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Women with brown colored eyes

Eye Spy: 3 Experts on All Things Eye Area

It’s time to care, cure, and conceal.

The you-know-what continues to rear its ugly head, impacting everything from travel plans and social commitments to mental health and overall lifestyles, with erratic sleep schedules an unfortunate byproduct. Both anxiety and insomnia are on the rise, so you’re probably grappling with the likes of puffiness, eye bags, crow’s feet, and dark circles more than ever before. And the fact that wearing a face mask keeps your eyes front and center? Not helping. With that in mind, we tapped three different experts to address the three Cs – care, cure, and conceal – of the delicate eye area, answering some of the most frequently asked questions along the way.

Care

Dr. Shadan Naji, Dermatologist at Dr Kayle Aesthetic Clinic

At what age should we start paying attention to the eye area, and how?

The area around the eyes is the first to start showing signs of ageing and tiredness. In general, we should pay attention to the area as soon as possible, but certainly start with an anti-ageing cream once you hit the age of 25.

Asian women tend to struggle more with dark circles due to genetics and higher melanin levels. Any tips to prevent them?

There are two tips that I always share with my patients to help with this issue. Firstly, use a brightening cream or a serum that contains vitamin C. Secondly, avoid the use of irritative eye makeup remover and heavy mascara as both might create an irritation that can lead to more discolouration in the area.

Some still say that special eye cream isn’t needed, while others say it’s a skincare must-have. How do you feel?

It’s a must to have a specific cream for the undereye area as you cannot use your normal skincare products. This is because the eye contour area is more sensitive and delicate than other parts of the face, so while you want to deliver the same ingredients you’d use elsewhere, you need them in doses that are gentle enough to not trigger any irritation. Remember, the thin skin around the eyes absorbs better than the thicker skin on other areas of the face, so eye creams are formulated with some of the same active ingredients as moisturisers, but using lower doses or less potency.

Puffiness and eye bags are common complaints. What tips can you share to prevent the two?

Use a small jade roller every night to apply the eye cream and gently massage it into the area around the eyes. This issue can also be helped by dietary choices, such as avoiding excess salt and alcohol.

Jade Stone Facial Roller, lookfantastic.ae

Increased screen time since the onset of the pandemic has worsened our skin, so it’s likely the same for the undereye area. What can we do to offset some of the damage?

Use a specific eye cream twice daily, but supplement this with in-clinic treatments. Rejuvenation treatments such as PRP and mesotherapy are always a smart investment as they will dramatically improve the appearance of the area and, as an added bonus, lessen your need for a concealer.


Cure

Edwige Gandin, Beautician at Pastels Salon

Dark circles aside, the Hydradermie Eye Lift at Pastels tackles crow’s feet. What can you tell us about this commonly occurring issue?

Crow’s feet wrinkles tend to initially appear in the mid to late 30s. Depending on the condition of the skin and general care, though, they can even reveal themselves in the mid 20s. There are some measures, however, that you can take to avoid them taking hold too soon. These include getting adequate sleep, elevating the head during sleep, and applying cold compresses. You should also minimise sun exposure and try one of the following: cucumber slices, tea bags, vitamin C, and retinoid creams.

What key tools and products are used as part of the treatment?

The Hydradermie Eye Lift is a unique 35-minute treatment that rejuvenates the eye area, targeting signs of ageing and tiredness around the eye area and tackling fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. It uses a combination of machine technology and a specially designed hands-on massage together with a Guinot skin repair eye mask to aid maximum effectiveness, making for a relaxing and results-driven treatment. 

The treatment uses Guinot’s patented drainage method to remove toxins from the muscle and brighten the skin, as well as its ionisation technology to help the skin absorb the active ingredients deep into the epidermal layer. It is based on the belief that positive ions tend to oxidise by pollution and the sun, which will hasten the ageing process, especially the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Therefore, the ‘double-ionisation’ effect refers to the rebalancing of the positive and negative ions when two handheld rollers are used, with a gel serum applied on the eye contour region. The relaxing massage softens the facial features and rejuvenates the skin.

Who do you think would benefit most from the Hydradermie Eye Lift?

Anyone who wants to reduce dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles and ensure their eye contour region looks brighter and younger.

