Emma Coleman, an aesthetic nurse, clinical aromatherapist and skin nutritionist, is all about boosting inner confidence through holistic treatment of the skin to nourish, balance and enhance.
Good Night Product + Good Quality Sleep
"The week before a big event holds the key to nourished and vibrant skin," Emma says. "As we sleep, skin has the opportunity to heal and build its defences against free radicals, which can lead to dull, dehydrated and aged-looking skin. Applying a good, super-nourishing and hydrating face oil or balm before sleep will enhance this process - look for products with relaxing scents such as lavender and patchouli to soothe and relax the mind too – and you'll be surprised at how rested you look on your special day."
Make a Kitchen Cupboard Face Mask
Honey has amazing skin benefits, and Emma says you don't have to splash out on an expensive bottle, as supermarket honey gets the job done too.
"Honey is known for its anti-bacterial qualities, helping to deep-cleanse and stave off breakouts," she explained. "Many studies have also proven that the polyphenol content of honey increases its antioxidant benefit for skin, plus it's really hydrating. Slather a couple of dessert spoons of honey over clean skin, press onto any areas of imbalance with the fingertips and leave for up to 15 minutes."
Then simply rinse with warm water, pat your face dry and finish with a nourishing serum or moisturiser.
Vitamin C
"Include this anywhere and in any way you can!" Emma enthused. "It has natural healing properties for skin and will deal with any issue, from wrinkles to sensitivity, to eczema." Make sure you're eating plenty of citrus fruits, peppers and broccoli, and look out for skin loving ingredients kiwi, rose hip, berries and papaya in your face products.
Eczema
Emma warns sufferers not to be tempted to slather on heavily clogging products to the skin, instead deal with eczema using the right products whilst balancing the digestive system. Avoid parabens and harsh cleansers, looking instead for natural emollients like oat and avocado and using balms or oil-based products.
"Apply a good dollop of face oil into the hand with your cream both during the day and at night add in a dot of serum for extra nourishment," she said. However, if your eczema is open or weeping don't use a serum until it clears.
Oats are a great way to soothe eczema and can be added to bath water, while you can also nourish your body from within with fresh fruit and vegetables such as avocado, salmon and lots of greens, and swapping heat-based pasta and couscous for rice and sweet potato.
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