Springtime Skincare Update

After an unusually wet winter, spring has arrived in Southern California. The air is filled with lovely fragrant Jasmine, which is in full bloom in my backyard, and people are thoroughly embracing outdoor activities. Given the the change in temperature, it is time to make some changes to our skincare routines, and therefore I have a few tips for your consideration.

1) Drink plenty of water. I know that this is obvious, but it is something that I often don't do nearly enough of-- particularly during the warm months.

2) Be diligent in your use of a high SPF sunscreen (at least an SPF 30). The key is to remember to reapply sunscreen frequently. I often find myself applying my sunscreen in the morning and then forgetting to do so again throughout the day. That first and only application offers us a false sense of sun protection, but it does not last from morning until night. I have forced myself to carry sunscreen with me to reapply it, but of course this means that I need to reapply some foundation, tinted moisturizer, blush, or whatever I am wearing on my face that day. While this isn't terribly convenient it is necessary, and definitely worth the trouble. It should be applied to all exposed areas, and remember that the harmful rays also penetrate your clothing. Vulnerable areas like the ears, back of the neck, the drivers side of your face and body, the back of the hands, and feet are most often neglected.

3) Wear a wide brim hat. I try to do this when I am sitting outside reading- even though I do so under an umbrella.

4) Exfoliate Skin once a week to remove dead skin and to ensure that your skincare is penetrating deeply enough. Of course this should be avoided if you have sunburned skin, but if your skin isn't traumatized by the elements and can handle a gentle exfoliation then this will go a long way to allowing your products to penetrate more deeply. If you see any weird looking moles that have been changing shape and size- then avoid this step and go to your doctor to have your skin thoroughly evaluated. I can't underscore the importance of this enough- it is very easy for them to identify precancerous and cancerous lesions that you want to deal with immediately.

5) Consider adding in an anti-aging face serum to help fight free radicals. Even if you are young and aren't seeing fine lines pop up yet, the benefits of anti-aging serums do wonders for scavenging free radicals.

6) Add a nourishing face oil into your rotation. They penetrate the skin deeply and moisturize the skin beautifully. They also give the skin a beautiful healthy glow. They can also be used in lieu of heavier skin creams when you want something lighter and faster absorbing. Fear not, they are made for all types of skin from oily to dry and everything in between.

7) Consider adding Hyaluronic-based serums, lotions or gels into your product rotation because HA radically helps to raise the moisture levels of the skin.

8) If you have a beloved medium to full coverage foundation that is a perfect match for you, but is too heavy for the season, then blend a small amount with your favorite facial lotion or cream, and you will have the perfect tinted moisturizer. Add a touch of primer and sunscreen, and then you have a BB Cream. When I do this I use the back of my hand to mix it- it's a fast and convenient method.

9) Use a good moisture mask or a sleeping mask at least once a week, or as needed.  It will boost your hydration levels while you sleep, and you will wake up with dewy, luminous skin.

10) Use a lip balm with an SPF. Your pretty pout needs more moisture and protection during the warmer months. Apply a moisturizing lip balm with an SPF underneath your lip gloss or lipstick to keep them protected. Reapplication throughout the day is the key to remaining protected.

11) Don't forget your hair! Not only can the sun wreak havoc on your tresses, but the scalp is subject to sunburn as well. Use a deep conditioner on a weekly basis to keep your hair in good shape, and consider a good spray on SPF that is formulated for the hair.

12) A good pair of sunglasses won't just protect your eyes, but will also protect the vulnerable and delicate skin around the eye area.

What are your favorite tips to get your skin through the warmer months?

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