• Posted on

The Founder's Edit 1.0 | My Morning Skincare Ritual

The Founder's Edit 1.0 | My Morning Skincare Ritual

Welcome to The Founder's Edit

A little look behind the bathroom door at ah-mee:skin.

As the founder of a skincare brand, one of the questions I'm often asked is, “What skincare products do you actually use yourself?”

And the answer? The very same products you'll find here at ah-mee:skin.

But my routine isn't about using every product on the shelf, following every new trend or achieving perfect skin.

It's about understanding what my skin needs, choosing ingredients I believe in and, most importantly, being consistent.

I'm a busy mam, wife and business owner. Like most women, my mornings aren't always peaceful, and there are days when life feels a little overwhelming.

But one thing I genuinely look forward to is my morning skincare ritual.

Those few quiet minutes before the day begins are mine.

A chance to slow down, look after my skin and start the day feeling a little more like myself.

Over the years, I've learnt that good skincare doesn't have to be complicated. It's about finding the right products, using them regularly and making little adjustments as your skin changes.

And that's exactly what I want to share through The Founder's Edit.

No complicated routines. No unrealistic promises. Just an honest look at the products I love, why I use them and how they fit into my everyday life.

So, welcome to Edition 1.0.

Let's start with my morning skincare ritual.

 

Step 1 | A Gentle Start to My Morning

Harmony Gentle Cleansing Milk

The first thing I reach for every morning is my Harmony Gentle Cleansing Milk.

After around 15 years working as a beauty therapist, one thing I've learnt is that cleansing doesn't need to leave your skin feeling squeaky clean to be effective.

In fact, I much prefer a gentle, nourishing cleanse that leaves my skin feeling soft and comfortable.

Our Gentle Cleansing Milk contains jojoba oil and shea butter, two ingredients I love for their skin-conditioning properties.

It's a lovely way to refresh my skin in the morning without that tight, stripped feeling.

For me, this first step isn't just about removing overnight impurities. It's the beginning of my morning ritual — those few quiet minutes before the day gets busy.

My founder's tip: Be gentle with your skin. Use lukewarm water, avoid rubbing and remember that your cleanser should leave your skin feeling comfortable.

Discover Harmony Gentle Cleansing Milk

 

                           

“I don't use a toner religiously every morning. I reach for one when I feel my skin needs a little extra attention. I've learnt to listen to my skin rather than follow a routine simply because I think I should.”

Step 2 | A Little Peptide Power

Radiance Anti-Age Peptide Serum

Once my skin is cleansed, I move on to one of my favourite parts of my morning routine — my Anti-Age Peptide Serum.

After years of working in the beauty industry, I've learnt that it's not always about using the strongest ingredients. It's about choosing ingredients that support what your skin actually needs.

Peptides are a particular favourite of mine when it comes to age-focused skincare.

My Radiance Anti-Age Peptide Serum combines peptides with hyaluronic acid and other skin-conditioning ingredients to help hydrate my skin and improve the appearance of fine lines.

I love how it fits into my morning routine, giving my skin that extra layer of hydration before I apply my moisturiser.

And while I use my Anti-Age Peptide Serum during the day, I switch to my Collagen Boost Serum in the evening.

There's no complicated science behind the timing — it's simply a routine I enjoy and one that works for me.

My founder's tip: Consistency is far more important than constantly changing products. Give your skincare time to work before deciding whether it's right for you.

                           

 

Step 3 | A Little Extra Care for My Eyes

Radiance Age-Defying Eye Cream

The skin around our eyes is delicate, and it's an area I've always paid particular attention to throughout my years working as a beauty therapist.

My Radiance Age-Defying Eye Cream has become a lovely little part of my morning routine.

Formulated with peptides and vitamins C and E, it's designed to help moisturise and care for the delicate eye area while supporting a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

I gently apply a small amount around my orbital bone, taking care not to pull or drag the skin.

It's a simple step, but one I genuinely enjoy.

My founder's tip: You don't need lots of eye cream. A small amount, applied gently, is usually enough. And remember to be consistent — looking after your skin is about everyday habits, not overnight miracles.

 

                           

 

Step 4 | My Daily Dose of Peptides

Radiance Peptide Renewal Cream

Once I've applied my serum and eye cream, it's time to moisturise.

For years, my Anti-Age Day Cream has been one of my favourite daytime moisturisers. But when I recently ran out, I decided to switch things up and start using my Radiance Peptide Renewal Cream.

And I've really been enjoying it!

As someone approaching 40, I'm becoming increasingly interested in maintaining my skin's hydration, softness and firmness rather than chasing unrealistic promises of turning back the clock.

