Summer skincare survival guide: Expert tips for beating the heat
Summer is here, and with it comes the challenge of keeping our skin healthy and happy in the face of scorching temperatures. As the heat intensifies, many of us find ourselves grappling with breakouts, puffiness, and makeup that refuses to stay put. But fear not! Renowned facialist Joanne Evans and skincare practitioner Dr. Maryam Zamani have shared their invaluable insights to help us navigate the summer skincare landscape.
The Power of Lightweight Moisturizers
One of the key recommendations from both experts is to opt for lightweight moisturizers or gel creams during the summer months. Heavy creams can trap heat, sweat, and sebum on the skin, increasing the likelihood of breakouts. However, it's important to note that not all skin types are the same. Dr. Zamani emphasizes that some individuals, especially those experiencing perimenopause, may still require richer moisturizers without worrying about clogged pores.
Nurturing the Skin Barrier
Summer places significant stress on our skin barrier due to sweating, water loss, and high UV exposure. This can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress. To combat this, Evans suggests using products like the Mesoprotech Water Veil, which contains hyaluronic acid and offers an ultra-light gel-cream texture with excellent photo protection. Additionally, Zamani advises wearing SPF and avoiding over-exfoliation and excessive hot showers, which can strip away natural skin lipids. She recommends using pH-balanced cleansers and moisturizers with ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, squalane, or niacinamide.
Reducing Retinol Usage
While retinol is a powerful ingredient, it's wise to reduce its application frequency during hot weather. Evans suggests using retinol once or twice a week, applying it in the evenings, and following up with a nourishing moisturizer. If any sensitivity or irritation occurs, it's best to discontinue use. Zamani adds that maintaining retinol usage is acceptable if the skin shows no signs of irritation.
Keeping Skincare Products Cool
Maintaining the right temperature for skincare products is crucial. Eye creams, sheet masks, facial mists, and gel moisturizers can be stored in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. However, Zamani advises against refrigerating products unnecessarily, as it may alter the texture of certain formulations, especially oils and creams. She recommends storing most skincare products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Locking in Moisture
Evans suggests applying hyaluronic acid to damp skin after cleansing to enhance absorption. She recommends using serums first, followed by moisturizers, and then sunscreen as the final step. Zamani emphasizes the importance of completing the skincare routine within a few minutes of stepping out of the shower and cleansing away sunscreen, sweat, pollution, and makeup at night.
Reapplication is Key
Contrary to intuition, frequent, thin layers of products are beneficial for skin health, especially in terms of sun protection. Zamani suggests reapplying SPF every two hours when outdoors, driving, exercising, or near windows. For indoor activities with minimal sun exposure, one morning application is often sufficient, but reapplication before outdoor activities is recommended. Evans recommends SPF spray as a convenient option for city dwellers.
Anti-Inflammatory Relief
Summer skin irritation can be alleviated by introducing antihistamines, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Evans suggests using lightweight products and suggests an ice bath for the face for oilier or acne-prone skin. Additionally, washing with cool or cold water can provide relief.
Lightweight Foundation and Natural Makeup
In hot weather, heavy makeup can lead to skin congestion and irritation due to sweat buildup. Evans recommends lightweight tinted moisturizers or medium-build coverage foundations. She highlights products like the Et Al Intelligent Radiance Foundation, tinted SPF Mesoestetics 130+, and Aveen for sensitive skin. Taking time to let each layer of skincare sink in and applying foundation in thin layers is essential to prevent pilling.
The Art of Double Cleansing
At the end of the day, a gentle double cleanse is crucial to remove SPF, makeup, sweat, and pollution. Evans suggests using an oil-based product first to dissolve SPF, followed by a gel or micellar water for a second cleanse. Zamani emphasizes the importance of promptly removing sweat after exercise and regularly changing pillowcases.
In conclusion, summer skincare requires a thoughtful approach, focusing on lightweight products, nurturing the skin barrier, and reapplying sunscreen regularly. By following these expert tips, we can beat the heat and keep our skin looking and feeling its best.
