Category Archives: Seasonal SKin Care

Winter Skin, Perfected: Hydration Systems for Mature and Dry Skin

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Deep Canadian winter tests even the most resilient skin. Cold winds, indoor heating, and dry air can leave your face tight, dull, and reactive. The good news, you can restore comfort and luminosity with a smart hydration
system tailored for mature or very dry complexions.

Hydration vs. Moisture, what your skin needs today
* Dehydration is a lack of water in the skin. You will notice tightness, fine crepey lines, and makeup that suddenly looks patchy. Look for humectants such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and soothing polysaccharides.nThink water-binding serums and mists.
* Dryness is a lack of oil or lipids. Skin feels rough, looks dull or flaky, and loses suppleness. You need emollients and occlusives such as shea butter, squalane, ceramides, and nourishing oils to seal in hydration and rebuild your barrier.
Many mature complexions are both dehydrated and dry in winter. Solution, pair a water-binding serum with a richer, lipid-dense cream. This two-part system replenishes water, then locks it in for all-day comfort.

Your winter routine, step by step
Here is a simple blueprint you can personalize based on sensitivity and firmness goals.
1) Gentle cleanse, without stripping.
Use Gernetic Glyco Milk and Fibro Toner at night.
Mornings, choose a soft, non-stripping cleanser or rinse with lukewarm water if you are very dry. Suggested product: Sothys Morning Cleanser. Over-cleansing increases winter tightness.

2) Smart exfoliation for smoothness and glow
Enzymes are your winter ally. France Laure Enzymatic Fruit Exfoliant uses fruit enzymes to gently digest dead cells without scrubbing. Start once weekly and increase to twice weekly if you tolerate it well.

3) Targeted serum for deep hydration and firmness
Choose a serum that addresses both water loss and elasticity.
* Hydration support, look for hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and soothing agents to plump fine dehydration lines. A dedicated hydration serum replenishes water quickly; consider a daily hydration serum under your cream for lasting comfort.
* Firmness support, peptides and regenerating actives help maintain bounce in cold, dry air. If your skin tolerates actives, a peptide forward wrinkle serum used a few nights per week can complement your hydrating base.
* Radiance and glow, if dullness is your main concern, a glow serum layered under your cream can restore light to the complexion while staying gentle.
Tip: on very dry days, cocktail two drops of hydration serum with two drops of your firming or radiance serum in your palm, then press into damp skin.

4) Nourishing cream to seal and cushion
For mature winter skin, choose a cream that brings both lipids and firming benefits. Sothys Redensifying Youth Cream supports density with a plush, comfortable finish. Prefer a richer cocoon, a luxurious skin-firming
cream texture will deliver more cushion at night. If your cheeks are dry but T zone is normal, apply a thinner layer to the centre and slightly more to the perimeter.
If you are exploring options, our collection of products for dry skin is a helpful place to start.

5) Day protection against wind and cold
Even on grey winter days, your skin needs a protective final layer. Gernetic TROPO PLUS or MARINE DAY BASE creates a breathable shield against wind, cold, and environmental stressors. Apply as your last step over
moisturizer in the morning. If you will be outdoors for long stretches, reapply a thin layer to exposed areas before heading out.

Final tips for calm, firm, glowing winter skin
* Keep water in, apply serums and creams on slightly damp skin.
* Short, lukewarm showers protect your barrier.
* Humidify your bedroom to help skin and sleep.
* If irritation appears, pause exfoliation and lean into soothing masks and protective creams.
Ready for a tailored plan, book a free virtual skincare consultation. For curated picks that suit the season, explore our products for dry skin,
Consider a hydration serum if you feel tightness by midday, or add a radiance serum when your complexion looks dull. Your winter skin can feel cushioned, look luminous, and stay comfortable all day.


Brighten by Day, Renew by Night

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Brighten by day, renew by night. This winter, pair a vitamin C serum each morning with retinol in the evening to keep skin radiant, resilient, and comfortable in the cold.

Why it works: antioxidants help defend against daily stressors and boost glow, while retinol supports smoother texture and visible firmness over time.

For a targeted night treatment, Sothys Retinol Dermobooster is a refined option to address signs of aging.

In the morning, follow your cleanse with Sothys Ultra-C Dermobooster , then layer hydrating serum and cream to cushion the skin.

How to apply retinol: • Use at night only, starting 2–3 evenings per week, then increase as your skin allows. • Sandwich with moisturizer for comfort. Apply a thin layer of cream, add your retinol, then seal with another light layer. • Keep retinol away from the delicate eye contour and remember daily SPF.

