With so many skincare products claiming so many different things, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
Sometimes you just want to give up entirely, other times you spend a small fortune on potions and serums only to realise you don't even know which does what.
Most experts agree a good skincare routine doesn't mean a complicated one - and in my experience, investing in a few products that you love and that work for you will stop you from staring despairingly into the abyss of a bathroom cabinet.
Dermalogica is one of those brands I really trust, and I say that in a completely non-sponsored way. Their products are expensive, sure, but they usually last me an age and give visible results.
One of their latest offerings is the 'Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream', a firming and lifting moisturiser that reckons it can make your skin look four years younger by harnessing the power of oxygen.
I don't know about you guys, but returning to my 2019 pre-pandemic face sounds pretty good to me. I know for a fact my face is sporting a fair few more lines and a bit less elasticity than it did in those simpler times.
I'm almost 32 now, and even though I know this is still pretty young, I'm more concerned with taking care of my skin and slowing the ageing process than ever before.
Dermalogica did send me the product to try, and the first thing I noticed was how much lighter it felt compared to other anti-ageing creams. This is something the brand's NZ Head of Education Caroline Parker says is due to the innovative liquid formula, which addresses low oxygen levels to firm, hydrate and lift.
You use it just like you would a normal moisturiser, applying using upwards strokes after cleansing and toning. I've had it in my routine for several weeks now, and while I can't claim to understand all the science behind it, I've definitely seen a difference in the plumpness of my skin.
I haven't stuck my face under a microscope each week to properly track results, but what has been really cool is how much more confident I feel without makeup. I'm pretty sure I've noticed a minimising of the fine lines on my forehead and under my eyes, but what is undeniable is how much more hydrated and glowy my skin looks, even first thing in the morning.
Do I suddenly look 29 again? Probably not. But I did get asked for my ID while buying wine the other day, and more importantly, I'm loving the look and feel of my skin since I've added this moisturiser into my routine.
