By Adriana Ermter
Who’s happy that the sun is shining, the birds are chirping and our winter coats and boots have been replaced with shorts, Birkenstocks and t-shirts. Pretty much everyone. And just like we switch up our wardrobe, we also need to re-evaluate our skincare routine to better accommodate the climate. “As the evenings get lighter and the weather becomes warmer, it is a great time to incorporate some change into your skincare routine,” affirms the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “It’s time to ditch those thick winter creams and incorporate lighter and more natural products into your routine to allow your skin to truly radiate thanks to the warmer weather.” Here are seven ways to get started.
Always apply a minimum of a SPF 30 from head to toe
As the months get warmer, it becomes even more important to use SPF products to protect yourself from the sun. “You should apply a minimum of a SPF 30, as the last step in your skincare routine to allow your skin to receive maximum protection as you spend more time outdoors,” recommend the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “Then, wait at least 30 minutes after application before going outside.”
Incorporate a vitamin C serum into your skincare routine
When used alongside SPF, vitamin C serums enhance the performance of SPF products by giving your skin thorough protection against the sun’s UV rays. The serum can also boost hydration and brightness, giving your skin that sought-after glow. “They can also help soothe painful sunburns and protect against long-term sun damage, making it an essential product in this season’s skincare routine,” add the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “It’s important to note though, that new products should be gradually introduced to your skincare routine to test how your skin reacts to the change.”
Try a niacinamide serum
Many people struggle with dry skin, which is why adding a niacinamide serum into your skincare routine can be hugely rewarding as it boosts the skin’s hydration and enhances moisture. While your face will naturally start to produce more oil as the weather heats up, niacinamide serums can help to regulate oil production, eliminating excess oil from your skin. “It’s recommended to use niacinamide in both your morning and evening skincare routine and to apply the product after cleansing and toning,” advise the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “Niacinamide should also be applied before using more acidic serums, such as vitamin C.”
Avoid heavy moisturizers
While moisturizer is a fundamental part of every skincare routine, it’s essential to lighten the load over the next few months. “During warmer months, too much moisturiser can cause your pores to become clogged, resulting in an oily break-out,” say the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “To avoid this, it’s better to apply a lighter layer of moisturizer to keeps your skin hydrated while reducing the risk of blemishes.”
Put your exfoliating acids to one side
As the temperature heats up, it’s tempting to exfoliate daily to reduce the risk of clogged pores. However, limiting your use of exfoliating acids over the next few months is important. When over-used, exfoliating acids, such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid, can reduce the skin’s natural protection against the sun and can dehydrate your skin, making you more susceptible to skin damage. Additionally, exfoliating acids should be used in moderation and applied no more than once a week to avoid sunburns. “SPF should always be the last step in your morning skincare routine, so make sure you get your exfoliating out of the way before applying SPF products,” say the wellness experts at Fresh.com. “Similarly, face scrubs should also be avoided over the next few months. While these products are a great way to remove dead skin cells, they can also increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, heightening the risk of skin damage.”
Switch to a gel cleanser
Cleansers are a great way to remove excess oil and dirt from your skin, why is why they are the first step in every skincare routine. However, thick cleansing creams have the potential to clog your pores during the warmer weather, which is why mild gel-based ones are a great alternative. “Light and refreshing, these cleansers reduce the risk of breakouts while effectively deep cleaning your skin without stripping it of your natural oils,” add the wellness experts at Fresh.com.
Ditch the cleansing oils
As the weather heats up, your face will naturally begin to produce more oil, so put the cleansing oils in the cupboard to save for the cooler months. “Applying cleansing oils in warm weather will result in an excessive amount of oil and can increase your risk of a breakout,” warn the wellness experts at Fresh.com.
