Questions
Things Readers Wonder About
Short, honest answers. Where the evidence is thin, we say so.
How many skincare products do I actually need?
Most people are well served by a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Add a treatment only for a specific concern, one at a time. See daily routines.
How long before I know if a product works?
Moisturisers show results within days. Actives like retinoids, azelaic acid or pigment treatments need 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days or indoors?
A large share of UV passes through cloud, and UVA passes through window glass. Daily use is a sensible habit, particularly if you sit near windows.
Can I use retinol and vitamin C together?
Many people use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. It is simple, and splitting them reduces the chance of irritation.
Is expensive skincare better?
Not reliably. Many affordable products contain the same well-studied ingredients in good formulations. Read the label, not the price tag.
How do I patch test?
Apply a small amount to the inner arm or behind the ear once or twice daily for several days. Watch for redness, itching or swelling. A clear test lowers, but does not remove, the chance of a reaction on the face.
Is my skin type permanent?
No. Skin changes with age, hormones, pregnancy, climate, season and medication. Reassess every so often.
Should I exfoliate every day?
Rarely. Two or three times a week is plenty for most people, and some need none at all. Daily exfoliation is a common route to a weakened barrier.
Are natural products safer?
Not necessarily. Essential oils and plant extracts are among the more common causes of contact allergy. "Natural" describes origin, not gentleness.
Can you recommend a product for my skin?
We do not give individual recommendations or diagnoses. For personal advice, speak with a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. Our conditions notes explain when that is especially important.