*Disclaimer: The product was provided by DermaFix, though, the review therein is based on the author’s experience and opinion. Aesthetic Appointment reviews are intended to be for information purposes only, nor should they be regarded as a replacement for sound medical advice. Always speak to your doctor or skincare therapist if you have any concerns*
With the enormous array of skin care available today, it can be a tad confusing and overwhelming if you’re a beginner in terms of looking after your skin and getting serious about investing in some products that are going to deliver.
Just remember, it’s never too late to start and it needn’t be astronomically expensive either. Budgets have shrunk with the economic decline and so you need to be informed as to what ingredients to look out for and where you can cut expenses. I like to recommend medical-grade skincare because it’s backed by science.
The good news is that we have access to a cosmeceutical skincare range which is made in good ol’ SA and it’s called Dermafix.
They provide products that target hyperpigmentation, acne, scarring as well as anti-ageing and they use clinically tested ingredients that provide scientific results. From cleansers, toners moisturisers to sun protection and corrective products, their range is remarkably extensive.
So, what to choose if you are over 40, 50 or above – to really make a change to your skin in terms of brightness, radiance and firmness?
I have tried and tested – and repeatedly recommended – the DermaFix Ferulic +C+E Advanced Anti-Oxidant Protection. It has recently had a price hike, but as far as I’m concerned, it still is a great product to have as the benefits are lovely:
- It targets hyperpigmentation – the Ferulic acid protects skin from sunburn and photo-ageing
- Vitamin C has long been established as a skin brightener and superior anti-oxidant
- Improves cellular renewal
After cleansing in the morning, use 3 or 4 drops on the face and neck and allow to absorb before moisturising. It’s R740 for a 50ml bottle so it lasts a long time and it’s worth every cent in my experience.
Another scientifically proven, effective anti-ageing ingredient is any type of retinoid – this is a term used to describe a group of compounds that are derived from Vitamin A. When used regularly, it ensures that your skin will be firmer and the texture will be smoother because of increased collagen production.
If you are new to this ingredient, then the Dermafix Acc (Active CellCeutical) Retinol + is a lovely product to start with, as it allows a slow release of retinol, so there is a lesser chance of irritation, which can be associated with using retinoids.
The benefits are a thicker dermis, which means firmer, more revitalised skin. It’s a very light gel-cream formula, which absorbs almost instantly and also contains our favourite Vitamin C – more protection against harmful free radicals that damage our skins and is essential for collagen formation.
After cleansing in the evening, apply ACC Retinol+ to the skin. If you are a bit sensitive then start slowly by adding a few drops to your moisturiser until your skin is used to it. But this is quite a gentle formula, so only super sensitive skins should proceed with caution.
Also, it’s value for money as you get 57ml for R775 and a little goes a long way.
Local really is lekker.
Visit www.dermafix.co.za for more information.
Paola Chellew is a freelance journalist and regularly writes for a number of publications. A former professional contemporary dancer, she has always loved the arts in all their forms. She has been a freelance writer for many years and has been published in various magazines including Live Out Loud, Private Life and Do It now magazines. Her passion for beauty and skincare started in her teens, when she would read every beauty editor’s picks and reviews. Serious about skincare, she has researched medical-grade products for over ten years, as well as aesthetic treatments to restore and repair skin to look its best. Having turned 60 last year, she has dedicated her blog to the “over 50s and beyond Club”, shining a spotlight on a generation that is seemingly side-lined by the beauty industry. “There is no age limit for when you stop being beautiful – a gorgeous lipstick, a sexy fragrance, radiant skin- these are not synonymous with youth- they are just things that add an extra sparkle to my day”.
📸 Profile photo credited to Lerissa Kemp Photography