That's one of the reasons I love peptide-focused skincare.

My Peptide Renewal Cream is part of my everyday morning routine, helping my skin feel moisturised and comfortable before I apply my makeup.

I use peptides in the morning and prefer collagen-focused skincare in the evening. There's no rule saying you have to use them at particular times — it's simply the routine I've found works for me.

And that's something I always encourage my customers to remember.

Your skincare routine should fit your skin and your lifestyle, not the other way around.

My founder's tip: Don't be afraid to adjust your moisturiser as your skin's needs change. The product you loved six months ago might not be what your skin needs today.

                           

A Little Note About SPF

One thing I always encourage when it comes to skincare is protecting your skin from the sun.

I'll be completely honest — I tend to reach for my Radiance Mineral Tinted SPF30 more during the summer months, and at the moment I've actually run out!

But that doesn't change the importance of daily sun protection.

UVA rays contribute to premature skin ageing and can affect our skin throughout the year, even when the weather isn't particularly sunny.

As a beauty therapist, I know that protecting your skin is one of the most valuable steps you can take in maintaining its long-term health and appearance.

So consider this a little reminder to myself, as much as anyone else, to keep SPF part of my everyday skincare routine.

My founder's tip: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF30 or higher that you enjoy wearing. The best sunscreen is one you'll apply consistently and reapply when needed.

The Little Extras I Love

Because skincare doesn't have to look the same every day.

Although I have my everyday essentials, there are a few extra products I reach for depending on how my skin feels, what I've got planned and how much time I have to myself.

After years of working as a beauty therapist, one thing I've learnt is that skincare doesn't have to be rigid.

Sometimes it's about listening to your skin rather than following a routine simply because you think you should.

A Little Extra Hydration | My Toner

I don't use a toner religiously every morning.

Instead, I reach for one when I feel my skin needs a little extra attention.

It's one of those products I enjoy having available, but I don't believe every step needs to be compulsory for everyone.

My founder's tip: Your routine should be flexible enough to change with your skin. Some days you'll want a little extra hydration, and other days your usual essentials will be enough.

A Little Nourishment | My Facial Oil

Harmony Nourishing Facial Oil

I absolutely love a facial oil, particularly when I'm having a day at home.

If I'm not planning on wearing makeup, I'll often add a little facial oil to my routine for that extra feeling of nourishment and comfort.

I don't usually reach for it when I'm getting ready to apply makeup, although there are exceptions!

In fact, I recently wore it underneath my makeup for a morning out with my boys, and my skin felt lovely.

It's one of those little additions that makes my routine feel more indulgent without making it complicated.

My founder's tip: Facial oils can be a lovely addition to a routine, particularly when your skin feels dry. I usually apply mine towards the end of my skincare routine, using just a few drops.

My Weekly Skin Reset | Facial Scrub

I love that fresh, smooth feeling after exfoliating, but it's certainly not something I do every morning.

I generally use my facial scrub once a week.

For me, it's an occasional treatment rather than an everyday essential.

Exfoliation can help remove surface dead skin cells, but overdoing it can leave skin feeling uncomfortable or irritated.

My founder's tip: Be gentle when exfoliating and choose a product and frequency that suit your skin. More exfoliation doesn't automatically mean better results.

A Little Moment for Myself | Gold Hydrogel Eye Patches

Now these deserve a special mention!

I recently tried our gold hydrogel eye patches for the first time, and I absolutely loved them.

But what made that particular morning special wasn't just how refreshed my eye area looked afterwards.

I'd had a really difficult day the day before, and I woke up knowing I needed a little reset.

So before the house became busy, before the boys were up and before I switched into mam mode, I gave myself a little extra time.

I enjoyed my full skincare routine, applied my gold eye patches and took a few quiet moments just for me.

And it genuinely helped me feel a little calmer and more ready for the day.

Not because skincare can solve everything — it can't.

But sometimes having a familiar routine, a moment of quiet and something positive to focus on can make a difference to how you begin your morning.

Skincare isn't always about chasing that glow. Sometimes it's about finding a little bit of yourself again.

And that's one of the reasons I love what I do.

                             

 

A Final Note From the Founder

If there's one thing I've learnt throughout my years in the beauty industry, it's that beautiful skin doesn't come from having the most expensive products, the longest routine or the latest trending ingredients.

It comes from understanding your skin, giving it the care it needs and being consistent.

My own routine has changed over the years, and I'm sure it will continue to change as I get older.

Some mornings I have plenty of time. Others, I'm fitting everything in around being a mam, a wife and running a business.

And that's real life.

I don't believe skincare should be another pressure we put on ourselves. It should be something we enjoy, something that makes us feel good and something that fits into our lives.

