Beyond the Skincare Shelf: How to Improve Your Skin Without Products or Treatments

Beyond the Skincare Shelf: How to Improve Your Skin Without Products or Treatments

Beyond the Skincare Shelf: How to Improve Your Skin Without Products or Treatments

We often think that great skin starts and ends with what we put on it, serums, cleansers, masks, and moisturisers. And while these can make a big difference, the truth is that healthy, glowing skin begins much deeper than that.

Your skin is a reflection of what’s happening inside your body, your nutrition, stress levels, sleep, hormones, and lifestyle all play a role in how it looks and feels.

Here are some powerful ways to support your skin’s health that have nothing to do with skincare bottles or salon treatments.

Nourish Your Skin From the Inside Out

What you eat truly shows on your skin. Nutrient-rich foods can help your body repair, protect, and rejuvenate skin cells naturally.

Try to include:

  • Healthy fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, and oily fish – these keep your skin soft, hydrated, and glowing.

  • Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, spinach, and dark chocolate – they protect your skin from environmental stress and early ageing.

  • Protein – essential for collagen production and skin repair.

  • Plenty of water – hydration starts from within.

Small, consistent dietary improvements can transform your skin over time, it’s one of the simplest (and most natural) ways to achieve a healthier complexion.

Manage Stress

Your skin and mind are deeply connected. When we’re stressed, our bodies produce more cortisol, which can increase oil production, trigger breakouts, and slow down healing.

Try to find ways to calm your body and mind daily, even for just 10 minutes.
This could be a walk in nature, breathwork, reading, or journaling. Remember, looking after your emotional health is just as important as caring for your skin barrier.

Get Enough Sleep

There’s a reason it’s called “beauty sleep.” During the night, your body repairs and regenerates skin cells. Lack of rest can make your complexion look dull, tired, or inflamed.

Aim for 7–9 hours of good-quality sleep each night, and create a calming bedtime routine that helps you unwind. Try to limit screen time before bed and use that time to stretch, read, or simply rest your mind.

Move Your Body

Exercise boosts blood flow, bringing oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells and helping to flush out toxins. You don’t need to do intense workouts, even light movement like walking, yoga, or swimming can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s glow and tone.

Plus, exercise helps manage stress and supports hormone balance, both key factors in maintaining clear, radiant skin.

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

Even when you’re not using skincare, SPF is non-negotiable. Sun exposure is the number one cause of premature ageing, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity.
Make sunscreen part of your everyday routine, it’s the simplest and most effective way to preserve your skin’s health and youth.

Focus on Consistency, Not Perfection

Healthy skin is about small, everyday habits that add up over time, not perfection or quick fixes.
When you nourish your body, manage stress, stay hydrated, and get enough rest, you’re setting the foundation for any skin care or treatment to work even better.


Combine Inside and Outside Care

At The Skin Studio by Sadie Hancock, I believe in treating the skin holistically, combining professional treatments with lifestyle guidance to help you feel confident in your skin from the inside out.

When you care for your body and mind, your skin will thank you and the results will go far beyond what any product can achieve alone.

Final Thought

Your skin is a mirror of your overall well being. So while good products and treatments play a role, real transformation comes from balance and nourishing yourself both inside and out.

Start with one small change this week, drink more water, take a mindful walk, or add more greens to your meals. Your skin will respond in the most beautiful way.

Keep Glowing

Sadie x

What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Appointment

What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Appointment

What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Appointment

 Microblading has become one of the most popular semi-permanent makeup techniques for those seeking perfect brows with minimal effort. Whether you’re tired of filling in your brows daily or want a more defined, fuller look, microblading offers a solution that enhances your natural beauty. But if you’re new to microblading, you might be wondering what to expect from the process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you feel fully prepared for your first appointment and beyond.

