Master Esthetician, Katie Johnson’s 4 Summer Skin Tips
Summer sunshine is something everyone looks forward to in the grey months here in the PNW. When the warm weather finally arrives, we want to soak up as much vitamin D as possible. The only downside to this season, is that it can cause unwanted damage to our skin that we spend all year trying to correct. Just as we should be switching up our skincare routines in the cooler months, we should be adapting to warmer weather and changing things up in the summer as well. Here are some tips to safely enjoy your summer, all while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
SPF, SPF and….. more SPF!
No surprise here. The easiest way to keep your skin protected, is your SPF. When searching for a sunblock, make sure you are choosing one that ensures broad spectrum protection, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
When in the active sun, we should be reapplying our sunscreen every two hours!
Also, don’t forget small places like the hairline and ears. (Pro tip: use a powdered spf on your hairline to avoid the greasy feel from aerosol spray. Powdered SPF also makes reapplication to the face easier when out).
Product Recommendation: ColorScience Sunforgettable SPF
Vitamin C is your friend
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that neutralizes free radical damage and protects the skin from harmful UV rays. It also contains a tyrosinase inhibitor (a property that inhibits the skins melanin production). This means as well as protecting the skin, it also helps to brighten discoloration and prevent future pigmentation from forming.
Layering a Vitamin C serum in the morning (underneath your daily moisturizer and SPF), is a winning combo!
Product Recommendation: iS Clinical Super Serum Advance+
Stick to lighter skincare and coverage
In the summer, we are more likely to produce excess oils and sebum in our skin. In contrast to winter when we need thicker moisturizers to help trap moisture in the skin, in the summer we need something more lightweight. A water-based hydrator is a great option for most skin types, as it is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores.
A tinted sunscreen also provides great coverage, and can act as a BB cream or foundation, letting you skip some heavier makeup steps!
Product Recommendation: elta MD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
Wear protective clothing
While out and about, it’s important to be thinking about the skin on our bodies as well as our face. Wearing hats while in direct sunlight can keep your scalp protected from unwanted sun. Sunglasses too are not only a fashion statement, but keep your cornea’s and delicate skin around the eyes protected.
