Latest news with #Hextall
Graziadaily
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Graziadaily
The Best Under-Eye Patches To Shop Now
There's a new, must-have accessory and all the 'it' girls are sporting it. It's not one (or five) of those funny-looking Labubu plush charms, it's not the new Gucci Giglio bag. The most covetable - and dare we say affordable - accessory to hit our social media feeds of late is the humble under-eye patch. It's not exactly new. Under-eye patches have long been a beauty essential for make-up artists getting A-listers ready for a big red carpet event and celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Anne Hathaway, but there's a fresh buzz around this beauty buy and it's largely down to a new legion of high-end fashion brands getting in on the under-eye act. Stamped with instantly recognisable monograms from the likes of Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel, under-eye patches have fast undergone a transformation from skincare staple to status symbol. There's no denying they make for a cracking selfie. Whether you opt for a high-fashion flex or an established skincare classic like 111Skin under-eye patches, which feature in the prep kits of make-up artists the world over, smooth a set of these onto your face for a picture and your content screams 'skincare savvy'. Founder of Inde Wild Diipa Khosla recently launched the reusable, sillicone-based Luminary Under Eye Patches which are intended to be used in conjunction with the brand's Luminary Eye Concentrate, £30, to help deepen the penetration of its ingredients (though these are only available in the US for now), while rumour has it that Hailey Bieber is on board too, having teased Rhode embossed under-eye patches on Instagram last month. But, great selfie potential aside, how effective are these camera-ready products when it comes to caring for the delicate skin around your eyes? Consultant dermatologist, Dr Justine Hextall weighs in. 'I see eye patches as a short term boost,' says Dr Hextall, 'most iterations work to cool the skin to reduce puffiness immediately, they cause vasoconstriction to reduce the appearance of dark circles, and they hydrate to plump the skin.' There are a myriad of under-eye patches to choose from. A good one will start working instantly to cool and hydrate your skin, delivering de-puffing results a few minutes later. When picking the right patches for you, take care to consult the ingredients list. 'Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin will draw moisture to your skin and keep it there,' notes Dr Hextall, 'caffeine will reduce inflammation and vasoconstrict to reduce dark circles and niacinamide and vitamin C can brighten and reduce post-inflammatory pigmentation.' Dr Hextall continues, 'if you're trying to create more collagen, look for actives like retinoids and peptides which can provide long term benefits in this area.' Always do a patch test before using. The skin around your eyes is some of the most delicate on your face and often easily irritated. When it comes to using under-eye patches correctly, Dr Hextall recommends always cleansing the area first to remove pollutants that could otherwise get trapped under the under-eye masks and damage or irritate the skin there. Apply patches to dry skin to create adhesion in the area and leave them on as per the pack's instructions. If there are actives in the formula, don't overuse the masks too frequently or for extended periods of time, which can lead to irritation. With that in mind, these are the best ones to shop now. 1. Summer Fridays Jet Lag™ Eye Patches Price: £25 What the brand say: 'Made in Korea, these hydrating, non-slip hydrogel eye patches are uniquely shaped to fit the under-eye area. Infused with caffeine and peptides, they help refresh, soothe and de-puff the appearance of tired eyes—anytime, anywhere.' What we know: Those who know and love Summer Fridays will be well acquainted with the brand's cult classic Jet Lag Mask® + Moisturizer, a multitasking trailblazer that tends to compromised skin on-the-go or overnight. Now available in eye-patch form, the celebrity-backed launch (model Jasmine Tookes says she is 'obsessed' with them) boasts moisture retaining humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, depuffing and firming caffeine and peptides, and a comforting cocktail of niacinamide, cucumber extract and pantheno. ****Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'These are without a doubt some of my favourite under-eye patches. As a fan of the brand - I use the Jet Lag™ Deep Hydration Serum, £44, every day - these patches don't disappoint. They deliver the same refreshing hit and soothe instantly. Much like Tookes, I'm obsessed!' Pros Soothing and noruishing formula Kind on sensitive skin Cons Only six patches per pack 2. 111 Skin Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches What the brand say: 'Introducing a revolutionary needle-free solution for fine lines and wrinkles. The Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches precisely target expression lines through innovative microcone technology that is clinically proven to give 2x the absorption speed and depth of active ingredients than topical skincare. These tiny needle-like structures dissolve upon contact with skin's moisture to deliver a potent blend of Retinol, Vitamin C and a powerful Peptide complex.' What we know: 111 Skin certainly know a thing or two about industry-standard face masks, in fact they are a staple backstage and pre-red carpet for a number of celebrities including Jennifer Aniston and Victoria Beckham. ****Sameeha Shaikh**, beauty writer, says: '**On my wedding morning, my bridal make-up artist, Roqa, applied a pair of these to my skin ahead of giving me the makeover of my dreams. The under-eye patches instantly signalled a moment of calm amid the wedding day chaos and primed my skin for a moment of full glam that lasted me all day.' Pros Includes a potent blend of actives Celebrity-backed Cons Not logoed like other options 3. Dior The Eye Patches What the brand says: 'The first Dior Eye Patches, true digital fatigue saviours, visibly reduce signs of fatigue commonly linked to screen use. In just 10 minutes, the eye area is cooled by 4.5°C, and skin is twice as hydrated and appears brighter.' What we know: Sealed with a duo of hyaluronic acids to plump, niacinamide to brighten and pure caffein to help decongest, this fashion forward set takes functional beauty to the next level. Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Embossed with the immediately recognisable Dior logo, it's hard not to want a pair of these. Far from just being fashionable and easy on the eye (pun intended), these patches a loaded with a cocktail of hardworking ingredients that refresh and alleviate signs of fatigue.' Pros Luxury option that is fashionable and functional Features Double Hydrogel technology for optimal flexibility and adhesion Cons 4. Topicals Faded Brightening Eye Mask What the brand says: 'Fade the look of discoloration and wake up your under-eye area with these cooling, brightening hydrogel masks.' What we know: Enter the disruptive beauty brand that really has made under-eye patches incredibly cool. Topicals' authentic approach to skin problems comes alongside science-backed, expertly created formulas that work across all skin tones and types. Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'It goes without saying that when Topicals finally launched on home soil after making big waves in the USA, we were eager to try every single offering. One of my top takeaways were these masks. They combine a powerhouse of niacinamide, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and alpha arbutin, to help visibly reduce the look of discoloration. But it doesn't stop there. It also contains caffeine to depuff and energize, and before you ask, despite boasting some serious actives, it is suitable for sensitive skin.' Pros Includes powerhouse of actives Works on sensitive skin Cons Not as adhesive as others 5. D&G No Puff Caffeine Eye Patches What the brand says: 'The No-Puff Caffeine Eye Patches are the ultimate beauty accessory designed to instantly refresh and awaken the undereye area. With a bold DG monogram pattern inspired by the Dolce&Gabbana fashion codes, these eye patches offer a luxurious, picture-worthy self-care step to any skincare routine. The No-Puff Caffeine Eye Patches include 5 pairs of eye gel pads, packaged in individual sachets within a reusable tin case that matches the stylish monogram. These easy-to-apply patches leave the eye area looking refreshed, brightened, and ready for anything.' What we know: D&G definitely got the memo with these. Designed with those social media sharable moments in mind, the masks are some of the most impressive to look at. Plus, they come equipped with hardworking ingredients, too, like Italian coffee extract to refresh and adenosine to firm. Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This is as chic as beauty can get. Nude and decorated with the brand's covetable logo, these under-eye masks take a moment of self-care to new high-fashion heights. Easy to apply, after just 15 minutes of use, they leave me looking more awake and revived thanks to a clever combination of coffee extract and adenosine.' Pros Accessible price point Comes with a stylist reusable tin case Cons Offers less active ingredients than others 6. MZ Skin Hydra-Bright Gold Eye Mask What the brand says: 'A gold infused, anti-ageing eye treatment mask saturated with a complex of active ingredients to smooth and minimise the appearance of fine lines.' What we know: Founded by oculoplastic surgeon and facial aesthetics doctor, Dr Maryam Zamani, MZ Skin has a special understanding of eye care, given its namesake is a leading expert in eyelid surgery and rejuvenation of the area around the skin. These masks boast collagen, hyaluronic acid and seaweed to help brighten discolouration and dark circles, reduce puffiness and boots hydration, and improve elasticity and firmness around the eye. Dr Justine Hextall, consultant dermatologist, says: 'I like these eye patches is because firstly they are made by an oculoplastic surgeon, but Maryam Zamani has also really thought about making sure that the ingredients don't irritate or cause allergies in the eye area. I have no doubt that as a oculoplastic surgeon she has seen a lot of allergy problems around the eye and she wants to avoid that.' Pros Created by an oculoplastic expert Gentle, effective formula Cons 7. Chanel Le Lift Flash Eye Revitalizer What the brand says: 'The expert duo that creates a youthful appearance in the blink of an eye. Flash Eye Revitalizer illuminates the eye area in two steps: a massage using the roll-on to release the anti-aging serum enriched with a vitamin C complex, followed by the application of revitalising patches. The awakening result is instantly visible.' What we know: This two-fold treatment comes equipped with 10 eye patches and an anti-ageing serum roll-on, which is infused with vitamins B3, C and E for radiance, as well as an anti-dark circles and anti-puffiness complex. When layered over with the patches, the serum's effectiveness is heightened to help the active formula to penetrate deeper for instant results. Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'The roll-on helps to set the mood with its instant cooling, depuffing effect and the patches really work to lock things into place, so it felt as if I was stretching out a well-earned self-care moment. And the results left me bright eyed and rejuivinated.' Pros All-round formula Comes with a roll-on serum Cons Some may find the two-step treatment labourious Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral). Main image: Instagram @diipakhosla, Instragram @rhode, and Instagram @annehathaway
Graziadaily
23-05-2025
- Health
- Graziadaily
The New Free Dermatology Service At Boots Could Change Your Skin For Good
My skin struggles trace back to 2010. I had just graduated from secondary school with 10 GCSEs and a fresh face unscathed by spots, oily T-zones or any other skin woe associated with the hormonal fluctuations of teenhood. That all changed at college, when A-level induced stress left me riddled with cystic acne. Armed with little-to-no knowledge of how to treat it, I resorted to cutting out dairy, processed foods, sugar and ordered skincare from the US because a clear-skinned YouTuber told me to (mostly all in vain by the way). My hopelessness reached its peak when my GP said acne was 'normal' and I should come back when my skin gets worse. Spoiler: it did. That was until I finally met with a dermatologist years down the line who introduced me to Treclin, a prescription-only topical acne treatment that combines antibiotic clindamycin and vitamin A-derived retinoid tretinoin, which started to clear up the problem. Fast forward to 2025, I have hormonal acne that comes with its fair share of good and bad days (and I've discovered all of the best make-up products for acne-prone skin), but I often think about where my skin would be today if I had had the right tools as a totally lost acne-prone teen. Thankfully, Boots' new initiative is seeking to address the problem head on. Intent on becoming the one-stop solution for accessible skin health, Boots has launched dermatology training for its pharmacists and pharmacy teams based in over 150 nationwide stores, who will now be able to provide free, in-store support on common skin conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis and even scalp health. All you need to do in walk-in. Approved by the British Association of Dermatologists, the nine module training programme (which spans everything from skin microbiome to pigmentation) has been developed with the L'Oréal Groupe's research and expertise as well as 20-year strong clinical insights provided by consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall, to arm Boots' Pharmacy Team with a well-rounded understanding of how best to guide customers on their skin concerns. Importantly, the training course includes pathologies across type 4 and 6 skin types, meaning there is less chance of misdiagnosing skin conditions experienced by those with medium to deep skin tones. Sameeha at Boots, Westfield London ©Boots 'There is an unmet need for this,' says Dr. Hextall, 'People may visit the pharmacy, GP or dermatologist along their skin journey but as a dermatologist when someone sits in front of me I often think, "if only their first point of contact was A, B and C they wouldn't be here now and their problem wouldn't have gotten worse". It's all about making sure all touch points on the patient's journey are excellent. And how do you do that? You deliver education.' Boots is quickly positioning itself as that reliable first point of contact, where skin solutions can be found all under one roof. Jamie Kerruish, healthcare director at Boots, says, 'There is a clear need for accessible support for skin concerns and conditions, which is why we are so proud to be launching new technology and upskilling our pharmacy team members in stores. Combined with our huge skincare product range and beauty expertise, we can be the first port of call for all those with a skin concern, making it really easy for people to get quick advice and helping to relieve pressures on GP surgeries across the country.' In fact, according to research from No7, almost all (97%) women in the UK say they have experienced at least one skin issue, while data from NHS England in 2022 found skin conditions are the most common reason for people visiting GPs, accounting for one in four new consultations in England and Wales. The new offering comes alongside the launch of an AI-powered skin tool, the Boots Online Doctor SmartSkin Checker, which can screen for over 70 skin conditions with a quick image upload of problem areas. Available through the Boots Online Doctor, the tool can help to identify up to five skin conditions customers could be experiencing and there is a 95% likelihood that one of those is correct, which can then provide the basis of a treatment plan with the help of expert-led in-store guidance. As one of the first to try out the new initiative, which has been rolled out this week, I took my case of adult acne to the shop floor at Boots Westfield London. There, a pharmacist asked a series of questions about my current skincare routine and lifestyle choices before pointing me in the direction of the kinds of products that can help: a gentle cleanser, oil-free formulas and a new tube of Treclin, which can be prescribed by Boots Online Doctor. No hefty fees, no waiting lists, Boots is revolutionising the way we approach skin health for good. Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).
Scottish Sun
28-04-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Expert's definitive guide to the skincare you can & can't use when pregnant – the main ‘dangers' to babies & safe swaps
All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue. Including the ingredients you have to avoid OH BABY Expert's definitive guide to the skincare you can & can't use when pregnant – the main 'dangers' to babies & safe swaps Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) FINDING out you're pregnant is incredibly exciting, but can be overwhelming too. As soon as that blue line appears on the test, there is a long list of rules to follow. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 12 Not all skincare products are safe to use while pregnant, breastfeeding or even trying to conceive Credit: Getty It's not just about avoiding blue cheese and saying no to a G&T – you might also need to switch up your skincare routine. Not all skincare products and treatments are safe to use when trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding. Some because they may harm your baby, and others because they aren't compatible with the hormonal skin changes that pregnancy brings. To help you navigate this, we asked consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall for advice on which products and treatments you can keep in your routine and which to relegate to the back of the bathroom cupboard or pause for the next nine months. Remember, though, that this is only a guide, and it's important to check with your doctor or midwife if you are unsure whether or not to use a product. 12 Consultant Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall shares her pregnancy beauty advice Credit: Justine Hextall Which skincare ingredients and salon treatments should you avoid during pregnancy? Retinoids Retinoids (aka vitamin A) are a family of ingredients that include prescription products like Roaccutane and Tretinoin, and cosmetic ones like retinal and retinol. All retinoids are a no-go during pregnancy, but especially Roaccutane, a medication used to treat acne. 'This is not safe during pregnancy,' says Dr Hextall. 'Robust contraception is a must when taking Roaccutane, and doctors insist on monthly pregnancy tests. "It is also advised to wait a month after stopping this medication before attempting to become pregnant.' If you normally use a retinoid serum to keep early signs of ageing at bay, there are alternative ingredients you can use. 12 Azelaic acid is a great alternative to retinol during pregnancy Credit: Skin+ME Skin + Me Brighten + Boost Calming Azelaic Acid Serum, £19.99 Dr Hextall suggests 'azelaic acid to brighten, vitamin C to encourage collagen and elastin production and hyaluronic acid to plump the skin.' 12 Nicinamide helps reduce inflammation and balance oil production Credit: Naturium Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, £18 To replace retinoids used for breakouts, 'azelaic acid will help reduce inflammation and niacinamide will balance sebum.' Hydroquinone Like prescription retinoids, hydroquinone, a drug which treats hyperpigmentation, AKA those pesky patches of darker skin, should also be stopped before becoming pregnant. Experts aren't entirely sure how hydroquinone can impact a foetus, but they do know that it has a very high absorption rate simply from being applied to the skin. 'Safe alternatives for pigmentation include azelaic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C and liquorice root extract,' advises Dr Hextall. 12 Vitamin C is pregnancy safe and helps reduce melasma The INKEY List™ 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum, £15 Salicylic acid If you have oily or spot-prone skin, you probably use a cleanser or toner containing salicylic acid. This is related to Aspirin, which Dr Hextall explains 'can cross the placenta and may be dangerous in pregnancy.' Topical salicylic acid, though, the kind you apply to your skin, 'can be used in low doses such as 2% and below when pregnant.' Some companies will share how much salicylic acid their product contains, but others are cagey about their percentages. If you're unsure how much salicylic acid is in a formula, steer clear. 'I would suggest azelaic acid as a safe alternative to treat blemishes, as well as lactic acid,' explains Dr Hextall. 'Niacinamide is also safe and will strengthen the skin barrier at the same time as reducing inflammation in blemishes.' 12 Lactic acid is a gentle alternative to salycilic acid Credit: The Ordinary The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA, £7.70 Essential oils Essential oils are a tricky one. 'Often they are used to aid sleep and reduce stress, which is helpful in pregnancy, but some are contraindicated for various reasons,' Dr Hextall says. 'Sage, rosemary, thyme and cinnamon bark, among others, have been shown to stimulate uterine contractions, and for obvious reasons, this isn't advisable.' Essential oils can also cause irritation and allergies, and as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive, you might be more likely than normal to experience a reaction. Botox 12 You should avoid Botox throughout your pregnancy Credit: Getty As a general rule, you and your aesthetician need to go on a break during your pregnancy. Nearly all in-clinic cosmetic treatments are unsuitable when you're expecting. As for Botox, there have been animal studies which concluded it was dangerous to use when pregnant. 'Botox has not been shown to enter breast milk, though,' says Dr Hextall, so you may be able to restart appointments after your baby is born as long as you proceed with caution. Laser treatments The key issue with lasers during pregnancy is less a risk to your baby, but more that 'there is a risk of increased sensitivity and post-laser pigmentation,' explains Dr Hextall. 'There also isn't enough data for the use of lasers in pregnancy to advise them.' Essentially, having a laser treatment may cause more skin problems than it solves, so don't waste your money. This includes IPL, lasers used for hair removal and radiofrequency lasers. Dermal fillers 'There are no safety studies for the use of dermal fillers in pregnancy,' cautions Dr Hextall. 'Remember, you are injecting a foreign substance into the skin.' On a purely cosmetic basis, you may also find that your face becomes puffier with water retention during pregnancy, and fuller pregnancy lips are a thing. Adding filler into the mix might look odd combined with these hormonal changes. Chemical peels Medium and deep chemical peels often contain retinoids, hydroquinone and high doses of salicylic acid, all of which Dr Hextall has already put on our banned list. 'Peels are not advisable during pregnancy and many are also best avoided when breastfeeding,' she adds. 'Lighter lactic acid, azelaic acid, and low concentration glycolic and mandelic acid peels can be carried out with caution.' If you did go down that route when pregnant, it's more important than ever to ensure you are visiting a good, well-qualified aesthetician. Gel manicures 12 Gel nails aren't a complete no-no, but there's some precautions which are sensible to take Credit: Getty Whether you're pregnant or not, Dr Hextall is always cautious about nail treatments and the potential for allergies. 'There are allergens such as methacrylate, which is used to harden BIAB, acrylic and gel nails, which can cause significant allergies. "There isn't evidence that there is necessarily an increased risk of allergy in pregnancy, but for some, the skin is drier and therefore more prone to irritation and damage. "When the skin breaks down around the nail, there is a risk of infection, and this is a concern.' There are also risks around inhaling chemicals. 'If they are inhaled, we are not clear regarding their safety,' continues Dr Hextall. 'I would therefore suggest a suitable mask and ensure any salon is well ventilated.' Ideally, you should reduce how regularly you have your nails done to minimise risk and allow them to recover between treatments. Hair dye Hair dye comes with a risk of allergy at the best of times, and this is heightened in pregnancy. 'Some people find they develop allergies to substances that were previously tolerable,' cautions Dr Hextall. 'I would suggest avoiding potential allergens such as permanent hair dye, or at the very least, if you have used this product safely before, then still have a new pre-treatment patch test.' It's always better to be on the safe side. 'Avoid contact with scalp skin as much as possible and consider safer, semi-permanent dyes.' Bleach should also be avoided. Dr Hextall explains that 'hydrogen peroxide and ammonia found in many bleaching products can be absorbed through skin and the fumes themselves inhaled. At the very least, make sure that if applied, there is no direct skin contact and that the room is well ventilated. Ammonia-free highlights would be safer, as would natural hair dyes.' Which skincare ingredients, products and treatments are safe during pregnancy? Hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid is a crowd-pleasing ingredient. It's suitable for all skin types and plays nicely with other actives. Dr Hextall confirms that 'this is safe for use in pregnancy and when layered under a light moisturiser can really help to plump and hydrate skin, protecting the all-important skin barrier. During pregnancy, skin can be prone to dryness and irritation, so this is a good addition to your routine.' 12 Hyaluronic Acid is pregnancy-safe, and helps moisturise skin Credit: Vichy Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum, £28 Vitamin C Another ingredient with a big thumbs up from Dr Hextall is vitamin C. We are more likely to experience unwanted pigmentation, especially larger patches of this called melasma, when pregnant, which vitamin C acts as a layer of protection against. 'It is a strong antioxidant and will shield the skin from UV and pollution, both of which contribute to skin damage and pigmentation. A word of caution, though, pregnancy skin can be more sensitive, and at high doses, vitamin C can be an irritant. Start at around 10% if introducing during pregnancy.' 12 If you're new to Vitamin C, start at 10% strength to avoid irritation Credit: Simple Simple 10% Vitamin C + E + F Booster Serum, £9.99 Sunscreen Not wearing a good, high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face during pregnancy will increase your chances of hyperpigmentation patches popping up. All SPFs are broadly considered safe during pregnancy, but if you want to be extra cautious, Dr Hextall says, 'there is some talk of potential hormone disruption from certain chemical sunscreen filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. For many in dermatology, this is theoretical, though, and without robust data.' If you want to avoid these ingredients, try a mineral-based sunscreen which uses zinc and titanium dioxide as filters instead. 12 SPF is a must-wear, whether you're pregnant or not Credit: Naked Sundays Naked Sundays Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+, £28 Collagen supplements The short answer is that collagen supplements are safe to take during pregnancy, but you still need to do your research. 'A good, hydrolysed collagen has the best chance of absorption to support healthy skin, nails and hair,' recommends Dr Hextall. 'Seek out high-quality supplements that are as free as possible from additives and fillers. "Be cautious about other added ingredients like herbs, and if in doubt, seek medical advice.' It's also really important not to exceed the recommended dose. 'Excessive protein can cause kidney damage, and our kidneys have to work harder in pregnancy,' Dr Hextall adds. LED masks 12 LED face masks are generally thought to be a pregnancy-safe alternative to other anti-wrinkle treatments Credit: Getty Love your LED mask? You don't necessarily need to give it up. Dr Hextall says that 'both high-dose in-clinic treatments and at-home LED masks are considered a safe and effective alternative to other treatments that may be contraindicated in pregnancy for acne and rosacea.' The only potential risk is that blue light can sometimes increase the risk of pigmentation, especially if you have a deeper skin tone.