Before Your Microblading Appointment

The success of your microblading procedure depends a lot on how you prepare for it. Here’s how to get ready:

  1. Do Your Research:
    • Choose a reputable and experienced microblading artist. Look for someone with solid reviews, a good portfolio of before-and-after photos, and proper licensing or certification. Microblading is a delicate procedure that requires a skilled hand for the best results.
  2. Consultation:
    • Most microblading specialists offer an initial consultation. During this time, you’ll discuss the look you want to achieve, including shape, colour, and fullness. Your artist will assess your natural brow shape and your facial structure to suggest the best brow style for you. Be honest about your preferences and concerns.
  3. Avoid Certain Products and Activities:
    • About one week before your appointment, avoid skincare products that contain retinoids, AHA/BHA acids, or any exfoliants around your brows. These can thin your skin and may cause irritation during the microblading process.
    • For at least 24 hours before your appointment, avoid alcohol and caffeine. Both can thin the blood, leading to increased bleeding, which can impact how well the pigment adheres to your skin.
  4. Arrive With Bare Skin:
    • On the day of your appointment, show up with clean, makeup-free skin. This ensures that your artist has a clear view of your natural brow shape and can work without any interference from cosmetics.

During the Appointment

The microblading procedure itself typically takes around 2-3 hours. Here’s a breakdown of what happens:

  1. Brow Mapping:
    • Using a specialised tool, your artist will measure and outline the ideal shape for your brows. This process is known as brow mapping, and it ensures that your brows are symmetrical and suited to your facial features.
  2. Choosing the Colour:
    • The pigment used for microblading is carefully selected to match your natural brow colour and skin tone. Your artist will work with you to find the perfect shade that complements your overall look. 
  3. The Microblading Process:
    • Your artist will begin the microblading process, this involves using a handheld tool with tiny needles to create hair-like strokes that mimic the look of natural brow hairs. The strokes are filled with pigment, creating a fuller, more defined brow.
  4. Reviewing the Results:
    • Once the procedure is complete, you’ll be able to review your new brows. This is the time to make any final adjustments if necessary.
Top 5 Benefits of Microblading: Why It’s the Best Option for Perfect Brows

Top 5 Benefits of Microblading: Why It’s the Best Option for Perfect Brows

Top 5 Benefits of Microblading: Why It’s the Best Option for Perfect Brows

Are you tired of spending time each morning trying to shape and fill in your brows? Whether you’re dealing with sparse, uneven, or over-plucked eyebrows, microblading is a game-changer for those looking to achieve full, perfectly shaped brows without the daily hassle. This semi-permanent makeup technique has gained popularity for its natural, long-lasting results, and it’s easy to see why.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 benefits of microblading and why it’s the best option for achieving your dream brows.

1. Natural-Looking Results

One of the biggest advantages of microblading is how natural the results look. Unlike traditional eyebrow tattoos, which can appear solid and harsh, microblading uses fine, hair-like strokes that mimic the appearance of real eyebrow hairs. The pigment is carefully matched to your natural brow color, allowing the strokes to blend seamlessly with your existing hairs. The result is a set of fuller, beautifully defined brows that enhance your facial features without looking artificial.

Because each stroke is applied by hand with a precision tool, your brow artist can create a customized shape and fullness that complements your unique facial structure. Whether you prefer a soft, subtle look or bold, dramatic arches, microblading offers endless possibilities for tailoring your brows to your personal style.

2. Long-Lasting Results

Say goodbye to the daily ritual of filling in your brows with pencils, powders, and gels! Microblading delivers long-lasting results that can last up to 12-18 months, depending on your skin type and lifestyle. While daily makeup routines can take time and effort, microblading provides you with brows that look perfect around the clock—whether you’re just waking up, heading to the gym, or relaxing at the beach.

After the initial procedure, a touch-up session is typically recommended within 4-6 weeks to refine the shape and color. After that, you can enjoy your new brows for over a year before needing any maintenance, freeing up time in your daily beauty routine.

3. Saves Time and Effort

If you’re someone who spends a lot of time in front of the mirror trying to perfect your brows, microblading can be a total time-saver. Imagine waking up every morning with beautifully shaped brows, ready to go. You’ll no longer need to invest time in applying and removing brow makeup, and you can skip those frustrating moments of trying to get both brows to match.

