The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and your central heating is taking a holiday. You've spring-cleaned your space, and de-cluttered your wardrobe; now it’s time for your skincare-routine refresh.
We quizzed the skincare experts on how to get healthy, glowing skin as the temperature rises. Here are five ways to refresh your skincare routine for spring.
But first, why do we need to change our skincare routine at all?
How does our skin change in different seasons?
“The skin likes consistency, therefore, as we transition through the season, it may take a few weeks for the skin to acclimatize, and during that time, you may suffer adverse effects. In winter, the skin is exposed to harsh weather and central heating,” says Corinna Tolan, skincare specialist and owner of Monica Tolan The Skin Experts.
“You may notice skin becoming tight, dry, and sensitive as it struggles to adapt. Then in the summertime, you may see a swift onset of hyperpigmentation and melasma as the skin sends melanocytes to the surface in an effort to protect itself from the harmful effects of UV rays.”
1. Focus On The Right Sun Protection
“Protecting the skin from UV damage is a cornerstone of all skincare regimens in the fight against aging and minimizing DNA changes. It’s important to integrate a broad spectrum, physical SPF and vitamin C into a daily routine to protect against 90% of extrinsic aging but more so in the spring-summer months when UVA and UVB wavelengths get stronger,” says Kaytie Chambers, aesthetics and skin nurse, and founder of Myla Aesthetics.
Tolan shares the effects of long-term sun damage on your skin. “Pigmentation is the main issue in spring and summertime. I always recommend my clients wear a hat or sun visor if in the sun between 12pm and 3pm. Schedule walks and outdoor activities outside of these hours too. The essential rule of SPF is reapplying every 2-3 hours as the sun can degrade the ingredients in an SPF over time. Also, remember to cover your hands and scalp, especially if your hair is thinning,” says Tolan.
“You should be using SPF and taking steps to prevent sun damage from as early an age as possible because when you reach 25 your skin starts to slow production of collagen, which is what keeps it looking firm, so wrinkles start to develop.”
2. Boost Anti-Aging Protection Inside & Out
“As daylight hours increase, we look to level up our SPF and antioxidants. Both of these will protect you from harmful UV rays and free radicals. We may also begin to expose more skin than during the winter months so include some omega 3 supplements to enhance your glow from the inside out,” says Tolan.
3. Clear Dullness With Exfoliation
Clear dull and lackluster winter skin with exfoliants; chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs, or physical exfoliants that can buff away dead skin cells, encourage collagen production and reveal a smooth, soft, complexion that means you’ll be glowing, and your other skincare products will be more effective.
“You’ll want a gentle exfoliator such as salicylic acid to remove dead skin cells from the winter and to promote regeneration. You’ll also want antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as vitamin C to help stabilize free radicals and decrease sun damage. Retinol is great in warmer weather too, combating oil production and promoting anti-aging,” says Perl.
4. Clear & Hydrate Skin With Toner
Rising temperatures make way for more sweat and oil, as well as more time spent outside. Ensure that your cleansing routine is up to scratch, to clear away any dirt, toxins, impurities, and pollution so your skin is thoroughly clean before applying your other skincare products. This will avoid clogged pores which means fewer breakouts and more flawless skin.
5. Choose Lightweight Moisturizers & Ceramides
“Swap those heavier creams for something lighter, as thick creams in hot weather can cause blocked pores due to an overproduction of natural oils,” says Perl.
“You may wish to pull away from heavy occlusive oils or rich emollient creams and lean more on lightweight moisturizers containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid. In spring, the skin tends not to be exposed to harsh weather or central heating as much as in winter, and your skincare should reflect this,” says Tolan.
“Ceramides are like tiny water balloons in the skin, and over the winter months, these may burst when exposed to central heating and harsh weather. This may result in dehydration, sensitivity, and a compromised skin barrier. Skincare containing B5, urea, and niacinamide B3 will help restore hydration in the skin and stop TWEL (trans-epidermal water loss).”
6. Stay Hydrated
“Always remember to stay hydrated to flush out unwanted toxins and promote a healthy, glowing complexion,” suggests Isobel Perl, founder of Perl Cosmetics.
7. Get A Facial
There’s no better way to get you in the mood for the new season than a clarifying, refreshing facial to clear the old winter skin to make space for new spring skin. If you can’t get to a salon, do a DIY facial at home.
