We asked Taryn Lilley, Cape Grace Spa Manager, to tell us what we need to know about skin! She said “it’s a HUGE topic!” But here goes…

How does the skin work?

The skin is the largest organ of the body! It’s also the last organ to receive water that we drink, which is why it’s important that we moisturize the skin.  The skin gives protection from microbes and the elements, helps regulate body temperature and gives us the wonderful sensations of touch, heat, and cold. It also prevents water loss and provides insulation. It’s quite amazing really!

Why do we need to look after our skin?

If we leave our skin to fend for itself, external factors like UV rays from the sun, air pollution, drying effects of the wind, air-conditioning, smoking, etc. will have a negative and premature ageing effect on the skin. Food also affects our skin and a poor diet with a lot of refined sugars, fizzy drinks and fast food will take its toll on your skin. The skin could be considered a barometer of your health, so don’t abuse it!

Can you inherit good skin?

Taryn believes genetics do play a small role in how your skin looks, but if it’s not looked after, damaging external factors can catch up with you; dehydration, dryness, pigmentation and sensitivity and premature WRINKLES!

What’s the best way to protect the skin?

Use a really good, high factor SPF or a moisturizer containing SPF every single day. I know you’ve heard it all before, but if you don’t, you’ll regret it when you look 50 and you’re only 40!

Protection from cold and wind is just as important, so use a thick moisturizer or barrier cream to prevent water loss. Read our Winter Skincare Revival tips. It’s also important to use a daily toner and treatment serums to protect the skin from environmental pollutants. Taryn suggests !QMS Freshening Toner and Day Collagen.  

What about Spa treatments?

To help the skin shed, which it does constantly, you should have regular facials with exfoliation and masks. In the summer, concentrate on hydrating, moisturizing facial treatments as the sun causes dehydration and moisture loss. We recommend the Comfort Zone Hydramemory facial to boost hydration levels, or !QMS Activator facial treatments to hydrate and plump up the water content in the skin. This includes men too! Also a good !QMS Deep cleansing facial ensures dead skin cells are thoroughly removed from deep inside the pores. Read our previous blog post Top Spa Treatments for Summer for more treatment ideas!

The Spa at Cape Grace also stock the following Product Ranges; including that of !QMS Medicosmetics:

KALAHARI – The Kalahari Spa Range, a unique range of naturally derived products based on the ancient secrets of The Kalahari Desert, will charm and captivate the imagination.  Your journey awaits…

QMS MEDICOSMETICS – Formulated by Dr. med. Erich Schulte, an aesthetic surgeon, lecturer and international authority on skin aging and skin regeneration, QMS uses collagen enhancing technology to create a bespoke regenerative system of skincare. 

COMFORT ZONE  – It’s an exclusive product line which offers results of advanced research in formulation, refinement of Italian taste in its choice of an appropriate image and Oriental knowledge in its gentle and natural approach.

In Summary

A good home-based skincare regime is essential for a healthy, glowing skin with exfoliation and masking to remove excess dead skin cells and provide hydration and better penetration of serums and creams.

If you’d like a skincare programme based on your individual needs, be sure to make an appointment at The Spa at Cape Grace.  Call: 021 410 7100 for bookings and more information.