As a former professional footballer and now full‑time coach, Julian has learned that recovery is not just about ice baths and stretching, it’s also about protecting the skin that’s exposed to weather, sweat and constant travel. Reflecting on almost two decades spent on the pitch as a player, and more recently coaching outdoors in harsh weather, his routine is all about keeping dryness at bay, especially once the temperature drops.
How Julian discovered skincare
I’ve actually always taken care of my skin, I used to suffer with bad breakouts as a teenager and my mum took me to a dermatologist to guide me on a solid skincare routine. However, it’s my wife who first introduced me to one of my favourite brands - ZO Skin Health. I’d use her ZO pads and liked them so much that she eventually started buying me my own. I just like how easy they are to use and find it satisfying seeing the grime thoroughly removed. My routine is pretty simple, helps me keep consistent.
Julian’s Skin Pharmacy staples
ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads
“These pads are the MVP of my routine. They’re pre‑soaked, easy to throw in my kit bag and I don’t have to think about measuring anything out,” Julian says. The ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads are designed to sweep away excess oil and pore‑clogging debris with a blend of glycolic and salicylic acids, while botanical extracts offer antioxidant support.
My skin gets dry, especially in colder months, so I alternate between two cleansers depending on how my face feels at the start of and end of the day.
ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser
is my daily go-to. This cleanser is formulated to lift away sweat, pollution and surface oils while gently polishing the skin, which helps prevent congestion without drying out my skin or feeling abrasive like some exfoliating cleansers do.
Skinbetter Science Refresh Refining Foam Cleanser
For when my skin feels more dehydrated than dirty, I switch to the Skinbetter Science Refresh Refining Foam Cleanser. It provides a thorough cleanse and lathers up to help remove impurities without drying out my skin.
Obagi Medical Hydrate Facial Moisturiser
I get especially dry around my nose and cheeks, Obagi Medical Hydrate is my daily moisturiser. It’s designed to deliver long‑lasting hydration and helps to keep my skin feeling comfortable. I like that it sinks in quickly, and doesn’t leave a greasy residue.
Heliocare Invisible Spray SPF 50
I’ve only recently started wearing SPF (because of my wife) but also because I couldn’t wear SPF without it giving me a breakout or stinging my eyes. I am a big fan of Heliocare Invisible Spray SPF 50, it’s a broad‑spectrum spray that can be used on the face and body, with a light, non‑chalky finish. It’s easy to use and doesn’t cause breakouts, and easy to re-apply.
ZO Skin Health Body Emulsion
I moisturise my body head to toe everyday! I’ve recently discovered ZO Body Emulsion at Skin Pharmacy, it’s a treatment‑led body lotion that combines exfoliating ingredients with hydrators to improve skin texture over time.
Hydrinity Luxe Lip Hydrator
Being outdoors all day, my lips are always dry. I have a lot of lip balms in every pocket/bag/in the car, but I’m enjoying Hydrinity Luxe Lip Hydrator. The texture is rich but not sticky (confession time - it’s my wife’s but I really like it)
MEDER Salva Hand Protective Hand Cream
My hands take a beating from constant washing, cold training mornings and handling equipment. The MEDER Salva Hand Protective Hand Cream helps keep the skin on my hands from cracking. It absorbs quickly and keeps my hands protected.
My shelf is built around non‑negotiables - ease, protection and consistency. Every product packs easily into a training bag or suitcase. directly targets dry skin and fits into my daily routine.
If you have any specific questions, speak to our experts - for free. Book an appointment online here. Alternatively, email hello@skinpharmacy.com or call us on 020 3070 3833 or 07522 002050.
