by With winter firmly behind us and spring officially upon Britain, we’re getting into transitional gear – but our skin needs transitional care too.
The colder months tend to leave our skin feeling dry and dull. While spring’s warmer temperatures and higher humidity from winter are welcome, it also means being outdoors more, which means it’s important to adjust our skincare routines accordingly.
Jillian Osborne, certified beauty expert at face yoga app Luvly, explains: “Environmental factors have a huge impact on the appearance and health of our skin. Seasonal changes, UV radiation, humidity, pollution and temperature affect it.
“As the climate changes, it can be a real struggle to keep it burning. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause dryness and oiliness in the same way, but they don’t have to.
“Simple measures—taking it slow, staying hydrated, and supplying your body with vital vitamins—can keep your skin looking its best come rain or shine.”
To help us transition our skincare from winter to spring, Osborne gives us seven tips to prepare our routines for spring.
Spring clean your skin care cabinet
During spring, we no longer need the same type of moisture-heavy treatments that winter requires. But be wary of grabbing last year’s leftover skin products, says Osborne.
“Skincare products have a limited shelf life, so check the expiry date and the period after opening (PAO) symbol inside the jar,” she advises. , which lose effectiveness over time (even when they are reached).”
Instead of pushing the winter products to the back of the cabinet, however, Osborne says to think about using them now. “Seasonal transitions are a great opportunity to use up the rest of last season’s produce. Instead of using winter products one day and spring products, alternate between them.
s“For example, use your spring moisturizer in the morning and winter moisturizer in the evening. This prevents product waste and eliminates the expense of keeping scrap, which will inevitably destroy it.
“Also, spring clean your brushes with a soft cleaning brush or mild soap to remove any makeup build-up, oil and bacteria. Allow them to air dry thoroughly before storing in a clean, dry container to prevent mold and bacteria growth .”
Hydration is key
The warmer weather may call for lighter textures, but this doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your entire routine right away, says Osborne. “Vary your routine depending on how dry or oily your skin gets. You may need even richer moisturisers to repair the skin barrier and address any residual dryness from winter.
“Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides also work wonders, locking in hydration. These innovative formulations mimic the body’s natural components, such as collagen, elastin, and hyaluronan, enhancing your skin’s natural glow by replenishing essential nutrients and promoting elasticity.”
She continues: “Introduce one product at a time over several weeks, alternating between winter and spring products to enable the skin to adapt effectively. warmer weather.”
Exfoliate away the dullness
Osborne recommends using chemical exfoliants to help get rid of the dull look that winter left behind.
“Chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) dissolve dead skin cells, transforming flaky winter skin into a smooth and radiant complexion. AHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, while BHAs penetrate deeper into the pores, proving effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
“These exfoliants can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting cell turnover and stimulating collagen production, resulting in a more youthful complexion.”
But she warns against “overdoing” the chemical exfoliants, as they can make the skin more sensitive. As it gets warmer, reduce the frequency of exfoliation to once or twice a week to prevent over-sensitivity of the skin, and to always follow enough moisture and sun protection.
You can never have too much SPF
Sun exposure is very damaging to the skin and can cause premature aging. Osborne recommends applying SPF 30 or higher every two hours, especially when you’re outdoors.
When choosing between a chemical sunscreen, a light formula or hydrating protection, Osborne says it really depends on our skin type, preferences and the other products we use, like retinol.
“You need a solution that keeps your skin safe and healthy, so consider personal factors such as your sensitivity, oiliness and specific skin care concerns.
“For acne-prone skin, consider oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas labeled ‘non-acnegenic’ or ‘oil-free’ to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, look at mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cut. Whatever you choose, make sure it offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays – and don’t forget your ears and on your malnutrition!”
Download presentation of vitamins
A lack of vitamin D during the dark winter months, when we also stay indoors more, affects our skin health. Osborne recommends replenishing vitamin D supplies by eating plenty of vitamin-rich foods such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and leafy greens.
“Vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits can also help combat winter dullness,” she says. “And add loads of nuts, seeds and oils – full of vitamin E – which protects against oxidative damage.
“These powerful antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals such as UV rays, pollution, and environmental aggressors, which damage cells and accelerate aging. With the right diet, your skin will thrive as spring arrives, which that leaves you radiant as you approach the new season.”
Cold water therapy for glowing skin
You may have heard about the health benefits of cold water therapy, but Osborne says it can benefit your skin too.
“Cold water rinses, usually done after cleansing and before applying products, can revitalize the skin. The cold water constricts blood vessels to remove toxins and reduce inflammation and tightens pores for a smoother look. This stimulates circulation, as well as your senses, leaving you with a healthy glow and full of energy,” she says.
You can gradually introduce cold water into your skin care routine with splashes to build tolerance and work up to rinses that last a few minutes. Osborne recommends using an ice cube that can be kept in the fridge or freezer if you have very sensitive hands.
Help your lymphatic system move things along
Lymphatic drainage massage has been recommended by practitioners and celebrities – even the Duchess of Sussex swears by it to reduce puffiness in her face. Osborne says it can also help improve the appearance of our skin as it adjusts to the warmer weather.
“Also [to drinking plenty of water and exercising regularly], try dry brushing,” she says. “Start at the center of the chin and gently brush outwards in circular motions along the jaw towards the hairline. Brush down the neck to the clavicle to move the lymph fluid away from your face.
“Choose a natural bristle brush designed specifically for facial use, with bristles firm enough to provide stimulation but soft enough to avoid irritation. Apply light pressure, avoiding the eyes and areas with irritation or broken skin to avoid damaging your sensitive facial skin.”
Osborne explains that dry brushing encourages lymphatic drainage and removes dead skin cells, as well as promoting blood circulation.
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