Skin Flooding Is Set to Be the Biggest Trend for This Winter

At its core, skin flooding is a hydration-centric routine, involving the sequential layering of products to deeply moisturise the skin. As a go-to ritual for the colder months, this technique has surged in popularity, especially among Gen Z consumers thanks to the power of social media.

Skin flooding echoes the principles of the beloved multi-step K-beauty routines, emphasising hydration and moisture. This isn't a new concept; rather, it's a rebranded approach, previously known under various names like 'slugging' or 'cycling'. It's a testament to the evolving language of skincare, mirroring the changing preferences and terminologies of the Gen Z demographic.

The effectiveness of skin flooding lies in its meticulous process. According to experts, the ideal routine starts with a gentle and moisturising cleanser (like the Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser), followed by the application of a hyaluronic acid serum (for which the super hydrating SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel is great) while the skin is still damp. Next, a layer of vitamin C serum (we’re loving the Aesop Lucent Facial Concentrate) is applied, followed by a moisturizer to seal in the hydration. During the day, sunblock is the final step (which you should wear everyday, like the Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF50). This regimen, when used correctly, provides a significant hydration boost, combating the dryness often associated with autumn and winter months.

Aside from topical treatments, and keeping hydrated from the inside out with water, these innovative treatments can refresh and revitalise your skin in the longer term. Our favourite hydrating skin treatments include:

Hydrafacial

The HydraFacial treatment is a game-changer in the realm of skincare, delivering a non-invasive, multi-step procedure that cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses the skin with vital nutrients. Using a unique Vortex-Fusion technology, HydraFacial extracts impurities while simultaneously saturating the skin with potent moisturizers. This hydrating powerhouse treatment leaves skin feeling rejuvenated, with improved texture and a youthful radiance. The best part? There's zero downtime, making it the perfect lunchtime pick-me-up for anyone seeking a quick hydration boost. 

Signature, Deluxe and Platinium HydraFacials available from £129 at Élan Laser Clinics.

Mesotherapy

Often referred to as an 'injectable moisturiser',  mesotherapy delivers hyaluronic acid directly to the mid layer of the skin, where it works to trap water, providing long-lasting hydration, significantly improving dry skin. Think of it like moisturising your skin from the inside out. In addition to an intense burst of hyaluronic acid, mesotherapy delivers an injection of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts too, which synergise to rejuvenate and tighten skin, leaving a glow from inside out, while supporting healthy cell structure supporting in skin cell healing and renewal, and stimulating new collagen production.  The company's mesotherapy products address various skincare concerns such as skin renewal, facial remodelling and hair loss. These include Meso-Wharton P199 which is a mesotherapy treatment that targets the skin endogenous stem cells, stimulating their proliferation and differentiation, thereby providing the fundamental basis for skin renewal. Meso-Xanthin F199 is an innovative therapy that targets the genes that are responsible for the proteins involved in skin regeneration, these have specific functions of inhibiting chronic inflammatory mediators and restoring damaged DNA, thereby improving the quality of life of the skin cells, making them more durable. 

Profhilo

“Is your skin too dry? You might want to consider injectable moisturisers such as Profhilo” recommends Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Amélie Seghers. Profhilo is a bio-remodeling treatment that serves as a viable solution for menopausal individuals facing skin laxity and loss of firmness due to declining estrogen levels. By significantly hydrating the skin and stimulating collagen and elastin production, Profhilo aids in restoring skin's structural integrity. Unlike traditional dermal fillers, Profhilo, composed of pure hyaluronic acid, spreads within the skin to improve its tone and texture, addressing both hydration and skin laxity. The treatment is minimally invasive, with quick procedures typically lasting around 30 minutes, and requires no downtime, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.

Available at Dr Maryam Zamani Clinic from £800 per session.

SQT Bio-Microneedling

SQT Bio-Microneedling is emerging as a remarkable treatment for enhancing skin hydration and overall health. This innovative procedure involves tiny, precise needles that create micro-channels in the skin, stimulating natural collagen production and enhancing skin rejuvenation. The real magic lies in the delivery of tailored serums, often rich in hyaluronic acid and other nourishing ingredients, directly into the deeper layers of the skin. This direct infusion ensures optimal hydration, aiding in the retention of moisture and giving the skin a plump, radiant appearance. Ideal for those seeking a minimally invasive yet effective solution, SQT Bio-Microneedling offers a balanced approach to maintaining well-hydrated, youthful skin.

SQT Bio-Microneedling is available across UK, with treatments ranging from £160-£250 per session.