Summer skincare survival guide: Expert tips to beat the heat
As the sun intensifies and temperatures soar, our skin faces unique challenges. From breakouts to puffiness, the summer heat can wreak havoc on our complexions. But fear not! Renowned facialist Joanne Evans and skincare practitioner Dr. Maryam Zamani have shared their top tips to help you navigate the season with radiant, healthy skin.
The Art of Less is More
In the scorching summer heat, heavy creams can be a recipe for disaster. Evans and Zamani advise opting for lightweight moisturizers or gel creams to prevent heat, sweat, and sebum buildup, which can lead to breakouts. However, they acknowledge that individual skin needs vary. Zamani mentions that some individuals, especially those going through perimenopause, may still require richer moisturizers without clogging their pores.
Nurturing Your Skin Barrier
High temperatures put our skin barrier under immense stress. Evans explains that heat increases trans-epidermal water loss, making it crucial to choose products that provide adequate hydration and protection. She recommends the Mesoprotech Water Veil, a gel-cream with hyaluronic acid and high SPF, to combat water loss and protect against UV rays. Zamani emphasizes the importance of SPF and suggests avoiding over-exfoliation and hot showers, which can strip away natural skin lipids.
Retinol Reduction
Retinol enthusiasts, take note! Evans suggests reducing retinol usage to once or twice a week during the summer. Apply it in the evenings and follow with a nourishing moisturizer. Zamani agrees, stating that maintaining retinol usage is acceptable if the skin shows no signs of irritation. This adjustment helps prevent sensitivity and irritation, allowing your skin to breathe and adapt to the warmer climate.
Keep Your Skincare Cool
Maintaining the right temperature for your skincare products is essential. Zamani advises storing creams in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. For products like eye creams, sheet masks, and gel moisturizers, consider refrigeration. However, she warns against unnecessary refrigeration, as it can alter the texture of certain formulations. Dr. LEVY Switzerland's Freezing Anti-Fatigue Mask is a perfect example of a product designed to cool the skin straight from the fridge.
Moisturize While Damp
Evans reveals a clever trick: applying hyaluronic acid to damp skin after cleansing enhances its absorption. She suggests sitting in front of a fan to cool down before applying SPF. Serums should be applied first, followed by moisturizers to lock in moisture, and then sunscreen as the final step. Zamani recommends completing your skincare routine within a few minutes of showering and avoiding excessive cleansing to preserve the skin's natural moisture.
Reapplication is Key
Counterintuitive as it may seem, frequent, thin layers of product are your skin's best friend. Zamani advises reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, driving, exercising, or near windows. For indoor activities with minimal sun exposure, one morning application is sufficient, but reapplication before outdoor activities is still recommended. Evans recommends SPF sprays for city dwellers, acknowledging their inferiority to creams but better than no reapplication at all.
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Summer skin irritation can be alleviated with antihistamines, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Evans suggests using lightweight products and considers antihistamines as a last resort. Additionally, washing with cool or cold water, or even an ice bath for the face, can help oilier or acne-prone skin.
Lightweight Foundation
Heavy makeup can congest and irritate the skin in hot weather. Evans recommends lightweight tinted moisturizers or medium-build coverage foundations. She highlights the Et Al Intelligent Radiance Foundation, Mesoestetics 130+ for pigmentation, and Aveen for sensitive skin as excellent options. Thin layers of foundation, mineral powders, and primers can help keep makeup in place without overwhelming the skin.
The Power of Double Cleansing
Never skip a gentle double cleanse, especially at the end of the day. Evans suggests using an oil-based product first to remove SPF, followed by a gel or micellar water cleanse to eliminate remnants. This process ensures a thorough removal of suncream, makeup, sweat, and pollution, supporting the skin barrier. Zamani emphasizes the importance of promptly removing sweat after exercise and regularly changing pillowcases.
In the battle against summer skin challenges, preparation and a mindful approach to skincare are paramount. By embracing these expert tips, you can navigate the season with confidence, embracing the beauty of your skin's natural radiance.
