Spring Into Radiant Skin

by Kerri Cooke

If you desire your skin to be always at its best, it is imperative to adjust your skincare routine according to season. You don’t necessarily need to buy expensive products to see results or engage in invasive procedures if a low maintenance but effective routine is your goal. Here are some steps you can take at your beauty table to look and feel your best.

Cleansers are a staple all year-round, and don’t really need to be switched out according to season. But depending on your skin concerns and products used, you might want to consider whether to use a water-based cleaner, an oil-based cleanser, or a combination of both.

Contrary to popular belief, an oil cleanser (the best ones are usually from K-beauty brands, such as AprilSkin) does not make your face oilier. In fact, in addition to easily removing make-up residue and facial sunscreen, it rids the face of excess oil which can clog the pores and create blemishes.

A water-based cleanser often comes in gel or foaming varieties. They work great for eradicating sweat and dirt. Some foaming cleansers such as Blithe’s Anti-Polluaging Foam claim to help minimize the effects of modern-day pollution on the skin. It’s an idea that continues to gain steam and is making its way into new formulations of skincare products.

Using an oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser can ensure you’re removing all particles from your skin. If you prefer using a water-based cleanser alone, you can add a cleansing toner for follow-up. If struggling with dryness, add a hydrating toner with calming ingredients and pat into the face. Follow with a high-quality serum.

There are so many serums on the market, it’s hard to know what’s best for your skin. If your primary goal is radiance, a product with Vitamin C is the holy grail. Vitamin C is also shown to help prevent sun damage. Another ingredient to look for is niacinamide, which also helps brighten the complexion and has anti-inflammatory properties. The ingredient with the biggest hype is hyaluronic acid, which boosts hydration. You can double up on serums if you desire, but always apply the thinner formula first, allowing it to fully sink in before going in with a thicker serum.

Opt for a thinner formula when moisturizing your face in the humid, Louisiana weather. A thick moisturizer can block pores, causing sweat build up. Ceramides and peptides are the buzzwords in the moisturizers as they prevent your skin from losing essential moisture and stimulate collagen production respectively.

During the warmer months, you can exfoliate more often. Up to three times a week as your skin tolerates it if you so choose. Alternating between a chemical peel, an abrasive scrub and a Dead Sea mud mask, such as Ahava’s version, can keep your routine fresh and reduce irritation by avoiding the use of the same type of products too close together.

AT HOME TOOLS PROVIDE REAL RESULTS

At-home tools provide ease of access for skin concerns. They are easily purchased at retailers, and they’re a fun method of self-care!

Used in ancient Chinese medicine, a Gua Sha tool is a small, angled piece of stone that is used for facial massage. By gliding it across your face with an oil or serum, the tool stimulates collagen production, drains lymph nodes, lifts the skin, increases blood flow and decreases swelling.

Wanting to double down on collagen production and reduce hyperpigmentation? Some people swear by derma rollers. A tool equipped with tiny needles, the small punctures created in your skin cue your body to stimulate the healing process. This can cause an uptick in collagen production, allow your skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin, and possibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

LED masks are the new frontier of at-home skin treatments. Different types of light can address different skin concerns. With distinct wavelengths, they target different layers of the skin. Red light increases collagen production and reduces inflammation, while blue light can be used for those prone to acne as it destroys bad bacteria.

If you struggle with dry skin no matter the time of year, try adding a facial humidifier like Hey Dewy to your routine. Humidifiers release a cool stream of water vapor into the air to keep skin supple. And Hew Dewy is small enough to keep on your nightstand for use while you’re getting your beauty sleep.