That's why I created The Founder's Edit.

To share the products I genuinely use, the ingredients I believe in and the little rituals that make a difference to my everyday life.

Because behind ah-mee is a real woman, with real skin, navigating all the same everyday challenges as everyone else.

And if there's one thing I'd love you to take away from this first edition, it's this:

Your skincare routine doesn't need to be perfect. It just needs to be right for you.

Thank you for joining me for a little look inside my bathroom cabinet.

With love,

Amiè x
Founder & Managing Director
ah-mee:skin


Discover Your Own Skincare Ritual

My morning routine works for my skin, but yours may need something completely different.

Whether you're looking to support hydration, care for mature skin or simply build a routine you can stick to, I'd love to help you find the right products.

Not sure where to start?

Our complimentary personalised skin consultation is designed to help you understand your skin and discover a considered skincare routine based on your individual needs.

Discover Your Personalised Skincare Routine

Coming next in The Founder's Edit 2.0 — My Evening Skincare Ritual.

Skincare with purpose. 

 

Leave a comment

Read Also

See all Blogs
Skincare Ingredient Trends 2026–2027 | ah-mee:skin
  • Posted on
Skincare Ingredient Trends 2026–2027 | ah-mee:skin
Skincare Ingredient Trends 2026–2027: Why Natural Ingredients and Consistency Are the Future of Healthy Skin From bakuchiol and peptides to PDRN and skin-barrier care, discover the ingredients shaping skincare — and why a consistent routine matters more than the latest trend. Skincare with purpose. Where science meets nature. The skincare industry is constantly evolving. Every year brings new ingredients, exciting innovations and promises of smoother, firmer, more radiant-looking skin. And as we move through 2026 towards 2027, we're seeing a shift in how people approach skincare. It's no longer just about finding the strongest active ingredient or following the latest viral routine. Increasingly, the conversation is turning towards skin longevity, barrier support, considered formulations and long-term skin health. At ah-mee:skin, this is something we've always believed in. Beautiful skin isn't necessarily about using more products. It's about understanding what your skin needs, choosing the right ingredients and giving your routine time to work. And sometimes, nature has a lot more to offer than we realise. Natural skincare: gentle doesn't have to mean ineffective There's a common misconception that natural skincare is simply about being gentle, while powerful results belong exclusively to synthetic active ingredients. But skincare isn't quite that straightforward. Nature provides an incredible variety of ingredients, from antioxidant-rich botanical extracts and nourishing plant oils to bioactive compounds that can be used in carefully developed cosmetic formulations. Some have well-established moisturising and skin-conditioning benefits. Others are being studied for their potential to improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin tone and other visible skin concerns. The important distinction is that natural doesn't automatically mean better, safer or more effective. What matters is the ingredient itself, its concentration, the quality of the formulation and how well it suits your skin. At ah-mee:skin, our approach is to bring together naturally derived ingredients and thoughtful skincare science to create routines that support the skin's everyday needs. Let's explore some of the ingredients shaping the conversation. 1. Bakuchiol: The botanical alternative to retinol Retinol has long been recognised for its ability to improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and pigmentation. But not everyone enjoys using it, particularly when dryness or irritation becomes an issue. Enter bakuchiol. Derived from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol has attracted attention as a botanical ingredient that may offer some similar cosmetic benefits to retinol. A small 12-week clinical study found improvements in wrinkles and pigmentation with both bakuchiol and retinol, while participants using retinol reported more scaling and stinging. It's promising research, although it doesn't mean bakuchiol is identical to retinol or that every bakuchiol formulation will produce the same results. For those interested in a plant-derived approach to age-focused skincare, it's certainly an ingredient worth understanding. Our perspective: Effective skincare should work with your skin's individual needs and tolerance, rather than simply chasing the strongest product available. 2. Peptides: Small ingredients with big potential Peptides continue to attract attention in age-focused skincare, and their popularity is showing no signs of slowing. These short chains of amino acids are used in skincare formulations for a variety of purposes, including supporting hydration and improving the appearance of firmness and fine lines. Different peptides have different functions, so not every peptide cream or serum will deliver the same benefits. What we particularly love about peptide-focused skincare is how naturally it fits into a considered, long-term routine. Rather than expecting overnight transformation, it's about supporting the appearance and condition of your skin through regular care. Discover ah-mee:skin: Explore our Radiance collection, including our Peptide Renewal Cream and peptide-focused skincare. 