Meet my 5 favourite anti-ageing skincate products available at Woolworths
Why I Love Botulinum Toxin Injections
Are you thinking about getting botulinum toxin injections for your big day? Here’s what you can expect and why I chose to get them before walking down the aisle.
With Dr. Tracey Garner of Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates
The first time I tried botulinum toxin injections, I was 26 years old. It was an article for a publication I worked for and needed to experience the treatment for myself. Keep in mind, I’m not the biggest fan of needles – or pain – for that matter, so naturally, I was quite nervous. Before the doctor injected my forehead lines, I acted ‘surprised’ to document the before shot. We noticed a prominent frown line too. After the numbing cream had set in, he injected the areas. All in all, it was a pain-free experience. Two weeks after that, my skin changed for the better. My lines were gone and the texture had become smoother. I was radiant.
Fast forward 11 years and I’m still having botulinum toxin injections, no more than twice a year. I had the privilege of being injected by the wonderful Dr. Tracey Garner from Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates and I was over the moon with the results (be sure to check out my impressive befores and afters below). We also chatted about the specific areas on my face that I focus on, along with botulinum toxin injections FAQs.
Before
After (two weeks post treatment).
Q: Which are my main problem areas that botulinum toxin injections will solve?
Dr. Garner: You have dynamic lines – ones that rest and ones that are active due to muscle movement. This means that when you lift your eyebrows up, you get lines. Due to the muscles around your eyes and your frowning, you get muscle bulk which can make you look heavy in the facial area and appear ‘tired’ or ‘angry’.
Q: What other issues can botulinum toxin injections solve for other people?
Dr. Garner: It’s the most amazing molecule. It’s been FDA registered for 35 years and been researched really well, with 30 indications. You can use it to help with ageing (smoothing fine lines and wrinkles), and on the perioral lines. It helps with teeth-grinding, chronic migraines and excessive sweating. It’s used on children who have cerebral palsy to reduce muscle spasms and contractions.
Aesthetically, it improves skin quality, reduces the activity of sebum being produced and stimulates collagen. I think there are many more benefits to this treatment that haven’t been discovered yet. It’s brilliant.
Q: Can anyone have botulinum toxin injections?
Dr. Garner: Pregnant women and people with generalized nerve weaknesses are advised against having botulinum toxin injections.
Q: Can you have botulinum toxin injections at any salon or clinic?
Dr. Garner: Only doctors and dentists in South Africa are allowed to administer botulinum toxin injections.
Q: What advice can you give to someone experiencing botulinum toxin injections for the first time?
Dr. Garner: Please see a doctor in a registered medical practice. The process should include a consult where you can discuss what you want and get the doctor’s opinion. Patients should read beforehand about botulinum toxin injections so they can come with questions for the doctor.
Please be aware of people running ‘specials’ or discounts on botulinum toxin injections as it could be fake product. It’s not wise to go for these discounted treatments.
Here’s what I looked like directly after the injections. It’s a pain-free, very quick experience.
Q: What is the downtime?
Dr. Garner: There is almost no downtime. If you bruise, there will be a small bruise for a week. It’s not normal to have anything other than that.
Q: Should one take headache medication if you’re prone to headaches beforehand?
Dr. Garner: I wouldn’t advise it. If you want to take something, paracetamol is best. Nothing stronger as this could lead to bruising.
Dr. Garner also advises:
- Post treatment, do not lie down or touch the area for 4-6 hours.
- Don’t increase your body heat or temperature or do hard exercise for 48 hours post treatment because it takes 48 hours for the botulinum toxin to bind and have an effect.
- Be gentle when applying sunscreen post treatment, as the botulinum toxin can get into your eyes. Apply it away from the eye area or, at best, avoid the sun as much as possible for the next 48 hours.
- It doesn’t work immediately. Expect to see glowing results in 10-14 days.
If you have any questions about botulinum toxin injections, please leave a comment below and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
My skin one day before our wedding (24 October 2023). I’m make-up free except for some eyeliner and mascara!
GET IN TOUCH WITH DR. GARNER!
Visit Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates’ website here.
There are so many treatments to choose from. Feel free to browse the site for more info.