What can one do to maintain its results for as long as possible?

The best results will be achieved when you commit to having the treatment twice a week for a month, and then use an eye serum day and night. My current favourite is the Nimue Eye Serum.

Eye Serum, esseandco.com

Conceal

Fizah Pasha, Founder of Brulée Beauty

Let’s start with an age-old question. Concealer or foundation first, and why?

I always like to start with foundation first – that way, it’s easier to conceal the parts that need a little bit of extra love.

Brulée Beauty’s concealers cater specifically to women with golden-yellow undertones. What tips can you share to make the most of them?

As a result of higher melanin levels, we tend to be darker underneath our eyes as well. Brulée Beauty concealers were formulated to be full coverage, which is why they have a higher content of pigments. I also made sure they dry matte so they stay on longer and cover dark circles better. For both these reasons, you need to have a well-moisturised undereye area to tackle the concealers from getting cakey. I also recommend a light dusting of powder to make the concealer last longer.

Even with a detailed shade guide in place, it’s common to order a shade that’s not quite right, especially when shopping online. What advice would you give to avoid this issue?

Well, because Brulée Beauty concealers are formed with a built-in colour corrector, I suggest always going one shade lighter than your usual concealer. We also offer personalised services whereby you can get in touch and speak to us about getting shade-matched. We’re also working on something exciting that we are about to launch soon to tackle this issue.

As a makeup artist with over a decade of experience, what is your concealer philosophy?

I personally like to build up coverage – I start with a smaller amount and build up to how much is needed. Less is always more when it comes to applying makeup, in my opinion.

What mistakes are we making when it comes to concealer?

We usually don’t apply concealers that are true to our undertones – that makes our undereye area look grey. We also like to highlight using concealers, which gives an unnatural look, especially in photos. Concealers are meant to conceal the darkness underneath your eye, not make that area look so light that it stands out from the rest of your face.

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Back To Basics: The Skincare Routine For Oily & Acne Prone Skin

A simple and effective way to care for oily and acne prone skin types.

In our last Back to Basic Skincare Series we looked at how to implement a minimalistic skincare routine for dry and dehydrated skin with the right products. In this blog, we are reviewing a skin care routine for oily skin and sharing with you the best skincare routine for oily skin, and best products and formulations to keep your skin healthy and looking its best!

We know how difficult it can be to care for and balance out an oily skin type. The challenge is even greater for those suffering from regular acne breakouts with the wrong oily skin care routine. Although we can’t make them disappear overnight, there are ways to diminish their appearance and get your skin to be less reactive with a concise and effective regime. In order to achieve those results, we need to clear up some popular myths surrounding the skin care routine for oily skin, excess oil production and breakouts.

Oily or combination skin types are genetically predisposed. This is the type of skin that you were born with and not a condition you can treat and cure. Oily skin types exist when there is an overproduction of sebum from the sebaceous glands of the dermis which gives a shine and greasy look to the skin. This hyperactivity produces excess oils that overfill the pores and enlarge them. The sebum in the pores mixes with dirt and bacteria. Dead skin cells get trapped and form blackheads and whiteheads under the surface of the skin.  Blackheads and whiteheads are a different type of skin condition collectively known as acne. 

How Do I Know if I Have Oily Skin?

You can look out for the following signs and characteristics such as excessive shine. Oily skin tends to have a persistent shine, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This shine can be noticeable throughout the day, even after washing your face. One might even notice enlarged pores. Oily skin often has visibly larger pores, especially in the aforementioned T-zone area. These pores can be more noticeable and may even be clogged with oil, debris, or blackheads.

If you suffer from frequent breakouts, that’s because oily skin is prone to acne breakouts, including whiteheads, blackheads, and other forms of pimple-like blemishes. See if your breakouts appear more frequently and may be concentrated in the T-zone. This is a sign of oily skin.

Have you noticed your makeup melting? If your makeup tends to slide off or lose its matte finish quickly, it could be an indication of oily skin. The excess oil can interfere with the adherence and longevity of makeup products.

Let’s talk about greasy texture. Oily skin often feels greasy or slick to the touch, especially on the surface of your face. When you blot your skin with a tissue or blotting paper, you may notice oil residue on the paper.

