The Ultimate 5-Step Simple Summer Skincare Regime

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Summer is here, bringing with it the joys of sunny days and outdoor adventures. However, the heat, humidity, and increased sun exposure can take a toll on your skin and I don't know about you but the idea of wearing a full face of make up in the sizzling summer heat is not at all appealing. This is why it is so important to have a daily skincare routine perfected to keep our skin looking and feeling great without makeup. 

To keep your skin healthy, glowing, and protected is pretty simple but it does require you to find a little time each day and most importantly be consistent. A skincare routine needs to be followed consistently to have the best results. So if you are looking for summer-ready skin, follow this simple yet effective 5-step summer skincare regime. Plus, we’ve included tips on using massage tools and ointments/gels for that extra pampering.

Step 1: Cleanse

Morning and Night Start your day by cleansing your skin to remove any sweat, dirt, and excess oil that can accumulate overnight or throughout the day. Opt for a gentle, foaming cleanser that won't strip your skin of its natural moisture. Ingredients like salicylic acid are great for acne-prone skin, while chamomile and aloe vera are soothing options for sensitive skin.

Tip: Use a cleansing brush or a silicone facial scrubber to enhance the cleansing process, ensuring your pores are thoroughly cleaned.

Step 2: Exfoliate

2-3 Times a Week Exfoliating is crucial to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, especially in the summer as we tend to sweat a lot more, and things like sun cream can be really clogging to our skin. Choose a gentle chemical exfoliant containing AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) for a smoother, more even skin tone and texture. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can irritate your skin especially if you have been out in the sun for some time or have particularly sensitive skin. 

Tip: Incorporate a gentle facial massage tool to help depuff your face, such as a jade roller or a gua sha stone, after exfoliating. These tools can help improve blood circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance product absorption.

Step 3: Tone

Morning and Night After cleansing, use a toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and tighten pores. Select an alcohol-free toner with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or calming ingredients like rose water. Toning helps prepare your skin to absorb subsequent products more effectively.

Tip: Spritz a cooling facial mist throughout the day to keep your skin refreshed and hydrated, especially in the summer heat. If you keep that mist in the fridge it will be extra cooling and refreshing. The same can be done for any aloe vera or after sun, pop them in the fridge so they are cool and refreshing on hot skin.

Step 4: Moisturise

Morning and Night Hydration is key, even in the summer. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser that provides adequate hydration without making your skin feel greasy. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides are excellent for locking in moisture and leaving your skin feeling hydrated. You can opt for a slightly richer moisturizer for night time if your skin needs it. Don't forget the rest of your body either, we often have more skin exposed to the sun in the summer and it can leave our skin feeling rough, try to remember to apply a moisturiser or oil such as comfrey ointment or gel to your body after the showers or incorporate it into a relaxing massage with a partner. 

Tip: Incorporate soothing gels or ointments, such as aloe vera gel or a cooling cucumber gel, to calm sun-exposed skin and reduce redness. These can also provide an extra layer of hydration. 

Step 5: Protect

Morning Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in your summer skincare routine, in fact, sun cream should actually be a part of your skin care regime all year round (even the winter!) So now is a good time to start if you don't already. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, regardless of the weather. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen to avoid clogged pores and breakouts. I really like the spray-style sun cream for this as it is easy and lightweight to apply to the face. 

Tip: Use a facial massage tool like a jade roller over your sunscreen application to ensure even coverage and absorption. This can also give your skin a refreshing, cooling effect.

Additional Summer Skincare Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Ensure you carry a reusable bottle with you at all time, I like to pack mine out with ice so I have a nice cold and refreshing drink with me at all times. 
• Antioxidants: Incorporate antioxidant-rich serums, like vitamin C, in your morning routine to protect against environmental damage.
• Light Makeup: Opt for minimal and lightweight makeup to let your skin breathe. A tinted moisturizer with SPF can be a great multitasking product. Think back to basics for days out, mascara and lipgloss, maybe a little BB cream but that is all. You don't want to be worried about how your make-up is looking all day plus by applying thick layers of make up to your skin you will be clogging pores making them unable to swear properly and making you feel hot and possibly even unwell! 

By following this 5-step summer skincare regime, you can enjoy the season while keeping your skin healthy, protected, and glowing. Embrace the warmth with confidence, knowing your skin is well taken care of and its a routine that can actually be used all year round really with a few adjustments for the weather and your skin type. 

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