways to boost collagen levels, improve texture and help smooth fine lines. But it needs to be structured, guided and give the skin just the right amount of stimulation without overdoing it: 0.2mm is as deep as you should go at home. Apply some highly potent peptides beforehand, which penetrate deeper into the skin when the Dermaroller makes the tiny punctures on the surface.” – Teresa Tarmey, brand founder & facialist

“As tempting as it is to throw your LED mask over your make-up sometimes, it’s really best to cleanse your skin first. Not only is this just good practice in terms of keeping things sterile, but a clean surface will offer enhanced light penetration and absorption – any residual make-up, sunscreen or dirt can block wavelengths from working as deeply as they should. Complexion cleansed, you can follow your LED session with a hydrating mask (at least ten minutes is best) as your skin will be in a ‘receptive state’ with permeability temporarily increased, so hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerin can penetrate more effectively, locking in moisture and supporting the skin barrier.” – Mina Lee, holistic facialist & healer

“Tread carefully with acids. They can be a powerful ingredient for boosting glow and getting rid of congestion, but it’s important you don’t overdo it and use the right concentration and formulation for your needs. Always start with a lower percentage and build up gradually – start smart and you’ll reap the rewards down the line. The one thing I really recommend investing in is vitamin C. It has a multitude of benefits, is well tolerated by most and can brighten skin, minimise scarring and promote collagen production.” – Keren Bartov, aesthetician & facialist

“If your skin is feeling extra dry but you’re wary of using facial oils, try adding a few drops into your moisturiser instead. It’s one of my go-to hacks to boost vitality, ramp up your moisture levels and give your skin long lasting hydration. After your serum, mix two to three drops of oil into a 5p-sized amount of cream and mix together using your fingertips (avoid wiping the hands together to mix – you’ll lose product that way). You can indulge in a little facial massage when applying, as the oil will give the moisturiser a little more slip. For example, try bending your index and middle fingers like bunny ears, turn your head to one side, grip your knuckles over the chin and glide along the jaw to the ears. Repeating ten times on each side to help sculpt and tighten the jawline.” – Michaella Bolder, master facialist & skincare expert