For busy professionals, moms on-the-go, or anyone who prefers a minimal makeup routine, microblading simplifies your daily beauty regimen. It’s also perfect for active individuals who don’t want their brows to smudge or fade while working out or swimming.

4. Boosts Confidence

Your eyebrows play a crucial role in framing your face and highlighting your eyes. When your brows look great, it can enhance your overall appearance, making you feel more confident and put together—even on no-makeup days. For those with naturally thin or uneven brows, or anyone who has lost brow hair due to age, illness, or over-plucking, microblading can provide a much-needed confidence boost.

Microblading allows you to achieve your ideal brow shape, helping to balance your facial features and draw attention to your best assets. You’ll feel more confident in your everyday look, knowing that your brows are always on point.

5. Customizable for Every Face Shape and Style

Every person’s face is unique, and the beauty of microblading lies in its versatility. Unlike a one-size-fits-all approach, microblading is fully customizable, allowing your artist to design the perfect brow shape, arch, and thickness based on your facial features and personal style. During your consultation, your artist will use a technique called brow mapping to measure and outline the most flattering shape for your face.

Whether you want a soft, natural look or a more defined, bold brow, microblading can be tailored to your preferences. This level of personalization ensures that you get the exact look you want, enhancing your beauty in the most flattering way possible.

Bonus Benefit: Minimal Maintenance

Once your microblading is complete and fully healed, the upkeep is minimal. You may need to book a touch-up session once a year to maintain the pigment’s vibrancy, but other than that, there’s no need for daily grooming or frequent maintenance appointments. Simply follow your artist’s aftercare instructions, and enjoy your flawless brows!

Essential Aftercare Tips for Newly Microbladed Brows

Essential Aftercare Tips for Newly Microbladed Brows

Essential Aftercare Tips for Newly Microbladed Brows

You’ve just had your microblading session, and your brows look flawless—but the journey to perfect, long-lasting brows doesn’t end in the salon. Aftercare plays a crucial role in how well your new brows heal and how vibrant the pigment will remain over time. Proper aftercare ensures that your brows stay sharp, natural-looking, and beautifully defined for months to come.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential aftercare tips for microblading, so you can protect your investment and enjoy your brows at their best.

1. Keep Your Brows Dry for the First 7-10 Days

One of the most important things to remember after microblading is to keep your brows dry during the initial healing period. Water can interfere with the pigment and cause it to fade prematurely.

What to Avoid:

  • No direct water on the brows: This means no washing your face in the shower or submerging your brows in water.
  • Avoid sweating: Activities that cause excessive sweating (like exercise, saunas, and hot yoga) should be avoided for at least a week, as sweat can open your pores and affect pigment retention.
  • No swimming: Pools, hot tubs, and saltwater can all irritate healing brows.

How to Wash Your Face:

When washing your face, use a gentle cleanser and a soft cloth to clean around your brow area. Be extra cautious to avoid getting any water on your brows.


2. Avoid Touching or Picking at Your Brows

During the healing process, your brows will go through several stages, including slight scabbing or flaking. While this may be tempting, it’s crucial not to touch, pick, or scratch your brows, as this can lead to pigment loss or even infection.

What to Expect During Healing:

  • Initial darkness: Right after your session, your brows will appear darker and more defined than the final result. This is normal, and the pigment will soften as it heals.
  • Scabbing and peeling: Around days 5-7, light scabbing or peeling may occur. Let these flakes fall off naturally to avoid damaging the delicate skin underneath.

By avoiding picking at your brows, you’ll ensure that the pigment sets evenly, resulting in a smoother, more even look.


3. Apply Aftercare Ointment as Directed

Your artist will likely provide or recommend a specialized aftercare ointment designed to keep your brows hydrated and promote healing. This ointment acts as a protective barrier, helping to prevent infection and retain moisture in the skin.

How to Apply the Ointment:

  • Use a clean cotton swab or your (sanitized) fingertips to gently apply a thin layer of ointment over your brows.
  • Apply the ointment sparingly; too much product can clog the pores and slow the healing process.
  • Follow the application schedule given by your artist, which is usually once or twice a day for about a week.

