How To Build A Summer Skincare Routine
Here at New Forest Spa, SenSpa, we understand that building a skincare routine can be daunting with so many products available and something that you found to be beneficial last season is now not working for you. But panic not! We have caught up with Holistic Skincare Therapist Sarah Brown to help you build your summer skincare routine.
Why are skincare rituals important?
Rituals help maintain the health and appearance of your skin. They can help remove dirt, oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, prevent breakouts, reduce signs of aging, and improve overall skin texture and tone. Additionally, taking time for self-care can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Your skin’s appearance is a direct reflection of your personal wellbeing.
What are the 5 main steps to building your summer skincare routine?
Step 1: Pre-Cleanse - preparing your skin
To build a summer skincare routine, start with a pre-cleanse to remove daily impurities from your skin. A pre-cleanse is a cleansing method that provides several benefits, including removing makeup, SPF and oil from the skin. This can help to prevent breakouts and improve the overall health of the skin. It can also help to prepare the skin for further treatments, such as a treatment cleanse, exfoliation or moisturising, by ensuring that the pores are clear and the skin is free of impurities. A pre-cleanse product is recommended to be oil based to effectively breakdown impurities and lift away dirt.
Sarah recommends: Éminence Stone Crop Cleansing Oil
Step 2: Treatment Cleanse
Once the skin is effectively prepared, the treatment cleanse can penetrate the skin layers and deliver skin type benefits effectively. Finding the best cleanser can be daunting given that there are so many options. Knowing the differences between them will help you choose the best products for your skin.
Oily, acne-prone skin: Éminence Stone Crop Gel Wash
Dry or sensitive skin: ESPA Hydrating Cleansing Milk
Combination skin: ESPA Balancing Foam Cleanser
Step 3: Toner
Apply a toner to balance your skin's pH, remove excess products and prepare the skin for the next steps. There are a couple of ways to use a toner, depending on the objective and desired result:
To remove excess products - gently sweep across the skin and repeat until pads come away clean.
To add hydration - pop toner into the palm of the hands and gently press on to the skin. Highly recommended for dry/dehydrated/mature skins. Or use a spritz application to apply a light mist to the skin and allow to dry.
Sarah recommends: Éminence Stone Crop Hydrating Mist
Step 4: Serum
Apply a serum targeted to your specific skin concerns, such as anti-aging or acne-fighting. Serums usually contain a higher concentration of active ingredients compared to moisturisers. This step is essential to addressing specific skin concerns.
For a youthful glow: Willow Beauty BioMarine Age-Preventative Booster Serum
Sensitive skin: Éminence Calm Skin Arnica Booster Serum
Oily skin: Éminence Clear Skin Willow Bark Booster Serum
Step 5: Moisturise
Moisturisers lock in hydration and protect your skin from external stresses. A daily moisturiser is necessary to maintain your skin's moisture barrier and to prevent environmental damage to your skin.
Mature skin: Éminence Coconut Age Corrective Moisturiser
All skin types: Willow Beauty Hydrating Moisturiser
Top tip: SPF is not just for summer!
Don't forget to wear sunscreen during the day. SPF should be worn throughout the year, not just during summer months. It is important you do not just rely of SPF in cosmetics such as foundations, BB Creams and moisturisers. The percentage of coverage is not enough to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
It's important to evaluate your skincare ritual periodically and adjust accordingly to ensure that your skin receives the care it needs. Consulting with a skincare professional will provide clarity and guidance on any necessary changes.
Finally, be consistent and patient with your ritual to see the best results.