Hormonal Fluctuations

What it is

Hormonal fluctuations significantly impact the skin, especially during life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause and the menstrual cycle.

How it works in skincare

Changes in hormone levels can lead to acne, increased oil production, pigmentation and sensitivity. For example, rising androgen levels during puberty often cause breakouts, while decreased oestrogen during menopause contributes to dryness, skin laxity and sagging.

Skincare tailored to these changes, such as salicylic acid for acne or hyaluronic acid for hydration, can help manage symptoms.

Consulting a dermatologist ensures the best approach to maintain healthy, balanced skin throughout these hormonal shifts.

HEMA in Nail Polish

What it is

HEMA stands for hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a type of monomer used in many gel nail products and some traditional nail polishes. HEMA helps create the hard, glossy finish we associate with long-lasting manicures.

HEMA is one of the key ingredients that gives gel nails their durability and adhesion. Its job is to bind other components together and form a strong, flexible film once cured under a UV or LED lamp.

How HEMA works in nail and hand care

While HEMA helps achieve that polished, chip-resistant finish, it’s not always skin-friendly. The main concern with HEMA is that it can cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly if it comes into contact with the skin before being fully cured. These reactions can present as redness, itching, blistering and nail plate changes.

Repeated exposure can lead to sensitisation, meaning even small amounts may trigger a response over time. This is why professional application, precise technique and proper curing are essential. When used correctly and cured thoroughly, HEMA is less likely to cause issues. Problems often arise when the product touches the surrounding skin or if the formula contains a high concentration of monomers.

Some nail products are now formulated without HEMA, especially those marketed as hypoallergenic or suitable for sensitive skin. If you’ve experienced irritation after a gel manicure or have a known allergy to acrylates, it’s worth looking for a quality HEMA-free polish or low-HEMA options and flagging this with your nail technician.

In hand care, reactions to HEMA can lead to contact dermatitis, so any unexplained dryness or soreness around the nails may be worth discussing with a dermatologist. A barrier-repairing hand cream can help soothe symptoms, but long-term management may involve switching nail systems or taking a break altogether.

Nail polish should never compromise hand health. If your hands feel irritated or your nails start to weaken, consider it a signal to pause and rebalance your routine.

Humectant

What it is

A humectant is a skincare ingredient designed to draw moisture from the environment or deeper layers of the skin into the upper layers, helping to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Common humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid and urea which are often found in moisturisers, serums and masks.

How do humectants work

Humectants work by binding water molecules to the skin, making them ideal for combating dryness and dehydration. These ingredients are particularly useful in skincare routines aimed at maintaining a healthy skin barrier and improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin. They are also gentle, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

To get the most out of humectants, they are best applied to slightly damp skin after cleansing, as this allows the humectant to pull water from the surface rather than from within the skin. However, in very dry climates, humectants may need to be paired with an occlusive moisturiser to lock in hydration and prevent water loss.

Incorporating humectants into your skincare routine can lead to smoother, softer and more radiant skin, especially for those battling seasonal dryness or a compromised skin barrier. Look for these ingredients in your facial care and body care.

Hormonal Fluctuations

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