Kate Logan Beauty is a handmade skincare range sold online (www.kateloganbeauty.com). It is clear to see from the website that Kate Logan loves what she does and wants to share her knowledge of skincare. Here she talks about her range and how we can better our skin.

How did it all start?
I have always suffered from very, very, very temperamental skin! Working as a facialist, I had access to the latest skincare ranges but always found that my skin ended up blotchy, irritated and prone to painful acne breakouts. In despair I sought medical help only to be told that I had Rosacea. I’d treated many clients who suffered from this condition and knew that what I had had absolutely no resemblance to Rosacea. So I decided that there had to be a better way. I researched and experimented and finally came up with a few simple blends and the effect on my skin was remarkable. I gradually introduced them to my facial clients and they were so delighted with the results that they requested specific blends and balms. Over the years I have developed such an effective range of skin & body care products I decided to take the plunge and open my own online beauty boutique making my range available to all.

What makes your products different to any other natural or organic ranges on the market?
I want my products to provide an effective solution to the kind of skincare problems that we all suffer from, but in a natural way. Every product in the range is natural and every ingredient is there because it works, not because it sounds nice! As every product in the range is handmade to order, it’s probably the freshest skincare available to buy.

How harmful are parabens and petrochemicals to the skin?
Parabens are used throughout the cosmetic and skincare industry as a preservative. Worryingly, in scientific studies, parabens have been shown to be oestrogenic and given the link between oestrogen and breast cancer, I think that is reason enough to avoid this unnecessary preservative. Parabens have also been shown to cause skin irritation in some individuals. Petrochemicals are a family of ingredients that turn up in all kinds of products. If you look at any ingredient listing on skincare or cosmetics you will find such things as propylene glycol or mineral oil, both easily sourced and incredibly cheap - that’s why cosmetic companies love them! Unfortunately they are not too kind to the skin.

You adapt your products in accordance to each season - something that isn't commonly seen on the market. Why do you feel this is necessary?
Your skin faces different challenges throughout the seasons. Winter tends to exacerbate dry, irritated skin so a rich soothing balm is really effective in colder months, but you wouldn’t want to use that same intense balm in August! To ensure that your skin is gorgeous and glowing throughout the year I adapt the formula for each product in the range so you still experience the same skin soothing results but the product is more suited to the effects of the changing seasons and your environment.

What is your skincare routine? How much has it changed over the years?
I’m glad to say that my skincare routine today is a lot more simpler and a whole lot gentler than it used to be! My routine is not set in stone and I do tend to chop and change my products to tackle any problem that my skin encounters. My morning routine is a simple hydrating cleanse with Rose Skin Tonic to ensure that all traces of my night time treatment are removed and that my skin is ready for the next step. I then apply Rose Otto Healing Balm and Argan Eye Balm. In the evening I cleanse with Borage Cleansing Oil as it effectively removes all the horrid grime of the day, followed by a final rinse with Rose Skin Tonic. My treat for the day is to use my Rejuvenate Facial Oil along with my five minute facial massage.

What do you think is the biggest mistake that people make regarding their skin?
I always think that people are incredibly mean to themselves. They glimpse one teeny tiny spot and are convinced - with the help of an eager sales assistant - that they have acne and proceed to purchase an entire range of harsh skincare products. Treat your skin gently and it will reward you with a gorgeous glow.

As well as using your products, is there anything else we can do to keep our skin in tip-top condition?
Give your skin a break. I always advise my clients to give their skin a vacation from cosmetics and skincare products for one day a week. I know at times this is difficult but if you can just give your skin one evening off from all products - after you have cleansed of course!. It really does help kick start your skins natural ability to heal.

Can anyone use your products?
My range is so gentle it can be used by everyone and I’m delighted by the lovely feedback I receive. It’s so heartening to hear from those who have discovered the range after years of battling problem or sensitive skin over the years and are now finding that they are rediscovering their natural glow.