#hotgirlsummer is fast approaching - but, unfortunately, the change in weather can throw a few things out of whack for our skin. Intense UV rays, humidity and heat can all take their toll and send things into a frenzy and make us more prone to breakouts.
In this post, I'll share 5 top tips for having good skin days & avoiding looking like a hot mess.
NB - we also all tend to show a little more skin in summer, so these tips apply to the face & body.
IMAGE SHOT BY LILI MAE KINNEY (INSTAGRAM: JUSTLMKPLZ)
1) Invest in and wear a SPF daily
SPF (sun protection factor) is the MVP for any skincare routine to keep your skin looking youthful, but especially in summer when UV rays are in full force & we are spending more time outside.
I have a whole article on why you don't want to skip SPF linked HERE: Importance of SPF if you fancy some deeper reading, but in summary, sadly, UV rays are not our friend when it comes to accelerated photo-ageing & an increased risk of skin cancer.
Make sure you opt for a product that offers broad-spectrum ultraviolet protection and is between SPF 30 & 50. Also don't forget to apply to your neck, ears, hands and any other areas on show.
Here are a few products I recommend:
Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 | PA ++++
Neostrata Sheer Physical Protection Sunscreen broad-spectrum SPF 50
Heliocare Fluid Cream or Oil Free Gel SPF50+ & PA++++
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Sun Cream SPF 50+
CeraVe Ultra-light Moisturising Lotion (SPF 30)
SkinCeuticals Mineral Radiance UV Defense SPF 50
IMAGE SHOT BY LILI MAE KINNEY (INSTAGRAM: JUSTLMKPLZ)
2) Opt for low-fat moisturisation
This is the only time I will recommend for anything to be low-fat, but higher temperatures increase the activity of your sebaceous glands - meaning you probably don't need such a rich moisturiser in the warmer months. You absolutely should not skip moisturiser - you still need to support that barrier function - just think of it as swapping your winter coat for a lighter summer jacket.
I have listed a few fab options without SPF for you to use in the evening or if you prefer to use a separate sunscreen during the day:
Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel
HERBIVORE Pink Cloud
La Roche Posay (dependant on skin type)
Dr Sam's Flawless Light
CeraVe Daily Moisturising Lotion
3) Hydrate
Although your sebaceous glands might be more active in producing oil, in the heat you will be losing more water through sweat - so it is vital to keep those hydration levels up. Aim for 2-3 litres of water a day to keep skin looking radiant & fresh - I love to add lemon/orange/cucumber slices for some flavour & an antioxidant boost.
Aside from vanity, you also need adequate amounts of water for cellular/enzymatic processes within the epidermis, so bottoms up.
Recommended products: (filtered) tap water. It is the cheapest option & the best for the environment.
IMAGE SHOT BY LILI MAE KINNEY (INSTAGRAM: JUSTLMKPLZ)
4) If you haven't already, add in an antioxidant serum
This will help protect your skin from environmental damage (oxidative stress) and prevent hyperpigmentation. Antioxidants help the skin repair itself by reducing inflammation (great for acne) and some such as vitamin C also help boost collagen production.
Getting antioxidants from your diet is also a super way to protect your skin - so make sure you are getting your fruits & veggies in (not just orange juice from sangrias)!
5) Up the exfoliation
Increase your (chemical) exfoliation, this is for two reasons. First being that in the sun the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) thickens and second because your skin is producing more oil, your pores are more likely to become clogged. Exfoliation is key to combatting this. Use a mix of AHAs such as lactic acid or glycolic acid, as well as oil-loving salicylic acid.
Bonus points:
Particularly useful for those with oilier skin!
Carry around some blotting papers - these are really handy for when your forehead starts to resemble the moon
Make sure your makeup is non-comedogenic (aka it won't clog your pores) - this is important for everyone, however we know some people's skin is more forgiving than others. I have an article on makeup that won't mess up your skin HERE for some recommended products
Et voila! I hope you enjoyed it and learnt something new - let me know your thoughts in the comments & if you have any questions.
Lots of love,
Madeleine xoxo