3. PDRN: The ingredient attracting everyone's attention If you've been following skincare trends recently, you've probably come across the term PDRN, short for polydeoxyribonucleotide. It's become a major talking point in Korean-inspired skincare and the wider beauty industry, particularly around the themes of skin renewal and recovery. PDRN is often associated with DNA-derived ingredients. Traditional sources can be animal-derived, while newer formulations may use different sources and related technologies. Although the science is interesting, it's important to distinguish between research on professional treatments and the evidence available for everyday topical skincare. Not every PDRN serum has been clinically demonstrated to deliver the same results, and ingredient sourcing matters — particularly for customers seeking vegan-friendly products. Our perspective: We're excited by innovation, but we believe understanding the formulation and the evidence behind it is more important than following a trend simply because it's popular. 4. Exosomes: Where skincare innovation meets emerging science Exosomes are another ingredient category generating considerable interest. In biological research, exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles involved in communication between cells. In skincare, the term is increasingly appearing alongside claims about skin renewal, radiance and age-focused care. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of many topical cosmetic exosome products remains limited. The term can also be used to describe products made from very different sources and manufacturing processes. This makes transparency particularly important. As skincare technology evolves, we believe customers deserve clear explanations of what ingredients are, how they're used and what the research genuinely supports. Exciting? Absolutely. A reason to abandon your existing routine overnight? Not necessarily. 5. Ceramides: Why skin-barrier care is here to stay Not every trending ingredient needs to be revolutionary. Sometimes, the most important developments are about understanding what our skin already needs. Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids found within the skin barrier. They play an important role in helping the skin retain moisture and maintain its protective function. When the skin barrier is compromised, skin may feel dry, tight, uncomfortable or more easily irritated. That's why barrier-focused skincare has become such an important conversation. Ceramide-containing moisturisers, alongside ingredients such as glycerin and other skin-conditioning emollients, can help support moisture retention and skin comfort. And this brings us back to one of our favourite skincare principles: Before asking your skin to do more, make sure you're giving it the support it needs. Discover ah-mee:skin: Explore our Radiance Ceramide Barrier Night Cream as part of an evening moisturising routine. 6. Hyaluronic Acid: A hydration essential that never goes out of style Some ingredients remain popular for a very good reason. Hyaluronic acid is one of them. Naturally present in the body, hyaluronic acid is valued in skincare for its ability to bind water and support hydration. Different molecular forms can be included in formulations to provide complementary skin-conditioning effects. For skin that feels dehydrated, tight or lacking in suppleness, a well-formulated hyaluronic acid serum can be a useful addition to a routine. And hydration isn't only important for dry skin. Oily and combination skin can experience dehydration too, which is why choosing products according to your skin's condition is often more helpful than relying on skin-type labels alone. Discover ah-mee:skin: Our Radiance Hydrating Serum combines hyaluronic acid with aloe vera, jojoba oil and other skin-conditioning ingredients. 7. Niacinamide: A familiar ingredient with lasting appeal Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, continues to be a favourite in modern skincare. It's a versatile ingredient used in products designed to support the skin barrier, improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and address concerns such as excess oil and visible redness. Its versatility makes it appealing to people with different skin concerns. However, as with any active ingredient, more isn't always better. A suitable concentration and well-balanced formulation are important, especially if your skin is easily irritated. The lesson? You don't need to chase the highest percentage on the label to find skincare that works for you. The most important skincare trend? Consistency. With so many exciting ingredients appearing in the beauty industry, it's easy to feel that your routine is constantly falling behind. A new serum launches. An ingredient goes viral. Suddenly, the products you've been using for months don't seem quite as exciting. But your skin doesn't need a new trend every week. It needs appropriate cleansing, regular moisturising, daily sun protection and targeted products chosen for your individual concerns. Some improvements, particularly hydration and skin comfort, may be noticeable relatively quickly. Other changes, such as the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone, often require consistent use over several weeks or months. And constantly changing products can make it difficult to understand what's actually helping your skin. A simple routine you enjoy using consistently is often more valuable than an elaborate routine you struggle to maintain. Feed your skin with what it actually needs When we talk about feeding the skin, we don't mean that a cream replaces the nutrients your body receives through food. We're talking about giving your skin the topical hydration, moisturising ingredients and targeted cosmetic care that support its appearance and condition. Think of your skincare routine as a daily ritual built around a few essential steps. Your morning routine Cleanse gently, according to your skin's needs. Apply a targeted serum if you use one. Moisturise to support hydration and skin comfort. Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Your evening routine Remove makeup, sunscreen and daily impurities. Apply your chosen treatment or hydrating serum. Finish with a moisturiser suited to your skin. Additional products, such as facial oils, masks and exfoliants, can be introduced when appropriate. But they don't need to be part of everyone's daily routine. The key is to listen to your skin, introduce new products thoughtfully and adjust your routine when your needs change. Nature, science and a little patience At ah-mee, we believe skincare should feel purposeful rather than overwhelming. We love discovering new ingredients. We love learning about advances in formulation science. And we love seeing how natural-origin ingredients can contribute to effective, enjoyable skincare. But we also believe that the most beautiful routines are often the ones built around understanding your skin, finding products you genuinely enjoy and making time to care for yourself. Because healthy-looking skin isn't about perfection. It's about consistency, balance and choosing what works for you. Good skincare doesn't need to be complicated. It needs to be considered. And sometimes, the best results come not from adding something new, but from giving the right routine the time it deserves. Not sure which ingredients your skin needs? Every skin is different, and the most popular ingredient isn't necessarily the right one for you. Our personalised skin consultation helps you explore your skin concerns and discover a considered ah-mee routine. Discover Your Personalised Skin Routine With love, Amiè xFounder & Managing Directorah-mee Skincare with purpose. Where science meets nature.
Marine Plankton Extract
  • Posted on
Marine Plankton Extract
Marine Plankton Extract: What Does It Do for Your Skin? The ocean is home to some fascinating ingredients used in modern skincare — and Marine Plankton Extract is one of them. Derived from marine plankton, this naturally sourced ingredient is used in cosmetic formulations primarily for its skin-conditioning properties, helping support the overall feel and appearance of the skin. But what exactly is Marine Plankton Extract, and why might you find it in your skincare routine? What is Marine Plankton Extract? Plankton refers to tiny organisms found within aquatic environments. In skincare, Plankton Extract is the cosmetic ingredient name given to an extract obtained from marine plankton. Its recognised cosmetic function is skin conditioning, which makes it particularly interesting in formulations designed to leave the skin feeling cared for, comfortable and nourished-looking. What are the skincare benefits? Skin conditioningMarine Plankton Extract can help condition the skin, supporting a softer, healthier-looking complexion. Supports nourished-looking skinUsed as part of a well-formulated moisturiser, it can complement other hydrating and conditioning ingredients to help skin feel comfortable and cared for. A great supporting ingredientNot every skincare ingredient needs to be an intensive active. Marine Plankton Extract can work alongside ingredients such as moisturising butters, humectants and other skin-conditioning ingredients within a balanced formula. Where can I find Marine Plankton Extract? You'll find Marine Plankton Extract in our Collagen Anti-Age Night Cream from the Radiance Collection. Designed for your evening routine, this nourishing night cream combines carefully selected ingredients to help support softer, smoother and more comfortable-feeling skin while you sleep. It pairs beautifully with our Anti-Age Day Cream, giving you a simple Radiance moisturising routine for morning and evening. AM: Anti-Age Day CreamPM: Collagen Anti-Age Night Cream The Skin School Takeaway Marine Plankton Extract is primarily used in cosmetics as a skin-conditioning ingredient. Rather than thinking of it as a miracle anti-ageing active, think of it as one part of a thoughtfully formulated product designed to support the feel and appearance of your skin. Because understanding why an ingredient is in your skincare can make choosing your routine so much simpler. 🤍 Explore the Radiance Collection →  
The Story Behind ah-mee:skin
  • Posted on
The Story Behind ah-mee:skin
Me and my Mam, Val, at a surprise afternoon tea we arranged for her, four months before we lost her. A day filled with family, friends, laughter and so much love. 🤍   The Story Behind ah-mee:skin There are some parts of running ah-mee:skin that I can talk about all day. And then there's this part. Even now, I still have to take a deep breath before telling this story. 🤍 Where it all began In July 2018, I lost my beautiful Mam, Valerie — Val to everyone who knew her. She wasn't just my mam. She was my best friend. Sixteen months earlier, she had been diagnosed with cancer, and from that moment we knew we had one hell of a fight on our hands. When chemotherapy and radiotherapy began, I watched treatment affect so much more than the illness itself. There was the exhaustion, sickness, changes to her hair and skin, and the emotional impact of everything she was going through. As a beauty therapist, skincare had already been a huge part of my life. But watching my mam's skin become increasingly sensitive completely changed the way I thought about it. Products she'd previously used could suddenly feel uncomfortable. Finding alternatives she felt confident trying wasn't always easy, and understandably, she became nervous about introducing anything new when her skin already felt so delicate. I wanted