Coarse skin is defined by an uneven texture, enlarged pores and/or a dull complexion and can affect all skin types. While diet, lifestyle factors (like stress levels and smoking), sun exposure and ageing can all play a part, coarse skin typically occurs when dead skin cells accumulate on the skin’s surface, resulting in a rough consistency. While there isn’t a quick fix, regular use of key ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs and retinol will see great results, promoting a smoother and more refined complexion.
In-clinic treatments like microdermabrasion and peels are fantastic for buffing away dead skin cells. For those with a seriously damaged skin texture, Fraxel laser will see the best results to effectively resurface the skin.
Clarify
Achieve tighter and cleaner pores by double cleansing each evening. This dual approach removes residual makeup and sunscreen from the skin’s surface first (oil or balm cleanser), and then goes in for a deeper clean to remove excess oil and debris from the pores themselves (gel or milk cleanser).
Refine
Regular exfoliation is essential in preventing and treating coarse texture. We want to increase the skin’s natural renewal process and slough away any dead skin cell build-up on the skin’s surface. Using an AHA (lactic, citric or malic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), or enzyme formula a few times a week will gently dissolve rough patches and boost cell metabolism.
Boost
Incorporating an antioxidant-rich serum into your routine can work in synergy with your exfoliant to boost the complexion. I love vitamin C for its brightening abilities, and niacinamide (vitamin B3) for its restorative properties, the latter of which is well-tolerated by all skin types including those with sensitive skin and rosacea. Both of these ingredients work to promote collagen which in turn, makes dilated pores appear smaller.
Correct
Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient that is proven to boost cell turnover, promote collagen, clarify, refine and brighten the complexion. Particularly beneficial for the treatment of coarse texture related to scarring and laxity, it’s best to start with a slow-release or micro-encapsulated formula on alternate evenings, working up to nightly use as tolerated.
Prevent
Sun exposure slows down the body’s natural rate of skin cell renewal, UVA rays also penetrate deep into the skin and break down collagen and elastin, which provides the skin with strength and structure. So diligent sun protection is essential, ensure you are applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every single day.
