sofia latif Archives • SOFIA LATIF®

Fozia Latif 20/05/2022 Healthy skin

A Guide To Your Skin During Menopause

Usually occurring between 45-55 years of age, the period of menopause succeeds perimenopause and officially begins one year after a woman’s last period. It often comes with changes, related to hormone fluctuations. When it comes to our skin, many women feel unsure about how to manage changes like dryness and breakouts. This post is here to guide you …

Fozia Latif 06/05/2022 Healthy skin

A Guide To Your Skin During Perimenopause

When it comes to perimenopause, many women feel unsure about what to expect, especially when it’s related to changes in their skin. It’s particularly difficult to navigate when there’s little mainstream conversation on the subject too. That’s why we’re here, to provide you with information, education and to carry on …

Fozia Latif 29/04/2022 Healthy Living

5 Rituals For A Grounded And Easy Day

Today’s post is by my photographer, and now friend, Helena, who I have worked with for years. I always leave our meetings feeling comforted and calm, so I reached out to her to find out her secret to remaining so grounded and calm when she works in such a busy, and often, stressful industry as a photographer. Here, …

Sofia 22/04/2022 Healthy skin

Moisturisers With SPF vs A Separate SPF

It’s getting brighter, with more sunny days coming. Thoughts turn to spending more time outdoors, and the need for more SPF in our routines to protect our skin from sun damage. Is it enough to use moisturisers with SPF or is it better to have a separate SPF? Let’s take a look at the pros and …

Fozia Latif 20/04/2022 Healthy skin

Face Masks vs Exfoliators – The Superhero Skin Winner

Face masks and exfoliators can be valuable elements of any skin care routine. However, there’s often some confusion about which is more beneficial for skin health. While exfoliators brush away dead skin cells to reveal the healthy, new skin underneath, face masks are all about infusing the skin with nourishing ingredients to boost your best skin health. For …

Fozia Latif 03/03/2022 Sofia's blog

Solutions For Sensitised Skin

Sensitised skin is a common skincare challenge that is the result of skin which has been overstimulated by the use of too many or harsh topical products. This is as opposed to sensitive skin, which is the result of genetics, age and thin skin. Whether it relates to redness, rashes or a change in texture, most women across all age&…

Sofia 25/02/2022 Useful to know

Spring Clean Your Beauty & Wellbeing Routine

It feels like we are coming out of hibernation with the days getting longer and brighter, and little blossoms appearing on trees, all giving us a sense of excitement and possibility. Spring is a wonderful season to birth new morning habits and spring clean your home, beauty and wellbeing routine. With lighter mornings helping us to get up a little&…

Fozia Latif 17/02/2022 Healthy skin

Dry Brushing Your Face – Fad or Not?

Dry brushing is the process of sweeping a brush in gentle circles across your skin, without the use of water. While it is a technique that can be used across the whole body, the method is becoming more popular for use on the face, and so is slightly different as the skin here is much more delicate and sensitive. But&…

Fozia Latif 03/02/2022 Healthy Living

Why Sleep Care is Self-Care

Often fronted by images of women enjoying spa days and face masks, the term ‘self-care’ is sometimes associated with frivolous self-indulgence. But self-care is actually an essential part of living sustainably and taking the time to nourish both body and mind. One of the essential pillars of good self-care is sleep. Like self-care, our society today often rewards …

Fozia Latif 07/01/2022 Healthy skin

What is Skinimalism?

On the surface, ‘skinimalism’ might seem a tongue-twister, but as complex as it sounds, its meaning is, in fact, rooted in simplicity. Coined by users on Pinterest, skinimalism is about stripping back your skincare, bringing your natural skin texture to the surface and embracing slow beauty that supports sustainable skincare and clean products to nourish your best skin …

Sofia 31/12/2021 Healthy skin

Could Your Hyaluronic Acid Be Making Your Skin Drier?

For years, hyaluronic acid has been the darling of the beauty industry but more recently, it’s been surrounded by controversy that it could well be causing more harm than good. Today we’re looking at both sides of the debate and sharing our advice on using this popular product… THE ‘FOR’ ARGUMENT Hyaluronic acid …

Sofia 31/12/2021 Healthy Living

Is Matcha Better For You Than Coffee?