Reveal Smoother, Brighter Skin
Get $25 OFF Sothys Retinol Dermobooster + Ultra-C Serum
Min. $100 • Ends Jan 15, 2026 Coupon code : SOTHYS25

Want help tailoring the routine to your skin type or sensitivity level? Book your free virtual skincare consultation and we’ll guide you to the right vitamin C pairing and the best way to introduce Sothys Retinol Dermobooster with confidence.

Illuminate Your Complexion: A European-Inspired Guide to Radiant Skin

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Uneven tone, dull patches, or lingering spots? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to settle. Achieving a luminous, balanced complexion is possible at any age with the right ingredients, routine, and a touch of European elegance.

Why Skin Tone Becomes Uneven

Factors like sun exposure, aging, pollution, and hormonal changes disrupt pigment distribution and cellular turnover, leading to blotchiness and dullness.

European-Inspired Steps to Radiance

1. Gentle Exfoliation
Exfoliate 2–3 times weekly with enzyme masks or lactic acid cleansers to reveal fresh, even skin—without irritation.

2. Daily Antioxidants
A vitamin C serum defends against free radicals and promotes clarity. Apply under moisturizer every morning for visible brightness.

3. Targeted Brightening Serums
Look for niacinamide, licorice root, and arbutin to gently fade dark spots and even tone. European spa-grade formulas prioritize results with sensitivity in mind.

4. Deep Hydration
Hydrated skin reflects light more evenly. A rich, mature-skin moisturizer is key to enhancing radiance.

5. Daily Sun Protection
Never skip SPF. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can undo your progress. Lightweight European sunscreens combine elegance and efficacy.

Can You Achieve Even Skin at Any Age?

Yes—with patience, quality ingredients, and consistency. If discoloration persists, a personalized virtual consultation can refine your routine.

Discover Brightening Solutions at The European Touch

We curate premium European brightening serums and moisturizers tailored to sensitive and mature skin. Pair them for exceptional results—and take advantage of our monthly promotions for exclusive savings.

Glow begins here. Explore our collection and embrace your most radiant complexion yet.

Hello, sunshine! Ready to glow this season?

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As the days get longer and the sun gets stronger, it’s the perfect time to refresh your skincare routine. Whether you’re soaking up rays or just loving the warmer weather, your skin deserves a little seasonal TLC. Here’s a simple AM & PM routine to help you stay fresh, hydrated, and glowing:                
Morning Routine
Glyco Milk – Wash away overnight buildup without stripping your skin.
Fibro Lotion – A refreshing prep step that balances and revives
Cells Life Serum – deep moisturizing and nourishing
Marine Day Cream or Tropo Plus– Keep it dewy, not greasy.
Melano30 – Your skin’s best friend. Every. Single. Day.           
Evening Routine (PM)
Glyco Milk & Fibro Lotion – Melt away SPF, sweat, and impurities.
Ger Peel Exfoliant (2-3x/week) – Gently remove dead skin for a smoother texture. Concentrated Repairer Serum – Think regenerating, soothing overnight treatment. Synchro Cream – Renew, repair and soothe while you sleep.

✨ Bonus Tip:
Don’t forget your neck, chest, and hands—they show signs of sun damage too.

Shop the Routine Now & Grab 25% discount on all Routine Products.
Let’s make this your glow-up season. With love,
The European Touch

Hydration is Key – Especially in Winter

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Drinking water hydrates the body’s cells, reaching as deep as the dermis layer of the skin via blood vessels. However, the outer skin layer (epidermis) requires external hydration to stay moisturized. Harsh winter weather can dehydrate the skin, emphasizing the need for topical hydration.

3 Tips to keep your skin happy and hydrated:

  1. Leave your toner damp on your skin. Use an alcohol-free toner and let your skin enjoy the benefits of humectants and water in the toner. Skin becomes soft and dewy.
  2. Use a serum under the moisturizer. This will take moisturizing to another level. Look for hyaluronic acid, glycerin and panthenol.
  3. Try a gel based mask. Any moisturizing mask will do.

Hydration is imperative to both dry and oily skins. Dry skin needs an oil based moisturizer, while oily skin will benefit from a water based moisturizer. Before deciding on a moisturizer, make sure you know your skin type.

If you are not sure, don’t hesitate to ask for a free virtual consultation.

