Rescuing your skin!

PARTNERSHIP

Founder, author, teacher and consultant clinical psychologist, Dr Cheryl Rezek explains her problem-solving range of products for sensitive, damaged or difficult skin.

My interest, as a clinician, is in the way everyday products affect skin conditions and allergies, and therefore each individual socially and psychologically.

Common chemicals known to be toxic or irritating to the skin include parabens (preservative), triclosan (an antimicrobial), benzophenone and octinoxate (found in sun screen), caron black (activated charcoal), coal tar, DEA (diethanolamine, found in emulsifiers), formaldehyde (a by-product of preservatives), hydroquinone (in skin lighteners), mica (the shimmer in cosmetics), acetone (in nail varnish remover), and p-phenylenediamine (used in hair dyes and black henna).

Other ingredients, such as fragrances or parfum, essential oils, alcohol, paraffin and petroleum, are commonly used but are certainly on the list of possible triggers. It is therefore key to read product labels and make conscious choices about what you might put on your skin.

With this in mind, I set out to develop an allergen and nut-free range, Life Happens Skin Rescue. However, I also recognised the need for supportive information on the impact of having a skin condition and what might help manage it, so I have included blogs and articles on the website.

Note, there is shea butter derived from a nut, but it has no reported reactions, and mango butter is extracted from the seed. Vegans should also be aware some products contain beeswax.

The range is effective but still feels good on the skin. It offers a clean, pure skincare option, free of known allergens and skin irritants, nut oils, preservatives, paraffin, petroleum, harmful chemicals, phthalates, SLS, alcohol, fragrances and parfum.

Specific seed oils were chosen as they are packed with nutrients that nourish the skin without clogging pores. Seeds brim with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, phenolic compounds, carotenoids and often have high healing fractions. When processed in an ethical way, these are unlikely to trigger allergies while maintaining their goodness.

Skin Relief & Renewal Body & Scalp Oil works for eczema- prone, dry, itchy, inflamed or damaged skin where the skin barrier needs repairing and nourishing. There is also a Face & Beard Oil formulated to engage men.

Acne Cleansing Oil and Acne Face Oil contain oils to cleanse and oils to nourish, without the harsh and drying ingredients that risk further skin compromise.

The baby range is a must with Baby Massage Oil perfect for delicate skin and a Baby Barrier Balm to prevent nappy rash.

Just as good as oil, our Zinc & Camellia balm works for eczema-prone, inflamed or red skin, rosacea, rashes, sunburn and cuts. Zinc is a well-known wound healer, and combined with specially chosen oils, lends a helping hand. The nongreasy Hand & Foot balm is easily absorbed, and Lip Rescue renews and protects, instead of just coating the skin.

One hand balm, Allure, contains such small amounts of allergens they don’t need to be listed, but it’s good to be aware. It has a lovely aroma, so couldn’t be resisted.

You’ll find no irritants, paraffin, alcohol or preservatives, just gentle help to ease and soothe discomfort.