With the summer season now here, it's crucial to adapt your skincare routine to cope with the changing environmental conditions.
Whether you are preparing for a summer wedding or simply wanting to achieve glowing summer skin, Dr. Raquel Amado, aesthetic practitioner and skin health expert, has valuable insights and tips to help you achieve your healthy skin.
Hydration is Key
Keeping your skin hydrated is fundamental for a healthy complexion. Dr. Raquel emphasises the importance of drinking plenty of water throughout the day to maintain skin hydration from within. In addition to internal hydration, using moisturisers containing ceramides can help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin's barrier. “Keeping your skin moisturised is very important to keep the barrier function of the skin intact. For that, the skin needs nurturing and ceramides, to boost your skins moisture,” explains Dr Raquel, “Polynucleotides are excellent for improving skin hydration, stimulating collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.” Dr Raquel offers Polynucleotides at her clinic with 3 sessions starting at £975.
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays is crucial during the summer months. Dr. Raquel advises using a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days. For those who wear makeup, finding an SPF that integrates seamlessly into your routine is essential for consistent use. Dr Raquel notes that, “The integration of skincare and cosmetic ingredients into suncare products is a beneficial trend that enhances the value and appeal of these products. By including ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, tyrosinase inhibitors, brands can offer more than just UV protection, making suncare an integral part of the daily skincare routine.”
Gentle Cleanser
Summer heat and humidity can lead to increased sweat and oil production, making gentle cleansing a vital step in your skincare routine. Dr. Raquel recommends using a mild, non-irritating cleanser to effectively remove sweat, oil, and sunscreen without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Dr Raquel also recommends, “A good cleanser, a Vitamin C product to prevent UV damage and brighten the skin, an anti-aging serum with hydration, and an SPF. For the evening, stick to the same cleanser, consider retinol for those who can tolerate it; otherwise, a HA or BHA replacement is suitable, followed by a serum that hydrates or a moisturiser.”
Lightweight Products
During the summer, heavy skincare products can feel uncomfortable and exacerbate oiliness. Dr. Raquel advises opting for lightweight, non-comedogenic products that provide necessary hydration and protection without clogging pores or feeling heavy on the skin. Dr Raquel also places an importance on the fact that different skin types require different care. “Oily skin benefits from non-comedogenic and non-clogging products. Sensitive skin needs fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulphate-free, and irritant-free products. Hydrated skin may require layered products, exfoliation, and heavy moisturisers. Acne-prone skin demands specific acids and non-comedogenic products. Recommendations vary based on individual needs, age, and preferences, also considering factors like hydration, prevention, and anti-ageing care.”
For more information and to book in with Dr. Raquel, head to skinandmedicalcosmetics.co.uk.