Follow Dr Nerina on:
Contact details:
Call: (021) 422 411
Address: Suite 201, 2nd Floor,
North Wing,
Granger Bay Court,
Beach Rd,
V&A Waterfront
South Africa
Getting My Dream Wedding Skin With Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates
The Benefits Of Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid is the key ingredient to glowing skin. Here’s why you should include it in your daily routine.
In July 2022, I started incorporating Nutrafy’s Collagen Powder into my daily skincare routine. The reason why I say skincare routine is because this collagen powder is the ultimate skin food. The high concentration of probiotics found within the powder results in a healthy gut. And a healthy gut results in, yes, you guessed it, healthy, radiant-looking skin.
Read my detailed article on the pros of probiotics and how gut health contributes to skin health here.
One of the other skincare pillars and key ingredients found within the Nutrafy range is Hyaluronic Acid. If you’re a skincare enthusiast, you’ll know that Hyaluronic Acid is instrumental in achieving radiant skin as it provides instant moisture. It makes the skin firm and supple, helps prevent ageing by plumping out fine lines and wrinkles, smoothes out the complexion and improves the texture (leaving it flawless), and it’s also known to reduce scarring and repairs wounds quicker than usual.
Good To Know
Our body produces its own Hyaluronic Acid. The main function of natural Hyaluronic Acid is to retain water and keep tissues well lubricated and moist. Sun exposure coupled with the natural ageing process decreases our body’s Hyaluronic Acid. It’s important to keep your skin and body hydrated at all times through products such as Nutrafy’s collagen powder and skincare products containing Hyaluronic Acid.
Two table spoons of the Nutrafy Oil Prone Skin Collagen Powder are included in my skincare routine each day with cold foods to help preserve the benefits of the probiotics.
A Word On Nutrafy’s Hyaluronic Acid
Q. Can you ingest Hyaluronic Acid?
A. The Hyaluronic Acid we used in our blends are food grade. When taken orally, Hyaluronic acid in the form of sodium hyaluronate is safe for human consumption as it is food grade.
Allergic reactions might occur but are rare. We use Hyaluronic Acid in the form of sodium hyaluronate.
Top Tip:
To preserve the shelf life of your collagen powder, store your opened containers in the fridge or a cool, dry pantry.
LET’S CHAT!
Do you use Hyaluronic Acid in your daily routine? If you have any comments or questions, please let me know below. I’d love to hear from you.
Visit Nutrafy’s website here to purchase the product.
*This article is sponsored by Nutrafy.
Kickstart Your Complexion with Neutrogena’s New Bright Boost Range
The Bright Boost Range from Neutrogena contains hero ingredient Neoglucosamine which helps dull-looking skin achieve ultimate radiance in just one week of use. Here’s what you can expect from each product:
Neoglucosamine is a wonder ingredient found within the Bright Boost range that’s responsible for transforming dull-looking, tired skin into fully-fledged radiance, amongst other things. It lightens dark spots, increases cell turnover (ten times faster than usual, might I add) and makes your complexion look fresh and awake.
It boosts the formulation of Hyaluronic Acid and collagen within the skin.
Seeing as though it’s the last stretch of the year (can you believe it’s already September?), it’s a range that majority of us truly need. Having used the range meticulously for over two weeks, I’ve been super impressed with the results. Coupled with fast-acting, beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin C and E, Moringa Seed Extract, AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and Neoglucosamine, it’s no wonder my skin’s looking as good as new.
The Neutrogena Bright Boost range consists of 4 products, each containing the powerful Neoglucosamine ingredient. For maximum effect, use them all in this particular order (no skipping!):
FIRST UP:
Use the Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Polish, R149,95: Apply this exfoliator to damp skin and massage gently in circular strokes. It contains AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) which makes your skin more sun sensitive so best wear a sunscreen after using this product. Honestly, it’s one of the best exfoliators I’ve ever tried, leaving my skin feeling smooth and properly cleansed.
SECONDLY:
Try the Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum, R239,95: Make sure you use the Resurfacing Polish first as it helps your skin absorb this product like a dream. This serum lives up to its name, giving your complexion a bright, healthy glow.
THIRDLY:
We have the Neutrogena Bright Boost Gel Cream, R199,95: It’s my favourite product of them all! It has a soft, lightweight texture that also contains AHAs so use an SPF after this product. When used with the Illuminating Serum, my complexion seemed revitalized and rejuvenated. You can also use it day or night (or both).
