There’s nothing more frustrating than an unexplained skin flare-up, especially when nothing in your usual routine seems to calm it down. As a beauty editor, I spend a lot of time testing new products, which means my skin is constantly being exposed to different ingredients, textures and formulations. And while I love the discovery aspect of my job, it also means my skin can be unpredictable. Over the years, I’ve dealt with everything from perioral dermatitis to stubborn redness and irritation that just won’t budge.

A few years ago, when struggling with a patch of irritated skin I just couldn’t seem to treat, a beauty editor friend suggested I reach out to wellness and skin expert Marie Reynolds. Marie’s advice was simple: mix up her newly released Restore with some water and apply it to the area for a couple of minutes a night. To my amazement, I noticed that the area of flared-up, irritated skin was soothed overnight – and after a week of consistent use, it had completely disappeared.

Then, about a year ago, I burnt myself quite badly with a curling iron and was left with a large scar. Again, I applied Restore each night, but this time, it was in conjunction with Anoint – an oil specifically designed for scars and skin healing. I was doubtful anything would help to fade the scar but, once again, this prescription worked. Admittedly, I do still have a scar, but it has faded significantly and it seemed to speed up the healing time.

What makes Restore so healing? Well, it’s packed with hemp protein and phytonutrients that help calm the skin, alongside pre- and probiotics to support the microbiome, which is crucial for skin health.

The microbiome (a complex ecosystem of bacteria living on the skin) plays a key role in maintaining balance and preventing irritation. Prebiotics act as food for good bacteria, helping them to thrive, while probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to reinforce the skin’s defences. Research has shown that when the microbiome is compromised – whether by harsh ingredients, environmental stressors, or even diet – conditions like eczema, rosacea and acne can flare up.

Marie Reynolds Restore review: “This probiotic face mask is my go-to beauty hack for overnight skin healing”