#PositivePersonalProgress: A New Skincare Routine with Tom

We started documenting the skincare journey of happy couple Ellen and Tom, back in February this year. Both set themselves skincare goals and both began using their personalised Daily Dosers as part of their new targeted skincare routine to get their best skin this summer.

Now, with their wedding on the horizon for 2022, we’re taking the next few months to check in on their individual progress.

We’re looking forward to celebrating their commitment to their Daily Dosers – and each other – come May, when we’ll report back from their wedding day.

A reminder that Ellen’s skin goals focussed on managing occasional breakouts, smoothing texture, boosting hydration and ensuring she looked – and felt – picture perfect in time for her nuptials. 

Tom was new to committing to a skincare routine. Everything for him had to be convenience-first, with the goal to radiate healthy skin confidence for the big day.

In our second monthly check-in with the couple, we focus on Tom’s skincare specifically and the things he’s learned on his journey from skincare newbie to having a regular routine.

A new routine: Tom’s skincare learnings

Reactions are normal

“When I first started using my personalised formula, I got some light peeling at the corners of my mouth, round my nose and forehead. It used my moisturiser as a ‘buffer’ on my cleansed skin in the evenings to protect it from that irritation before I used my Daily Doser. It helped a lot.

“After a week or so, the peeling subsided and I learned about a common condition known as ‘tretinoin-specific purging’. It’s essentially a very mild reaction that skin can have when you first start using retinoids. 

“It happens because tretinoin speeds up the growth of new skin cells and the old ones are shedding. As your skin builds up tolerance to the active ingredients the peeling eases.

“Obviously, I didn’t think about these things before I started this routine but learning more about my skin – and some basic science around the ingredients I use – has been useful in understanding what it needs.”

SPF is key

“I’ve always been relaxed when it comes to my skin and the sun. Knowing that the tretinoin in my Doser makes it more susceptible to sun damage however, I’ve really tried harder to remember SPF daily to fight against that. 

“I’m more aware now of developing pigmentation or sunspots as my skin ages. It just takes a few seconds to slap SPF on in the mornings so there’s nothing to lose.”

Progress isn’t linear

“Some days I’m tired or think my skin texture looks a bit out of whack but I’ve learnt to let those feelings go. 

“On balance, I’ve felt more in control of my skin since starting a new routine and have my ‘before’ pictures on my phone to refer back to and tell myself I’m on the right track. 

“I’m feeling pretty chilled that my skin is in expert hands, with minimal effort needed from me – the way I like it.”

Skincare is a discipline

“You have to stick to it but it’s not hard work at all. Skincare – and using my Daily Doser to get results, is an easy win.”

New to Skin + Me? Click here to start your healthier, happier skin consultation.

On your Skin + Me journey? Learn more about our Invite a Friend Charity initiative here