LASTLY:
Apply the Neutrogena Bright Boost SPF 30 Gel Fluid, R199,95: This product helps with dark spots and uneven skintone and the best part – it contains a 30 SPF! It absorbs into the skin leaving no residue and protects you from the sun at the same time. Win win.
You’re guaranteed glowing results.
LET’S CHAT:
Have you tried any of the products from this range before? What’s your favourite item? Let me know in the comments section below.
*The Neutrogena Bright Boost range is available from select Clicks, Dis-Chem, Foschini and Takealot.
Visit www.neutrogena.co.za for more info.
*This article was sponsored by Neutrogena.
Why You Should Use Neutrogena Hydrogel Sheet Masks
Admittedly, I was one of the last people in my industry to get into the whole sheet masking fad (shocking, I know, but I’m just being honest) and now can safely say that I can’t do without them. As I type this post, I’m sitting with the Neutrogena Purifying Boost (The Detoxifier) Hydrogel Recovery Mask on my face because, I enjoy to multi-mask (see what I did there?) and will walk you through the experience of wearing one of them, and of course, explain why these brilliant products should be incorporated into your life too – unless you’ve beaten me to it.
You’ll notice a pattern when it comes to the beauty products I rave about. They all seem to have two things in common:
1) They need to be fuss-free and…
2) Deliver great results, INSTANTLY.
Neutrogena Hydrogel Recovery Masks are heaven sent. In just 15 minutes, the equivalent of a 30ml bottle of concentrated moisturising serum is delivered to your skin. All you have to do is simply apply the Hydrogel sheet mask to your face and relax (or type a post raving about it if you want to save time, like me).
*1 mask = 1 application.
What Does a Sheet Mask Feel Like?
Removing the Hydrogel mask from the packaging can be tricky as you don’t want to lose any of the serum/product. This mask has two parts; one for the top half of your face (eyes, forehead and upper cheek area) and the other for your bottom half (bottom cheek area and chin). The Hydrogel mask itself feels quite jelly-like but cooling as soon as you put it on your face. Be sure to smooth out all the areas to even out the mask properly. You don’t want to miss any spots.
Which Neutrogena Hydrogel Recovery Mask Would You Pick?
Neutrogena Purifying Boost – The Detoxifier, R59,95:
This is the one I’m wearing right now and feel my skin needs the most. With silly season upon us, this mask may be your new best friend. December and January means consuming more of everything, which takes its toll on your skin. ‘The Detoxifier’ contains seaweed extract which intensely purifies, helps your complexion look healthy and feel super soft. I’ve used this one countless times before and it’s my go-to after a long, exhausting weekend of one too many glasses of bubbles.
Neutrogena Radiance Boost – The Illuminator, R59,95:
Dull-looking skin? ‘The Illuminator’ should be your mask of choice because it contains Vitamin B3, known to perk up tired-looking skin (which we all need from time-to-time), illuminate, enhance radiance and leaves you feeling refreshed and glowy.
Remember, one mask application is the equivalent of one month’s serum use. It’s incredible.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost – The Super Hydrator, R59,95:
‘The Super Hydrator’ is my favourite of them all but I haven’t had to use it recently as my hydration levels have been good. But, if you’re in the need for a mega boost of hydration – this mask will be your saving grace. It contains heaps of Hyaluronic Acid which as you know, intensely hydrates the skin, making it feel supple and resulting in an overall healthy glow. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin.
Neutrogena Ageless Boost – The Smart Smoother, R59,95:
‘The Smart Smoother’ lives up to its name and rightly so – it contains Adenosine which helps smooth the skin, fill in fine lines and gives your complexion a youthful appearance. Sounds good, right? Each mask that I’ve referred to is designed to resemble a ‘second skin’, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate the skin.
How To Use Each Mask:
Step 1. Cleanse your face thoroughly.
Step 2. Peel the white film backing from the Hydrogel sheet mask and discard.
Step 3. Place the hydrogel mask onto your face and leave on for 30 minutes. (Tip: You can leave it on for 15 minutes but I prefer sitting for 30 minutes in order for my skin to soak up all the benefits of this product. It’s entirely up to you, though).
Step 4. Remove the Hydrogel sheet mask and massage what’s left of the product onto your face and neck.
Kelli’s Top Masking Tips:
1) I use my Hydrogel masks before bedtime as it gives the product and ingredients enough time to absorb – plus, it’s the ideal way to wind down after a long day. Remember, you can only get one application from one mask.
