SISLEY SKINCARE : THE MAINTENANCE ROUTINE

Following my recent Sisley facial, I was prescribed a shortlist of products with which to maintain the results of the treatment. In the immediate days following my facial I suffered from a spout of breakouts [which my facialist had warned me to expect - the successful result of any effective skin detox], which then cleared up to reveal a bright, calm, and healthy complexion [redness noticeably reduced and not a spot in sight]. When it comes to maintaining this post-facial glow however, certain rules must be adhered to. Essentially, vigilant commitment to a dedicated routine, acknowledgement that less is never more in the world of skincare [being frugal with your products is far from beneficial], and above all, an arsenal of products tailored towards your specific concerns.

The good news is that post-facial you can take Sisley's skincare finesse home with you via the luxe product line, which has gained a cult following over the years. Developed with leading dermatologists at the brand's private research labs, Sisley's formulas incorporate unique blends of essential oils and botanical extracts, each born from years of innovation and research. To get even more specific : They've labelled the concept 'phytocosmetology'; each plant extract contains properties that result in a specific action, the combination of certain ingredients allows for optimal performance and efficacy. These extracts are designed to offer as tailored and exclusive a solution to your skincare ailments as is possible without the help of a tailor-made skincare regime. Each plant extract is harvested at the moment when its active properties are at their most effective, offering regenerative properties that penetrate deep into the skin and activate a process of repair and protection.

Favourites of the collection include Ecological Compound*, a bestseller since its 1980 launch. Essentially a hydrating lotion that can be used both day and night, its lightweight, comforting formula instantly soothes the skin, absorbing quickly and resulting in skin that both feels and appears supple, toned, and radiant. Aside from providing a long-lasting boost of moisture, the formula also contains a blend of botanical extracts [including ginseng, rosemary, and hops] specifically selected for their revitalising properties. This formula penetrates deep within the epidermis, offering protection against environmental stressors and restoring skin to a healthy glow. I adore applying this in the morning post-cleanse, it absorbs within a matter of moments, and leaves my skin with a smooth, matte surface and fresh radiance that provides the perfect canvas for makeup application.

Another product that performs exceptionally well when applied beneath makeup is the Tropical Resins Complex*. The thin, easily absorbed gel formula is infused with an oil-absorbing powder, which means it sinks in incredibly fast and leaves skin matte and soft to touch; as much a primer as it is a skincare product, it's ideal for layering beneath both day creams and makeup. The formula is designed to balance and purify oily and combination skin, whilst preserving moisture levels and treating blemishes and imperfections. Zinc, iris, rosemary, and tropical resins help to cleanse and soften the skin, regulating sebum production, healing scarring, and absorbing excess oils. Oil-free and non-comedogenic, this is perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin types, and I would hugely recommend it to anyone looking to keep that 3pm shine at bay in the most virtuous way possible. Those who do seek/require additional hydration would be best-served in layering this beneath the above prior to makeup application, as I do.

Finding a physical exfoliant that strikes the perfect balance between gentle but effective is far from an easy task. Typically, those that offer exfoliating particles within a softening cream or lotion are best for sensitive skintypes. Sisley's Gentle Facial Buffing Cream* is just that; exfoliating microbeads are suspended within a soothing clay-based cream formula that gently buffs away dead skin cells and removes impurities from deep within the epidermis. Serving to increase the impact and efficacy of consequently applied products, I typically use this before applying a generous layer of the Radiant Glow Express Mask*. It's easy to see why this product has become a cult favourite amongst Sisley users - it dramatically improves the appearance of one's skin immediately after use. Red clay offers a deep [but far from astringent] cleanse, clearing the pores in order for a blend of plant extracts [red vine, carrot, rosehip] and essential oils [chamomile and rosemary] to absorb and eliminate purities, resulting in a bright, clear complexion. Unlike most clay-based deep cleansing masks, this is ideal for use on dry or sensitive skin types; the formula is soothing and kind to the skin, leaving it soft and supple instead of tight and dry. I particularly favour using this immediately prior to applying my makeup for a special occasion. It leaves my skin so fresh, calm, and clear that I can keep foundation application to a minimum.

It's no secret that hydration is the key to healthy skin, and no product is better formulated to achieve this than the Restorative Facial Cream*. The luxuriously thick texture is enriched with shea butter and carrot extracts, both of which serve to soothe, nourish, and protect the skin, whilst delivering an intensive infusion of hydration. I typically apply this all over 2-3 times a week [a thick layer is an instant source of comfort to skin, and leaves my complexion soft and supple come morning] - although it also performs exceptionally when used as a targeted treatment upon areas of particularly dry or flaky skin.