More than a decade ago, adult acne sent me off to the skin specialist. Acne can be traumatic at any age but when you're old enough to actually own a teenager, it's crushing. (You try telling yourself it's just a few pimples on the chin when fronting up to a high-stakes meeting.) From the doctor, I got a prescription and a tub of Cetaphil.
The drugs gave me clear skin; the Cetaphil a newfound respect for no-frills skin care. When it comes to anti-agers, inexpensive basics like QV, Cetaphil and even Waitrose's cult Baby Bottom Butter (sold at Nosh for about $10) aren't always top of mind. But just like those pretty, pay-a-premium brands, they create a barrier between the skin and the air, temporarily maintaining the skin's natural moisture by keeping water in. Teamed with a good sunscreen, they can protect and nourish the skin and soften your wrinkles, not to mention prevent new ones.
No-frills isn't for everyone (nor, I suspect, is nappy cream). But going back to basics can be a good idea, especially if your skin is showing any signs of early-onset winter irritation (bumps, dryness, patchiness, itchiness, redness). Take Weleda's Skin Food ($22.90) for example. A gooey white cream, it looks far too unctuous to use on your face but don't be deceived. Make sure it's fully absorbed before applying makeup (better still, use as night cream only), and this all-natural skin-balancer will reward you with calm, even-toned, glowing skin. Great if your complexion is on the dry side.
Another to get plus points is Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion Plus ($69). On beauty counters since 1968 (it was reformulated a few years ago with hyaluronic acid), it contains no superstar antioxidants and no high-tech hype but there is a very good reason why one primrose-coloured bottle sells every five seconds or so around the world.
