Nowadays, our skin is more and more subject to acute daily internal and external aggressions. The growing urban population is massively exposed to peaks of pollution, sudden climate changes, lack of sleep, hormonal variation, anxiety, or intense stress.
Those critical factors are known as exposome stressors, and they directly impact the skin.
Skin is the first line of defence against exposome aggressions. When skin is stressed, its ability to defend itself is affected, skin barrier is altered, inflammation triggered, immunity weakened. It leads to physical symptoms like increased ski n water loss, free radicals release, and visible signs of inflammation. Skin can become dryer, with itching sensation, and redness can appear. But most of all, the skin immunity is weakened, and visible signs of skin health fade: it looks dull, uneven, and fine lines appear.
Behold the science and comfort of Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions a new age in skincare
This high potency formula is Vichy’s one stop solution for stressed skin, containing the following three key ingredients;
- Probiotic Fractions which improve the skins barrier function while also stimulating the skins naturals defences.
- Vichy Volcanic Water rich in 15 minerals, significantly increases the skin barrier repairing efficacy.
- 4% Niacinamide is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects on skin.
Formulated without fragrance, alcohol and silicons, this product is clinically proven to regenerate 6 signs of skin health, including radiance, fine lines, skin texture and plumpness. Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions is the latest innovation from Vichy, inspired by their best-selling Mineral 89 Serum.
At Hi HQ we follow the experts advice which recommends Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions as the first step after cleansing the skin, before your moisturiser and of course SPF to regenerate and repair stressed skin.
DR KATHERINE MULROONEY X VICHY STRESSED SKIN Q&A
What are some of the common daily internal and external aggressions that cause our skin to become stressed?
Externally UV Radiation, pollution, infrared radiation, natural elements or changes in climate, over zealous cosmetic ablative treatments and retinoids all weaken the skin while internally stress, poor sleep & diet, alcohol, smoking and hormonal fluctuations further compound already stressed skin. Some of these skin aggressors are controllable while others are out of our control.
What impact do exposome aggressions have on our skin and why does this occur?
Exposome aggressors weaken the skin barrier, making the skin more vulnerable and further compound any pre existing inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. It also drives inflammation which is pro ageing and generates free radicals which are detrimental to skin and accelerate the skin ageing process.
In terms of our skin health, can you explain further any of the ‘new normal’ (covid) exposome aggressors that may be stressing our skin or weakening the skin barrier?
Since Covid, we are all washing more, which can deplete the skin of natural protective oils, while use of facial masks is harsh and increases friction on the face, thereby driving inflammation of the facial skin.
What would you recommend people to incorporate into their routines in order to support a healthy skin barrier?
I suggest a gentle but thorough cleansing regime and use of soothing and calming active ingredients that help keep the skin more robust and protected and of course daily use SPF.
Are there any key ingredients known for their calming and soothing properties that you would recommend for inflamed skin in need of SOS treatment?
Vichy mineralising water with its naturally occurring healing and regenerating minerals, Probiotic fractions that strengthen the skin natural barrier and activate the skins immune system, Niacinamide which is a powerful anti-inflammatory B Vitamin and antioxidant vitamins to scavenge damaging free radicals.
What ingredients can help repair and regenerate a weakened skin barrier?
Probiotic fractions help a weakened skin barrier by strengthening the skins immune defences and Niacinamide is great for its powerful anti inflammatory effects on the skin. Vichy mineralising waters also have a potent soothing effect on the skin.
Probiotics are known for their positive effects on gut-health. In terms of stressed skin in need of SOS treatment, what benefits are there in incorporating topical probiotics into your skin routine?
With continued use over time probiotic fractions have been shown to improve skin barrier and skin hydration which are key factors in achieving healthy glowing skin.
How does the new Vichy Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions work to combat stressed skin?
Probiotic fractions work to improve skin barrier function by stimulating epidermal regeneration and they also stimulate the skins natural defences by combining antioxidant properties and activating the skin’s immune system.
Where should people start with building an effective skincare routine?
An effective skincare regime starts with thorough cleansing once or twice a day depending on your skin type. Cleansing once daily, preferably at night, with a cream based cleanser is recommended if you have dry skin and twice daily with a foaming gel based cleanser if you have combination, oily or acne prone skin. Make sure to rinse well and pat the face dry and then add about 3-4 drops of Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions serum all over the face and neck and follow with your favourite moisturiser. Finally, and most importantly, finish with applying a broad spectrum SPF. The Vichy Capital Soleil UV-Age is my favourite. Eating and sleeping well will also help boost your skin health and radiance.
What do you like about the Mineral 89 range / new M89 Probiotic Fractions serum?
It’s a beautifully hydrating and calming serum that is suitable for all skin types.
Available now from local pharmacies nationwide, instore & online €29.00