Swap your dull, winter complexion for a radiant glow! Follow our simple tips to spring-clean your skincare routine.
Switch To A Lighter Daytime Moisturiser
The cold, dry air of winter calls for a heavier moisturiser to protect and lock water into the skin.
However, humidity rises in spring/summer and most skin types will benefit by switching to a lightweight moisturiser/lotion during the day.
Depending on your skin type and concerns, a rich cream may still be suitable for your PM routine. Or, if your skin barrier is damaged and dryness is persistent, a heavier daytime moisturiser may still be the right choice.
Add A Hydrating Serum
Keep hydration levels steady for a gorgeous glow by incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine. Maintaining balanced hydration will encourage a supple appearance, minimise redness, and support the skin barrier.
Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating hero. The ultimate humectant ingredient (holding x 1000 its weight in water!) hyaluronic acid attracts moisture from the atmosphere to the surface of the skin to encourage a plump, hydrated complexion.
The One is the ideal skin-perfecting serum for all complexions. Working in synergy, hyaluronic acid hydrates thirsty cells while cucumber seed oil and aloe vera leave skin soft and soothed with a subtle, refreshing scent.
Recover From Winter Damage
If winter has left you with dry, chapped, and flaky skin, it’s time to focus on barrier repair. When the skin is weakened, tiny cracks appear in the surface and moisture escapes through these cracks in a process known as transepidermal water loss. This leads to a cycle of dry, flakiness and general discomfort.
Key ingredients to recover a stressed stratum corneum (your skin barrier) include:
Probiotics: Soothing and balancing
Ceramides: Essential in structuring and maintaining the water permeability barrier function of the skin
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces transepidermal water loss to improve moisture content and also calms angry skin
Ceramides: Essential in structuring and maintaining the water permeability barrier function of the skin
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces transepidermal water loss to improve moisture content and also calms angry skin
A super star multi-tasker, The One, can rescue a compromised barrier with the strengthening and soothing properties of probiotics and niacinamide.
Don’t Ditch The SPF
Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of a healthy skin routine; every day, all year round.
UVA and UVB rays can penetrate and harm the skin on an overcast, wintery day and a sunny, spring one. Spending more time outdoors at this time of year means your skin is even more vulnerable to UV damage.
Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with preferably SPF30 and higher. Wear a wide brim hat and sunglasses, too.
Polish Away Winter Dullness
Dehydration and an excess build-up of dead cells can leave post-winter skin looking dull and lifeless.
Make way for fresh, bright skin to flourish with regular exfoliation to speed up cell renewal. Depending on your skin type and concerns, you can take your pick from a range of physical and chemical exfoliants. Popular choices include:
Chemical
Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit enzymes including pineapple and papaya. These exfoliants work by dissolving dead cells rather than physically scrubbing them away.
Physical exfoliants
Ground oatmeal, rice powder, jojoba beads, and clay masks, such as kaolin and french green clay.
Declutter Your Skincare
It’s time for a fresh start so take the opportunity to declutter your skincare collection.
It’s easy to forget about them but expiry dates on skincare, especially those with active ingredients, really do matter.
Over time, microbial changes to the formulation can impact the consistency and effectiveness. Bacteria can also begin to form, especially in products that are exposed to air and water when you use them.
Check the POA (Period After Opening) symbol on the packaging. This symbol indicates the number of months the formulation will be safe and stable to use after opening. Usually, 3, 6, 12 or 24 months.
No POA? Evaluate the formula consistency. Is it separating or lumpy? This indicates the product is past its best shelf life. A change in smell is also a sign it’s time to go!
Skincare And Allergies
Spring and summer can be challenging seasons for your skin if you’re prone to allergies. The histamine reaction associated with allergies that trigger a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing can also sensitise and inflame the skin. It can cause double the trouble if you already have a naturally sensitive skin type or are challenged with inflammatory conditions.
Stick with gentle, fragrance-free skincare products designed to calm and cool stressed skin and strengthen the barrier.