5 Mistakes to Avoid in Winter Skin Care

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  1. Skipping Sunscreen
    Even in winter, UVA rays can damage skin, causing premature aging. They can penetrate clouds and windows, so apply sunscreen daily to all exposed skin, including your neck and chest, to protect against UV damage and moisture loss.
  2. Over-Moisturizing with the Wrong Product
    Thick moisturizers may seem like a quick fix for dryness, but your skin can only absorb so much. Use a hydrating serum first, then a lighter moisturizer suited to your skin type. Choosing the right formula is key to avoiding clogged pores or breakouts.
  3. Using the Same Routine Year-Round
    As the seasons change, so do your skin’s needs. Winter skin care is different than the one you used in summer.Switch to gentler cleansers, add face oil, and exfoliate more regularly in winter to remove dry, dead skin and maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion.
  4. Leaving Skin Bare After Cleansing
    After cleansing, your skin is vulnerable to dehydration. Apply your next skincare product within 60 seconds to lock in moisture and prevent dryness, especially in the dry winter air. Winter skin care is all about protection from cold.
  5. Licking Your Lips
    Cold weather can dry out your lips, and licking them makes it worse by evaporating moisture. Use a hydrating lip balm instead, avoiding those with menthol, which can irritate already dry lips.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your skin smooth, hydrated, and glowing all winter long.

How do I Choose the Right Moisturizer for My Skin?

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Our skin contains both water and sebum (oil). Lack of adequate amount of water leads to dehydration, regardless of the oil content of the skin. Dehydration causes fine lines and wrinkles, flakiness and irritation.

Oily skin can be dehydrated just as much as dry or normal skin. This is why dehydrated oily skin may exhibit fine lines and flakiness, both caused by dehydration.

When choosing a moisturizer we need to consider the skin type.

Oily Skin needs a hydrator. Hydrators are hygroscopic compounds that attract and bind water. An occlusive moisturizer is also needed in conjunction with the hydrator to protect against water loss. A good example that combines both hydrator and moisturizer is France Laure Balance Sebo-Control AM/PM Gel

Dry Skin can use both hydrators and moisturizers. A combination of both can help to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. A good example is Gernetic Tropo Plus Day Cream

Normal Skin can use either or both, depending on personal preference.

Sensitive Skin will benefit from gentle ingredients, like hyaluronic acid to deliver moisture without irritation. A good example is France Laure Calm Harmonizing Cream.

In order to enhance the hydrating results of any cream we suggest using a serum in conjuction with the cream of your choice. There are several serums that will work very well to that end. For example: Sothys Hydrating Serum, or Hyaluronic Time Erase Complex Serum by Ilike Organics.

Hydrating our skin becomes even more important now, as the cold days are upon us. I already pulled out the humidifier from storage in anticipation. It is also a good time to take stock of our skin care products and adjust the daily regime for winter.

Four Skin Care Mistakes

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Popping a zit

It’s always tempting to pop that pesky pimple when it raises its sebaceous head, but the best advice is to leave that urge alone.When you try to pop the pimple, you may end up pushing the P.acnes infection deeper down the oil glands and layers of the skin. This would lead to newer pimples and scarring. Instead, use an ice cube off and on the bump for 20-30 seconds to bring down inflammation. Use a spot treatment containing ingredients like benzyl peroxide, sulphur or salicylic acid. Apply a pimple patch, hydrocolloid patches that draw out the pus and oil from the pimple, while keeping the skin hydrated.

Keeping sunscreen at bay

Unprotected sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, early signs of aging, increased breakouts and worsening of acne marks. We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection, preventing early ageing and sunburn.

Using too many actives and over-exfoliating

In our quest for luminous, poreless skin, while scrubbing off the daily dirt and grime, we might be buffing our way to a damaged skin barrier. We advocate simplicity, using one active in your routine at a time. We recommend that you incorporate a basic AHA/BHA solution two times a week in your skincare regimen and build up on it. If you opt for a skin polish, we suggest using it once a week.

Not using skincare while travelling

A very common boo-boo is neglecting your skincare routine while travelling. Intense weather changes, the dehydrating air on the plane and photodamage due to sun exposure can lead to sensitivity and a compromised skin barrier. Pack skincare basics like a good cleanser, an antioxidant, a hydrating product and sun protection, which is mandatory. Also show your skin some TLC with pre-and post-travel masking to repair your skin.

Your Skin Care in Fall & Winter

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As the outside air cools and the heat starts to crank on indoors, you may notice your skin becoming flaky, maybe even a bit itchy. Welcome to fall and winter. Our skin is protective both by keeping moisture in and not allowing outside factors (germs and toxins) to penetrate and create damage. When temperatures drop, the air gets drier — both indoors and outdoors — and moisture gets pulled from the lipid barrier. Lack of moisture causes cells to clump together creating flaky, dry skin. And even if dry skin doesn’t really bother you, treating it “prevents itch, eczema and psoriasis flares, and potentially skin infections,” said Dr. Dina Strachan, a clinical assistant professor at N.Y.U. Grossman School of Medicine and a dermatologist in New York City. “Anyone can get eczema if your skin gets dry enough.” To keep your skin healthy and comfortable throughout the fall and winter, Dr. Craiglow said, it makes sense to change your skin care regimen now.