If you experience a combination of these signs, it is likely that you have oily skin.

Step-by-Step Skin Care Routine for Oily Skin

The best way to address oily skin care routine, oily skin types and reduce acne is to follow a good skin care routine for oily skin that helps balance out the oil production on the skin while keeping it well hydrated and avoid any disruption on the dermis barrier. Avoid the use of any harsh or drying products such as alcohol and other astringents, or irritating ingredients like menthol, lemon, eucalyptus as well as, aromatic oils and solid rich formulations such as bar soaps that clog the pores, making matters worse by exacerbating the oil secretion on the skin.

For a simple and effective skin care routine for oily skin we recommend the following steps:

Skincare For Oily & Acne Prone Skin

Step 1: Cleanser

Cleanse your skin twice daily, in the morning and night, using a mild water-soluble facial cleanser to remove excess oils and avoid buildup in the pores. As mentioned above, avoid any aggravating ingredients and/or harsh scrubs and cleansing tools. Remember, the tingling sensation does not equal cleaner skin, it’s a sign of irritation that is not good for any skin type.

Our picks:

  • Clean & Clear daily pore cleanser oil free
  • Garnier skinactive micellar foaming gel cleanser combination to oily skin, even sensitive
  • Cerave renewing SA cleanser
  • Kiehls ultra facial cleanser for all skin types

Oil-Free Daily Pore Cleanser, PRP AED 21.95, available at head2toes.ae

Micellar Gel Face Wash Sensitive Skin, PRP AED 25, available at asos.com

Foaming Cleanser Normal To Oily Skin, PRP AED 50.31, available at caretobeauty.com

Ultra Facial Cleanser, PRP AED 98, available at kiehls.ae

Step 2: Toner

This is one of the most important steps of a skin care routine for oily skin. A well formulated, alcohol-free exfoliating toner will replenish your skin with antioxidants and calming ingredients, minimize the appearance of enlarged pores and remove any residues of makeup or dirt that could possibly clog the pores. An exfoliating toner that contains BHA’s such as salicylic acid is a fantastic fit for oily skin types as it is oil soluble and can get deep down in the pores unclogging them from the roots and keeping those black and white heads at bay.

Our picks:

  • COSRX BHA blackhead power liquid
  • Bioderma sebium pore refiner
  • The Inkey List PHa toner
  • Derma e soothing toner with anti-aging

Bha Blackhead Power Liquid, PRP AED 120.15, available at carethy.net

Sebium Pore Refiner, PRP AED 77, available at carrefouruae.com

Pha Toner, PRP AED 64.95, available at cultbeauty.co.uk

Anti-Wrinkle Toner, PRP AED 49, available at asteronline.com

Step 3: Moisturiser

Contrary to common belief, oily skin types need to stay well hydrated to keep the dermis acting and looking healthy. Proper levels of hydration on the skin are fundamental to keep it functioning and regenerating at is best. To learn more about the differences between dehydrated and dry skin check our first Back to Basics skincare instalment. When choosing a moisturiser focus on an oil-free, lightweight water-based formulation, that will effectively hydrate your skin without clogging your pores or leaving a heavy and greasy feeling to it.

Our picks:

  • Clinique moisture surge hydrating lotion
  • Glow Recipe watermelon glow pink juice moisturizer
  • Elf oil control liquid lotion
  • Drunk Elephant f-balm electrolyte waterfacial

Moisture Surge Eyeâ„¢ 96-Hour Hydro-Filler Concentrate, PRP AED 220, available at sephora.ae

Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer, PRP AED 97.50, available at cultbeauty.co.uk

Oil Control Liquid Lotion, PRP AED 70.99, available at amazon.ae

F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial, PRP AED 195, available at cultbeauty.co.uk

Step 4: SPF

Nowadays they are so many elegant and sophisticated sun block formulations that are oil free and non-comedogenic. The Gaggler prefers products in a lotion form that contain the active ingredients zinc oxide and or titanium dioxide which have been proven to prevent acne breakouts. In addition, proper sun protection as part of a skin care routine for oily skin helps you prevent any pigmentation scaring.

