The power of a simple skincare routine.

Let’s be honest, skincare doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the products, steps, and trends out there, take a deep breath. At Top Knot Beauty Studio, I’m all about helping you cut through the noise and focus on what really works,especially if you’re short on time or just starting your skin journey.

So today, let’s break down the basics.

Why Simple Is Sometimes Better

Overloading your skin with too many active ingredients or steps can do more harm than good, especially if your skin is sensitive, reactive, or barrier-compromised. A simple routine gives your skin consistency, supports repair, and helps you actually see results.

Your 3-Step Everyday Routine

Whether you’re maintaining healthy skin or starting fresh, this is the core I recommend to most clients:

ONE: Cleanse (AM + PM)

Choose a gentle, non-stripping cleanser suited to your skin type. In the evening, double cleansing makes a big difference to how well your skin absorbs your products.

TWO: Treat (AM +PM)

This is where your active serum comes in,think vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or retinol depending on your goals. Don’t feel like you need to use everything at once. We often rotate actives based on what your skin actually needs.

THREE: Moisturise + SPF (AM)

A good moisturiser supports your barrier and keeps your skin hydrated and calm. In the morning, always finish with SPF,it’s your #1 anti-ageing product and essential for protecting your skin from damage and pigmentation.

When You’re Ready to Level Up

Once your skin is happy with the basics, you can layer in extra treatments like exfoliants, masks, between your in-clinic facials. But remember: consistency always trumps complexity.

Need Help Simplifying?

If you’re unsure what your skin actually needs, or if your current routine is working against you, come in for a consult. We’ll personalise your routine based on your skin’s current condition, goals, and lifestyle (because let’s be real: most people don’t have time for 10 steps!).

3 Reasons to double cleanse.

Why You Should Be Double Cleansing (Even If You Don’t Wear Makeup)

Let’s talk about one of the simplest habits that can completely shift your skin health: double cleansing.

If you’ve ever felt like your cleanser isn’t quite doing enough, or your products don’t seem to be working as well as they should, this one’s for you.

Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: cleansing your skin twice at night. And while it might seem like an extra step, it’s actually one of the easiest ways to set your skin up for success,especially if you’re investing in good skincare.

Here are 3 powerful reasons to double cleanse every evening:

1. Remove the day, properly

Makeup, SPF, sweat, pollution, and general grime from the day build up on the skin, and a single cleanse often isn’t enough to remove it all. Your first cleanse (often an oil or balm cleanser) helps break down these surface-level impurities. The second cleanse (usually a gentle gel or cream cleanser) gives your skin a proper clean, working deeper to ensure your skin is truly fresh.

2. Your products will absorb better

When your skin isn’t properly cleansed, your serums and moisturisers can’t penetrate the skin effectively. Double cleansing clears the way so your active ingredients (like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol, or enzymes) can actually do their job, which means better results, faster.

3. You’ll see real skin improvements

Clients often tell me their skin feels smoother, brighter, and more balanced within weeks of adopting a consistent double cleanse. It’s one of those foundational habits that can support all skin types,whether you’re targeting breakouts, dryness, dullness, or just maintaining a healthy barrier.

Final Thoughts

Double cleansing doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive, but it does need to be consistent. Think of it as your non-negotiable evening ritual. Your skin will thank you.

Need help choosing the right cleansers for your skin type or routine? Book into the studio or send me a message, I’m always happy to guide you.

Is Micro-Needing for you?

Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Start Dermapen4 Treatments

If you’ve been curious about microneedling or considering skin needling treatments like Dermapen4, winter is hands-down the best time to begin. While this powerhouse treatment can be done year-round with the right care, cooler months offer the perfect window to get ahead on your skin goals, especially if you’re wanting results by summer.

So, what makes winter ideal? Let’s break it down.

What is Dermapen?

Dermapen is a professional microneedling device designed to safely and effectively treat a wide range of skin concerns, including acne scarring, pigmentation, fine lines, enlarged pores, dullness, and overall skin texture. It works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which kickstarts your body’s natural healing process and boosts collagen and elastin production. As well as a number of cells that work in the skin.

Think of it as a reboot for your skin.

Why Winter is the Best Season for Dermapen

ONE: Less Sun Exposure = Better Healing

After a Dermapen4 session, your skin is more sensitive to UV exposure. In winter, with shorter days and less intense sunlight, there’s a lower risk of post-treatment pigmentation and easier protection during the healing process.

TWO: You’re More Likely to Stay Consistent

Summer can be full of holidays, travel, and sun-soaked days at the beach, which can make downtime and aftercare more difficult. Winter offers the perfect opportunity to commit to a treatment plan and allow your skin to fully recover between sessions.

THREE: Be Summer-Ready by Spring

Collagen production takes time. By starting now, you’re giving your skin the time it needs to rebuild and reveal real results. That means clearer, smoother, and more radiant skin just in time for warmer weather, and makeup-optional days.

Final Thoughts

Microneedling isn’t a quick fix, it’s a transformative treatment that delivers long-term results when done correctly and consistently. And winter gives you the head start your skin deserves.

If you’d like to know if Dermapen4 is right for your skin (or which package suits your concerns), send me a message or book a consultation at the studio, I’d love to guide you.