Decorating & Design
November 13, 2023
Skincare by Design
Karen Shearim (left) and Ashley Sleiman of Barnard & Speziale Design. Portrait photography: Wendy Alana
In decorating and skincare, one size doesn’t fit all. “We’re always creating a personalized formula for each client in order to get the best results,” says Karen Shearim of Barnard & Speziale Design. Part of this formula is having the right products and materials. The same can be said for skincare.
Research has proven that using topical vitamin C — an antioxidant — is key to preventing signs of aging due to environmental factors such as UV, pollution and stress. But not all formulas are created the same.
Dermatologist-favourite, C E Ferulic treats wrinkles, dehydration and dullness in dry to normal skin types thanks to its unique, patented formula of 15% pure L-ascorbic acid (neutralizes free radicals and combats the signs of aging), 1% vitamin E (anti-inflammatory that boosts moisture and protects against free radicals) and 0.5% ferulic acid (boosts antioxidant benefits of vitamins C).
Reputation and Authority
SkinCeuticals is Canada’s number one medical aesthetic skincare brand. Founded in 1997 by renowned dermatologist, Dr. Pinnell, SkinCeuticals is backed by 30+ years of science and has earned its reputation as the vitamin C authority. Dr. Pinnell created the Duke Parameters — three criteria that make up the gold standards for vitamin C efficacy — that are used in all SkinCeuticals formulations. Vitamin C must be pure (L-ascorbic acid), concentrated between 10-20 (less is not enough and more will not be absorbed), and the PH must be below 3.5 (close to the skin’s natural pH which helps improve efficacy and increase cell turnover).
Phloretin CF uses a combination of 2% phloretin (improves uneven skin tone), 10% L-ascorbic acid (neutralizes free radicals and combats the signs of aging) and 0.5% ferulic acid (boosts antioxidant benefits of vitamins C) in normal to combination skin types.
High-Quality Equals Clinically-Proven Results
Not all vitamin C formulas are equal. High-quality concentrations of pure, active ingredients such as L-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid boost the efficacy of SkinCeuticals’ multi-award-winning C E Ferulic serum, delivering eight times more protection against environmental damage and the signs of aging. “In design, high-quality elements are the key to longevity and can evolve with the client when their needs change,” says Shearim.
For those suffering from acne-prone skin and blemishes, Silymarin CF uses the powerful duo of L-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid, along with silymarin (prevents oil oxidation that causes breakouts) and salicylic acid (helps unclog pores) to improve skin clarity.
Make it Personal
“In design, we choose the best products that represent the client and solves their design dilemmas,” says Shearim. SkinCeuticals has a vitamin C serum tailored for each skin type and concern.
The first serum created by Dr. Pinnell, Serum 10 protects sensitive and reactive skin (10% L-ascorbic acid, 0.5 ferulic acid) by soothing the complexion while preventing free radical damage.
Choose Tried-and True
Shearim favours custom millwork or built-in cabinets – classic design elements over fleeting trends. In skincare, antioxidants have been scientifically-proven to protect skin against premature aging, inflammation and UV rays. Eighty percent of all signs of skin aging are from environmental aggressors, which is why it’s important to choose an effective antioxidant serum. Formulated for all skin types, SkinCeuticals offers advanced skincare products that provide optimum efficacy. “Products that consistently prove themselves set the foundation for a great space – and great skin,” says Shearim.
Resveratrol is a naturally-occurring antibacterial and anti-inflammatory antioxidant that helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Combine Resveratrol B E at night with the SkinCeuticals serum that best suits your skin type for increased skin-glowing benefits.
Take it as a Complement
SkinCeuticals products are sold in medical aesthetic clinics only. Often used to complement in-office treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling and Dermal Fillers, SkinCeuticals can strengthen and speed up the healing of post-procedure skin. Visit skinceuticals.ca for a location near you.