Beauty QnA

The older I'm getting,  the more red blotches are appearing on my face. What products can I use to eradicate it for good? Is there a cosmetic procedure that can help me? - Sylvia Warrington

Owner and Skincare Therapist of Kimakai Spa in Plumstead, Anna Viljoen had this to say: As we start to age, our skin also starts to take a little knock so it seems fair to say that 'the older I'm getting, the more...'. Red blotches could indicate that the microcirculation is sluggish and the skin isn't receiving the oxygen and nutrient supply that it requires. It can also be a sign of sensitisation. Sensitivity in the skin increases as we age due to the lengthy periods we have exposed it to external and internal aggressors (sun, pollution, medication, trauma, stress etc). A good way to treat this is through gentle exfoliation at least twice a week, using an SPF for protection daily and making use of a corrective cream designed to strengthen the skin, thus making it more resilient and capable of taking external hits. By simply strengthening the immunity of the skin (diet is crucial too) with powerful topical vitamins and anti-oxidants, the skin's health will improve. RegimA has the incredible Quantum Elastin Dermal Regenerator which is ideal to improve this concern. I also recommend Environ Colostrum Gel. Stockist details for RegimA: phone 011 615 2869 or 011 622 7827 or email: info@regima.com. For Environ stockist details phone 0800 220 402.

How do you get rid of stretch marks especially on the upper arm? - Alvina Chetty
 
Owner and Skincare Therapist of Kimakai Spa in Plumstead, Anna Viljoen had this to say: This is a very tricky thing to treat. Depending on the length of time that the skin fibres have been damaged, one could certainly reduce the appearance, however to remove stretch marks entirely is something I have yet to see. However, for great results that can dramatically improve the affected area, I recommend professional peeling (any area of the body), exfoliating at home, using an anti-stretch complex for repair like RegimA Scar Repair, hydrating the area with a good moisturiser and, of course, using a sun cream of SPF 30 for protection. Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Concentrate is also fantastic. for stockist details for RegimA phone 011 615 2869 or 011 622 7827 or email: info@regima.com. Dermalogica is available from Dermalogica stores or phone 011 268 0018 for further stockist details.
 
Dark circles around the eyes are such a nightmare. How do I get rid of them? - Rene Mohan and Lulu Lal
 
Dark circles are one of my pet hates and is such a common problem amongst women. The first solution to sort them out would be getting a full, non-interrupted night's sleep.

For a quick fix, I recommend investing in the following magic beauties (and don't forget to keep them in your handbag for emergencies!):
 
1) Benefit Eye Bright Pencil, R205: Known as the "coffee break in a stick", this brightening pencil instantly refreshes tired looking eyes and is suitable for all skin tones. Available at selected Woolworths stores.
2) Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit, R325: This kit blends easily into the skin to eradicate the dark circles. Available at selected Edgars and Stuttafords stores.
3) Coverderm Concealer, R230: Designed specifically to target dark circles, sun spots and blemishes, while giving the skin a fresh look. Available at selected Dis-Chem stores, spas and salons.

Do you have a question for our beauty team? Ask us in the comments section below or on Facebook.