Late-Summer Skin Optimization
LATE-SUMMER SKIN
We also see a decrease in skin issues like eczema and dermatitis among clients and customers, thanks to the combination of heat, humidity, sweat, sun, and even a bit of saltwater. Depending on your skin type, the shift in pH from these factors can make your skin less prone to breakouts, since most inflammatory conditions are linked to a more alkaline pH. Plus, spending more time in the sun boosts cell turnover, which can also help reduce breakouts. Just be mindful— more sun means more potential for UV and cellular damage, so don’t skimp on SPF 30+ sunscreen!
You might notice your skin producing more oil during the hottest days of summer. And while we generally love a bit of natural oil (hello, glow!), it’s important to consider the quality of that sebum. If your skin tends to get greasy, you could end up with clogged pores. Plus, conditions like fungal acne might flare up. Keep reading, we share more on "troubleshooting” below.
And we know not everyone lives in the steamy south... Folks in hot, dry climates might experience more transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leading to dehydration and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The heat might also trigger conditions like rosacea or cause your skin to feel extra dry or flaky. If this sounds like you, you might need to tweak your moisturizer to suit your skin’s needs better. Ask us about Biologique Recherche line of skincare, that has something for both these scenarios (available in store and via phone).
SYMPTOM-FREE LATE-SUMMER SKIN CARE
If your skin is feeling great and symptom-free, try this summertime routine:
- Start your day with a Hydrating Collagen Gel Sheet Mask to cool down and plump your skin. PRO TIP: keep it in the fridge and apply it after a workout. And If got a bit too much sun the day before, try a mask with aloe vera. This Micronutrient + Hydro Mask is perfect for soothing sun-kissed skin.
- After masking, reset your skin’s microbiome with Balancing HypoTonic into your skin, followed by a generous layer of vitamin C on your face, neck, and chest— a must for collagen production and repairing UV damage. Finish up with a moisturizer that will seal in the above minerals and nutrients, Like a protective oil or soothing cream. And, of course, end with a non-nano zinc oxide SPF 30+.
- For your body, switch to cool (not cold!) showers to stay comfortable and energized. Afterward, on moist skin, lock in moisture with Body Barrier Emulsion or Botanical Body Butter. The shower/moisturizing combo helps keep your skin smooth and hydrated all day long—no more dry, flaky skin! Pro tip: This routine works wonders, year-round for bumpy skin or keratosis pilaris.
TROUBLESHOOTING LATE-SUMMER SKIN FREAK-OUTS
If your skin is oily or you’re breaking out more:
- Throughout the day, balance your pH with Pre + Probiotic Daily Mist. Use in the morning, night, and whenever the mood strikes in-between.
- Up the ante of your UV protection and antioxidants with C-Therapy Serum in the morning.
- Back-off moisturizer to help fight breakouts. If you want something light, Treatment Oil is a great choice.
- Finish with a non-nano zinc oxide SPF 30+, ofc
- At night, use a Gentle Retinol Serum to repair and reduce inflammation without making your skin more sensitive to the sun. Emphasis on GENTLE. Apply it under your oil.
If your skin feels dry or flaky:
- Throughout the day, balance your pH with Balancing HypoTonic. Use in the morning, night, and whenever the mood strikes in-between.
- Morning and night, apply lightweight but nourishing products like Soothing B3 Serum to plump and calm your skin, and Barrier Restore Serum for moisture and protection.
- Don’t forget your SPF 30+!
- At night, skip the Barrier Restore Serum and finish the above routine with Barrier Lipid Complex Moisturizer.
- For your body, lock in moisture with Body Barrier Emulsion or Botanical Body Butter. Even better when your skin is moist, like post shower.
If you’re spending a lot of time in pools, the chlorine can dry out your skin, cause itching, and increase sensitivity. To protect your skin, shower before and after swimming to reduce chlorine absorption. You can also apply a layer of oil to your body and hair before swimming to create a protective barrier— Boketto LAB The Oil works great for this.
SUPPLEMENTARY LATE-SUMMER SKIN CARE
Stay hydrated to beat the heat Start your day with a big glass of water with a capful of ACV, and then drink plenty of room-temperature water throughout the day. If you’re sweating a lot, consider adding trace minerals. Or DIY:
- Mix 5 tablespoons of Himalayan pink salt in a mason jar of filtered water and let it sit (covered) for 24 hours. Add 1-2 tablespoons of this salty tonic to a full glass of water daily. It’s great for restoring mineral balance and boosting energy.
Eat seasonally Summer is the perfect time to eat produce that’s high in both fiber and water content. Cucumbers, crisp lettuces, radishes, berries, fermented foods, and leafy herbs like mint, cilantro, chives, and parsley all work to keep you a well-lubricated machine ;-)
The Great Outdoors A little sun can be great for your health and mood! Aim for unfiltered sun exposure early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Physical barriers like hats, and linen shirts & pants are an effective way to avoid too much sun no matter the time of day, and ofc SPF 30+.
Stay active, but dial it back Summer naturally brings more movement as we spend time outside. Try walking, jogging, or biking during the cooler parts of the day, or even switch up your routine by walking to the market for coffee instead of driving! Swimming is another fantastic full-body workout that keeps you cool while providing resistance. And don’t forget about yoga or stretching to promote healthy circulation and reduce stress—you can do it anywhere.