Most of us try to lead a healthy lifestyle but sometimes we are looking for that quick energy boost to kick start our morning or to keep us going later in the day. In these times, coffee is probably your go-to for the caffeine ‘hit’. While it does provide the body with a number of benefits and for …

Sofia 10/12/2021 Best of Natural

Best Natural And Vegan Hand Creams For Sensitive Skin

We do so much with our hands and can be the most vulnerable parts of our body. As we follow the guidance from the World Health Organisation to prevent the spread of COVID-19, they may be left feeling rather more sensitive at the moment. So we’ve curated our top picks of natural/vegan hand creams to combat the …

Fozia Latif 02/12/2021 Healthy Living

Collagen Supplements – Are They Worth It?

In short, yes, if they’re taken in powdered form without the addition of unnecessary fillers. But the evidence isn’t clear-cut just yet. While many studies do show that collagen supplements do work, group test sizes have been small and it’s not exactly clear what’s the recommended daily amount. What is clear however, …

Fozia Latif 04/11/2021 Healthy Living

The Gratitude Habit: The Route To Better Wellbeing

Actress Doris Day once said, ‘Gratitude is riches. Complaint is poverty.’ It can feel like there’s plenty to complain about at the moment. From the weather and traffic to the seemingly constant negativity in the news, complaint has become almost a normal way of life. Especially during the times we live in, for many of us …

Fozia Latif 21/10/2021 Healthy skin

How To Prepare Your Skin For The Cold Weather

As the cold weather starts to creep in, maybe you’ve already begun spending more time indoors and clicking the switch on a little evening heating. But while it’s a way to keep things warm and cosy, the combination of cold air outdoors and dry atmosphere indoors can play havoc with your skin, making it feel tight …

Fozia Latif 29/07/2021 Healthy skin

Night-time Nourishment – Face Oils vs Creams

When it comes to skincare, it can be difficult to know what kinds of products to invest in, when there are just so many different ones on the market. Here at SL Towers, we swear by a few staples – one of these is a good night and day cream duo. The difference is night and day Day creams work&…

Fozia Latif 15/07/2021 Hero Oils

Hydrate and Restore with Meadowfoam Seed Oil

Ever heard of meadowfoam seed oil? If not, it might be something to consider for the spot of hydration hero in your skincare routine. Native to the USA and Canada and pressed from the seeds of the white meadowfoam plant, meadowfoam seed oil is beginning to gain popularity for its dual lightweight quality and ability to pack a hydrating punch.&…

Sofia 09/07/2021 Best of Natural

Best Natural Face Masks For Sensitive Skin

Face masks are a great way to give skin a much-needed boost. Maybe your skin is a bit dull and lacklustre, so you would reach for a radiance mask, or perhaps your skin is dry, then you would reach for a hydrating one. It might be that you don’t like using exfoliators, so you would reach for one …

Sofia 08/07/2021 Healthy Living

Tips On Shifting Our Energy To Shift Our Mindset

Feeling flat, stuck in a rut, demotivated, and generally low in energy can hit us at any time, no matter how hard we try to prevent it. It’s not a pleasant feeling and it can be difficult to overcome initially, but it is possible. Although it is part of the ebb and flow of life, we can help …

Fozia Latif 01/07/2021 Useful to know

The Tradition And Skincare Techniques Of Gua sha

Also known as ‘coining,’ Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique, traditionally practiced on the body but now more commonly known in the West as a method of relaxing and reviving stiff neck and facial muscles. It’s an alternative therapy recommended for reducing inflammation and stimulating blood flow, and while the benefits are yet to …

Sofia 25/06/2021 Healthy skin

Should You Change Your Skincare In The Summer?

This summer’s schizophrenia has us all searching for ways we can feel cooler and lighter one minute and wrapping up warm the next. When it comes to the warmer weather, we change what we consume – eating something lighter and drinking something more refreshing and hydrating, so why not apply this approach to our skincare in the summer …

Sofia 11/06/2021 Healthy skin

How To Make The Most Of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is the darling of the skincare industry but did you know it is not actually an acid? In this post we’ll be revealing some of the science behind how it works, its skin benefits and how you can make sure you’re getting the best from it… SO WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID AND WHAT …

Fozia Latif 06/05/2021 Healthy skin

Are Hormones to Blame for Post 40s Breakouts?

