Q
I’ve suddenly developed
sensitive skin – almost
every product I use
seems to trigger a reaction.
What’s causing this problem
and how can I treat it?
Grace, Tunbridge WellsA
DR AAMER SAYS: The
most common triggers include
overloading the skin with too many
strong ingredients, or mixing potions that
clash. Get a skin expert’s advice. Procedures
to stimulate collagen, photorejuvenation and
therapeutic massage facials will all help stressed,
sensitive skin. IPL can also immediately improve
skin tone by triggering your skin’s natural healing
process, which encourages collagen production for
firmer, smoother skin. You’ll need a course of four
to six treatments, two weeks apart, but results will
last for up to 18 months. From £80 per treatment.LESLEY SAYS: Stop everything you are
using on your skin, then slowly introduce
one product at a time. Patch-test products
before you buy them. Ask for a sample, then
rub a small amount into the skin on the
inside of your elbow. No irritation after a
week? It should be fine. Try natural, organic
brands and simple formulas. Bioderma
Hydrabio Moisturising Mask, £14.50, helps
get skin back to functioning normally,
boosting moisture levels and soothing
discomfort. Atoderm Creme Wash,
£12.50, is dedicated to sensitive skins, as is
Avène XeraCalm A.D. Lipid Replenishing
Balm, £18.50. Reducing stress can also
help, to prevent the stress hormone
cortisol flooding the body. Chemical
sunscreens often cause sensitivity, so
choose mineral-based formulas. Green
People Scent Free Facial Sun Cream
SPF 30, £18, has added vitamins to
support the skin’s immune system
and protect against cell damage.PICTURES:^ ALAMY,GETTY,^ STUDIO33Q
Is there a natural way
to beat wrinkles and
slow down ageing
naturally without resorting
to invasive procedures?
Harriet, CheltenhamA
DR AAMER SAYS: Thanks to
medical advancements, you can
now use your own body’s blood, stem
cells and fat to help fight the ageing process. PRF
involves platelet-rich fibrin from your blood, a bit
like having a blood test. This contains very high
concentrations of white blood cells, fibrin and stem
cells and after being treated, it’s injected in the face.
This will boost volume, tighten and rejuvenate the
skin. It’s expensive, as it’s a new process, but the
results can be as good as a face lift. From £3,000.LESLEY SAYS: You can slow down ageing by
following a healthy lifestyle. Include superfoods
in your diet, such as nuts and berries. Drink more
water and green tea. Sleeping in certain positions
leads to ‘sleep lines’, so slumber on your back
and invest in a silk pillowcase. Squinting in
strong sunlight overworks facial muscles
and causes wrinkles; protect your eyes with
sunglasses. Wearing sunscreen every day is
the best anti-ageing measure of all. Ultrasun
Sun Protection Glimmer SPF 50+, £24,
gives skin a lovely bronzed gleam.O For more information on Dr Aamer, Lesley and their team of doctors, visit harleystreetskinclinic.com.
Got a question? Email [email protected]
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THEIR DOCTOR BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY
ADVICE GIVEN IN THIS COLUMN