Beauty

Expert tips on how to look after your skin in summer

As we switch up our wardrobes for the long-awaited heatwave, it’s time to do the same for your skincare routine. Hot temperatures, increased sunshine and office air-con can wreak havoc on our complexions, meaning you’ll have to put a bit of groundwork in to prevent any damage to your skin.

Covering SPF, home hacks and product recommendations, here are the expert top tips on how to look after your skin this summer, giving you the ultimate glow…

@muradskincareuk

#1 Skip the Foundation

In the warmer months, trade your heavier makeup for lighter creams and lotions to let it breathe – just as you’d trade your jumpers for light t-shirts and loose dresses. Opt for a tinted moisturiser that will give you coverage whilst nourishing the skin and creating a lightweight, natural finish. The ESPA tinted moisturiser includes Sunflower Seed Concentrate helping build the skin’s natural moisture barrier and the White Lupin enhances elasticity.

@lanitonnu

#2 Always SPF

It goes without saying, you should always wear sunscreen. Protecting your skin against harmful UV rays, works to prevent skin damage, premature ageing and skin cancer. New innovations mean formulas are more lightweight and less chalk-like than ever – meaning they will fit seamlessly into your morning routine. Look for products with at least SPF 30, but choose SPF 50 for the best protection. The Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser is our favourite.

#3 Increase your dose of Vitamin C

Vitamin C may be good for your internal health but it also works wonders for your skin too. Its antioxidant nature helps minimise sun damage and helps the skin to heal itself, meaning it can reduce brown spots. For daily skin revitalisation, choose the Murad Essential C Day Moisturiser, which will give you a brighter, smoother more youthful complexion.

#4 Hydration is key

Dehydration skin is what leads to dry, uneven and uncomfortable skin. Combat hydration with a trusty moisturiser that will rejuvenate and lock in moisture. The recommended Scientia Ceramide Skin Rescue Moisture Barrier Balm is a complex 5-barrier-boosting combination with a dewy complexion. With Ceramides Hyaluronic Acid, fatty acids and lipids mimic it will help restore and rebuild the skin barrier function whilst retaining moisture.

@scientiabeauty

You can also combat dryness with face mist that can be used throughout the day – keep a bottle in the fridge for extra coolness. Try the Chantecaille facial mists for a product that will detoxify and hydrate skin. Also, make sure you are drinking plenty of water. It is a huge factor in the health of your skin, especially if you’re enjoying a wine or two over the weekend.

#5 Home hacks

Give yourself a professional icy facial by keeping any face devices or masks in the fridge. The cold temperature will cool and soothe when applied to your face, helping any irritation or puffiness caused by the heat.

There is so much guidance around skincare it sometimes feels a little daunting and we’re sure your skin feels the same. So, once or twice a month after cleansing go to sleep with no product, to let your skin breathe and you will see the benefits it has to your skin’s balance.

@girl_from_town

Why not try a homemade mask? This homemade face mask combats dry skin without having to turn into a super oily substance, perfect for the summer. From expert skincare vlogger Iamvenessae this is the Honey & Avacado Mask. Made from half a mashed avocado, and 1 tablespoon of honey, the avocado’s fatty acids help soothe and moisturize your dry skin barrier, while honey is a natural hydrator used to treat acne and inflammatory skin conditions. Wear for 10 minutes before applying your skincare products.