If there’s one thing I’ve learned after nearly two decades as a cosmetic scientist, it’s that your skin is always talking.
The question is, are you listening?
I always tell people, your skincare routine should evolve with you. Our skin is a living, responsive organ. It shifts as our environment, hormones, and habits shift. Sleep more? Your skin reflects it. Travel more, sweat more, or spend more time outdoors? Your skin reflects that, too.
And this summer, my skin was doing a lot of talking. So, I listened. Here’s how I’ve adjusted my routine, and why.
Morning Routine
The one constant in my routine? Vitamin C. It’s been my texture-refining holy grail for over 10 years.
Cleanse – CeraVe Blemish-Prone Cleanser
Treat – Formula 4|v.7 Vitamin C AOX Network (my non-negotiable)
Clarify – Formula 3|v.13 Clarifying Treatment Concentrate
Hydrate (if needed) – On days where my skin feels thirsty or a little sensitised, I layer in Formula 1|v.7 Intense Moisturisation + Anti-Dehydration Complex before SPF
Protect – Garnier Advanced Sensitive SPF 50
What’s changed?
This summer, I noticed textural irregularities and sunspots creeping in, likely from my 15k long walks and sunnier days. Normally, I only use Formula 3 (our clarifying serum with 2% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid + 5% Azelaic Acid) before my monthly cycle to prevent hormonal breakouts. But this summer, I made it a daily step, and the results have been brilliant.
This summer, I noticed textural irregularities and sunspots creeping in, likely from my 15k long walks and sunnier days. Normally, I only use Formula 3 (our clarifying serum with 2% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid + 5% Azelaic Acid) before my monthly cycle to prevent hormonal breakouts. But this summer, I made it a daily step, and the results have been brilliant.
Evening Routine: My Consistent Reset
My evening routine has been a staple for over five years. My routine hasn’t changed much here, but it’s worth sharing for anyone wondering how I balance actives.
Cleanse – CeraVe Cleanser
Exfoliate (3x/week) – Formula 2|v.8 Acid Resurfacing Serum
Repair (4x/week) – Formula 6|v.7 Cellular Repair Retinal Complex
Every single night, without fail, I finish with Formula 9|v.8 Cellular Repair Treatment Oil; my Holy Grail. Nourishing, healing, and incredibly restorative.
This trio is my skin’s security blanket, and I never skip it.
This combination is unmatchable when it comes to preventing premature skin ageing, especially environmental and UV-related damage. The alternating schedule allows for constant cellular renewal without overwhelming your skin barrier.
Alternating between Formula 2 and Formula 6 has become a foundational rhythm for my skin.
This routine isn’t about perfection; it’s about paying attention. Your skin will always tell you what it needs. You just have to pause, listen, and respond.
If your skin feels different this summer, that’s not failure, that’s feedback. Stay fluid. Stay responsive. And don’t be afraid to tweak what you once thought was “set.”
P.S. If you’re not sure what your skin is saying or how to respond, our 1-to-1 Consultations are a great place to start.
Some of my go-to products to support hydration, especially in the warmer months include:
- Formula 1|v.7 Intense Moisturisation and Anti-Dehydration Complex
- Formula 7|v.7 360 Barrier Repair Treatment Serum
- Formula 10|v.5 Prebiotic Urban Defence Treatment
And please remember SPF is non-negotiable.
Apply it every single day. Pair it with protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats to prevent sun damage and keep your skin healthy long-term.
Apply it every single day. Pair it with protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats to prevent sun damage and keep your skin healthy long-term.
If you ever feel unsure about what your skin is telling you, I’m here.
You can always send me a message or drop me a question. My job is to help guide you and make sure you’re doing what’s right for your skin.
You can always send me a message or drop me a question. My job is to help guide you and make sure you’re doing what’s right for your skin.
Much love, always Amina x