Summer skin care dos and don’ts

The heat, humidity and other environmental factors that come with summer definitely take their toll on our skin. So, we have a few top tips for keeping your face as comfortable, clear and calm as possible throughout the steamy days ahead...

DO opt for a lighter formula

Your skin’s needs change from season to season and when the warm weather hits, you may feel it’s necessary to adjust your daily skin care routine,” notes Dr Véronique Delvigne, Scientific Director for Lancôme worldwide. “Opt for lightweight textures that won’t clog pores," she suggests. We love Laneige Water Bank Hydro Gel Moisturiser.

DON’T skip cleansing

Washing your face twice daily is a must. “Some women feel they’re more oily in summer, so instead of a moisturising cleanser, try a gentle, purifying, oil-absorbing option that will help rebalance the skin,” suggests Dr Delvigne. We love Sukin Oil Balancing Purifying Gel Cleanser.

DO cover up

Whether you’re heading to the beach or the office, applying a high level of sun protection is a must. “Also, avoid midday sun exposure when UV rays are most dangerous,” adds Dr Delvigne. Try Ego SunSense Daily Face SPF 50+ – it also has the added bonus of a sheer tint.

DON’T add too many layers

Keep your routine simple by using multi-purpose buys. For a fuss-free, melt-proof solution, swap your moisturiser, sunscreen and foundation for a lightweight BB cream like Nude By Nature Sheer Glow BB Cream.

DO keep a clear complexion

The warmer months often highlight pigmentation concerns. Dr Delvigne advises looking for a targeted treatment lotion to both prevent and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Try Innoxa Save Our Skin SOS CorrecTone.

DON’T forget to exfoliate

This not only helps to slough away dull, dead skin cells, but also “soaks up excess oil and cleans out impurities to reveal a fresh, young complexion”, explains Dr Delvigne. FYI, we rate the Natural Instinct Invigorating Facial Scrub.

DO control shine

Summer signals the peak of sebum production (our skin’s natural barrier against the sun), so keep an oily T-zone in check with mattifying skin care, like Rimmel London Lasting Matte Primer, which can be worn under or over makeup to reduce shine throughout the day.

DON’T leave sunburn untreated

Take the sting out of sunburnt skin with a cool compress. “[Then] apply a creamy, nourishing skin care to sunburn over the next few days to bring relief and comfort and to prevent peeling,” recommends Dr Delvigne. We recommend NIVEA After Sun Lotion. It contains vitamin E, aloe vera and avocado oil to soothe and protect skin post-sun.

Looking for a foundation that'll stay put through summer? Here are our sweat-proof favourites...

Main image credit: @isabelamerced