As we shift from the all-over-the-shop spring weather towards sunnier days and a long, hot summer, you might be wondering how to approach your summer skincare routine.
Summer can bring extra humidity in some parts of the country, meaning your skin will absorb more moisture from the air (hello, dewy skin). But it can also mean more time spent immersed in saltwater, chlorine or air-conditioning, which all tend to dry out your skin.
So, how to keep your skin supple and balanced over the summer months?
Let’s start with some low-hanging (yet very nourishing and potent) summer skincare fruit.
Slip, slop, slap
If you’re not already applying sunscreen as a daily ritual, you absolutely want to start now that summer is upon us! Obviously sunscreen helps protect against skin cancers, and it’s your first line of defence against the sun damage that leads to fine lines and thickened skin.
Over here, we’re all about mineral sunscreens (like our Original SP50 Sunscreen or Tinted SPF50 Face Sunscreen) that sit on top of your skin and repel UV rays, as opposed to chemical ones that can be absorbed into your skin (yuck!).
Sunscreen should be applied after serums and moisturisers and before make-up (wait for each product to dry before applying another). Remember to apply it not only to your face but also your neck, ears, clavicles, backs of hands and anywhere else that is exposed to the sun — and re-apply every two hours to ensure you’re protected.
Hydrate from the inside
Another low-hanging fruit. You can apply all the products in the world to your skin, but it won’t do much if you’re not hydrating yourself from the inside. Obviously we tend to sweat more in the summertime, so it’s important to consciously up your fluid intake.
If you find it tricky to consume two to three litres of water in a day, keep things interesting with iced herbal tea or smoothies with coconut water, or jazz up your water with lemon, mint or cucumber.
Replenish
We all know there are few things better than having a post-beach shower and then applying some deeply nourishing skincare (perhaps then followed by indulging in a caprese salad, but we digress).
On that note, cool showers are your skin’s friend, as hot water can cause your skin to dry out. Applying your skincare while your skin is still slightly damp will help lock in moisture, too.
Our Moisturising Cucumber After-Sun Milk is designed to bring your skin back to its happy place after long days at the beach or by the pool, while our Hydrating Kakadu Plum Sleep Mask is a luxurious, super-hydrating formula that will work its magic overnight so you can wake up feeling renewed. Listen to your skin and use these products as often as needed.
Cleanse and exfoliate the day away
Summer usually involves being out and about more often, which might include wearing make-up and sunscreen, as well as sweating. All of this means that it’s important to give your face a gentle cleanse and scrub to clear away excess product and dead skin cells for a complexion that’s clean, bright and clear.
Exfoliating once or twice a week (depending on your lifestyle and what feels right for your skin) is generally enough in the summer. Try our Deep Cleansing Marshmallow Face Powder to help clear clogged pores while smoothing and soothing your skin. You can use this exfoliating powder all over your body, too.
Now if you’ll excuse us, we’re off to enjoy a sun-smart salad roll on the beach.
Written By : Sunbutter Skincare