Our picks:

  • Shiseido ultimate sun protection SPF 50 sunscreen + wetforce for sensitive skin + children
  • Peter Thomas Roth Mineral Naked Broad Spectrum SPF 45
  • Neutrogena ultra sheer face sunscreen SPF45
  • La Roche Posay anthelious 50 mineral ultra light sunscreen fluid SPF50 face

Expert Sun Protection Lotion Wetforce SPF50+ Face And Body, PRP AED 147.70, available at sweetcare.com

Max Mineral Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 45, PRP AED 153.86, available at revolve.com

Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF45, PRP AED 114, available at noon.com

Anthelios Spf50+ Shaka Fluid, PRP AED 110, available at uae.sharafdg.com

Step 5: Specific treatments and serums

If you suffer from acne prone skin and regular breakouts you would want to introduce a treatment serum on your regime that contains benzyl peroxide to help regulate oil production during the day while reducing redness and inflammation; and a retinol serum to keep skin clear and rejuvenated at night time. Another great ingredient you can include in your regiment is the powerful antioxidant niacinamide that helps out with the appearance of enlarged pores, while also soothing and calming the skin and providing anti-aging benefits.

Our picks:

  • Drunk Elephant framboise glycolic night serum
  • The Ordinary Niacinamide 2%
  • Proactiv emergency blemish relief
  • La Roche Posay effaclar duo corrective unclogging care

Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, PRP AED 450, available at noon.com

Niacinamide Plus Zinc Serum, PRP AED 41, available at lookfantastic.ae

Emergency Blemish Relief, PRP AED 173, available at noon.com

Effaclar Duo[+] Corrective Unclogging Care, PRP AED 81.27, available at caretobeauty.com

Things to Avoid

When it comes to caring for oily skin, there are a few key things to avoid. Firstly, steer clear of heavy, oil-based moisturizers and skincare products that can exacerbate the oiliness. Instead, opt for lightweight, oil-free or water-based alternatives that won’t clog pores. Secondly, avoid harsh cleansers or soaps that strip away too much oil, as this can lead to increased oil production. Opt for gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers that won’t disrupt the skin’s natural balance. Next, refrain from over-washing your face, as this can strip away essential oils and trigger more oil production. Stick to washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Lastly, try to avoid heavy makeup and opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best night skincare routine for oily skin?

A night skincare routine for oily skin should focus on controlling excess oil production and preventing breakouts. Start by thoroughly cleansing your face with a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove dirt and sebum. Afterward, use an exfoliating toner containing salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce oiliness. Next, apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate your skin without adding extra grease. Consider using a spot treatment on any active acne or blemishes. Lastly, before bed, apply a thin layer of oil-free or gel-based night cream to help balance oil production while you sleep.

How do you take care of oily skin everyday?

To take care of oily skin everyday, start by cleansing your face twice a day with a gentle, oil-free cleanser. Use oil-free or gel-based products that won’t clog pores. Apply a good sunscreen to protect your skin. We do strongly recommend the use oil-absorbing sheets throughout the day to control excess oil. It’s best to not use heavy, pore-clogging makeup and hydrate your skin with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.

How can I maintain my oily skin naturally?

The mantra is simple:
Cleanse, Hydrate, Exfoliate!

Opt for natural exfoliants like sugar or oatmeal. Our team at The Gaggler recommends natural exfoliating recipes:

  1. Use a Sugar Scrub: Mix equal parts of brown sugar and coconut oil. Gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water.
  2. We love a good Oatmeal Scrub: Combine ground oatmeal, honey, and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply to your face, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub and rinse off.
  3. Weekend Coffee Grounds Scrub: Mix used coffee grounds with a bit of olive oil or honey. Massage onto the skin in circular motions, then rinse off.
  4. The Famous Baking Soda Scrub: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply to damp skin and gently rub in small circular motions before rinsing off.

A controlled diet is always recommended. It’s best to consume a balanced diet with less greasy or fried foods, as they can contribute to oiliness.

Staying hydrated is the secret sauce to great skin regardless of the skin type Drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated from within, which can help balance oil production.
Try our latest water bottles to help you reach that 2 litre goal!

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The Gaggler team is passionate about finding and sharing great products with our readers. We take pride in researching and testing products to find the best of the best, and we only recommend things that we love and think you will, too.

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