to help her feel comfortable in her own skin again. And that experience stayed with me. From something incredibly difficult came a purpose After losing Mam, I knew I wanted to create something meaningful from what we'd been through. I wanted skincare to feel gentle, approachable and affordable. I wanted carefully selected products with naturally derived ingredients and a philosophy that put caring for the person behind the skin first. Because skincare isn't only about how somebody looks. Sometimes it's about helping somebody feel a little more like themselves. That became the purpose behind ah-mee:skin. Why ah-mee? Then came the name. When I was born, my mam chose the spelling Amiè for my name. Years later, when I was creating the brand, I discovered the connection with the French word amie, meaning friend. It felt perfect. ah-mee reflected my name, the choice my mam had made all those years earlier and the friendship at the heart of our relationship. So ah-mee:skin was born. And although Mam never got to see what the business would become, she runs through the spine of everything I have built. Four years later... What began in 2022 with just eight skincare products and one collection has grown into something I could never have imagined when I first started. The products have evolved.The packaging has evolved.The collections have evolved.And I've evolved alongside them. But the reason behind ah-mee:skin hasn't changed. Today, our philosophy is built around three words: Purpose · Confidence · Care Purpose, because this brand was created for a reason much bigger than skincare. Confidence, because I believe feeling comfortable in your skin can have such an impact on how you feel within yourself. And Care, because that's where this entire journey started — with wanting to care for somebody I loved. Her legacy, still growing I've often wondered what Mam would think if she could see ah-mee:skin today. I'd love to show her the products. The new packaging. The salons using PROFACIAL. The customers choosing something I created. And everything this little idea has grown into. I hope she'd be proud. But most importantly, I hope she'd recognise why I kept going. Because behind every bottle, every order and every new chapter of ah-mee:skin is the same purpose that started it all. Her. The “we” behind this company has never felt like just me. It's me and her. Always together, in mind and spirit. And as ah-mee:skin continues to grow, so does the legacy she helped me create. 🤍 Skincare With Purpose.
Alteromonas Ferment Extract & Hyaluronic Acid
  • Posted on
Alteromonas Ferment Extract & Hyaluronic Acid
Alteromonas Ferment Extract & Hyaluronic Acid: The Ultimate Hydration Duo If you've followed ah-mee:skin for a while, there's a good chance you've heard me talk about Alteromonas Ferment Extract. It's one of those skincare ingredients with a very complicated-sounding name — but a much simpler reason for being interesting: Hydration. And when you find it alongside one of skincare's best-known hydrating ingredients, Hyaluronic Acid, you have two ingredients that can play complementary roles within a hydrating skincare routine. What is Alteromonas Ferment Extract? Alteromonas Ferment Extract is a marine-derived cosmetic ingredient produced through the fermentation of microorganisms from the Alteromonas genus. It is rich in polysaccharides — complex sugar molecules that are particularly interesting in cosmetic formulations because of their skin-conditioning and moisture-binding properties. So although the science behind the name sounds complicated, the reason we love ingredients like this in skincare is much easier to understand: They can help support skin that feels hydrated, conditioned and comfortable. And what does Hyaluronic Acid do? Hyaluronic Acid is probably a name you're much more familiar with. It is a humectant, meaning it helps attract and retain water. That's why you'll find it in so many products designed to support hydration and leave skin looking plumper and smoother. When skin is well hydrated, fine lines caused by dehydration can also appear less noticeable, helping the complexion look fresh and healthy. Why use Alteromonas Ferment Extract and Hyaluronic Acid together? This is where the pair becomes particularly interesting. Rather than thinking of either ingredient as performing miracles on its own, think about how they contribute to the overall hydration and conditioning of the skin. Hyaluronic Acid helps attract and retain moisture, while Alteromonas Ferment Extract provides complementary skin-conditioning properties. Together within a well-formulated product, they can help support skin that feels: Hydrated · Soft · Smooth · Comfortable And that's something almost every skin type can appreciate. Why does hydration matter? Hydration isn't only important when your skin feels visibly dry. When skin lacks water, it can feel tight and uncomfortable and dehydration lines may become more noticeable. Keeping your routine focused on gentle cleansing, hydration, moisturising and appropriate sun protection can help support the overall appearance and feel of your skin. And importantly, dehydrated skin and dry skin aren't necessarily the same thing. Dry skin generally lacks oil, whereas dehydrated skin lacks water — which means even combination or oilier skin can experience dehydration. Understanding that difference can make choosing your skincare much easier. Where can I find Alteromonas Ferment Extract at ah-mee:skin? You'll currently find this ingredient in two ah-mee:skin favourites: Anti-Age Day CreamPart of our Radiance Collection, this daily moisturiser combines Alteromonas Ferment Extract with Hyaluronic Acid to support hydrated, smoother and healthy-looking skin. Discover the Anti-Age Day Cream → Hydrating SerumFor customers wanting to make hydration a more targeted part of their routine, our Hydrating Serum also contains Alteromonas Ferment Extract and can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine before moisturiser. Discover the Hydrating Serum → The Skin School Takeaway Alteromonas Ferment Extract might not have the instant name recognition of Hyaluronic Acid — but that's exactly why it's an ingredient worth learning about. Both can play valuable roles in a hydration-focused skincare routine, helping support skin that feels comfortable, conditioned and beautifully hydrated. Because great skincare isn't about chasing complicated ingredient names. It's about understanding what you're putting on your skin — and why. 🤍 Explore the Radiance Collection →
