Your Spring Skincare Guide

Winter hibernation is over, spring is here, which means it's time to shed winter's dullness and show some skin. In doing so, changing up your skincare routine is important for healthy, balanced skin from head to toe. I come across many people who complain about their current skincare products or routine not working as well as it used to now that spring is here. Their skin looks dull and has lost its glow. This is very common and normal. Most people probably don't realize that they need to switch up their routine to address seasonal changes throughout the year.

Your skin's needs can change with the seasons, and so should your skincare routine. Just like you switch up your wardrobe according to seasons, you should also be rotating your products to protect your skin against the changing environmental elements. Environmental conditions can impact the way your skin behaves, so paying attention to the weather will effect what types of products it needs. Most people also tend to have a seasonal diet, eating more fruits and vegetables in the spring and summer compared to fall and winter. Seasonal diet changes can have an impact on your skin too. So, it all depends on where you live, lifestyle factors, and how your skin responds to different environmental conditions. As the weather gets warmer and the air becomes less dry, here's what you need to know to refresh your skin this spring.

Shed your winter coat

Exposure to cold, dry winter weather can dull your skin. Slough off last season with a gentle-but-effective exfoliator for your face and body. In seconds, you'll have smoother, more radiant-looking skin with visibly improved tone and texture.

Keep your skin hydrated

In many parts of the world, the air is more humid in the spring than in the winter, which means now might be the time to swap your heavy cream for a lightweight moisturizer or oil-free hydration serum. The most effective ways to increase hydration levels is to drink plenty of water daily and apply a hydration serum containing hyaluronic acid to your skin.

There is a misconception that only visibly dry and older skin needs hydration. As skin ages, it does require more hydration to perform optimally. However, all skin types, younger and older skin, even oily and acne-prone skin, can benefit from additional hydration to perform optimally. In fact, oily skin actually produces more oil when it's dehydrated to compensate for its hydration needs. Whether you experience dryness due to hormonal changes, environmental factors, acne, or age, it can make your skin look older than it actually is. As the outer layer becomes dry, cell turnover reduces, which results in skin that is more prone to sensitivity, lines, wrinkles, and is less receptive to skincare products and treatments. So drink those 8-10 glasses of water a day in addition to using proper skincare products that keep your skin hydrated.

Enhance your skin tone

The sun's UV rays are the number one cause of aging, so when it comes to tanning, think “fake” rather than “bake” for a year round glow. Sunless tanners are the way to go in this day and age. Today's self-tanners are easy to use and deliver results so natural-looking that there's no reason to expose your body to damaging UV rays. Instead of jeopardizing your health with indoor tanning beds and laying out in the sun, go for a natural faux glow. Healthy skin is always in style. Pro tip: Extend your color and keep skin feeling soft by moisturizing regularly.

Protect yourself

When the weather warms up and you can enjoy going to the beach or working in the yard again, it's important to save your skin from further sun damage. Know your skin type and always wear sun protection on both your body and face. A broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15 (SPF 30 is ideal) is recommended. About one ounce, a shot glass full for your entire body, of sun protection should be applied before heading outdoors. Reapply 2-3 times a day or as necessary depending on how long you are outdoors. No matter whether you’re stepping out for a moment or spending the day at the pool, defend yourself from harmful rays and help prevent premature signs of aging by wearing a hat and sunglasses, applying and reapplying sunscreen and seeking shade whenever possible.

Are you ready to get fresh-faced, healthy skin this spring? If you have any skincare-related questions for me, please feel free to comment below or you can email me at [email protected].

Source:

https://www.dermrf.com/2018/04/spring-skincare-guide