Episode 12: Happy skin with abigail james

26 Nov

Healthily | 11/26/20

In this episode I have the privilege of chatting to award winning aesthetician, author, skincare and wellbeing expert Abigail James about ways to love your skin. We cover a range issues including acne, and how to keep skin looking youthful as we travel through middle age and beyond!

I have been a big fan of Abigail’s work for some time. I absolutely love her approach to looking after the skin and have been trying many of her techniques - including facial massage - this year in particular. I love the way my skin feels as a result and it certainly seems to be basking in the extra attention I’ve been giving it!

So many factors can affect the way our skin looks including nutrition, digestion, inflammation and hormones, not to mention sleep and stress! However, there are plenty of practical hands-on things we can do to bring vibrancy, life and happiness to our skin here and now, and Abigail conveys this beautifully.

TAKEAWAYs

✔️ Skin is a reflection of the whole body

Nutrition, hormones, sleep, stress, and gut health all play a critical role in skin appearance.
A purely topical approach often misses underlying causes; long-term skin health requires a layered, holistic approach.

✔️ Nutrition matters

Dairy and sugar can contribute to acne for some people. For others, these may not be triggers—personal experimentation and root cause analysis are essential.
Addressing gut health can influence skin conditions, including stubborn acne, hormonal imbalances, and inflammation.

✔️ Life stages and skin

Skin changes with age, starting as early as the mid-20s with slowing collagen production and cell turnover.
Teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s all have unique skin needs. Menopause and perimenopause significantly impact skin hydration and elasticity due to declining estrogen.
It’s never too late to start supporting your skin; early care helps, but later interventions are still effective.

✔️ Acne management

Antibiotics are often a temporary solution; acne frequently returns after discontinuation.
For severe cystic acne, Roaccutane may be necessary, but should be approached carefully and supplemented with nutrition.
Mild to moderate acne can be managed with diet, supplements, and targeted topical treatments like salicylic acid.

✔️ Skincare products and the “clean bracket”

Abigail promotes “clean” skincare products, avoiding synthetic fragrances, harsh sulfates, parabens, and colorings that can irritate the skin.
Both organic and scientifically formulated brands can be effective, e.g., iS Clinical, which is 98% natural.
Personalization is key: what works for one person may not work for another.

✔️ Anti-aging and collagen

Collagen production naturally declines with age; topical and lifestyle interventions can support skin health.
The effectiveness of collagen supplements is still debated. Modern formulations may offer some benefits, but Abigail’s view is evolving as research continues.
Sunlight in moderation supports healthy hormones and mood, but balance with SPF is crucial to prevent damage.

✔️ Hormones and perimenopause

Hormonal shifts impact skin hydration, collagen, and elasticity.
Urine testing can reveal estrogen metabolism pathways, helping tailor interventions like diet, lifestyle changes, or HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy).
Personalized strategies, informed by testing, are more effective than generic recommendations.

✔️ Treatments and technology

Clinical treatments can complement holistic care:
- Salicylic acid: exfoliates inside pores and provides antibacterial effects.
- Acids and retinols: effective but should be balanced to avoid barrier disruption.
- LED therapy: promotes collagen production and reduces inflammation; at-home devices require consistent use.
- IPL and lasers: penetrate deeper for pigment, aging, or vascular concerns.

✔️ Mental well-being and positivity

Skin health isn’t just physical—it’s emotional. Managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and cultivating positivity support long-term skin and overall wellness.
Abigail’s approach integrates lifestyle guidance with technical expertise, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.