To say our skin has been on a rollercoaster since the pandemic started is an understatement.

Your skin has missed its usual vitamin D dosage (thanks to all those hours spent inside at home), and the constant mask wearing has left your pores a little worse for wear. 

Your skin needs some TLC, so let's get into the top three zero-effect skincare hacks that will help your skin get back to its former glory.

#1: Introduce Retinol into your routine

A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is a no-brainer to add to your skincare routine. Why? Because it's a product that actually works to reduce the early signs of ageing (aka, those pesky fine lines you've started to notice).

Think of retinol as a exfoliant that helps to increase skin cell turnover. It's actually such a fine molecule that it's able to go deeper than the top layer of your skin (the epidermis), and work it's magic on the layer of skin beneath it too (the dermis).

There are many different retinol-based products out there, and a word of warning: it does have a reputation of being quite drying if overused. Do you research - ask your GP for advice, or reach out to a dermatologist for the best approach to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine.

#2: Experiment with K Skincare

Eastern skincare traditions (particularly Korean skincare) are becoming more and more mainstream in the western world, and for good reason: they'll help you achieve the glowy skin you're after.

Rooted in centuries of tradition and created with natural ingredients, Korean skincare is often high-quality and free of the harsh chemicals that could contribute to poor skin health.

Cult brands such as Krave Beauty (Great Barrier Relief is a Silvi office fave!) and Peach & Lily are great additions to start experimenting with.

#3: Always use sun protection

Keen to give your skin the opportunity to be the best it can be? Pro tip: never forget to apply sunscreen. A good rule of thumb is to apply 15-20 minutes before going outdoors, and if you're wearing makeup, always remember: skincare first, sunscreen second, makeup last.

Silvi sunscreen faves include fellow Aussie brand Ultra Violette's Queen Screen 50+ SPF, and La Rosche Posay's Anthelios Invisible Fluid for those with sensitive skin.