SKIN SCIENTIST HANNAH ENGLISH’S TOP COMPLEXION-CHANGING TIPS
By Emily Algar
At Skinstitut, we’re all about honest advice and proven cosmeceutical solutions for real-life skin concerns. Much of this expert knowledge comes from our team of doctors, dermatologists and chemists, who guide each and every Skinstitut formulation. But we also love teaming up with other skin professionals to help demystify the world of skincare – because we get just how confusing it can be.
Hannah Collingwood English is one such expert. A cosmetic scientist by trade, Hannah’s Instagram is a melting pot of insightful skin tips (seriously – check it out). She also happens to be a Skinstitut fan, so a few weeks ago we asked her to answer some of your most frequently asked skincare questions. Her advice was stellar, and alongside her favourite products, it’s all here for you to absorb.
Keep scrolling for this fascinating Q&A.
Skinstitut: Active cleansers – are they worth it?
Hannah: “I love an active cleanser, especially an exfoliating cleanser after the gym or if you’re getting breakouts – even on a hot sweaty day to help clean out and prevent any pores from becoming clogged.”
Try:
My teen has sensitive skin but clogged pores on the nose – what can I do?
“The best place to start is with a cleanser, so make sure they’re cleansing thoroughly, really massaging it into the area. Get them to consider double cleansing if they wear sunscreen and makeup, too. If that’s not working, I would try applying Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner to the nose area every second day, to start.”
Try:
Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil
Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner
In what order should I apply my skincare, and where do actives fit in?
“I suggest cleansing and then applying products from thinnest to thickest: toner, serums, moisturiser and then sunscreen, which always goes on last in the morning.
As far as which active ingredients go where [in your routine], I like to exfoliate as soon as possible after cleansing. From that point, if your skin is feeling challenged (angry, red or sensitive) , work on hydration and then apply actives (such as Retinol); if it’s not, apply your actives and then focus on hydration.”
Try:
Retinol Serum
Is it vital to follow a morning routine?
“I am firmly on ‘team morning routine’ – with a bare minimum of cleansing and applying sunscreen. There’s debate about whether cleansing in the morning is necessary, especially if your skin is sensitive. But all the oil and air pollution that builds up overnight can contribute to sensitivity, so cleanse it off.”
Try:
Gentle Cleanser
How can I hydrate my dry skin during winter months?
“My pick for moisturising dry winter skin is the Expert Restore Niacinamide Replenishing Cream. Try applying it to damp skin, and if you want to get even more out of it, add a drop of your face oil to the cream before massaging it in.”
Try:
Expert Restore Niacinamide Replenishing Cream
What can I do about pigmentation? Are there any ingredients I should be using?
“Pigmentation is a hard one, especially in the Australian climate – it’s more about the whole routine than one single ingredient. What you need to do is commit to sun safety, and make sure your skin is calm and not inflamed or angry, as that can make it worse.
Ingredient-wise, it’s helpful to use something to support cell turnover, either an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid or Retinol. It’s also important to use a pigment-blocking ingredient. If your skin is sensitive, I suggest Niacinamide.”
Try:
Finally, what are your Skinstitut favourites?
“My tried and true Skinstitut faves are Gentle Cleanser and Rejuvenate 15 Serum. My newer picks from the Expert Range include the Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil and the Hyaluronic Jelly Mask – it’s so nice on dehydrated skin!”
Try:
