Gen A-Z Skin School

BERNICE/ YEAR XX, LADY ELEANOR HOLLES SCHOOL

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Acknowledgements What You Can Expect From This Guide Three Non-negotiables For Young Skin Skin Situations: Top Tips & What to Skip What’s Your Beauty Persona? Take Our Quiz to Find Out! Clearing Up Common Skintok Myths Your Burning Beauty Questions Answered Ingredient Glossary: Know Your Skincare Superstars Additional Resources

Founded in response to Everyone’s Invited – a scandal that revealed alarming truths about attitudes towards sex and consent amongst young people – The Respect Project offers data-driven support on key issues across three pillars affecting Generation Alpha and young adults: Self-Respect, Sexual Respect and Social Respect. Established by Chloe Combi – a leading generational expert – her work addresses critical topics, from online safety to health and body-image concerns. Existing to empower and engage all those who touch the beauty industry, The British Beauty Council works to create a more inclusive, progressive place. Providing support and advice on all manner of topics – from equity and inclusion to advertorial integrity – their invaluable work shapes a positive, representative beauty landscape. Cult Beauty are patrons of the British Beauty Council and we are proud to have their support on this ongoing project. Kelly Saynor is a aesthetic nurse, independent prescriber, and Clinical Director with over 20 years of medical experience. After starting her career in paediatrics, she transitioned into cosmetic surgery, training with the Royal Society of Medicine and earning a reputation as both a ‘skin geek’ and a compassionate practitioner. In 2014, she founded Medica Forte, which now supports over 1,500 clinics with four leading brands, including The Perfect Peel®, Vistylus, The Fertility Pharmacy, and Glutaceuticals®—a skincare range she developed to improve skin health at a cellular level. Kelly also leads Renew, her Cheshire-based aesthetic clinic. Acknowledgements

The meaning behind Generation Alpha, the first cohort to be born entirely in the 21st century, takes its name from the first letter of the Greek alphabet. As the torch passes from Gen Z to Alpha, you ignite a new era – one defined by new voices, new ideas, new innovations and new attitudes to beauty in an ever-shifting digital landscape. This guide not only maps out the A-Z of skincare for pre-teens, teens and their parents; it positively celebrates the dynamic energy and potential of these trailblazing generations combined. Whats in a name?

What You Can Expect From This Guide. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by skincare. With filters, fads and questionable hacks, we’re navigating beauty through the lens of social media and its endless pursuit of unattainable perfection. A recent beauty report revealed that while Gen Z began experimenting with skincare at 13, Gen Alpha has eclipsed them by five years – starting at an average age of eight1. Yet very few are accessing information that is age-appropriate, accurate and trustworthy. We’re dedicated to creating a safe beauty space that is defined by you. Beauty is for everyone, all faces, all ages. Our Can’t (Re)Touch This campaign marked the first phase in our mission to shatter stereotypes and shape a more transparent and inclusive industry. It’s both a policy to never retouch our in-house model imagery, and a petition to the Government to regulate the authenticity of what we view online. We want you to see real skin – unfiltered and un-photoshopped – and read advice that is reliable, empowering and grounded in facts. Busting Myths, Embracing Healthy Habits, and Building Confidence ADVICE, ACTIONS & ANSWERS

That’s why we’ve created a no-nonsense guide to help parents, preteens and teens grasp the complexities of skincare and make educated decisions that nurture developing skin and self-esteem. Inside, we cover the A-Z of skincare: debunking common beauty myths, managing breakouts, shaving tips and building an affordable beauty routine that cherishes your skin with confidence. At Cult, we celebrate the beauty of being human – the dimples, the pimples, the wide eyes, the laugh lines, and all the unique features that make up your individuality. “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.” Dr. Seuss 1. Source(s): Ulta Beauty Future Proprietary Research, 2023 and Ulta Beauty: Beauty and Younger Generations Prietary Research, 2024

Three non-negotiables for young skin The clue’s in the name: skincare is all about care. It’s about nourishing, protecting, respecting. Too many active ingredients can weaken the important defences that keep your skin healthy. The focus should be simple: cleansing, balancing and bolstering your skin’s barrier. Here’s an effective, easy-to-follow routine designed by leading skincare experts, brand founders and dermatologists. Dry skin tends to be genetic and is caused by a lack of sebum on the skin’s surface. Dehydrated skin can affect anyone and all skin types. Dehydrated skin is caused by lifestyle and external factors, like not drinking enough water or exposure to air conditioning. It’s characterised by a lack of moisture and skin may feel tight, itchy and dry. - Dr. Alexis Granite Is your skin dry or dehydrated? Here's how to tell

Before All Else, Let’s Crack The Code Of Your Skin Type! Neither too oily or too dry, balanced skin maintains a healthy equilibrium. When everything’s in sync, skin looks smooth and feels comfortable with a naturally dewy appearance and minimal sensitivity. If your skin frequently feels a little tight, rough, or flaky – especially after washing your face – it’s usually a sign of dry skin. During colder months, when the air strips skin of its moisture, you may notice these symptoms are more pronounced, with heightened sensitivity. Central heating, hot showers and harsh cleansers are also common culprits when it comes to exacerbating dryness. Oily skin occurs when sebum production (the natural oils produced by glands in the skin) is operating on overdrive, leading to enlarged pores, breakouts and a shiny appearance – particularly in the T-zone. When sebum mixes with dead skin cells, it can clog your pores and trap oil, causing whiteheads and blackheads to pop up. Balanced Dry Oily

Step 1: Cleanse Cleansing is the cornerstone of any good skincare routine – and we don’t mean a quick once-over with a wipe (they’re not great for your skin, or the planet). The purpose of cleansing is to lift impurities from the skin’s surface without disrupting its natural barrier. So, take your time to invest in a cleanser that suits your skin’s needs: it might be a gentle foaming formula, a milk to maintain balance, or a nourishing balm that melts away make up and sunscreen. THE INKEY LIST Oat Cleansing Balm £12.00 FRESH Soy Face Cleanser KIEHL’S Ultra Facial Cleanser for balanced skin BYOMA Milky Moisture Cleanser £13.99 VERSED The Purist Antioxidant Cleanser GOOD LIGHT Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser CERAVE Foaming Cleanser AVENE Cleansing Gel LA ROCHE-POSAY Effaclar H Cleanser £15.00 £15.00 £13.50 £17.00 £12.50 £24.00 £15.50 for Oily skin for dry skin

Step 2: Moisturise All skin – even oily, blemish-prone skin – needs daily moisture. Some moisturisers are rich, while others are lightweight and typically absorb much faster into the skin. If you find your skin changes throughout the months or with the seasons, you can switch between lighter (oil-free) and thicker (ceramide-enriched) formulas as needed. for dry skin for Oily skin YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream VERSED Dew Point Moisturising Gel-Cream FIG.1 Ceramide Moisturiser PAULA’S CHOICE Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid KRAVE BEAUTY Oat So Simple Water Cream CAUDALIE Vino Hydra Sobert Cream THE ORDINARY Natural Moisturising Factors + PhytoCeramides COMMUNITY SIXTY SIX Oil Control Moisturiser THE INKEY LIST Omega Water Cream £13.50 £28.00 £39.00 £20.00 £11.00 £45.00 £20.00 £32.00 £20.00 for balanced skin

Step 3: Protect SPF SPF SPF. We’re insistent about this so no excuses. UV rays significantly accelerate the deterioration of skin’s elasticity – also known as ‘photoaging’ – so consistent daily use of sunscreen is the best defence. After all, prevention is better than cure. INNIS FREE Daily UV Defence Sunscreen LA ROCHE-POSAY Anthelios UVmune 400 50+ £22.00 ULTRA VIOLETTE Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying Skinscreen £34.00 ULTRA VIOLETTE Fave Fluid Ultralight Skinscreen £37.00 BYOMA Ultralight Face Fluid SPF50 £14.99 SUPERGOOP PLAY Everyday Lotion £23.00 ULTRA VIOLETTE Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial £34.00 THANK YOU FARMER Water Sun Cream £28.00 HELLO SUNDAY The Matte One SPF50 £22.00 £17.00 for dry skin for Oily skin for balanced skin

The right amount of SPF typically equals the length of your index and middle fingers combined. This visual works well for lightweight formulas, though you might need a bit less for richer textures. Be sure to cover your entire face – including your eyelids, lips, the tops of your ears, and neck – for full protection. - Dr. Kelly Saynor Exfoliants: Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week (preferably with a PHA or mild BHA) helps prevent clogged pores, refine skin texture, and improve tone. Avoid harsh physical scrubs, as they can tear your skin and increase sensitivity. “You should generally think of a dessert spoon amount when applying SPF to your face. But if you need more, go for it!” How much SPF should I apply? COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid £26.00 THE INKEY LIST PHA Toner £13.00 PHA = POLYHYDROXY ACID WHO SHOULD USE IT: PHAs work their powers on the skin’s surface to not disturb the delicate layers that lie beneath. However, they are still a chemical exfoliant, so always start with a low concentration and monitor skin for any adverse reactions. HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT: To start, try using PHAs three times a week. You can use it in the form of a toner, a face wash, or even a serum. WORKS WELL WITH: Other acids in low concentrations.

1. Managing Blemishes: Blemishes can affect people with all skin types, not just oily. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and skincare habits all play a role in those unwelcome breakouts. COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch THE INKEY LIST Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches Hormonal acne or pimples often appear around the jawline or chin. During puberty, your body undergoes hormonal changes, which can trigger oil production, spots or acne. Skin Situations: Top Tips & What to Skip What to Skip: • Stop before popping! This can force blemish-causing bacteria to spread deeper within the skin and provoke swelling, forming a larger, more noticeable blemish. • Inviting negative self-talk to take control and determine your day. Think of blemishes as just mini stepping stones from your teenage years to adulthood. Hush your inner critic and acknowledge your achievements with pride. 2.Hormonal Breakouts: • Be consistent and respectful. Look for gentle formulas with ingredients like with salicylic acid and niacinamide to soothe redness and help unclog pores. • Be patient – hormonal acne can take longer to clear if it’s tied to your menstrual cycle. • Don’t be scared to seek professional guidance. Dermatologists or licensed skincare professionals can offer you tailored advice. Cult Top Tip: What to Skip: • Resist overwashing your face – this can strip away your skin’s natural oils, prompting your skin to produce even more oil in response. • Avoid touching your face frequently or picking at blemishes. This could introduce more bacteria and lead to scarring. Cult Top Tip: • Morning and night use a gentle, noncomedogenic cleanser that won’t strip your skin. • Look for spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Apply them directly to pimples for best results. • Apply a calming face mask or soothing moisturiser with ingredients like niacinamide, green tea or aloe vera if your skin feels sensitive or stressed. Darker skin tones can be more prone to scarring following breakouts due to a higher concentration of melanin – the natural pigment that gives skin colour. When skin becomes irritated from a blemish, it may respond by producing excess pigment in the affected area, resulting in dark spots once the blemish heals.

3. Shaving and Irritation: If you’ve just started shaving, you might experience irritation, redness, or even razor bumps. Here’s what to do (and not do) to prevent discomfort: Ingrown hairs develop when a hair removed through shaving, tweezing, or waxing grows back but, instead of growing through the skin, it curls back on itself which results in raised and itchy bumps. In more stubborn or recurring cases, professional help may be needed. • Shaving over broken skin. If you’re experiencing bumps or redness, wait for the skin to calm down before shaving again. • Excessive pressure will irritate the skin and lead to cuts. A light hand is just enough to get the job done and remember to always follow the grain of your hair. • Dry shaving – this will create more friction and lead to razor burns. Always apply shaving cream first and opt for a gentle moisturiser to replenish the skin. What to skip: A blemish is a common, individual spot that forms when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Acne, in comparison, refers to a broader, more persistent skin condition that involves multiple spots and is often triggered by hormonal changes, genetics, and bacteria. ‘Acne’ is a medical term and there are many different types. If you think you may be experiencing acne, be sure to consult a licensed skincare professional. Pimples vs acne: what’s the difference? Non-comedogenic – what should I know? Non-comedogenic products are specially formulated without ingredients that could potentially clog your pores, helping to prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming. Lightweight and often oil-free, they work by cleaning out excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells from blocked pores to balance and clear the complexion. Pre-period Skin Your skin may misbehave a little before your period due to hormonal fluctuations. Clinically known as the ‘luteal phase,’ a spike in the hormone progesterone can lead to oilier, more congested skin, resulting in blackheads, blemishes, and excess shine. • Shaving over broken skin. If you’re experiencing bumps or redness, wait for the skin to calm down before shaving again. • Too much pressure will irritate the skin and lead to cuts. A light hand is just enough to get the job done and remember to always follow the grain of your hair. • Dry shaving increases friction on the skin, meaning razor burns, redness and micro-cuts. A good shaving cream is essential for a smooth and stress-free glide. Cult Top Tip:

Skincare Truths & Self-love wisdom Miah Carter 21-year-old content creator Miah Carter warmly refers to herself as your, “self-love big sister.” And, much in the spirit of an astute older sibling, her honest, empowering message of self-acceptance has inspired all 3.3M of her TikTok followers to find comfort in their curves, beauty in every bump and pride in their path to self-belief. Her philosophy is simple, yet profound: confidence is the best dress to slip on each morning. CERAVE Facial Moisturisng Lotion £16.50 OLE HENRIKSEN Peptine Boost Moisturiser £42.00 THE INKEY LIST Oat Cleansing Balm £12.00

“I wish I'd known when I was younger that patience is essential and that skin needs time to heal. My hyperpigmentation and scars once made me self-conscious, but consistency changed everything. Must do’s: SPF daily, gentle skincare, hydration Avoid: Picking spots, harsh products, comparing yourself. Your skin doesn’t define you; confidence comes from within. You are more than your reflection.”

You are SO MUCH MORE than your wrapping paper. <3 xxx Three Encouragements 1. Moisturise your face every morning. 2. Read trusted reviews of anything you use on your skin. 3. Use SPF, even when we’re not on holiday! Three Avoids 1. Avoid wearing make up every day, your skin needs to breathe! 2. Don’t over-use make up wipes. 3. Never compare yourself to airbrushed media. Skincare, Self-worth and Empowering Life Lessons for Her Teenage Daughter (and you!) Louise Pentland Writer, creator, and mum-of-two, Louise Pentland, has been rightfully crowned YouTube royalty. One of the platform’s first stars, she pushed the parameters of beauty blogging to share – with unguarded intimacy – her candid reflections on mental health and the realities of modern motherhood. Now the author of five bestselling books, Pentland remains a fairy godmother-like figure to her 3.7M Instagram followers, standing by the belief that growth isn’t linear; neither is beauty a duck-to-swan moment of magic – true confidence glitters when we embrace the spectrum of our emotions and intentionally invest in ourselves.

“My Mum passed away when I was seven, so I didn’t have a female role model at home. I had no idea how to take care of my skin, so it’s been a real joy to teach my daughter, Darcy, now that she's a young teenager.I have naturally very rosy skin, and as a teen, I was extremely self-conscious. I thought I looked like a tomato and would flush bright red if anyone mentioned it.I used foundation to cover it up, but without skincare, my skin was often dry and cakey.” “It wasn’t until later that I understood good skincare is the foundation of everything. I started with day creams, moved to eye creams, and switched from face wipes to a cleansing balm. Simply put, looking after my skin is a non-negotiable in my life now.”

Play The Personas Quiz! If you flit and flutter across social feeds or prefer to soak up some offline bliss with a cocooning bubble bath and a good book, take our quiz to reveal your beauty persona below. Skintellectual Pampering Pro A fount of beauty knowledge, you seek them out to answer all your skincare FAQs (and get an unexpected lesson on why moisturiser is a nonnegotiable). They know the ins and outs of all the formulas you’ve read about – never one to skip their cleansing routine. Mastered the art of self-care and magicking everyday moments into a mini spa experience. They delight in pamper nights, pastels, and Pilates sets that perfectly match their lip gloss. Green juice in hand and a fresh pedicure on the agenda, they’re all about relishing the little joys – a cancelled plan? Pure bliss. Click here to find out which persona you are... The Personas Quiz

Trailblazer Social Butterfly Mindful Maverick Minimalist Never one for beauty-by-numbers, their individualistic, fiercely independent attitude cuts through the clamour of fads, ads, and fleeting trends. Valuing ‘vibes’ over flashy luxury, they follow the creative beat of their own heart – always attracted to the niche, raw and authentic. Streets ahead of the trends, they haunt their social feeds to guarantee they’re in the know. Thrilled by the new, the bold, and the innovative – never one to miss a viral moment. Holds a magnifying glass up to climate commitments and conscious claims. Advocating for natural, plant-powered formulas and ethical practices, they probe beauty’s big buzzwords to uncover true transparency and curate a routine that’s both kind to the skin and Earth. Serves a less-is-more approach to looking good and feeling better. Disciples of ‘the simple life’, they find delight in honing their routines to get the most from fewer steps – never one to overlook a product that does both.

Blank Space to doodle, make notes, get creative. Hey Cult Beauty, Here's whats in my bag today... Use the stickers to build your dream make-up bag

DO some Doodles... At this stage, you might feel a little adrift in a cyclone of skincare tips, tricks and truths. Let your creativity erupt across these blank pages – scribble, scrawl or jot down what you’ve discovered so far. After all, Imagination is the blueprint for all that’s groundbreaking in beauty, so share your artistry with us on socials using #cultbeauty #fortheloveofbeauty #generationAZ #skintuition

Retinol is effective for targeting acne and preventing signs of ageing in mature skin (30+), but it’s not for everyone, especially teens. Too much retinol can cause redness, peeling, and dryness. It should only ever be used on young skin if advised by a skincare professional or dermatologist. Start with a low concentration (0.25% or 0.5%) and apply only a small amount – a pea-sized drop for the entire face is enough. Never use it if you have sensitive or irritated skin. All You Need to Know About Actives Retinol and Retinal (Vitamin A) BHA and PHA ( Beta-Hydroxy and Polyhydroxy Acids) BHAs (like salicylic acid) are great for reducing acne and exfoliating dead skin cells, but they can also lead to drying if overused. Limit their use to 1-2 times per week unless advised otherwise by a dermatologist. PHAs, in comparison, are a gentler, more gradual alternative to BHAs that support the skin’s barrier function, increase moisture and remove dead skin cells.

Only use if your skin actually needs it and always consult a professional before you dive in. what to skip Don’t put off wearing sunscreen because you’ve heard it blocks your pores – it’s a common myth. These days, well-formulated sunscreens exist that are suitable for all skin types, even acne-prone skin. Look for sheer, thin textures and experiment with formulas that contain a blend of synthetic and mineral actives. And make sure you cleanse thoroughly at the end of the day. I know I should wear sun cream, but it breaks me out. Is there an SPF to suit my oily skin type? Heather Wish, Skincare Education Manager at Paulas Choice Wear your SPF! Future you will thank you! PAULA’S CHOICE 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Use: 1-2 Times a week THANK YOU FARMER Water Sun Cream Use: Every Morning Layer multiple actives on top of each other (e.g., retinol + AHA + BHA). Keep it simple. Cult top tip

Using too many products or constantly switching between them can irritate your skin and exacerbate problems like acne. A simple, consistent skincare routine is best for young skin. You don’t need to break the bank to have healthy skin. Simple, effective products – like a gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturiser – can work wonders at any price point. Clearing Up Common SkinTok Myths When your skin isn’t retaining enough water beneath the surface, it can actually become dehydrated and tricked into overproducing oil to compensate, creating a vicious cycle. The solution? Try an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser that’s lightweight in texture. Myth #1: More is more Myth #2: Expensive products are always better Myth #3: Oily skin types should skip moisturiser REALITY: REALITY: REALITY:

We not only have an expert eye for the very best in beauty; we’re quite the connoisseurs of music, too. So much so that we’ve curated the perfect feel-good playlist to soundtrack your skincare routine, study sessions and solo dates. Click the button below and tune into empowering pop, motivating melodies and old-school mixes. Have a listen... Click here to listen Spotify Playlist

SET LIMITS - Choose how much time you would like to spend on social media. - Check your settings and see if you can set a limit on social media. FOMO - Remember photos can be staged, filtered, or edited, and people often share only the highlights of their lives. BE KIND ONLINE - Focus on being kind, supportive and brighten someone’s day! - Choosing not to be part of negativity can help keep up your own mood. UNFOLLOW / MUTE ACCOUNTS - If an account makes you feel bad about yourself or posts upsetting content, try to unfollow or mute them. TAKING BREAKS - Using your phone late in the evening can make it harder to sleep. - Try keeping your device further from your bed. Follow accounts who inspire or motivate you! Social Media Tips

Check out the night modes on your phone or look into a blue light filter AVOID USING YOUR PHONE BEFORE BED - Make sure to take steps away from your phone and do something offline. - Try doing something creative or spending time with people. MUTING NOTIFICATIONS - Constant alerts can make you feel pressured to check your phone, always check your phone in your own time. - Try turning off your notifications for apps or putting your phone into ‘do not disturb’ mode. COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS - It’s common to feel like you’re missing out when you see others posting. - Everyone has downtime, challenges, and lonely times — you’re only seeing a small fragment of their life.

We pitched your burning beauty questions to a team of dermatologists, brand founders and skincare experts to help you conquer your common skincare bugbears. Time for some FAQs “I hate my spots – what can I do to help clear my complexion?” “Start with the basics. A gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove dirt, make up and oil, followed by a non-drying, targeted treatment. Ingredients like PHA (polyhydroxy acid) and zinc are great for targeting clogged pores and imperfections, while blue tansy is ideal for soothing redness. Always moisturise – choose an oil-free, lightweight formula.” “I know I should wear sunscreen, but it breaks me out.Is there an SPF to suit my oily skin type?” “Don’t put off wearing sunscreen because you’ve heard it blocks your pores – it’s a common myth. These days, well-formulated sunscreens exist that are suitable for all skin types, even acneprone skin. Look for sheer, thin textures and experiment with formulas that contain a blend of synthetic and mineral actives. And make sure you cleanse thoroughly at the end of the day.” Team of experts at Byoma Heather Wish, Skincare Education Manager at Paulas Choice

“Should I use acid exfoliants?” “You hear so much about acid exfoliants and how they can achieve a ‘glass skin’ glow. For teens, there are a lot of changes happening and acids can be detrimental – leading to redness, irritation and impaired barrier function. You’re better off focusing on products that calm and respect your skin barrier.” Melanie Black, Head of Scientific Communication & Training at Avene “What should my morning and evening skincare routines look like?” Morning: Cleanse with a gentle face wash. Apply a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid). Moisturise with a lightweight cream. Finish with SPF 30 or higher. Dr. Kelly Saynor Evening: Cleanse to remove make up, sunscreen, and dirt. Use a targeted treatment (like niacinamide or a gentle exfoliant). Moisturise to replenish your skin overnight. “What does premature or inappropriate use of retinol and actives do to the skin? ” “In the short term, we see redness, peeling, and irritation. If you’ve been using actives longer than a few months they can cause some sensitivity and make your skin more prone to damage. If retinol is used for more than a year, the skin barrier can become compromised leading to chronic dryness or redness.” Dr. Kelly Saynor

Alpha-hydroxy acids; chemical exfoliants that work by dissolving the uppermost layer of protective skin cells. A soothing, plant-derived extract that’s prized for its calming and comforting powers. Effectively works to reduce rosacea, acne and pigmentation, while neutralising the harmful effects of free radicals that trigger inflammation. Its mild exfoliating properties may cause sensitivity. Not as scary as it sounds, this organic acid targets acne by killing bacteria on the skin and removing dead skin cells that can clog pores. Beta-hydroxy acids; these have pore-purifying properties. Great for oily, congested complexions. A calming flower extract that is great for sensitive complexions. Often found in cleansers and moisturisers, these barrier-boosters supplement skin’s defences. While mineral sunscreens act like a shield, chemical sunscreens are like a sponge, soaking up damaging UV rays before they can harm your skin. Light, easy to apply, and non-greasy, they’re best suited to oily and combination skin types. A naturally occurring protein in the body, it’s commonly included in creams and serums to help keep skin smooth, firm and plump. Ingredient Glossary Here are some ingredients to look (and look out!) for. Green Amber Red Gentle yet effective, these ingredients prioritise soothing, hydration, and barrier support. Perfect for calming and maintaining healthy skin long-term, they are considered safe for young skin and can be used with confidence. For oily or blemish-prone skin, these ingredients help purify pores, exfoliate, and brighten the complexion, while targeting concerns like texture and pigmentation. While safe for young skin, they may not be suitable for everyone – always consult a dermatologist before use. These are potent, exfoliating ingredients that work to dissolve dead cells and rejuvenate the skin. Considered too harsh, irritating and impractical for developing skin, they should be avoided unless specifically recommended by a dermatologist. AHA Aloe Vera Benzoyl Peroxide BHA Blue Tansy Chemical SPF Collagen Azelaic Acid Ceramides

Essential Oils Heavily fragranced formulas can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to breakouts and redness. Anyone with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema should avoid fragranced products. A humectant, this draws moisture into the skin to hydrate without clogging pores. The smallest of AHAs, this chemical exfoliant dissolves dead skin cells on the surface and boosts cell turnover to brighten and smooth skin. A natural alternative to chemical antioxidants, great for soothing sensitivity and redness. A powerful, lightweight hydrator, similar to glycerin. A form of vitamin B that helps minimise enlarged pores and balance oil production. Forms a physical barrier on the skin that blocks and scatters both UVA and UVB rays. It sits on top of the skin, instead of soaking in, so it’s a great choice for sensitive skin. Will need reapplication every few hours for optimum protection. Polyhydroxy acids; gentler, more gradual alternatives to AHAs. ‘Good bacteria’ that support the skin barrier. Great for blemish and acne-prone skin types. A more potent form of vitamin A than retinol, it’s less harsh and quicker to act on the skin, but can still compromise it’s protective barrier if overused. A vitamin A derivative known for a spectrum of benefits. It works by encouraging cell turnover to promote brighter, smoother skin – so it’s great for mature skin types, but can deplete the skin’s barrier when used too soon. A common BHA, found in pore-purifying and clarifying cleansers, toners and moisturisers. A highly effective emollient that mimics your skin’s natural oils to deeply hydrate and support your natural moisture barrier. Often listed as ascorbic acid, this powerful antioxidant targets pigmentation, refines skin texture and brightens. A mild astringent, great for oily skin types. An essential mineral that helps reduce the appearance of redness and acne scars. Highly concentrated extracts that should be used with extreme caution for young, developing skin. If not properly diluted or used appropriately, they can lead to irritation or a burning sensation. Fragrance Glycerin Glycolic Acid Green tea Hyaluronic Acid Niacinamide Mineral SPF PHA Pre/Probiotics Retinal Retinol Salicylic Acid Squalane Vitamin C Witch Hazel Zinc

Caring for your skin – and overall wellbeing – is a journey, not a sprint. The public sphere of social media is noisy, and the pressure to be perfect unquestionably intense – but a 7-step skincare routine isn’t the magic antidote. With the right products for you, patience, and a little self-love for all your quirks and complexities, you’ll blossom into your most authentic self, both inside and out.

If you suspect your child may be struggling with their mental health, click the button below to access a variety of additional resources, tools and expert guidance to support you in navigating these challenges together. Read More

CARLA/ YEAR 9/ LADY ELEANOR HOLLES SCHOOL GIGI/ YEAR 9/ DOWN HOUSE

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