We sat down with the Queen of Skin, Jess Noonan in her Queendom, The Skin Boutique to chat all things Summer Skin. There are so many mixed messages when it comes to skincare in general, so Jess helped us separate the myths from the essentials. The good news is that you don’t have to completely overhaul your skin regime in-between seasons, but just like your wardrobe, your skin regime should get a little lighter.
SPF, SPF, SPF!
Let's begin with what seems like common knowledge. SPF is a non-negotiable. It’s a must, every day, not only when you’re heading out to the beach. It should form part of your morning skin routine through all the seasons, but especially in the Summer months. Even if you think it’s not that hot a day. the skin-aging UVA rays don’t fluctuate with the heat. Wearing an SPF30-50 is recommended to slow down the aging process and keep your skin in optimal condition long-term - The LIRA CLINICAL SPF Solar Shield 30 Oil-Free with PSC is amazing because it is oil-free and therefore doesn’t sit greasy underneath makeup or give you that sunscreen sheen.
Don't Stop Moisturising
The heat and humidity will definitely add an extra layer of sweat to your face, but this doesn’t count as moisturiser! Moisturisers protect from harmful pollutants and chemicals and prevent further irritation or dryness. This is where a combination moisturiser/SPF comes in: A lightweight texture will help keep that outer layer nourished without feeling too heavy on your skin.
Invest In A Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is great to use all year round, but it’s definitely more important in the Summer months. It helps prevent hyperpigmentation, improve the appearance of fine lines, and can help with collagen production. A few drops on your skin between cleansing and moisturiser will go a long way. Our favourite Vit C is the Aspect Extreme C 20
Fight Pigmentation
Irregular pigmentation gets worse in the Summer, no matter how good you are with sun protection, so you may want to add an anti-pigment serum into your regime if you are not already using one. Our top pick is the Aspect Dr Pigment Punch
Add Exfoliation To Your Routine
Your skin takes on quite a lot during the summer months. Sunscreen, makeup, and the heat all increase your oil production. Gentle exfoliation should play a part in your skincare regime. That doesn't mean a daily dose of all your favorite acids, but try slowly increasing the number of days you exfoliate per week. Try Alpha Hydroxi Acid (AHA) pads to open up blocked pores and remove oils that result in acne. The added benefit is that they feel nice and soothing on stressed-out Summer skin.
Don't Fear Retinol
Retinoids should be used all year round, even in the Summer. They are such great collagen inducers and they also exfoliate the skin, evening-out any irregular pigmentation and helping to repair sun damage. This being said, retinoids can make the skin a little more sensitive to sunlight, but if you are wearing your SPF as we mentioned above, you’re safe. We love Société Refinishing Complex 50ml
Ensure Your Make-Up is Non-Comedogenic
Take a close look at your makeup product labels and only keep those that are non-comedogenic. That's a fancy word for a product formulated without pore-clogging ingredients. Especially over the summer. If you choose to wear makeup that’s going to clog your pores, you’re basically undoing all the hard work you’re doing with your skin routine.
Try A Treatment
Certain in-clinic treatments, such as our Meso Facials, are a great addition to your routine for the summer. Every once in a while it’s important to give your skin a little extra love and speak to a Clinical Therapist about your specific skin concerns. Having a good clinical-grade facial after your Summer holiday is important as well, as the outer 'horny' layer of the skin naturally thickens when exposed to the sun. This means that, after some time in the sun, you will have a tendency for clogged pores and breakouts, so exfoliation and extractions are key.
If There Was One Product To Rule Them All?
It really depends on an individuals' skin type, but we’ve noticed incredible results across the board and a love for the Mesoestetic Stem Cell Active Growth Factor. The stem cell active growth factor actively encourages and accelerates skin cell renewal to brighten the skin and minimise the appearances of fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration, and scarring. It really is an all-in-one when it comes to skincare
* You can find Jess Noonan at The Skin Boutique in Elwood - @theskinboutique and on IG @jess_noonan