In the summers of this region, the rules of skincare change! The largest bodily organ, skin, is also the one that takes the full brunt of the heat, the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, hot winds, sand storms, humidity and greater exposure to the drying effects of air conditioning. Here, we’ve asked skincare experts, Galderma to talk us through the basic foundations for good skincare at this challenging time of year.
Healthy skin can help you look good and feel good, and a smart skincare routine is a must for achieving a clear, glowing complexion. The summer temperatures make us perspire more and the winds and breezes can mean that more sand, airborne particles, dust and dirt become part of our complexion! Without a proper skincare routine, the pores of your skin are prone to more clogging and dulling your shine, which can also potentially expose you to even more skin problems. Despite the seemingly endless array of products, tools and treatments, a healthy skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated.
CLEANSER
Everyday soaps can be harsh and irritating, so choose a cleanser that suits your specific skin type. Look for one that respects your skin’s normal pH balance and does not damage its natural protective barriers. If you have oily skin, opt for a cleanser that is specially designed to combat clogged pores (non-comedogenic) and also regulates sebum/oil. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is especially designed for this purpose.
Limit cleansing your face to twice a day – in the mornings and evenings. After cleansing, be sure to gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing your face with a towel, which will ensure that you don’t cause irritation to the skin.
DAY MOISTURISER
If you have dry skin, apply moisturiser while your skin is still damp. This helps to retain moisture and keep your skin soft and smooth. You might think that oily skin doesn’t need moisturiser, but even if you notice that you have excess oil, in fact you still do need to moisturise, as even visibly oily skin can still lack water. Just be sure to use a non-comedogenic formula, as this means it is specially designed not to clog pores. In the summer months, using a moisturizer with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a great way to make sure you don’t skip sun protection.
SUNSCREEN
SPF is a relative measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from ultraviolet (UVB) rays. The main cause of reddening and sunburn, UVB rays tend to damage the epidermis, skin’s outer layers, where the most common (and least dangerous) forms of skin cancer occur. According to the US Skin Cancer Foundation, SPF15 is the minimum value for adequate daily protection.
Sunscreen isn’t just for hot days in this region. Using sunscreen regularly can help guard against free radicals induced by UV radiation, which can cause skin damage and aging. While SPF 15 is the minimum value you need for daily protection, sunscreens that carry an SPF of 30 (or higher) offer even better protection, and is the smart choice if you will be spending a significant amount of time in the sun.
Be sure to seek out a product with broad-spectrum UV protection, such as Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+ Gel, to protect you from both UVA rays (that cause aging) and UVB rays (that cause sunburn). And remember, while water resistance helps to ensure that your sunscreen doesn’t wash (or sweat) off, extended exposure to the sun requires a second helping of sunscreen—so be sure to read the label and follow the instructions for re-application.
NIGHT MOISTURISER
Using a moisturiser before going to bed helps keep your skin hydrated through the night, and will help your skin feel balanced and smoothed when you wake up to face the world. Using a night moisturiser helps you to take advantage of the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, which are more active at night.
EYE CARE
Don’t ignore your eyes in your skincare routine. The skin around the eyes is delicate and thinner than the rest of your skin, and using an eye gel or cream before going to bed at night helps to hydrate, brighten and smooth the eye area, helping to prevent lines and dark circles.
DON’T FORGET YOUR BODY!
Though your face might be the thing you focus on when you look in the mirror, don’t neglect your body. Because we’re covered up during most of the day, there is a tendency to give the skin on your arms, legs, back and trunk second priority—but this also can get dry and irritated.
Be sure to use a gentle body wash, and make it a habit of moisturising immediately after stepping out of the shower or bath. Try the new Cetaphil line of gentle body washes, including Fragrance-Free, Refreshing, and Soothing.