Alex Steinherr Answers Your Top Beauty Questions
You’re very into the Hung Vanngo foundation but is there any other make-up you recommend bringing back from a trip to the US? Desperate to get my hands on some Sarah Creal…
I love Hung Vanngo and I’m equally obsessed with Sarah Creal. The good news is Sarah Creal is coming to the UK this autumn, which I’m very excited about. Another brand I always buy when I’m in the US is m.ph by Mary Phillips. Definitely one to investigate.
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I love a traditional face polish but I understand that exfoliation formulas have moved on. Is there still a place for scrubs, and if so, which is best?
Traditional face scrubs have been slightly unfairly demonised. There is still a place for physical exfoliation, you just don’t want anything overly abrasive or to scrub your face as though you’re cleaning a saucepan. I prefer very fine, uniform particles in a creamy formula, such as Royal Fern Tri Active Glow Peel used gently once or twice a week depending on your skin. I’m far less keen on rough, irregular particles that can feel scratchy. Enzyme and acid exfoliants are brilliant too but they’re not automatically ‘better’ just because they’re chemical rather than physical. And I completely understand the appeal of a proper face polish. Sometimes you want that immediate smooth, polished feeling that you just don’t get in quite the same way from an acid.
Are there any cellulite creams out there that actually make a difference? The internet is full of claims and products by Augustinus Bader and Dermalogica both seem to have good reviews. Are they worth the investment?
I’m going to be slightly boring here and say there is no cream that will actually get rid of cellulite. Cellulite is structural, so a topical can only do so much. That said, improving hydration, skin thickness, firmness and texture can absolutely make it look less noticeable and there is some evidence for ingredients such as retinol and caffeine. The Augustinus Bader Body Cream is one I rate. The brand actually has clinical data showing an improvement in the appearance of cellulite after 12 weeks, although it was a relatively small study, so I’d manage your expectations. Would I spend a fortune on a cellulite cream expecting it to erase cellulite? No. Would I invest in a really good body treatment that improves the overall quality, firmness and smoothness of the skin, which in turn makes cellulite look better? Yes.
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I know you like K-beauty brand Genabelle. Which products do you rate now it’s available in Boots?
I’ve been a Genabelle fan for a while, so I’m very happy it’s now so easy to get. My standout is the PDRN VITA Toning Ampoule. It has PDRN alongside niacinamide, tranexamic acid and antioxidant vitamins, and I really rate it for hydration, brightness and generally making skin look healthier. I also love the PDRN Rejuvenating Cream if your skin is dry or barrier-compromised and the PDRN masks are brilliant when skin needs a quick hit of hydration and glow. If you’re new to the brand, I’d start with the ampoule. It’s the product that best sums up what Genabelle does so well.
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What skincare will help my make-up last throughout the day? Is the secret just top-ups or is it more in the prep?
Both! The prep absolutely matters but I’m afraid there’s no skincare routine that will make your make-up completely indestructible from 8am to 8pm. The key is not to overload the skin in the morning. Hydration is important but too many rich layers underneath make-up can actually work against you. I’d keep it simple: a lightweight hydrating serum if you need one, moisturiser and SPF, then give everything a few minutes to properly settle before going in with make-up. Then it’s about strategic top-ups rather than redoing your face. I’d much rather blot away excess shine and touch up concealer/powder where needed than keep adding layers of foundation throughout the day. A little setting spray can help too. My go-to is One/Size On ‘Til Dawn Setting Spray. Think good prep and light maintenance, rather than expecting either one to do all the work.
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