Facial Oil, Your Summer Essential.
  • Posted on
Facial Oil, Your Summer Essential.
Why a Facial Oil Deserves a Place in Your Holiday Skincare Bag There are certain skincare products I wouldn't want to go on holiday without — and a good facial oil is definitely one of them. Facial oils can sometimes feel like the forgotten step in a skincare routine. If you've never used one before, you might wonder whether you actually need one, particularly if you already use a serum and moisturiser. But when your skin is feeling dry, tight or in need of a little extra nourishment, a facial oil can be a lovely addition to your routine. What does a facial oil actually do? Plant oils have been used in skincare for centuries, and modern facial oils often combine several botanical oils chosen for their emollient and skin-conditioning properties. Unlike a hydrating serum, which may contain humectants designed to attract and hold water, facial oils primarily help soften and condition the skin and support its natural barrier, helping to reduce moisture loss. This can make them particularly useful when skin is feeling dry or uncomfortable. Why might your skin feel different on holiday? This is where personal experience taught me a lesson. 😂 During an Easter trip to Turkey with my family and friends, I carefully packed my skincare routine... and made one fundamental mistake. I forgot my facial oil. And I noticed it. Holiday skin can be exposed to quite a different environment from the one it's accustomed to at home. You've got the flight, air-conditioned airports, transfers, hotel rooms, warmer temperatures, swimming and increased sun exposure — sometimes all within 24 hours. Air-conditioned environments have lower humidity, which can contribute to skin feeling drier and tighter. Combine that with changes to your normal routine and environment, and it's understandable that some people's skin can feel different while travelling. By the end of that particular holiday, mine was definitely asking for some extra TLC. How can you use a facial oil on holiday? You don't need to completely change your skincare routine just because you're travelling. If your skin enjoys facial oils, try applying a few drops after your hydrating products or moisturiser, particularly in your evening routine. This can provide an extra nourishing layer and help leave skin feeling soft and comfortable. And remember — facial oil doesn't replace SPF. During the day, sun protection should remain an essential part of your holiday skincare routine. Is facial oil only for dry skin? Not necessarily. Different facial oils and formulations suit different skin types, so it's important to look at the complete formula rather than assuming every oil will work for every complexion. For drier skin, an oil can provide that extra feeling of comfort and nourishment. Other skin types may prefer using one occasionally, during seasonal changes or simply when their skin feels like it needs a little more care. Skincare doesn't always have to follow rigid rules — sometimes it's about learning to recognise what your own skin needs. Discover our Nourishing Facial Oil Part of the Harmony Collection, our Nourishing Facial Oil is a lovely addition when your skin is craving a little extra comfort and nourishment. Formulated with a blend of natural oils including Argan, Avocado and Jojoba Oils, just a few drops can be worked into your routine to help leave skin feeling soft, conditioned and beautifully nourished. Discover the Nourishing Facial Oil → The Skin School Takeaway My Turkey trip taught me something very simple: Your holiday skincare doesn't need to contain everything in your bathroom — but don't forget the products your skin genuinely misses when they're gone. For me, facial oil is one of them. So alongside your cleanser, moisturiser and all-important sun protection, you might just want to save a little space in that cosmetics bag for your facial oil too. And hopefully you'll avoid coming home feeling quite as much like the dried-up leather boot that I did. 😂☀️
Exfoliate, Exfoliate Exfoliate!!
  • Posted on
Exfoliate, Exfoliate Exfoliate!!
