Summer is the best. We can wear lighter clothes, make the most of the warm evenings and… did someone say beer garden? However, the welcome return of the fleeting Irish summer brings with it a lot of skincare queries, concerns and a change in our usual skincare regime. Updating your skincare regime and using skincare products designed for warm weather will help to keep your most valuable asset in tip-top shape, prevent premature ageing and prevent dreaded sun damage from ruining your porcelain. Here are our top tips for summer skincare.
SPF, SPF, SPF
It’s our number one tip, and something you should never leave home without. Protection from the sun’s harmful rays is not something you should take lightly. Aside from keeping you protected and preventing sunburn and redness, using SPF year-round reduces your risk of skin cancer. SPF should be included in every skincare routine no matter the weather but ramped up in summer, every single time you leave the house. A sunscreen with SPF 30 will protect you from around 96.7% of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 50 means protection from about 98% of UVB rays. Anything beyond SPF 50 makes very little difference in terms of risk of sun damage, and no sunscreens offer 100% protection from UVB rays. Sunscreen should be the last step in your summer skincare routine and reapplied regularly.
Lighten up
You wouldn’t wear a winter coat out in the sun, so why should your skin? Using lighter lotions, potions and SPF gives your face a little more space to breathe, reduces clogged pores and takes away that sticky, heavy feel of sweat mixed with moisturiser. Swap out a heavy cream or oil cleanser in favour of a gentle, foaming option – just make sure it doesn’t include alcohol. Use a light, unscented SPF or combination everyday moisturiser with a minimum of factor 30. The same goes for make-up. Swap your full coverage foundation and powders with BB cream or go bare-faced and let your sun (safely) soak up some rays.
Enjoy a Facial
Summer is an ideal time to treat yourself to a facial, washing away dead skin cells and unblocking pores, just in time to show your face at a summer wedding or BBQ. Regular facials can improve the circulation in your face, improving colour and texture and intensely moisturises, preventing premature ageing. Osprey Spa offers a variety of bespoke facials, created for your specific skin type and needs. Make it an occasion, enjoying a dip in our pool and enjoy our state-of-the-art thermal suite. Check out our summer pampering packages exclusively available on our website.
Exfoliate
We’re always being warned not to over-exfoliate but the summer months are the time to scrub away that build-up, especially if you have oily skin. An increase in exfoliation should be a part of your summer skincare regime and incorporating your favourite acids can have a fantastic effect on your skin. Exfoliation opens up blocked pores, removes some excess oils and can feel soothing to stressed summer skin. Be careful not to overdo it and get some expert advice before you start from a dermatologist or facial professional, especially if you’re introducing new chemicals.
Invest in a Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C in your skincare is important all year but especially in the summer. Vit C helps to prevent hyperpigmentation, something that affects many of us after some time spent basking in the sun. It helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and can help with collagen production Layer a few drops of Vitamin C between cleansing and moisturising for optimal use.
Look after your overall health
No matter how much you spend on skincare, there is only so much it can do if you don’t help it along. Looking after yourself comes from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water, getting fresh air, exercising and plenty of whole foods are all contributing to healthy skin, hair and nails and can have a hugely positive effect on your mental health. Look after your body and your skin will glow effortlessly.
Book a facial with one of our expert team and we can help you create a summer skincare routine you’ll love. Check out our range of treatments and skincare products available on our website.