Ask The Expert: The importance of facials, plus other beauty matters explained

You can maximise your mask by multi-masking if you don’t have enough time by using two to three different type of masks at the same time. Photo: 123rf.com

Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

Ken’s Apothercary’s head of education Hubert W Hoi provides answers to your questions this month.

I read that we should wear sunscreen even if we are not outdoors. Is this true? And what is the level of coverage that we need? – Melissa, TTDI

It is true indeed that we should be wearing a sunscreen even if we are indoors. UV rays are present us as long as there is light around, even on a cloudy day!

There are a few factors to consider when finding the right level of coverage. But in general, SPF 15 to 30 is good for urban lifestyles, SPF 50 is good for daily use as well and most suitable when there’s more exposure to sunlight such as by the pool or when outdoors.

Read more: Ask The Expert: Choosing the right shampoo, and other hair-y problems explained

What is the right age to start using anti-ageing skincare? – Lilly, Bangsar

The good old age question! While we age in different speeds depending on our lifestyles, genetics and habits, generally mid to late twenties is ideal to start and you may dabble with some anti-ageing products.

Retinol-based products are great to keep wrinkles at bay. Find a gentle formula that works for you. Keep in mind that collagen levels starts to deplete at about 1% per year after the age of 20!

Photo: Caudalie

Do we have to wear eye cream day and night? – Mei Li, Damansara

Yes! Our under eye area hardly has any oil glands and it’s also 10 times thinner than any parts of the face, therefore it’s more susceptible to ageing due to mechanical movements.

If you have a specific need such as dark circles or puffiness, it’s a great add on to target those concerns.

I have whiteheads and blackheads. What is the right beauty product to get rid of them? – Primula, KL

Look for products with salicylic acid to help reduce whiteheads and blackheads.

If it is not taken care of, inflammation may occur and it may turn into pimples or acne.

How often should I use a mask in a week? And what type of mask would be good? – Trisha, Shah Alam

Depending on the type of mask, you may use it anytime between two to three times a week.

Maximise your mask by multi-masking if you don’t have enough time. That’s right, you may use up to two to three different type of mask at the same time.

Use a purifying or detoxing mask on T-Zone area and hydration on the rest of the area. Add on an eye mask while you’re at it to treat the whole face.

What skincare products should I use for a complete beauty routine? – Nisha, Taman Megah

It really depends from person to person and the goals you’d like to achieve. Keep it to the basics such as cleanse, tone, moisturise and protect.

Add ons such as essence, serums and eye care may be incorporated based on your needs.

Appropriate treatment products such exfoliants, oils and masks can also be included to your beauty routine to achieve your desired goal.

Find the right regime that works well within your lifestyle and stay consistent.

If you were to recommend just one beauty product, what would it be? (most important) – Alia, Ampang

Sun protection! Find a good SPF with high UVA & UVB protection.

The sun is responsible for skin ageing up to 80% which includes breakdown of collagen leading to fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots and dry skin.

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Am not a fan of facials, so is it a necessary to go for one? Can’t I just do it myself at home? – Carmen, PJ

While you can give yourself a relatively give good mini facial at home, getting an actual facial can have extra perks and it’s also a great way to give your skin a pampering session.

Facialists are trained to provide facial massages for specific reasons that we may not be able to conduct ourselves.

There are certain devices that are just for professional use that you can only get from a facialist.

Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert to [e-mail]. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.