Celebrity Facialist Antonia Burrell Shares Her Skincare Routine

In The Morning

Exfoliation Is My Starting Point…

Before doing anything, I kick-start my routine with a gentle exfoliation. I use a polishing powder – these are often kinder to the skin – add water to it and let it gradually foam up before massaging it in. It’s the easiest way to wake up your complexion and it always feels so invigorating. This is enough without the need to cleanse – it removes any surface dirt seamlessly. 

Serums Are A Must …

Afterwards, I get to work with my new Universal Glow Elixir. It’s a does-it-all serum and is brimming with antioxidants to protect against pollution and daily aggressors. What’s more, the addition of bamboo extract brightens the skin and wards off any damage from blue light, which is emitted from our screens and devices. We made sure the Elixir was formulated with safflower oil. Not only is this ingredient essential for hydration, it’s also rich in linoleic acid which is a great remedy for acne, uneven skin and hyperpigmentation. 

Peptides Are Essential, Too…

Another ingredient I always incorporate into my regime first thing is peptides. They are essential for strengthening other proteins in our skin and in turn, promoting more collagen for a smoother, plumper complexion. 

SPF Isn’t Always In There…

This may seem odd to many, but SPF isn’t something I use every day. In the height of summer? Absolutely, but otherwise, no. This is a personal preference and overall, I’d much rather get my protection from antioxidants. I am a big believer in getting and absorbing as much vitamin D as possible. However, of course, I do recognise that for many, protection is paramount, and if you feel you should wear SPF (or have been told to specifically) then do. 

There’s Always Time For Facial Cupping…

Even if I don’t do it first thing, I carve out some time for a thorough facial massage. My preference is always a cup over a gua sha or jade roller. Don’t get me wrong – the latter two still work, but they provide positive pressure, whereas cupping is negative. This means cupping separates the fascia at a much deeper level, allowing the muscles to visibly shift, while easing knotted tension, too. I use cupping along my jawline and cheeks in the morning, grasping the bottom of it, placing it onto the skin and gently pinching as I move it across. You need to ensure your skin has some slip with an oil so it moves seamlessly. The more you do it the better – it’s seriously stimulating and makes a big difference to jowliness. If you don’t want to splurge, simply take your forefinger and massage with deep pressing motions for a similar effect. 

Contrast Showering Is So Healing…

It doesn’t matter if I do this in the morning or at night, but contrast showering is a must for me. This generally means switching between hot and cold water for a bracing boost. I do three minutes on hot, then 30 seconds on cold at least three times, always finishing on the cold tap. For me, it’s an easy stimulant and an ancient technique that’s proven to heal and decrease swelling throughout the body. To pep up the whole experience, I love to drop some essential oils into my shower tray – these usually include mint, eucalyptus and sage. The steam from my shower soaks up the different aromas and creates a really soothing, spa-like atmosphere. 

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In The Evening

Evening Is When I Double Cleanse…

At night, I take the time to indulge in my skincare routine after I’ve put my daughter to bed. I love to cleanse with a thick, unguent oil, really working it into my skin. The first cleanse works on just the top surface, then the second breaks down any leftover product, dirt or grime, while rejuvenating the skin at a much deeper level. I incorporate a little massage as well to promote a healthier-looking glow, always working in upward motions.  

This Is The Time For Heavy-Duty Ingredients …

Post-cleanse, I follow up with my Cream Supreme. I don’t use a moisturiser in the day as I find a serum is enough, but come evening, I like to up the ante. This cream is rich in a plant-based vitamin A, so you get all the anti-ageing results of a retinol, without any irritation or increased sensitivity. It’s full of omegas to boost elasticity, and azelaic acid too which is a key ingredient for resurfacing uneven tone. These are all quite potent and work in unison to rejuvenate cells while you sleep, so when you wake up, you notice a visible difference. 

Dry Body Brushing Is A Big Part Of My Routine…

Dry body brushing is a great way of boosting sluggish cells and removing toxins for smoother limbs. I tend to do it at night-time to reawaken my body after a long day. I swear by Japanese brushes for their softer – yet firm – bristles, and use them in big circular motions from the ankle up for optimum results. You want to work towards the heart so you’re working with your body’s natural lymph flow. 

Baths Are Key For Relaxation…

I take a bath at night at least twice a week and always add a generous dose of Himalayan and Epsom salts. Both work to clear the mind and unknot weary muscles. As soon as I step in, I can feel my entire body relax and my mood improves, too – as does my clarity and overall perspective. 

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For more advice, product recommendations and tips, visit AntoniaBurrell.com