I’m 50 and never had Botox – here’s the six pieces of advice I tell everyone

A SKIN expert who has never had Botox has told of the three pieces of advice she lives by.

Eavanna Breen, who has many celebrity clients such as Greg O’Shea and Samantha Mumba, has called on people to focus on maintaining a healthy skin barrier to ensure a glowing complexion all winter long.

According to recent statistics from the Irish Dermatology Foundation, over 60 per cent of the population report experiencing dry skin issues during the colder months.

The bitter temperatures and low humidity lead to dryness, and our skin at this time of year can be prone to irritation and sensitivity.

Eavanna said: “Colder dry air pulls the moisture from our skin, upsetting the natural balance between oil and water.

“When these two are balanced, your skin will function well.

“However, when these levels are skewed, your skin’s barrier is weakened, wreaking havoc on your skin.

“Getting the correct dose of both moisture and lipids onto your skin and avoiding under or over-treating your skin is essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

“Ultimately, having a healthy skin barrier is paramount to how good your skin looks.”

She added: “A healthy skin barrier contributes to a smooth, even complexion. The skin can appear dull, rough, or uneven when the barrier is compromised.

“A well-preserved skin barrier is essential for your skin’s overall health and vitality.

“It ensures that your skin functions optimally, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable, resilient, and attractive complexion.”

Here are Eavanna’s top five essential expert tips to promote and maintain a healthy skin barrier this winter.

Gentle Cleansing

Opt for mild, hydrating cleansers that won’t strip away your skin’s natural oils.

Consider occasional gentle exfoliation using chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to remove dead skin cells without physical abrasion.

Eavanna Recommended Product: Skinmade Clean and Clear Cleanser.

Oil cleansers are best for adding that bit more moisturise, this one combines the concentration of the three main oils: castor, jojoba and olive oil.

Intense Hydration

Incorporate hydrating facial masks or deep moisturising treatments to provide an extra boost of hydration to your skin.

Choose moisturisers and serums with ceramides and fatty acids to support the skin barrier and enhance its resilience.

Eavanna Recommended Product: Skinmade Personalised Moisturiser.

Skinmade’s personalised moisturiser improves the natural biological processes of the skin cells, stabilises the balance between moisture and sebum and thus ensures an intact skin barrier.

Regular Application of Serums

Integrate serums rich in Panthenol, antioxidants, and skin-replenishing ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid to strengthen the skin barrier, decrease transepidermal water loss, and hydrate the skin.

Eavanna Recommended Product: Eavanna Breen launched her own ‘Intensive Hyaluronic Acid Serum’ earlier this year.

This unique intensive serum gives the skin a sudden moisture boost while improving the skin’s long-term hydration over time.

Sun Protection

Even in winter, UV rays can damage the skin barrier. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, especially on exposed areas like the face and hands.

Eavanna Recommended Product: Skinmade Sun Fluid.

This exceptional sun protection product provides a very high UVA and UVB protection. The face oil is also packed full of the world’s strongest antioxidants, so it does wonders for the skin while you are fully protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

Increase your intake of antioxidants

Absorbing antioxidants can hugely help protect your skin from UV damage all year long. Foods that are rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids, such as lycopene, could improve your skin’s protection against UV rays.

The best sources of carotenoids are carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, squash, broccoli, mangos, apricots, kale, peas, tomatoes and melon.

Vitamin E contained in vegetable oils, almonds and nuts also helps to protect us from the sun.

Professional Treatment

Consider professional treatments in a highly regarded skin clinic. Expert treatments focusing on skin hydration, such as hyaluronic acid-based dermal boosters, Mesotherapy or Profhilo, will hugely contribute to a healthy skin barrier and glowing skin this winter.

Eavanna said: “By following these tips and incorporating these recommended products and treatments into your skincare routine, you can keep your skin healthy, beautiful and radiant all winter long.

“Protecting your skin barrier is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good too.”

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From 22nd of November to 27th, enjoy a fabulous 20 per cent discount on all products and gift vouchers from eavannabreen.ie.