  • Avoid very hot showers and moisturize your damp skin right after.
  • Avoid perfumed lotions and creams.
  • If you wash your hands many times during the day, apply moisturizing lotion to keep skin protected from redness and flakiness.
  • Use a humidifier, but make sure the filter is cleaned often, since bacteria can grow in the humid environment.
  • Drink plenty of water and get good fats in your diet, like avocado, walnuts and olive oil, which can support a healthy lipid barrier.
  • Adjust your skin care routine to include rich, nourishing creams and avoiding alcohol based cleansers.

Each skin care routine is different. However, we should all adjust our routine in the fall, before the cold weather hits.

At The European Touch we would be happy to advise on product use and answer any skin related questions.
Book a virtual consultation and enjoy the benefits of FREE advice from with our highly experienced esthetician.
Wishing you all a happy and healthy October.

Mini-Routine for Sensitive & Delicate Skin

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In anticipation of the imminent cold weather, we suggest a home daily routine for sensitive skin.

1.Cleanse with Glyco Milk and Fibro Lotion

2. Apply GERnetic Sensi Boost Ampoule to immediately calm any discomfort and reduce redness

3. Lightly apply GERnetic Vasco Cream to improve micro-circulation and soothe the skin

4. Lightly apply GERnetic Cold Cream Mousse to reinforce the natural defenses of the skin, leaving it nourished, soothed and rebalanced.

Vitamin C – Your Best Ally against Sun Damage

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After months of being told to stay put, we want to go out and enjoy the fresh air and the sunshine. Our bodies are happy to receive Vitamin D from the sun, good for the bones, hair and general well being.

There is a problem, though. That is the risk we run of sun damage to our skin, in the form of sun spots, sunburn, dryness and ultimately premature skin aging. We can avoid most of these by using sunscreen and reducing extended exposure to the sun.

In the fight against skin sun damage, aside from sunscreen, Vitamin C serum is our best ally. Its effects on the deep skin layers is to increase the skin’s natural anti-oxidant properties, thus protecting it from sun damage.

The exceptional properties of Vitamin C are: skin brightening, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines, regenerate, revitalize, tone and anti-oxidant properties, lightening properties on pigmentary spots. 

We recommend France Laure C+ Detox Serum, formulated with:

  1. Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate – stable form of Vitamin C. lightening, brightening, stimulates collagen and elastin production, reduces melanin production, antioxidant, repairs skin after sun exposure

2. Marine DNA – counteracts free radicals, minimizes skin pores, refines skin texture

3. Essential oils of orange, mandarin & lemon – rich in vitamin C

4. Vitaminized complex ( A, C, E) – activates cellular regeneration, repairs, anti-oxidant

Try this Vitamin C Serum today and you’ll just love this “glow in a bottle” for the noticeable improvement in your skin appearance.

 

The Many Wonders of Vitamin C

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We all know about the general health benefits of vitamin C, but it’s not only great in our diet, but also in our skin care products. No wonder, since science tells us this wonder vitamin contains powerful anti-oxidants able to regenerate the skin.

Vitamin C promotes increased production of collagen, improving our skin’s quality and texture.  In addition, vitamin C inhibits production of an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is responsible for “converting tyrosine into melanin, thus preventing hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City notes that Vitamin C not only helps repair free radical damage, but it brightens the skin and helps fade dark spots, [too],” On top of that, it can improve skin firmness “which may help prevent fine lines,” she notes.

The best part is, that unlike some other buzzworthy skin care ingredients, it doesn’t come with a long list of precautions. “Vitamin C is generally safe, gentle and effective when used in skin care,” notes Dr. Jaliman.

Some Must-Try Vitamin C Products on our website:

Potent-C Power Serum by Peter Thomas Roth

Potent-C Power Eye Cream by Peter Thomas Roth

Potent-C Targeted Spot Brightener by Peter Thomas Roth

Protecting Skin in Winter

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Today I talked to one of our clients who lives on the East coast and she spoke of a nasty winter storm blowing in her neighbourhood. This conversation prompted a new blog on how to care for our skin in winter.

