Lots of Small Dots on My Cheeks

Dear Sarah,

Everything I put on my face burns and causes inflammation.

Nadia

More Details:
Age - 53
Products Used - Cannot use anything
Moisturising Regime - Morning & Evening
Spots? - Yes
Dry Skin? - No
Any Redness? - Yes
Allergic or Aggravated Skin? - For the past 2 years

Dear Nadia,

It sounds like you could be allergic to one or more of the ingredients in your skincare products.

Here are some general pointers which I hope will be of help.

1. Always read the ingredients list on your products as they are seldom as ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ as they claim. Some of the key chemicals to avoid are:

• Propylene glycol: used as a moisturising agent but is a strong skin irritant;
• Alcohol: strips away natural oils and can irritate and dry out the complexion. Tip: If alcohol appears near the top of the ingredients list, then there’s a lot of it!
• Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate: common Paraben (preservative) replacement but one that is a harsh skin irritant.
• Sodium lauryl sulphate: foaming detergent used in face washes and shampoos. It is very harsh on the skin and has been linked to eczema and dermatitis.
  
  Opt instead for a detergent-free cleansing cream. The Pai Camellia & Rose Cleanser is certified organic and is so gentle it can even be used round the eyes to remove make-up.

2. Increase your intake of Essential Fatty Acid as they help to condition the skin from the inside.
   
   Oily fish, nuts and flaxseed oil are all good sources and will help keep skin hydrated and supple.
   
   
3. A lot of skin problems stem from the stomach. Ragnar Berg pioneered research in the 1930s that showed a link between highly acidic foods and skin flare-ups.
   
   Worst offenders are: rice, bran, porridge oats, wheat, red meat and cheese.
   
   Alkaline foods include: cucumber, dried fruits (especially figs and raisins), leafy greens, carrots, spinach, bananas and potatoes.
   
   
4. Don't moisturise too much. Once a day (in the morning) should be sufficient if you are using the right product.
   
   Leave your skin to breathe at night.

I would recommend our Chamomile & Rosehip cream as it is great for sensitive skin.

Chamomile is packed with azulene - a natural anti-inflammatory - which cools and calms the skin beautifully, while rosehip helps to heal and strengthen the skin.

**All content provided is for general information only. It should not be treated as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor or other health care professional.