For many women over 40 sudden skin breakouts, usually associated with teenagers, would be enough to have them reaching for the lotions. But don’t apply them just yet. While breakouts are a barely spoken symptom of perimenopause, they are just one of many challenges characterised by significant fluctuations in hormone levels. We know that the perimenopause is a huge …

Sofia 09/04/2021 Healthy skin

How To Get Rid Of Keratosis Pilaris On Arms And Legs

Layers of clothing are coming off now that we are heading out of winter and into warmer weather, and arms and legs are coming out of hibernation, with skin more visible to our own keen eyes. Is skin appearing bumpy and looking like chicken skin? Are scattered, patchy rashes of very small bumps or pimples appearing on the skin&…

Sofia 12/03/2021 Healthy Scalp

Tips For Supporting Healthy Hair Growth

At some point, we’ve all longed for our hair to grow quickly, for it to be less dry or less prone to breakage. For most of us, the first thought is to turn to products as the solution, pinning our hopes on shampoos, conditioners and treatments with promises to make a visible difference in just a few …

Sofia 18/02/2021 Healthy skin

The Skin Microbiome – What Is It And How To Support It?

Maintaining healthy bacteria in our gut, also called our microbiome, has become the norm helping to support our overall health. Skin microbiome is becoming increasingly important in maintaining healthy and balanced skin. But what is the skin microbiome and what can we do to support it? WHAT IS THE SKIN MICROBIOME? The skin is the largest organ your&…

Fozia Latif 04/02/2021 Useful to know

Layering Your Skincare Products For The Best Results

One debate we see often is whether a face oil should be used before or after a moisturiser. Which side do you sit on? In today’s post, we’re going to be sharing how to layer your skincare to get the most from each of your products and leave you with happy, healthy skin. …

Sofia 20/01/2021 Inflammation series

Antioxidants And Our Skin

Today we are continuing with our Inflammation series, focusing on antioxidants – what they are, how they help prevent inflammation, their other functions, why we need to supplement our body’s natural antioxidants and the best sources… WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS? We touched on their anti-inflammatory action in our post, Inflammation and Its Impact on Skin. Antioxidants …

Sofia 27/12/2020 Healthy Living

Our Five Tips For Restoring Balance After An Indulgent Few Days

We know that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are going to be very different this year. Workplace parties have been swapped for virtual events and meals out have been stripped back to be with just a few of our closest colleagues, friends or family, where restrictions allow. Everyone will be enjoying festivities in smaller groups or alone, …

Sofia 17/12/2020 Healthy skin

The Best Way To Use A Face Oil

We are often asked what is the best way to use a face oil. It is something we love talking about, as you can imagine! In a nutshell, there is no best way to use a face oil, just your way which you are most comfortable with when including it in your routine. Face oils are versatile and can&…

Sofia 10/12/2020 Sofia's blog

Getting Skin And Hair Ready For Winter’s Bite

Winter is certainly here. The temperature has dropped, the wind can be pretty harsh and snow has been forecast for some parts of the country. But adapting for seasonal changes doesn’t just mean changing from lightweight clothes to layers, sandals to slippers, fans to fires or cold drinks to hot chocolates. We need to make some tweaks …

Sofia 19/11/2020 Useful to know

How Long Should You Use Skincare Before Giving Up?

We are living in an era of instant gratification, where we want things now, sometimes jumping in with both feet and expecting quick results. But when it comes to our skin, any product or routine changes we make require patience to fully reap the benefits. SKINCARE IS MORE THAN JUST THE PRODUCTS Skincare is more than just the&…

Sofia 07/10/2020 Healthy skin

I Have Oily Skin. Can I Use A Face Oil?

Face oil has many benefits, from repairing the skin’s barrier to helping seal in moisture. But with it seeming counterintuitive to add more oil to oily or combination skin, it’s unsurprising that we get asked a lot whether face oil should really be used for these skin types. The short answer? YES! As although you …

Sofia 10/09/2020 Healthy Living

Making Slow Living Permanent

We love slow living. It is a conscious choice we make each day so that we can live life as fully as possible and appreciate every moment. Being present allows us to remain balanced in mood and wellbeing, feeling connected to ourselves and the world around us. When the pandemic hit, it forced many to slow down and embrace&…

Sofia 09/07/2020 Best of Natural

Best Natural Body Care For Sensitive Skin

The skin on our body can be as sensitive as the skin on our face, so for the penultimate post in our ‘Best of Natural’ series we wanted to introduce you to body washes, body scrubs and body creams designed to take care of our largest organ. The Best of Natural series so far: Best Natural …

Sofia 03/07/2020 Healthy Scalp

What To Expect If You’ve Never Used A Scalp Oil

When it comes to happy, balanced hair and the products we use, our primary focus is usually on the hair, with scalp care being a secondary priority or maybe not thought about at all. So with the scalp being equally as important or perhaps even more so than the hair itself to achieve that glossy, healthy appearance and texture,&…

