With so much information—and misinformation—floating around, it can be challenging to know what’s truly best for your skin. Here’s a breakdown of skincare dos and don’ts to keep your complexion healthy, radiant, and balanced using Augustinus Bader.
Do: Nurture, Don’t Overdo
While we all want radiant, smooth skin, more isn’t always better. Overusing powerful ingredients like peels, scrubs, and retinols can lead to redness, irritation, and even long-term issues like micro-scarring and premature aging. Peels and retinoids, while beneficial, should be used carefully and with moderation. Excessive use of aggressive home treatments, like micro-needling devices, can destroy the skin’s natural barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, breakouts, and compromised skin health.
The goal is to achieve a healthy, hydrated glow, not to strip the skin. Use actives mindfully, such as the The Retinol Serum from Augustinus Bader, with plenty of hydration to support the skin barrier, allowing your skin’s natural resilience to shine through.
The Retinol Serum
SHOPDon’t: Treat Acne Too Aggressively
When it comes to acne, it’s tempting to go for harsh products that promise fast results, but these often cause more harm than good. Acne is often a sign of underlying inflammation, so using aggressive treatments like strong peels and excessive scrubs can exacerbate the problem.
Instead, focus on calming and balancing the skin. A gentle cleanser such as The Foaming Cleanser is a great start for acne-prone skin, as it cleanses without stripping. Follow with a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum to lock in moisture and a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to protect and maintain the skin barrier. This approach keeps your skin hydrated and calm, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
The Foaming Cleanser
SHOPDo: Adapt Your Skincare to Your Environment
Skin needs vary not only from person to person but also according to environment and season. If you’re in a high-pollution area or a large city, for example, consider adding a pollution-protectant serum or drops to your routine to shield your skin from environmental stressors that accelerate aging and dull the complexion.
Seasonal changes also call for adjustments. Moving from summer to winter, swap lightweight moisturisers for richer creams such as The Rich Cream that help counterbalance reduced natural oil production. And when you’re traveling—especially on flights that dehydrate the skin—stock up on hydrating essentials like hyaluronic acid and deeply moisturising masks.
The Rich Cream
SHOPDon’t Skip the Massage
Facial massage is a simple yet effective way to boost your skin’s radiance. By stimulating circulation, it helps brighten the complexion and supports collagen production. To do it yourself, use your fingers or knuckles to apply firm, upward strokes across your face, jawline, and neck. Massage a bit of moisturiser or mask into your skin two or three times a week, and you’ll notice improved texture and a natural glow.
Whether you’re using this time as part of a pampering self-care ritual or as a quick boost before an event, facial massage is a fast way to energise the skin without the need for products.