Exfoliation: The Secret to Smoother, Brighter-Looking Skin If there’s one skincare step I’ve had countless conversations about during my years as a beauty therapist, it’s exfoliation. Some people love it. Some forget about it completely. And others exfoliate so enthusiastically that their skin would probably quite like them to stop. 😂 So where does exfoliation actually fit into a healthy skincare routine? What is exfoliation? Your skin naturally renews itself, with older skin cells gradually being shed from its surface as newer cells move through the epidermis. Sometimes those surface cells can contribute to skin feeling rough, dull or uneven. Exfoliation helps remove some of this build-up from the skin's surface, which can leave it feeling smoother and looking fresher and more radiant. Physical vs chemical exfoliation There are different ways to exfoliate. Physical exfoliation uses fine particles or textured ingredients to manually remove surface build-up as you gently massage the product over the skin. Chemical exfoliation uses ingredients such as AHAs or BHAs to loosen the bonds between surface skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. Neither method is automatically better — what matters is choosing an exfoliation method appropriate for your skin and your routine. Do you need to exfoliate every week? Not necessarily. This is one bit of skincare advice where more definitely isn't always better. How frequently you exfoliate depends on your skin type, the exfoliant you're using and what other active ingredients are already in your routine. Over-exfoliating can leave skin feeling tight, sensitive, sore or irritated — precisely the opposite of what we're trying to achieve. Start gently, follow the directions for your particular product and pay attention to how your skin responds. My Sunday skincare ritual Sunday evening has always been my little pamper night — bath running, skincare to hand and some time set aside to properly look after my skin. I start with our Foaming Face Wash from the Harmony Collection to cleanse my skin. Then, when my skin needs exfoliation, I use the Face & Body Scrub, massaging it gently over the skin without applying lots of pressure. Afterwards, I continue with the rest of my routine and finish with a few drops of our Nourishing Facial Oil for an extra layer of nourishment, leaving my skin feeling soft, smooth and comfortable. It's a simple ritual, but having that regular time set aside helps me stay consistent with my skincare. Discover the Foaming Face Wash →Discover the Face & Body Scrub →Discover the Nourishing Facial Oil → Where does facial oil fit? If your skin enjoys facial oils, they can be a lovely final nourishing step after your other skincare. Our Nourishing Facial Oil, from the Harmony Collection, can help condition and soften the skin and is particularly lovely when your complexion is craving a little extra comfort. Discover the Nourishing Facial Oil → The Skin School Takeaway Exfoliation can be a useful part of a skincare routine, particularly when skin is feeling rough or looking dull — but you don't need to scrub your skin into submission to make it glow. 😂 Gentle, appropriate exfoliation combined with cleansing, hydration, moisturising and daily sun protection is a much better approach. Listen to your skin, choose products suited to it and remember: Healthy-looking skin doesn't come from doing the most. It comes from doing what your skin actually needs. 🤍 Explore the Harmony Collection →
Summer Skin: How to Enjoy the Sun Safely
  • Posted on
Summer Skin: How to Enjoy the Sun Safely
Summer Skin: How to Enjoy the Sun Safely I don't know about you, but when summer arrives, we're always ready for brighter days, holidays and a little more time outdoors. ☀️ But while we all love healthy, glowing-looking skin, protecting it from UV exposure should always come first. There is no such thing as a safe UV tan. A tan is actually a sign that the skin has responded to UV damage, which is why good sun protection is about enjoying the sunshine while reducing unnecessary exposure. Why is sun protection so important? SunburnSunburn isn't simply uncomfortable. It is a sign that the skin has been damaged by UV radiation, and repeated sunburn increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Premature signs of ageingUV exposure can contribute to visible changes in the skin over time, including wrinkles, loss of firmness and changes in pigmentation. Protecting your skin isn't therefore just something to think about on holiday — it's an important part of caring for your skin long term. Uneven pigmentationSun exposure can also contribute to changes in pigmentation and areas of uneven-looking skin tone. Daily sun protection is particularly important if pigmentation is already one of your skincare concerns. How to enjoy the sun safely Choose broad-spectrum sun protectionUse sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and good UVA protection. In the UK, look for four or five UVA stars or the UVA symbol inside a circle. Apply generously and regularly. Remember to reapplySunscreen isn't something you apply once in the morning and forget about. NHS guidance recommends reapplying at least every two hours, and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Seek shade and cover upSunscreen should be used alongside other forms of protection. In the UK, try to spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest — particularly between 11am and 3pm — and use clothing, a hat and UV-protective sunglasses where appropriate. Check the UV indexDon't judge UV strength simply by how hot it feels. You can still experience damaging UV exposure on cooler or cloudy days. Checking the UV index can help you know when additional protection is needed. Stay hydratedWarm weather can mean losing more fluid, particularly when you're active or spending time outdoors, so remember to drink regularly throughout the day. And what about that summer glow? If you love the appearance of a tan, a cosmetic self-tan or spray tan is a safer alternative to deliberately tanning in the sun or using a sunbed. Just remember that fake tan doesn't provide UV protection, so you'll still need your usual sun protection. The Skin School Takeaway Summer skincare doesn't need to be complicated. Protect your skin. Seek shade. Reapply your SPF. Keep hydrated. And enjoy the sunshine without deliberately chasing a UV tan. Healthy-looking skin isn't about how deeply you can tan — it's about looking after the skin you're in. 🤍