2) Why wait until January 2020 to begin your ‘beauty ‘ New Year’s resolution? Rather kickstart it now, in December, to make sure your skin’s always looking fab.
3) These Hydrogel masks are the ideal products to travel with. They take up minimal space in your toiletry bag, have strong packaging that will definitely not leak and it’s also a great way to relax during your holiday.
4) Do NOT apply moisturiser before your mask. Just cleanse your skin. The whole purpose of the Hydrogel sheet mask is for your skin to absorb ingredients properly and effectively.
5) These Neutrogena Hydrogel masks are essentially serums so make sure you use the leftover bits of the formula and apply it to your skin. Every little bit helps.
6) Designate one day a week as your masking day. I choose Sunday evenings as it’s a great way to unwind and start the new week afresh.
*All masks are R59,95 each and are available from Clicks & Dis-Chem.
LET’S CHAT:
Now, I want to hear from you! Have you ever used a sheet mask? Which one of the Neutrogena Hydrogel Recovery Masks speaks to you the most? Leave your comments below.
Follow Neutrogena here:
Instagram: @NeutrogenaSA
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NEUTROGENASA
Twitter: @Neutrogena
*This post was sponsored by Neutrogena.
Introducing NIVEA’s Newest Skincare Range: Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity
Let’s be real for a second – we all have ageing concerns the older we get. It’s impossible for our skin to look, behave and feel the same as it did in our twenties (it’s a fantastic thought though, right?) but, thankfully, we have brilliant facial products available to improve the condition and sort out our skincare woes.
Personally, one of my concerns has been loss of volume within my face, along with elasticity. I’ve been training at the gym at least 4-5 times a week since the beginning of January and of course, I’m happy with my weight loss, but I’ve noticed that my skin has started to sag a bit. You can imagine how happy I was when I got given the NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Range to try out; a range designed specifically to target this problem.
We’re also changing seasons at the moment. It’s getting cold (#WinterIsComing) and my skin enjoys going into ‘lazy mode’, resulting in a lot of moisture loss and dryness. Each product in the range contains Hyaluronic Acid (music to my ears), the best ingredient to boost and maintain moisture levels within your skin. Other environmental factors such as pollution and stress also contribute to your skin looking dull, feeling sensitive and uneven. After using the range for a few weeks, I can safely say that I haven’t experienced any of these things, even after a recent trip to Johannesburg and my skin has remained hydrated, smooth and looked more radiant.
Elastin and Collagen work hand in hand to keep the skin looking firm and youthful and are the other two hero ingredients found within the range. The Elastin fibres responsible for getting the skin back to its original shape along with the protein Collagen made my skin feel tighter and more defined. I was incredibly impressed.
Let me walk you through each product in the NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler + Elasticity Range:
1. The NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Anti-Spot Serum, R289,99 for 30ml has a soft, velvety texture with a pump dispenser, making it ideal for travel. This serum has a powerful melanin inhibitor, which helps reduce the appearance of dark spots (admittedly, I didn’t have many) while keeping the skin sufficiently hydrated.
I would use it in conjunction with the NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Day Cream SPF 15 (more details about this product below), as it contains a sun protection benefit and achieved more holistic results such as overall radiance.
2. The NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Day Cream SPF 15, R269,99 for 50ml was my favourite product of them all! The texture, the scent, the way it quickly absorbed into my skin – I could go on and on. It’s a winner. I’m close to finishing my tub. I love that it had a built-in SPF to protect my skin and of course, kept it hydrated and feeling fresh.
3. I’d apply the NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Night Cream, R269,99 for 50ml at night of course and woke up with plumped up skin. The texture of this cream is a lot thicker and richer than the day cream and leaves your skin feeling super nourished the next morning. You only need to apply a thin layer before bedtime.
4. Last but not least is the NIVEA Hyaluron Cellular Filler Elasticity Bi-phase Nourishing Oil Elixir, R289,99 for 30ml. I would apply this either in the morning or evening, after shaking the bottle to mix the formula, depending how parched my skin was. The triple-oil complex found within this product was responsible for keeping my skin nourished, moisturised and a lot more youthful.
The entire range is already on shelves and I’d highly recommend it to those who need a moisture boost, have elasticity concerns and want more skin definition. All the products are lightly fragranced and absorb like a dream. They’ll fit easily into your current skincare routine.