4. Stay Out of Direct Sunlight

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause your microbladed brows to fade more quickly, especially during the healing period. The sun’s UV rays can break down the pigment and impact the final color and longevity of your brows.

How to Protect Your Brows:

  • Stay out of the sun as much as possible for the first 7-10 days.
  • If you need to be outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat or large sunglasses to shield your brows from direct sunlight.
  • After your brows have healed, continue to protect them with sunscreen. Apply a gentle, SPF-rated product to your brows daily to help preserve the pigment and color.

5. Avoid Makeup and Skincare Products on the Brow Area

During the healing process, it’s important to avoid applying makeup, lotions, or other skincare products to the brow area. These products can clog the delicate, healing skin and interfere with the pigment setting.

What to Skip:

  • Brow makeup: Avoid filling in your brows with pencils or powders for at least 10 days.
  • Skincare products: Keep products like anti-aging serums, exfoliants, and retinoids away from the brow area.
  • Facial treatments: Avoid facials, chemical peels, and any exfoliating treatments for at least 2 weeks after your microblading session.

Once your brows have fully healed, you can return to your regular skincare and makeup routine, but it’s best to keep the brow area makeup-free while it’s healing.


6. Schedule a Touch-Up Appointment

Your initial microblading session is just the first step toward achieving your ideal brows. A follow-up touch-up appointment, typically scheduled 4-6 weeks after the first session, is necessary to perfect the shape and color of your brows.

Why Touch-Ups Are Important:

  • Microblading is a two-step process, and the touch-up allows your artist to fill in any areas where the pigment may have faded during healing.
  • It ensures your brows look even, defined, and fully healed for long-lasting results.

After this touch-up session, you’ll only need maintenance appointments every 12-18 months to keep your brows looking fresh.


7. Be Patient with the Healing Process

Your brows will go through several changes during the healing period, and it’s normal for them to look darker or uneven at first. The final results won’t be fully visible until about 4 weeks after your session, so be patient as the pigment settles and your skin heals.

What to Expect:

  • Days 1-4: Brows appear dark, bold, and slightly swollen.
  • Days 5-10: Scabbing, peeling, and itching occur as the skin heals.
  • Days 10-14: Brows begin to lighten and soften as the pigment settles.
  • Week 4: Final results are visible, with beautifully healed, natural-looking brows.

Final Thoughts

Microblading offers stunning, long-lasting results, but proper aftercare is key to ensuring your brows heal beautifully and retain their color and shape. By following these aftercare tips—keeping your brows dry, applying ointment as directed, avoiding the sun, and being patient during the healing process—you’ll enjoy perfect, effortlessly beautiful brows for months to come.

If you’re unsure about any part of your aftercare routine or have questions during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your microblading artist for guidance. With the right care, your new brows will be a flawless feature you can enjoy every day!

Ready to experience the magic of microblading? Book your appointment today!

How to Extend the Life of Your Microbladed Brows: Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Results

How to Extend the Life of Your Microbladed Brows: Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Results

How to Extend the Life of Your Microbladed Brows: Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Microblading can give you beautifully defined, natural-looking brows that last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. But how can you ensure that your investment lasts as long as possible? By following a few simple tips and making small adjustments to your routine, you can help extend the life of your microbladed brows and keep them looking fresh and vibrant for months.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential steps you can take to prolong the life of your microblading results.

1. Follow Aftercare Instructions Carefully

The first step in ensuring long-lasting results starts immediately after your microblading session. Your technician will provide you with aftercare instructions, and following them diligently is key to preserving your pigment and overall brow shape.

Key Aftercare Tips:
– Keep your brows dry for the first 7-10 days.
– Avoid touching, picking, or scratching your brows as they heal.
– Apply the aftercare ointment (if recommended) as instructed.
– Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid activities that make you sweat excessively.

By following these guidelines, you give your brows the best chance to heal properly, which lays the foundation for lasting results.

2. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure

One of the biggest threats to the longevity of your microbladed brows is exposure to the sun. UV rays can break down the pigment in your brows, causing them to fade faster.

