When our feet and legs aren't on display the way they are during the warmer weather, we tend to not moisturise as much, and we don't pay as much attention to things like dry cuticles. Unfortunately, it doesn't take long for skin that is neglected to react, becoming dry, flaky, and sometimes even red and inflamed.
Come a new season, it’s just as important to relook at our skincare regime as it is our wardrobe. While a complete overhaul isn’t necessary, a few adjustments will help you look and feel better, not to mention keep your skin healthy.
Seven tips to get skin spring-ready:
1. SPRING CLEAN YOUR BEAUTY STASH: Spring cleaning doesn’t only refer to combing through the unworn clothes in our closets. Your clients’ beauty stash also requires a good cleanout. Encourage clients to look over their skincare products – including topicals, make-up brushes, and hairbrushes – and cleanout. They should discard any expired products as these can have bacteria build-up and ingredients may no longer be active. It’s also a good time for them to reassess their skin type and consider what their regimen might need to be added or removed. It’s important to determine if they’re dealing with oily, dry, dull, irritated, or acne-prone skin and opt for products that cater to their specific needs.
2. EXFOLIATE MORE: Coming out of winter our skin will be a little on the dry and dehydrated side, making pores look enlarged, and skin tone dull and red from the chilly temperatures and lack of moisture. As the weather warms up and our activity increases, our metabolism, circulation, and oil production all get back into gear instantly brightening the complexion. However, this is also a great time to exfoliate. Exfoliation speeds up the process of removing old skin cells so that new ones can emerge. For the body, a gentle physical exfoliator made with sugar, salt, or finely-ground plant material can be used. For the more delicate skin on the face, consider recommending a milder exfoliator.
3. DRINK MORE WATER: Hydration is just as important for skin in the spring as it is in the winter. Drinking up to eight glasses of water a day helps rid the body of toxins and keeps skin from getting dry and flaky.
4. ADJUST YOUR MOISTURISER: Advise clients to consider scaling back on the thickness and richness of the moisturising products they were using in winter, and suggest a lighter moisturiser to keep their skin healthy and hydrated without weighing it down.
5. GET A FACIAL: A visit to the spa during a seasonal change isn’t just a way for clients to pamper themselves, it’s also a great time of year for pick-me-up treatments that refine skin texture or boost collagen production.
6. EAT FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES: A great way for clients to get more water into their day, without actually having another glass of water, is by snacking on fresh fruit and vegetables. Top fruits and vegetables for optimal skin health include citrus, grapefruit, apples, watermelon, carrots, broccoli, and lettuce.
7. APPLY SUNSCREEN: This is one of the easiest ways you can prevent damage and keep your skin healthy throughout the year. With increased exposure to the sun in the warmer months, it’s even more important to be diligent about applying sunscreen.