*This blog post is sponsored by NIVEA
LET’S CHAT: What’s your biggest skincare concern at the moment? I want to know! Leave a comment in the box below.
YES, the Foreo LUNA™ 2 is Worth The Hype!
Two months ago, the incredible Dermastore team sent me my very own Foreo LUNA™ 2 for Normal Skin (that’s the pink one) to test out and I have been so impressed with the results. After my trip to Zanzibar (end of September 2018), my complexion appeared all tanned and glowy but if you looked closely, the top layer of my skin felt dry, rough and flakey. I noticed my regular facial products weren’t penetrating my skin properly.
My pores appeared bigger, regardless of how much primer I used, and my foundation, well, instead of providing the usual natural finish, just looked uneven. Worst of all, it just looked obvious that I was wearing makeup and that’s a huge pet peeve of mine. I tried various masks, exfoliators, you name it – but nothing could do the trick. My only hope was the LUNA™ 2 and it exceeded my expectations tremendously.
How to use the device:
Make sure the LUNA™ 2 is fully charged (you will receive all this equipment in the box).
Apply your cleanser all over your skin. Even the most gentle cleansers work effectively in conjunction with the LUNA™ 2.
Wet the LUNA™ 2 (don’t be shy) and use the + and – buttons on the device to control the speed.
Using the side containing the bristles, apply the device in circular motions to your skin for one minute only.
Rinse any excess cleanser off.
Apply your usual skincare products (eg. moisturiser, serum, etc.)
Flip the LUNA™ 2 around to use the Anti-Ageing Mode and use this to massage your skincare products into the skin for another minute. Focus on areas of concern that have fine lines and wrinkles. This will help with skincare product absorption and stimulate the skin.
And there you have it! Glowing, smooth skin. Don’t forget to rinse your LUNA™ 2 with warm water, leave in a cool place to dry and charge it when you can.
Click here to see a tutorial on how to use it.
28 September 2018:
My skin felt dry, flakey and rough. Redness was also an issue.
29 October 2018:
After a month, my glow had finally come back! My skin felt smoother, my skincare products absorbed easily and I barely felt the need to wear makeup. Quite a dramatic change, right?
1 December 2018: My present day skin which is smooth, hydrated and all round flawless, even though I’ve been incredibly stressed lately. The LUNA™ 2 is a lifesaver!
I’ve compiled a list of FAQs regarding the fabulous Foreo LUNA™ 2
1. What does the LUNA™ 2 actually do?
What can’t the LUNA™ 2 do? It eliminates 98.5% of excess oil and dirt, using the latest T-Sonic™ Technology. It thoroughly cleanses your skin and removes makeup effectively. It doesn’t take up a lot of room and is the perfect traveling companion to ensure your skin always feels and looks its best. After only 2-3 uses, you’ll notice that your foundation applies better – all due to better product absorption because of the LUNA™ 2. It’s also safe to use on your neck area, not just your face.
2. Does the LUNA™ 2 work well with all skincare products? Are there any products I need to use/stay away from?
The LUNA™ 2 works well with anything. Any cleanser is effective, but try stay away from ones that are abrasive. I recommend using a foaming cream cleanser with it, like the new La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar or SkinCeuticals Replenishing Cleanser Cream.
3. Is it best to use it in the morning/evening? Can I use it twice a day or is it too stimulating/overwhelming for the skin?
You can use it twice a day and it won't over-stimulate or anything. Although, I’ve incorporated mine into my nighttime cleansing routine before I go to sleep. The more you use it, the more your skin gets used to it and you’ll soon see what your skin needs.
4. What different devices are there?
There’s quite a variety! I am using the one for Normal Skin, but there’s a device for sensitive skin, men, combination skin, oily skin and there are mini devices too.
Click here to see all of them.
5. How much is it? And where can I buy it?
It’s R3400 and you can purchase it from Dermastore. Their delivery service is impeccable. You won’t be disappointed!
MY PERSONAL TIP:
A lot of you that follow me on social media would know that I’ve experienced Dermaplaning twice before. I am sure this contributed to the smoothness of my skin but do believe that using the LUNA™ 2 each day for the past two months religiously has made my skin look better than ever before.
*This article is sponsored by Dermastore.