  1. Even in winter, when the sun seems to be hiding behind a cloud blanket, there are still enough UVA and UVB around to prompt the use of sunscreen.
  2. In cold temperatures we lose water via the skin, which becomes very dehydrated. You need a heavier moisturizer than the summer one, as well as a good body lotion. When skin dries it may flake, become itchy and even crack. The protective barrier is broken, then bacteria can easily create at least irritation, at worst infections.
  3. Try to drink two to four ounces of water every couple of hours throughout the day.
  4.  Your diet is critical. Make sure you have an adequate amount of essential fatty acids, as they are vital in helping maintain the moisture barrier.  Be sure to add good sources of essential fatty acids (EFAs) – salmon,  avocado, and almonds are great sources.
  5.  Dry, cold skin is the playground of free radicals. Make sure you continue to use antioxidants during the winter, as well as during the summer. Using products with vitamin C and vitamin E and taking these as oral supplements will enhance resistance to free radical damage.
  6. Avoid prolonged exposure to hot water, which, combined with aggressive soaps, can really tear up the skin barrier. Keep it short and set the water temperature only as hot as you need it to be.
  7.  Check the humidity of your home and workplace. If it falls below 60 percent, your skin will tend to lose more moisture. A humidifier, even a portable one, would be of great help in that case.
  8. Review your skin care routine and adjust it to include a gentle milk cleanser and toner, a heavier moisturizer than the summer one, and a nourishing night cream.

 

Sunscreen Facts

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Now summer is truly here, a few notes on sunscreen are just what the dermatologist ordered.

  1. You need to apply sunscreen every day – TRUE
  2. You need sunscreen even if it’s cloudy – TRUE
  3. You need to re-apply every 2 hours – ONLY IF YOU ARE OUTDOORS ( If you’re in the office all day no need to re-apply after the morning application)
  4. Sunscreen can be layered for better protection: moisturizer with SPF30 + foundation with SPF will work better that each one separately.
  5. Apply sunscreen liberally 30 minutes before going outside giving it time to absorb.
  6. Do invest in a chic sunhat, it looks great and adds protection.

Sensitive Skin Explained

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With winter fast approaching, sensitive skin is even more at risk of being irritated by harsh conditions.
True sensitive skin is triggered by sun exposure, fragrances, soaps, products, the weather, chemicals, inflammatory foods, and alcoholic beverages. It takes time to find the culprit and dermatologists specialize in patch testing and may test for over 100 different substances.

Rosacea is usually a constant once it appears. It is characterized by red flushing; small, visible capillaries; watery eyes; and small inflamed bumps; but it can be controlled. Take the necessary steps to treat rosacea before it becomes severe and avoid the triggers that exacerbate it.
Sensitized skin is much easier to determine and care for. Skin becomes sensitized from being exposed to harsh, too abrasive products, such as alcohol in lotions, rough face scrubs, AHAs in cleansers and toners.

They key is to treat senitized skin gently:

Modify cleansing and skin care routines during the colder months, in dry climates, and in hard water areas. Non-foaming, sulfate-free cleansers, milder exfoliants, and fragrance-free moisturizers suited to skin type will help restore the glow to compromised skin.

Do not scrub the skin. Cleanse with only the fingertips and blot dry; never rub the face with a towel. Because so many things, including even gentle active ingredients and professional treatments, can cause superficial flaking and peeling, the temptation to speed up the process by scouring off dead skin cells can be irresistible.

Grainy scrubs, baking soda paste, sonic cleansing brushes, spa gloves, buffing pads, loofahs, washcloths, and even towel-drying can spell trouble for sensitized skin. Side effects include redness; burning; prolonged scaling; increased sun-sensitivity; a thick build-up of keratin; and an uneven, blotchy skin tone.

Attempting to scrub off flaking and thickened dead skin will backfire. The body quickly produces a thicker buildup to protect itself, just like calluses form after repeated friction from ill-fitting shoes and pedicure paddles. Once this behavior is discontinued, sensitized skin can improve dramatically.

Water intake hydrates the skin from within, improves elasticity, plumps fine lines and wrinkles, and helps achieve a healthy glow. When the skin is well-hydrated, it is easier to address dry skin, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and eczema. Caffeine, alcohol, and smoking dehydrate the skin, so it is best to cut back drastically or stop completely.

Running a cool mist humidifier at night will hydrate the skin and help counteract the drying effects of cold weather, dry climate, heaters, and air conditioners. Clean as directed to prevent fungus and bacteria growth.

Choose fragrance-free products when possible. Perfumes, mixtures of fragrant essential oils or aroma compounds, fixatives, and solvents can be irritating to sensitized skin and very reactive in sunlight.

Do not overheat homes and avoid heat sources like hot stoves, ovens, hairdryers, fireplaces, space heaters, hot showers, and direct sun.