Recently we've been catching up with a few women of influence, who aren't influencers, so we've decided to start a series 'on her bathroom shelf.' If you're anything like us you're curious to see the skin regimes other women use, their go-to products and brands and their thoughts about how to love the skin (and the person) they're in. First up is local Dunedin mum, entrepreneur, skin care and food enthusiast......the lovely Amanda Burke.
Tell us a bit about yourself, what is your background and what you do now?
Hi! I’m a mum of four, wife of Chris, and I’ve done a lot of different things throughout my career including journalism, teaching, communications, events and fundraising. I also started an online wellness boutique in 2017, Temple+Co, which I sold a couple of years ago. I’m about to start something new this year as I will be beginning some study towards a Masters in Counselling and Psychology.
Talk us through your morning routine…what time do you get up and what are your morning rituals?
I usually get up at 6am (5am when my daughter has rowing training) - I do some exercise which might be a class at the gym, or walking my dog, or a run. Then wake up the kids and get everyone ready for school.
And what’s your skin and makeup AM routine?
I have been a skincare addict since I was a teenager, and have tried pretty much everything over the years, and I’ve learned what works for me and what doesn’t. So now I keep it really simple and use a few really good quality products - USC Live Probiotic Hydration Serum included! I also use skincare products that I really like from Dermalogica and Drunk Elephant, and makeup from Charlotte Tilbury, Aleph, Clinique and MAC. And always an SPF 50.
What about PM routine?
I cleanse my skin with a nourishing cleanser from Dermalogica, then apply the LPHS, and finish with a layer of Drunk Elephant Marula Oil. A couple of times a week I do a hydrating mask such as Clinique Moisture Surge or Drunk Elephant F-Balm hydrating masque.
How would you describe your skin?
I would say it’s a combination - normal/dry. It’s also quite sensitive so I opt for clean skincare/makeup brands where possible. I definitely notice that my skin needs more hydration now that I’m in my 40s. Serums, like the LPHS, are great for adding that little bit extra when my skin needs it.
How would you describe your relationship with your skin?
I have a good relationship with my skin - I do what I can to look after it, and not just through the products that I use, but through what I eat, how well I sleep, regular exercise, and protecting it from environmental stress. I have very fair skin so a daily sunscreen is essential. I start the day with WelleCo Super Elixir Greens powder in a green smoothie or just mixed with some coconut water - I’ve done this for years and I notice a difference when I stop using it - it supports skin health from within. I also try to stick to a good routine of regular treatments at Groom Laser Clinic - some laser treatments, microneedling, LED treatments and skin workouts - I would do one of these approximately once a month.
You’ve been using our Live Probiotic Hydration Serum, how has it been for your skin? What do you like about it?
I love it - I really notice a difference in how my skin feels when I use it. It is very nourishing and hydrating, and it evens out my skin tone. I have sensitive skin and it doesn’t cause any irritation - it is very soothing to use.
If you had to give your (younger) self-one piece of skincare or beauty advice, what would it be?
Always use sunscreen - especially in NZ.
Finally, any major skincare or beauty regrets?
Nothing permanent - but probably going overboard with the fake tan and bronzer in the 1990s - I didn’t look tanned, I looked orange!
