Trying out a new skin-regime can be daunting for some people while for others it can be just as exciting. I personally believe in targeted skincare – meaning adapting your skincare to the external conditions in order to optimize and achieve the best skin.
Spring is all about new life and this applies to your skin as well. Winter can have quite a dramatic effect on your skins conditions and leave it feeling drier, rougher and dull and this is why it is vital that you update your routine.
Exfoliate
This is the perfect time to get in to exfoliation. Exfoliating not only helps you shed old dead skin cells but it also helps to boost your circulation and stimulate the production of new skin. Over time, our pores tend to clog up with pollution, oils, makeup and dead skin cells and this can result is breakouts, dull complexion and blackheads.
Getting in the habit of exfoliating reduces this build up and helps to ensure that your skin remains looking fresh and radiant. Gentle exfoliation twice a week is ideal (increase to four times a week for really dry skin). You can choose from two different types based on your preference and your skin type.
Chemical exfoliants such as Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant or Topix Glycolix Pads are great for those who have sensitive skin as well those with normal to oily skin types as they tend to be gentler. They also are great at getting deep in to your pores and giving them a good clean.
Physical exfoliants are those which feel like a scrub and contain either nut shell extracts or microbeads. These are perfect with those with normal to dry skin types as they help to shed the layers formed on your skin. Some of my favorites are the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cleanser and Lancer Polish.
Protect
The new season brings out the sun which can leave us at more of a risk of sun damage. Sun damage includes burning to aging to actual increased risk of developing skin cancer. As the days tend to get longer, it become even more essential that you adapt the habit of protecting your skin from the sun.
A lot of foundations and moisturizers come with SPF which can be great however some of these may not be adequate enough. Aim for using at least SPF30 and if needed apply a layer before you put on your primer.
Remember – sunscreen needs to be applied after skincare (moisturizer) but before your makeup. Allow the sunscreen to dry completely before using anything else on top.
Some of my favourite sun care products:
Moisturize
As the temperature gets warmer, swap out gloopy moisturizers for lightweight, hydrating serums and day creams instead. These not only feel light on your skin but also absorb quickly and give you more of a natural coverage. Do not skip out on a moisturizer as this can lead to your skin getting dehydrated and dry even if you tend to have oily skin. Make sure you also drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
Extra tip: For a boost of hydration, try an overnight moisturizing mask like the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Night Spa.
Lightweight moisturizers and serums
