There is nothing better than spending time outdoors during the summer months. But as we all know, too much sun is damaging and dangerous! Along with scary long term health implications, overexposure to the sun causes wrinkle formulation, uneven complexion, redness, broken capillaries, and hyper-pigmentation etc. In addition to sun damage, there are many factors in the summer that can dry and irritate your skin, such as humidity, wind, saltwater, and chlorinated water. It is very important to take good care of and prepare your skin after the summer season and the annual beach holiday.
So, this Autumn, introduce a skincare recovery into your day. This will not only benefit your skin by reversing the damage caused by the summer months but will also keep your skin healthy for the change in season.
Change your cleansing routine
During the summer, foaming and gel cleansers make for an excellent choice for deep cleaning in the morning and night; but these might cause dryness once the temperature starts cooling and less oil is produced. A good rule ofthumb is to use a non-drying, sulfate-free gel cleanser in the morning and a lightweight, lotion-based cleanser at night.
The gel provides deeper pore cleansing, whereas a milder cleansing lotion effectively dissolves makeup. Opt for a vitamin-infused cleanser for the night, and if you prefer a gel-based cleaner, look for the pH-balanced one.
Add Retinol and Vitamin C to Your Face Routine
Vitamin A – Retinol – We often take a break or reduce the use of retinol, also known as Vitamin A, during the summer months. As the weather start cooling, make sure to add retinol to your routine. You can opt for either a prescription retinol or non-prescription retinol serum. It can help reduce the appearance of brown spots (lentigines) triggered by summer sun, and wrinkles. Most of us are aware that prescription retinol or retinol serum are the most scientifically proven ingredients for smoothing the skin texture.
Vitamin C serum – As far as your skin is concerned, vitamin C is “a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals,” explains Dr Adam. “Because of its antioxidant properties, vitamin C aids your skin’s natural regeneration process, which helps your body repair damaged skin cells.” So, in the same way that consuming antioxidant-rich foods aids your body in fighting off free radicals, topical antioxidants do the same for your skin by helping to offset daily aggressors like UV damage and exposure to air pollution. Quick refresher course on antioxidants: They prevent or reduce damage to our cells by neutralizing the production of highly reactive molecules called free radicals. In other words, antioxidants help keep our body and our skin cells healthy. This free-radical-fighting power isn’t just important for helping to keep signs of premature aging at bay. In neutralizing these free radicals, vitamin C may also help protect skin from precancerous changes caused by UV exposure.
Stay Hydrated
When it comes to serious skincare, vitamin serums are non-negotiable. With their potent antioxidant properties vitamins, B and E are essential for protecting against free radicals, fortifying the skins barrier protection, minimising fine lines, soothing irritation, increasing luminosity, and increasing our defence against UV light. Each has their own unique library of benefits.
Serum Vitamin B
Dry or dehydrated skin can look dull and devitalised. Obviously, drinking water is the first piece of the puzzle, however dehydrated skins need topically applied hydrators to change the game. Vitamin B serum is loaded with barrier fortifying hydrating superstar Niacinamide. This nutritional powerhouse replenishes moisture levels, helps balance excess sebum, reduces the appearance of redness and encourages a healthy skin barrier for resilient, luminous skin. Apply Vitamin B serum morning or evening whenever your skin needs a moisture boost.
Serum Vitamin E
Stressed skin can happen at any time. Sensitivity, breakouts or perhaps you’ve overdone it with your exfoliant.
Vitamin E nurtures, calms and fortifies dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin. Vitamin E helps combat oxidative stress in the skin and is proven to help reduce inflammation, which is a catalyst to extrinsic skin ageing. So not only are you minimising redness and irritation but you’re fighting the fine line war, too. Apply morning or evening as needed.
Use SPF to Protect Your Skin
When temperatures are cooler outside, most of us think the sun rays are not as harmful, however this is not true. While UVB rays, which cause sunburns or suntans, are not as intense in autumn, the UVA rays (the ones that trigger premature wrinkles and skin cancer) are as fierce as in summer month. It is essential to understand that protecting skin from the sun is a year-round job, so make sure you apply sunscreen that best suits your skin type and prepare your skin for the Autumn season!
If you have any questions – you are welcome to contact Dr Adam Brown Skin & Cosmetics in the most convenient way.