Skincare tips to transition seamlessly into the new season with a glowing, fresh complexion.
Exfoliate to shed winter dullness
During Winter, skin can become dry and flaky, leaving an excess of dead skin cells built up on the surface. Spring is an excellent time to introduce regular exfoliation to shed lingering Winter dullness and revitalise skin.
Exfoliation removes the dead cells on the surface of the skin to reveal fresh healthy skin cells beneath. It improves skin texture (refining the appearance of pores and smoothing roughness), fades the appearance of pigmentation to even out skin tone and also keeps pores clear to reduce breakouts.
Exfoliating advice for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin will benefit from gentle exfoliating acids, like Mandelic or Lactic acids. These acids have a larger molecular structure than other AHAs like glycolic acids so can effectively exfoliate the skin without disrupting the skin barrier and causing too much irritation. Lactic acid offers hydrating as well. The mild nature of enzymatic exfoliation (fruit enzymes such as pineapple and papaya) can also be a good choice for sensitive skin.
Exfoliating advice for acne-prone and combination skin
These skin types can usually handle more robust exfoliation and call for an ingredient that gets deep into the pore to remove buildup.
Salicylic acid and Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) are effective for these skin types as they penetrate the pore lining as well as the skin’s surface for intense exfoliation.
For those prone to spring allergies, there is likely to be an increase in flakiness and general sensitivity around the nose and mouth area. This area needs to be treated with extra TLC and may be best not to treat with exfoliants.
Reduce redness and sensitivity with botanical oils
After dealing with the cold, lack of moisture, indoor heating, and wind all Winter long, skin can be left looking red and irritated. Spring skincare should focus on healing and strengthening the skin barrier.
To calm a stressed, red complexion, choose products and ingredients with soothing, repairing benefits. Botanical oils are ideal for this skin-saving duty and some of the best include:
Hemp seed oil: Brimming with active chemicals, moisturising elements, and vitamins, hemp seed oil brings a wealth of benefits to a spring skincare routine.
Hemp skincare products have anti-inflammatory properties that effectively calm general irritation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Hemp seed oil can also reduce the redness and discomfort of chronic sensitive and inflammatory conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. The benefits of hemp seed oil don’t stop there though; this non-comedogenic botanical oil can moisturise and soften skin and reduce signs of fine lines and wrinkles.
Rapeseed oil: A non-fragrant oil with excellent emollient (soothing and softening) properties, rapeseed oil scores big points for its calming nature as a rich source of inflammation-reducing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Jojoba oil: Matching closely to the skin’s sebum structure, Jojoba is readily accepted by the epidermis which maximises its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
During the springtime, skin is exposed to a combination of dry and humid air, which can vary significantly depending on the location.
Temperatures during the day can be unpredictable, often warm and humid but some days (and evenings) may still be reminiscent of Winter; dry and cool. These shifting temperatures and humidity levels impact the state of the skin.
Maintaining a steady level of hydration will help;
- Transport nutrients to cells to maximise repair
- Promote a smoother, more supple appearance
- Reduce redness
- Strengthen the skin barrier
Serums with humectant ingredients (those that draw water to the skin’s surface) are a brilliant way to maintain a steady moisture balance in your spring skincare routine.
Leading the line-up of great hydrators (humectants) is hyaluronic acid, closely followed by niacinamide, and Panthenol (Vitamin B5). Look for these ingredients in a serum to intensely hydrate and plump the skin.
Tips for using a hydrating serum: Apply the serum immediately after cleansing while the skin is still slightly damp to maximise moisture levels.
Switch up your moisturiser
A key change to the springtime skin routine is switching to a lighter moisturiser.
Heavy, thick moisturising creams may be ideal for dry winter skin but can prove too suffocating for the warmer days.
If a daytime moisturiser doesn’t include sunscreen, applying a broad spectrum sunscreen (one that protects from both UVB and UVA) over the moisturiser is a must.
Warmer days and more time outdoors can increase the chance of pigmentation and sun damage. SPF broad spectrum is non-negotiable all year round!
The ultimate hydrating team
When teamed together, a hydrating serum and moisturiser are a powerful combination for maintaining a radiant, bouncy complexion.
The serum is applied first, which adds water to the cells and following with a moisturiser seals the water in.
Spring clean your products
Does the use by date on skincare really matter? Absolutely. Spring is the perfect time to declutter skincare and dispose of any products past their best by date and focus on using up those near-expired.
Check the packaging for an expiry date range - usually 3, 6 or 12 months opening. In the absence of a date range, checking the smell or change of texture are easy ways to tell if a product has passed its prime.
If a formula has become lumpy or is separating this indicates the ingredients no longer complement each other. Even if the texture seems intact, if the smell has changed, this is a key sign it is no longer safe for the skin.
Springtime allergies
For those prone to seasonal allergies, the spring season has a dark side.
Allergies can cause the skin to become more inflamed than usual. As a general rule, opting for sensitive skincare products during spring, such as a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser can help keep skin fresh while soothing inflammation.
Seasonal allergies can impact eczema sufferers more severely as the skin barrier is already compromised, making it susceptible to the permeation of allergens and irritants. Focus on strengthening the barrier with omega-rich oil botanical oils that fortify the epidermis and add a protective layer to help skin retain moisture.
Placing a cool compress over the eyes can offer relief, rather than rubbing them which stresses the delicate eye area and can lead to wrinkles.
