Do you know the difference between melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation? Learn how to recognise the signs and why melasma needs a tailored approach to treatment.

I am no stranger to skin cancer, with a family history of melanoma that both my father and grandfather battled. About 12 years ago, melanoma paid me a visit. I discovered an early-stage melanoma on my rear lower abdomen, an area that had never seen sunlight. Early detection is crucial and for me it was lifesaving. Thankfully, my melanoma was successfully treated by Dr Chris Kearney, a specialist in MOHS surgery. However, my journey didn’t end there. I continued to develop basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), leading to countless biopsies and treatments, which became very costly. My First Encounter with Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) To manage this, I was referred to a melanoma clinic. Sitting in the waiting room of that clinic was more than a reality check. It was a frightening experience, one I’d prefer not to relive except to share my story with you. I was advised by Susan Sinclair, a registrar at the clinic, to start taking 500 mg of nicotinamide daily. The Power of Vitamin B3 This supplement has been a game-changer for me. It doesn’t prevent skin cancer or melanoma, but it significantly slows down the mutation of bad cells while promoting healthier ones. The Skin Cancer Council conducted a study and found that taking a daily supplement of 500 mg of Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide NAD) can reduce the development of BCC by 20% and SCC by 30% in patients with two or more skin cancers. Nicotinamide, a high level of Vitamin B3, can increase the production of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN), which is then converted to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD), fuelling the energy of every cell in our body. I’ll Be Taking This One Forever! At one point, I temporarily stopped taking it; perhaps it was complacency, or I wasn’t convinced a supplement could really be working. Whatever the reason, I immediately noticed changes in my skin; lesions that had disappeared began to reemerge. With the encouragement of my doctors, I resumed and, over time, increased my dosage to 1000 mg. Since then, my renewed commitment has helped maintain my skin health and overall energy levels. Taking it on an empty stomach makes me queasy, so I’ve adjusted my morning routine and always take it with a light breakfast. What is NAD Therapy? NAD Therapy uses Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) supplements to boost the levels of this essential coenzyme in your body. NAD is crucial for energy production, DNA repair, and cell communication. As we age, our NAD levels decrease, leading to lower energy, slower cell repair, and visible signs of ageing. NAD is naturally found in all living cells, and its building blocks, niacin (nicotinic acid) and niacinamide (nicotinamide), two forms of vitamin B3, are found in foods such as meat, fish, nuts, seeds, and grains. Niacin is converted into niacinamide in the body, which is further converted into NAD. In other words, the body converts both forms into the active coenzyme NAD. While these dietary sources are essential, NAD supplements can help fast-track the process, supporting energy production, DNA repair, cell communication, and overall health. Embrace Active Ageing with NAD Therapy NAD Therapy helps improve overall health and wellness by replenishing nicotinamide levels through supplementation. Benefits include: Increased energy Improved cognitive function Healthier skin Slower ageing Depending on your needs and medical advice, this therapy can be administered as an oral supplement, intravenous infusion, or injection. Introducing Synternals by Synergie Skin Terri Vinson Jones, a leading cosmetic and biological scientist and the founder of Synergie Skin, has furthered this approach with her own line of supplements. Synternals NRgize+ A comprehensive cellular energy supplement crafted to elevate healthspan and invigorate the body’s cell vitality. This innovative supplement supercharges NAD within the body, enhances cell communication, and supports skin health from the inside out. The NRgize+ supplement combines nicotinamide with powerful antioxidants like resveratrol, providing a robust defence against skin ageing. Since incorporating this into my routine, I’ve noticed sharper thoughts, more energy, and a significant improvement in my skin’s appearance. My Passion for NAD Therapy I am passionate about sharing this journey and the benefits of these supplements with my clients. Our internal health is the key to skin health and a healthy lifespan, and NAD Therapy is essential in achieving optimal health inside and out. Not only has my skin health improved significantly, but I’ve also noticed that the brain fog I experienced during menopause has vanished; my mental sharpness has increased since starting these supplements. I was delighted and excited to see Synergie Skin venture into this space with Synternal Supplements. Whether you’re a busy professional, a dedicated stay-at-home parent, or someone who wants to feel your best, NRgize+ can support your body’s natural energy production, cellular repair, and overall well-being. For me, NAD therapy is now an integral part of my skin health routine. However, it’s important to remember that early detection and ongoing monitoring are essential for maintaining skin health. If you notice any changes in your skin or have concerns, always seek medical advice. Regular skin checks should be a fundamental part of your health maintenance plan. If you’d like to learn more about Synternals NRGiz+ and NAD Therapy, I’m here to help you navigate these options and find the best solutions for your skin health. See you soon, Mel x BUY SYNTERNALS NRGIZE+

