BALANCE teamed up with holistic skincare expert Gemma Clare to answer all your questions on natural beauty from reducing oiliness to tightening pores. Here’s what we came up with:

How can I get a natural ‘glow’?

Max out your vitamin C reserves. Research has found that skin exposed to vitamin C produces up to eight times more collagen. So, invest in a vitamin C rich serum and start grazing on oranges, kiwis, lychees and strawberries. We recommend Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Day Serum, £67

Gemma Clare, holistic skincare expert, suggests – “Facial massage increases the skin’s circulation to give the skin a natural, radiant, glow. You can combine with vacuum suction for a detoxifying and lifting effect too.”

How can I control oiliness?

More often than not, skin will be oily because it is trying to overcompensate for dryness. It may seem counterintuitive, but be sure to moisturise both in the morning and again in the evening before bed after cleansing. Don’t be afraid to nourish the skin as this will help to regulate and rebalance oil levels.

Gemma says – “A galvanic desincrustation facial saponifies sebum and improves the skin circulation to remove excess sebum and balance the skin’s oil levels.”

How can I keep my skin clear and spot-free?

If you struggle with problem skin, regular facials should help improve your visage dramatically. Monthly treatments such as deep cleansing facial will help to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin while keeping it hydrated.

Gemma says – “Cleansing morning and evening (and after exercise) is the basis of a home skincare routine. At night I recommend double cleansing using an oil-based cleanser for the first cleanse so you can effectively cleanse the pores, and for your second cleanse use a cleanser specifically designed for your skin type.”

How can I reduce inflammation?

Increasing the antioxidant foods in your diet will aid in the reduction of inflamed and puffy skin. Blueberries, Pomegranate, Goji berries, Spinach, Raspberries, Nuts, Seeds, and even Dark chocolate will do the trick.

Gemma says – “Avoid ingredients that disrupt the skin barrier such as surfactants and synthetics, like perfume. Look for natural anti-inflammatory active ingredients like aloe vera instead. Facial treatments and LED therapy will further reduce inflammation and support optimal skin health.”

How can I reduce my acne?

As well as working to calm inflammation and redness, using a retinol cream or serum as part of your daily skincare routine will help the skin cells in the pores to turnover more quickly, avoiding pores getting clogged. If you find retinol too harsh or have sensitive skin, we recommend trying a bakuchiol product as an alternative. BALANCE recommends Herbivore’s Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum, £45

Gemma says – “Including mindfulness in your day can help to manage stress levels, which has a direct effect on the hormones and, in turn, the skin.”

How can I tighten my pores?

By helping to flush toxins from the skin and boost blood circulation, jade rolling can also help reduce the appearance of pores. Try using your roller straight out of the fridge for added lymphatic drainage power.

Gemma says – “SkinPen Microneedling is an excellent facial treatment to minimise and refine the pores. A course of 3-6, monthly, treatments is recommended to stimulate your collagen and elastin production and remodel the face.

Gemma Clare is a Holistic Health & Skincare Expert, Facialist and Industry Consultant.