*Disclaimer: The product was provided by sk.in, 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*
If you are serious about your skincare products, then you’ll be familiar with www.skinmiles.com – a website that provides online assessments as well as a variety of wonderful, effective skincare brands.
Its founder, Dr Alek Nikolic, wanted to provide medical-grade products with active ingredients to the general public, as well as designing a once-off, thorough skin assessment online, as a guide to which products to choose for your particular skin issues.
A specialist in Aesthetic medicine, Dr Nikolic’s focus has largely been on skincare that is effective, as well as cosmetic dermatology treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, botulinum toxin and dermal fillers. With his knowledge of active ingredients, it was inevitable that he would create his own skincare line a couple of years ago: sk.in (which stands for skin ingredients).
This leads me to a favourite subject of mine: effective ingredients. Simply put: what works. Having recently turned 61, my experience is that actives give me the results I want for my skin. Anything else sits on top of the skin and does not penetrate.
Along with my favourite occasional microneedling treatments, I am happy with my skin because of regular Vitamin C and retinol use, amongst other ingredients. So I was excited to try some of sk.in’s products, so generously gifted to me.
Once Dr Alek knew that my skin was used to actives, my age and my needs (products for mature, ageing skin) he specifically chose Radiant Shot, sk.in avenge Glyco-10 and sk.in avenge HPR-4 for me. Bear in mind though, that whatever your skin requirements are, the range provides specific products to ease you into use of active ingredients.
sk.in gloss | radiant shot
I really loved using this – a light-as-air serum, easily absorbed, but packs a punch in terms of antioxidants to counteract signs of UV damage (such as pigmentation).
It improves hydration, increases collagen production and improves fine lines. It’s for morning use, 2 pumps on cleansed skin covers my face and neck adequately.
It contains 10% Vitamin C, Niacinamide, D-Panthenol, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid Complex and Ferulic Acid Ester.
For all skin types – but if your skin is sensitive, you’ll be guided by the team on how to gently introduce the product into your regime. A sunblock with SPF 30 or more is essential during the day after using this product.
R1390.00
sk.in avenge | glyco-10
I absolutely adore putting on a chemical peel at home and doing a few chores or a quick yoga routine while the ingredients work their magic.
I know this sounds a bit crazy, but it’s how I roll and my skin loves it. So this baby ticked all the boxes. It contains glycolic acid which exfoliates and is great for superficial pigmentation, textured skin and again, fine lines. We all have them – should have them…! But we do look better if they’re softened. Glyco 10 also maintains and repairs the skin barrier, stimulates our friend, collagen, reduces inflammation and increases that gorgeous glow.
Night time use, every second or third night and probably not suitable for overly-sensitive skins.
R795.00
sk.in avenge | HPR-4
Because my skin is used to prescription tretinoin (a potent retinoid, a form of vitamin A) Dr Alek felt that I should try this super-serum. It’s available in 3 strengths, however, so this allows for a safe and gradual way into retinol use.
A cocktail of Vitamin A, hyaluronic acid and peptides, this serum counteracts UV damage, improves hyperpigmentation, fine lines and blemishes.
You can decide how to use it at night: as a targeted spot treatment (like those ageing brown spots) or on the full face and neck, depending on skin type. I would say that for mature skin a once-weekly treatment of the whole face and neck area is best.
R1620.00
Final thought
I used these products for 4 weeks. My skin is accustomed to actives, so it adjusted very well. It would be dishonest for me to say that my skin had an immediate change after using these products – as stated, I have a very established regime with active ingredients. Results are best achieved with longer-term use in any skin regime.
I would recommend these products to anyone wanting results in the quality of their skin. Actives work, and this range has the science, care and knowledge that went into creating the perfect balance of ingredients for healthy, beautiful skin. At any age.
For more information, visit www.skinmiles.com/brand/sk-in
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