How to Protect Your Brows:
– Avoid direct sun exposure, especially during the first few weeks of healing.
– Wear a wide-brimmed hat or large sunglasses to shield your brows from the sun.
– After the healing period, apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your brows when outdoors. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid irritating the skin.

Even after your brows have fully healed, sun protection will go a long way in maintaining the pigment and shape of your brows.

3. Limit Exposure to Water and Sweat

While it’s fine to resume your normal activities after your brows have healed, excessive exposure to water and sweat can still cause the pigment to fade over time.

Ways to Protect Your Brows:
– When swimming, try to avoid submerging your face or rubbing your brows.
– Wear a sweatband or towel to keep sweat from dripping onto your brows during workouts.
– Avoid using harsh cleansers or exfoliating products directly on your brow area.

By taking extra care to keep your brows away from water and sweat, you can help the pigment last longer and maintain its vibrancy.

4. Avoid Skincare Products with Harsh Ingredients

Certain skincare ingredients can fade your microblading pigment if used on or near your brows. Exfoliants, retinoids, and acids (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) are especially likely to accelerate fading.

Ingredients to Avoid:
– Retinoids (Retin-A, retinol)
– Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
– Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)
– Vitamin C serums
– Chemical peels

When applying skincare products, be mindful of your brow area. Use a gentle cleanser on your face and avoid applying any treatments or serums directly to your brows.

5. Schedule Regular Touch-Ups

Even with the best care, microblading is a semi-permanent procedure, and the pigment will naturally fade over time. To keep your brows looking fresh and defined, schedule touch-up appointments as needed.

Most people find that a touch-up every 12-18 months keeps their brows looking perfect. During these touch-ups, your technician will fill in any faded areas and can even make adjustments to the shape or color, ensuring your brows stay on point.

6. Avoid Excessive Exfoliation in the Brow Area

Frequent exfoliation can thin the top layer of skin where the microblading pigment is deposited, leading to faster fading. Whether it’s from scrubs, chemical peels, or harsh facial treatments, exfoliation can wear down the skin and take the pigment with it.

Tips to Protect Your Brows:
– Be gentle when washing your face, especially around your brow area.
– Skip the brow area when using exfoliating scrubs or acids on your face.
– Opt for gentle facial treatments if you’re prone to regular skincare treatments.

By minimising exfoliation in the brow area, you help preserve the pigment and ensure that your brows stay defined and vibrant.

7. Stay Hydrated and Keep Your Skin Moisturised

Healthy skin is essential for the longevity of your microblading results. Keeping your skin hydrated helps retain the pigment and prevents your brows from fading too quickly.

Skincare Tips for Hydration:
– Drink plenty of water daily to keep your skin and brows hydrated from within.
– Use a gentle, non-greasy moisturiser on your face to keep your skin nourished.
– Avoid heavy, oil-based products on the brow area, as they can break down the pigment over time.

Hydrated skin heals better, holds onto pigment longer, and helps maintain the overall appearance of your brows.

8. Be Mindful of Your Lifestyle

Certain lifestyle habits can affect the longevity of your microblading results. Activities like smoking, excessive sun exposure, and exposure to pollution can cause your brows to fade more quickly.

Tips for a Brow-Friendly Lifestyle:
– Quit or reduce smoking, as it can negatively impact your skin’s health and the retention of pigment.
– Stay out of tanning beds and minimise sun exposure as much as possible.
– Practice a consistent skincare routine that promotes healthy, hydrated skin.

Making small adjustments to your lifestyle can have a big impact on how long your microbladed brows last.

Final Thoughts

Microblading can give you beautiful, low-maintenance brows, but it’s up to you to take care of them to ensure long-lasting results. By following these pro tips—protecting your brows from the sun, limiting exposure to water, avoiding harsh skincare ingredients, and scheduling regular touch-ups—you can keep your brows looking flawless for as long as possible.

Want to keep your brows looking their best? Schedule your touch-up appointment or consultation with Sadie Hancock today!