Introducing boosters, a new beauty product for bad skin days
In an ideal world, you'd give flawless face day in and day out. In reality, there are hormones, pollution and a whole wack of factors, internal and external, that can make your complexion go totally rogue. This is where boosters, the newest supporting players in the skincare aisle, can help.
You're probably asking, Do I really need another skincare product? Well, need is a tricky word, but if you’ve ever looked in the mirror, been greeted by an annoying blackhead flare-up or unseemly dullness and wanted an instant solution, then a booster is worth trying. “Boosters are formulas with much more concentrated ingredients to address specific skin concerns,” explains Charmaine Cooper, Education Manager at Dermalogica Canada. “They contain highly active botanicals to optimize skin health.”
Unlike a serum, which is layered onto skin as an ongoing treatment, boosters are designed to resolve issues ASAP. They're applied differently, too: Serums stand alone, whereas boosters are meant to be mixed with your regular face cream — and, in some cases, foundation. So if you've ever seen the signs of an indulgent wine night or nearby allergen show up on your face — hi, everyone! — consider the boosters below.
Beauty boosters
Skin problem: Dryness
Dermalogica was decades ahead of the customized skincare trend, and this signature booster is loaded with hyaluronic acid and glycolipids to deliver intense moisture. “Everyone can use it, because 100 per cent of the population experiences dehydration some time or another,” says Cooper.
Skin hydrating booster, $77, Dermalogica.
Skin problem: Environmental stressors
A trio of boosters address everything from a hectic calendar to smoky air and sunburns, and can even be mixed in with your go-to face mask. Plus, the push-dropper vials earn points for their fuss-free design.
Boosters in Energy, Repair and Detox, $40 each, Clarins.
Skin problem: Dullness
Designed to recapture your natural glow, this paraben-free booster is loaded with Vitamin C to increase radiance in 14 days. It can also be mixed with foundation.
Luminizing booster, $25, Sephora.
Skin problem: Irritation
This Canadian-made, all-natural blend of cassia seed extract and vegetable glycerine handles the most complicated skin issues — even eczema.
HydrExtreme, $72, Consonant Skincare.
Skin problem: Sensitive skin
Ideal for sensitive types, CoverFX boosters contain avocado, sunflower and grape seed oil. The four-strong lineup includes solutions for dry, dull and aging skin, and each can be mixed with face oils, serums or creams.
CoverFX Custom Infusion Drops, $62, Sephora.
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