The arrival of spring means the weather is warmer and the days are longer and sunnier. You’re making changes, such as updating your wardrobe -- swapping out winter coats and scarves for sundresses and shorts. It’s also time to make seasonally smart upgrades to your skincare regimen. Like parkas and hats, the products and methods that helped you battle the cold are no longer appropriate. Plus, keeping your skin soft, smooth and blemish-free is never more important than with swimsuit season right around the corner. These six skincare tips will keep your skin truly beautiful during the warm months ahead.
1. Out with the old
First, clean the shelves of any cosmetic and skincare products that are expired or have been in use much longer than 6 months. They could be harboring bacteria and might end up being more harmful than helpful. Regular exfoliation is another key to keeping skin looking smooth and youthful. Choosing a gentle scrub helps slough off pore-clogging dead skin cells, sebum and bacteria. During periods of high heat, excessive sweating and increased oiliness can cause unsightly spots and leave your skin looking dull. Exfoliate twice a week to keep bacteria at bay and eliminate oil.
2. Soak up the sun, safely
Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays plays a huge part in the process of premature aging. If you want to avoid wrinkles, fine lines and unsightly sunspots, pay close attention to protecting your skin as the weather warms up. Excessive sunbathing – particularly without sunscreen – will wreak havoc on healthy collagen and elastin. To support your skin cells and protect your youthful radiance, stay in the shade more. Use skincare products packed with replenishing antioxidants or soothing aloe, and slather on plenty of high-factor sunscreen. If you’re acne-prone, pick a non-comedogenic product, as these won’t plug up your pores or lead to pimples.
3. Blemishes be-gone
Most of us suffer with a little extra oiliness during the warmer seasons. That’s because heat stimulates our sebaceous glands, which produce the natural oils that lubricate skin. But excessive sebum can clog up pores and lead to pimples. If you’re prone to whiteheads, blackheads and cystic spots in summer, keep it simple. Pick up a gentle benzoyl-peroxide-based wash to target troublesome acne-causing bacteria. But, don’t forget to lock in some moisture – although it may seem counterproductive when you’re extra oily, missing out on much-needed hydration can actually stimulate sebaceous glands further.
4. Shine, shine, go away
Looking for the secret to shine-free skin this spring? It’s simple – keep up a regular anti-shine routine, using a blend of glycolic or salicylic acid to eliminate excess oiliness and inflammation. These naturally occurring agents help balance oil production and unblock plugged-up pores – ideal for reducing shine, clearing up spot-prone skin and leaving you glowing.
5. Clear face, glowing skin, can't lose
With increased sun and heat comes increased risk of skin irritations – sunburns, bug bites, rashes and allergic reactions. To avoid these, be prepared. Use high-SPF sunscreen. Try to use only natural, deeply hydrating skin care products when moisturizing. Avoid dense foliage and any other potentially bug-infested areas to prevent contact dermatitis, stings and allergic reactions. Keep sensitive skin covered with light, breathable clothing to keep irritation at bay. And if you’re an eczema sufferer, know that you may be prone to more itchiness and outbreaks during the warmer months – so be sure to get medical treatment for your condition.
6. Pickin’ up good hydration
Sun, sea and sand can leave skin sore and dry. It’s vital to moisturize regularly to maintain plump, healthy skin. Apply a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer daily to prevent premature aging and lock-in hydration. Choosing a light, oil-free formula will help avoid excessive oiliness and let your skin breathe better, before spring turns to summer...in the blink of an eye!
This article was contributed by Water’s Edge Dermatology, whose medical and surgical dermatologists are experts in the treatment of skin disorders and cosmetic skin procedures, and can diagnose and treat virtually every skin condition, illness or disease.
