How Does Summer Affect Your Skin?
As temperatures rise, you may notice that the humidity and heat are wreaking havoc on your skin. Oiler skin may appear oiler and dry skin may appear more dry (thanks, Mother Nature!). You may also notice an increase in blemishes due to dirt and oil from sweat being trapped in your pores, causing pimples and other blemishes. And while we all like a healthy glow, the side effect of unprotected time in the sun means hyperpigmentation and early signs of aging. Read on for our suggestions for changing up your summer skincare and protecting yourself against those wonderful but harsh sun rays!
Top tips for summer skincare
1. Lighten up your facewash and moisturizer
Generally, in the summer your skincare routine can be more lightweight. Swap out a cream or oil cleanser for something gentle and foaming, for example Ursa Major's Fantastic Face Wash, and a moisturizer with a lighter texture. Try this option from Pestle and Mortar or combine moisture and protection with Ursa Major's moisturizer and SPF combo.
2. Include antioxidants
Regular visitors to maple + björk will know we are huge fans of Vitamin C, and the summer season is no exception. Both a Vitamin C serum (like InstaNatural's) or other antioxidant-filled skin treats (have you tried this one from HoliFrog yet?) will help to prevent or reduce hyperpigmentation, improve the appearance of fine lines, and increase collagen production.
3. Exfoliate regularly
Consider increasing the number of days in the week you use a chemical exfoliant, to open up blocked pores and remove blemish-causing oil. We suggest either of Pestle and Mortar Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid options.
4. Use a refreshing toner
This will help to prevent oil accumulation in pores, and to soothe and refresh any areas that feel a little tender after a day of sunshine. We love Keep Cool's Bamboo Toner.
5. Make sure your makeup is non-comedogenic
That is a fancy way of saying you should be using products that are formulated without pore-clogging ingredients, for example by switching to oil-free primer for the summer months.
6. SPF, SPF, SPF
But you already knew that tip was coming, right? Our fave Coola has a few different options here.