Why Omega-3 is Essential for Skin Health When it comes to our health, Omega-3 fatty acids are not only essential, but they truly are wellness superheroes. They nourish our brains, support heart health, boost our vision, and keep our skin glowing from within. However, as much as I’ve always valued these benefits, I’ve become increasingly aware that traditional sources, like fish oil, come with ethical, environmental, and even nutritional compromises — they’re simply not as clean, sustainable, or effective as other options now available. That’s why I’ve switched to algae oil. It’s a smarter, kinder option, and here’s why I believe you might want to do the same. Getting to the Real Source of Omega-3 What is algae, exactly?Algae are tiny, plant-like organisms that grow in water, from freshwater lakes to the open ocean. They’re the original source of marine Omega-3s, rich in EPA and DHA, and they don’t rely on fishing or animal products to produce. That’s what makes algae oil a cleaner, more sustainable Omega-3 alternative to fish oil. Many of us assume Omega-3 comes primarily from fish, and while fish are a common source, did you know that fish get their Omega-3 from microalgae? This fact resonated with me. Going straight to algae makes perfect sense – it’s like getting nutrients directly from their original, purest source. Algae vs. Fish Oil: The Big Differences At first glance, algae oil and fish oil might seem similar, but there are significant differences: Algae Oil Fish Oil Source Directly from microalgae Fish (secondary consumers) Sustainability No harm to marine life or ecosystems Contributes to overfishing and marine ecosystem disruption Purity Naturally free from mercury and heavy metals Risk of contaminants like mercury and toxins Taste & Smell Clean, neutral – no fishy aftertaste! Often has an unpleasant fishy taste Suitability Ideal for vegans and vegetarians Not suitable for plant-based diets Potency Consistently high DHA & EPA levels Variable potency depending on source and processing Sustainability Matters Choosing algae oil feels good because it’s genuinely better for our planet. By skipping fish entirely, we reduce pressure on marine ecosystems and help combat the serious issue of overfishing. It’s Better for You Not only is algae oil better for the environment – it’s better for your body, too. Packed with EPA and DHA, it provides high-potency Omega-3s without the risks that can come with marine-sourced options. With no fishy aftertaste, no animal products, and no hidden toxins, it’s a smarter choice for anyone wanting clean, effective, and skin-supportive nutrition. Cleaner and Safer Algae oil is reassuringly clean. Unlike fish oil, it naturally avoids contaminants like mercury, lead, and other heavy metals. As someone committed to offering the best to my clients, purity is something I’m not willing to compromise on. How Omega-3 Marine Algae Oil Supports Your Skin Omega-3 doesn’t just help with overall health; it can visibly benefit your skin, especially if you’re dealing with any of these common conditions: Dry or Dehydrated Skin – While dry skin is a skin type and not necessarily caused by a lack of moisture, Omega-3 helps improve the integrity of the skin’s lipid barrier, which reduces moisture loss and supports a more hydrated, comfortable, and visibly healthier skin.  Acne-Prone Skin – Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3 can help calm breakouts, reduce redness, and support skin healing. Sensitive or Inflamed Skin – Whether from rosacea, eczema, or reactivity, Omega-3 helps calm the skin’s immune response, reducing visible irritation and flare-ups. Ageing Skin – By helping to reduce low-grade inflammation (known as inflammaging), Omega-3 supports elasticity and resilience. It can also help improve skin texture and tone. FAQ: Your Omega-3 Questions Answered Is algae oil better than fish oil?Yes, algae oil offers the same Omega-3 benefits (EPA and DHA) as fish oil, but with added advantages: it’s more sustainable, suitable for vegans and vegetarians, and free from ocean-based contaminants like mercury. What is the most effective form of Omega-3?Omega-3 in triglyceride form (like that found in AlgOmega-3) is considered the most natural and bioavailable, meaning your body absorbs and uses it more efficiently than other variations. Can you take too much Omega-3?While Omega-3 is essential, more isn’t always better. Stick to recommended daily intakes (typically 500–1000 mg of EPA and DHA combined) unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. Is algae oil safe during pregnancy?Yes – algae-derived Omega-3 is a great choice during pregnancy as it supports foetal brain and eye development. It’s a safer option than fish oil due to its lack of heavy metals. As always, check with your doctor first. Can algae oil interact with other supplements or medications?It’s generally very safe, but if you’re taking blood-thinning medications, check with your healthcare provider. Omega-3s can have a mild blood-thinning effect, which could amplify other medications with similar effects. Why We Love and Recommend AlgOmega-3 by SynTernals We recommend AlgOmega-3 at Select Skin because it aligns perfectly with everything we value. It’s pure, effective, and sustainable. Every capsule contains 300mg EPA and 600mg DHA in a highly absorbable triglyceride, the most natural and bioavailable form. This is the form your body recognises and absorbs easily, just like the healthy fats found in whole foods. The algae used in AlgOmega-3 are sustainably cultivated in North America and processed using a pure water extraction method, based on NASA-developed technology. A patented extraction process and approach ensures not just high potency, but zero impact on marine ecosystems, with no risk of heavy metal or pesticide contamination.  Knowing I’m choosing something that supports my skin, my health, and the planet feels completely aligned with what we believe in at Select Skin. If you’re ready to choose a smarter, kinder Omega-3, you’ll love AlgOmega-3 by SynTernals. If you’ve got more questions, you can call us at 02 8034 2140 or drop by the clinic, and our friendly team will be happy to help. See you soon, Mel x   Shop Synternals Algomega-3

As we age, our skin changes, often leading to dehydration, a crepey texture, and a loss of overall skin quality. One crucial element contributing to these skin issues...