Sofia 30/06/2020 Best of Natural

Best Natural Haircare Free From Sulphates and Silicones

Haircare, like skincare, is a very personal choice and depends greatly on the texture and type of hair you have. Some like to have squeaky clean hair, so will use an SLS-based shampoo, and others may have a sensitive scalp and opt for products free from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as it can make the scalp itchy. Silicone or derivatives&…

Sofia 29/06/2020 Inflammation series

The Healing Benefits of Turmeric & Curcumin

Knowing how best to use Turmeric to support health and skin is something we are all keen to learn about. We reached out to Sophie Nazareth who is the founder of Your Bodhi, a natural supplement specialising in Turmeric, to tell us more about the healing benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin. Turmeric has become a star of …

Sofia 19/06/2020 Healthy skin

How Much Is My Gut Health Responsible For The Health Of My Skin?

There are times when our skincare products alone aren’t enough when trying to clear up a breakout or reduce inflammation. This is when you have to look at why that might be. But one thing you might not have considered is the responsibility your gut has in the health of your skin. So today that’s exactly …

Sofia 17/06/2020 Healthy Scalp

Common Causes Of An Itchy Scalp & Ways To Prevent/Treat It

An itchy scalp is the most common hair care complaint we hear. The skin on the rest of the body may be fine, but the scalp seems to suffer. After all, when was the last time you gave your scalp the same care and attention you give to your face, body and hair? The scalp is skin too, and&…

Sofia 12/06/2020 Healthy skin

Will My Skin Breakout Now I Am Wearing Makeup Again?

We’re slowly coming out of lockdown and getting ready for a new normal. Many of us will have taken a break from wearing makeup; not necessarily a conscious decision but one of not needing to put a face on for the rest of the world. For us, it’s been a good thing taking a break …

Sofia 05/06/2020 Healthy skin

Is Dry Body Brushing Worth The Hype?

Dry body brushing has been practised for centuries in many different cultures but has more recently evolved into one of the hottest trends to try. So what is it? It’s just as it sounds – it involves using a dry, natural brush to exfoliate and massage the skin on your body through brush strokes, most beneficial on …

Sofia 01/06/2020 Inflammation series

Nourishment Tips in Times of Stress

Getting the right nourishment during times of stress is something we are all keen to do, but may not know which foods to choose. We reached out to Rebecca who is a Holistic Health Coach & Culinary Nutrition Expert, as well as the founder of Nourish by Rebecca, for her nourishment tips in times of stress. NOURISHMENT …

Sofia 29/05/2020 Healthy skin

Skincare Tips For Exercisers, Indoors Or Outdoors

Incorporating some exercise into our routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle is becoming second nature, whether it be a gentle walk in the evening or a sweaty hot yoga session. After all, exercise is beneficial for both our mind and our body and is one of the keys to having healthy, youthful-looking skin. If you exercise regularly yourself you&…

Sofia 18/05/2020 Healthy skin

Sofia In Conversation With Nadira V Persaud

A friend, an inspiration, as well as make up artist, beauty expert and author of Press Here Face Workouts for Beginners, I am delighted to share with you my conversation with Nadira, to learn more about her tips on skincare, wellbeing and, of course, face workouts. S: We are going through a profound period of change. What has been&…

Sofia 15/05/2020 Healthy skin

The Importance Of SPF Even When Indoors

Most of us are conscious of the need for SPF when out and about and can be confident that we are maintaining the habit of applying it. However, it is still a common misconception that we don’t need to use SPF when indoors. Getting into a routine of applying SPF to our face, under eyes, neck and …

Sofia 26/04/2020 Healthy Scalp

How To Give Yourself A Soothing Head & Scalp Massage

We all love having our hair washed at the hairdressers as somehow it helps us to switch off and relax for a while. There’s just something about those magic fingers as they gently massage your scalp and condition your hair. But have you ever considered trying this treatment at home by indulging in a self-soothing head and …

Sofia 19/04/2020 Healthy Living

An Evening Routine To Help With A Restful Night’s Sleep

Sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing. It allows your body to repair itself and rejuvenate, boosts your energy for the following day, increases your concentration, reduces stress and improves your mood to name a few. For many of us, our body feels tired in the evening but when we go to bed we find we are unable to&…

Sofia 05/04/2020 Healthy skin

Can An SPF Help With Dark Circles Under The Eyes?

There are many reasons why some people have dark circles under their eyes. Most of these can be grouped into two categories: genetics and dilation. But did you know that using an SPF regularly on the skin around the eyes not only protects this delicate area but also helps to prevent the overproduction of melanin which may make hereditary dark&…