How to tweak your summer Skincare Routine

Use an Exfoliating Cleanser

Cleansing is the first and most important step of any skincare routine, as it removes dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities from your skin’s surface and prepares it for the next steps. In summer, you want to:

✅ Cleanse your skin twice a day, morning and night, to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

✅ A good option is the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser. This cleanser has a gel texture that lathers into a rich foam that cleanses your skin without stripping its natural moisture. It also has salicylic acid and jojoba beads to gently exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells that can dull your complexion. It leaves your skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and ready for the next steps.

Exfoliate 1 X or 2 X A Week

Exfoliation is a key step in maintaining smooth and radiant skin. During the summer, it becomes even more important as the heat and humidity can cause a buildup of sweat and oil, leading to congestion and dullness. Exfoliating once or twice a week can help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve your skin's texture and tone. However, be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as it can irritate your skin. Choose a gentle exfoliator that suits your skin type and sensitivity, such as a chemical exfoliant with AHAs or BHAs.. In summer, you want to:

✅ Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity.

✅ Don’t over-exfoliate your skin, as it can cause irritation and inflammation.

✅ Use a product that is gentle but effective, that won’t irritate or sensitize your skin or make it more prone to sun damage.

A good option is ZO Skinhealth: Exfoliating Polish. This scrub has a creamy texture that contains microbeads and salicylic acid to gently polish and refine your skin. It also has tea tree oil and antioxidants to soothe and protect your skin from environmental stressors. It leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and invigorated.

Add some antioxidants to your routine (Thank me later!)

Treating your skin with antioxidants can be a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a healthy and youthful complexion. Antioxidants help fight free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your skin cells and contribute to premature aging. During the summer, when your skin is exposed to increased environmental stressors, adding antioxidants to your routine becomes even more important. Here's how you can incorporate antioxidants into your summer skincare regimen:

🙌 Choose gentle and effective antioxidant products: Look for antioxidant-rich products that are suitable for summer use.

💪 Look for key antioxidant ingredients: Vitamin C, niacinamide, green tea extract, resveratrol, and ferulic acid.

A good option is Phloretin CF by Skinceuticals. Remember, it's essential to patch test any new products and introduce them gradually into your routine. If you have specific concerns or skin conditions, consult with a skincare professional or dermatologist for personalized recommendations.

Switch to Lighter Moisturizer

If you find that your normal moisturizer is too heavy this time of year, consider one that’s lighter, such as those that contain hyaluronic acid. Moisturizing is the step of applying a product that hydrates and nourishes your skin. Look for oil-free or gel-based formulations that absorb quickly and won't leave a greasy residue. These lighter options can help balance your skin's moisture levels while keeping it feeling fresh and comfortable. Moisturizing helps maintain your skin’s moisture balance, elasticity, and barrier function. It also helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the evaporation of water from your skin’s surface. In summer, you want to:

✅ Use a moisturizer that is lightweight but hydrating, that won’t feel heavy or greasy on your skin, or cause congestion.

✅ Use a moisturizer that contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients to calm and protect your skin from sun damage.

A good option is ZO Skinhealth: Daily Power Defense. This moisturizer has a serum-like texture that absorbs quickly into your skin without leaving any residue or shine. It also has retinol, ultrasomes, roxisomes, and vitamin E to stimulate collagen production, repair DNA damage, fight free radicals, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. It leaves your skin feeling hydrated, firm, and radiant.

Find your HERO SPF

Finding the right SPF (Sun Protection Factor) can be a game-changer in your skincare routine. Your HERO SPF should provide effective sun protection while also meeting your specific needs and preferences. Here's how to find your HERO SPF:

✅ Sun Protection: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Opt for a minimum SPF 30, which provides adequate protection against harmful UV radiation.

✅ Formulation: Consider your skin type and preferences when choosing a formulation. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for oil-free or gel-based formulas that won't clog pores. For dry skin, look for moisturizing sunscreens that provide hydration. Lightweight and non-greasy textures are generally preferred for comfortable daily use.

✅ Skin Concerns: If you have specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, consider sunscreens with additional benefits. Look for ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C, which can help even out skin tone and reduce discoloration.

✅ Lifestyle Factors: Consider your lifestyle and activities when choosing your HERO SPF. If you spend a lot of time outdoors or participate in water sports, opt for water-resistant sunscreens. If you prefer mineral sunscreens, look for options with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients.

✅ Sensitivity and Allergies: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, opt for sunscreens that are labeled hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin. These formulations are generally free from common irritants and are less likely to cause adverse reactions.

I recommend Colorescience: Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50. This sunscreen has a powder texture that comes in a convenient brush applicator that allows you to apply and reapply it easily and mess-free. It also has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide physical sun protection, as well as iron oxides to provide a sheer tint that matches your skin tone. It also has EnviroScreen Technology, which combines antioxidants, peptides, and botanicals to protect your skin from pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. It leaves your skin feeling smooth, matte, and protected.