Beauty notes

SUMMER SKIN SURVIVAL

YOUR NEW SEASON ROUTINE SORTED

WORDS TANIA GOMEZ

There is nothing quite like an Australian summer, but the exposure to sun, sand and surf can play havoc with skin. This makes the right skincare regimen even more important. From non-negotiable steps to products that are a must-have for the beauty routine, here is an expert guide to navigating your way through the warmer weather.

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WHAT TO KEEP A good SPF50+ sunscreen is a must all year round, but particularly in summer as UV damage is responsible for everything from pigmentation to skin ageing.

“Look for a sunscreen that is broad spectrum and offers UVA and UVB protection, and make sure you put sunscreen on at least 15 to 20 minutes before you head out,” says Shyamalar Gunatheesan, dermatologist at Melbourne’s Sinclair Dermatology. Make sure you reapply sunscreen throughout the day — aim for a 50c-piece amount at least every four hours.

Moisturiser is key to ensure skin stays hydrated, but you should revisit the type of products you are using, St. Skin co-founder and dermal clinician Leelah Linke says.

“You don’t need a whole new range, but moisturisers with lighter formulations can be used during the hotter months,” Leelah says. WHAT TO DO In summer, sweating and increased oil production can cause skin inflammation. This means it is still important to maintain a regular cleansing and exfoliating routine.

“If you’re working out in the afternoon or if you’re going for a run along the beach, then you want to make sure that you’re giving your skin a good cleanse afterwards, so you don’t get so much build-up,” Leelah says.

“Also make sure you remove sunscreen really well to avoid breakouts.”

WA-based cosmetic surgeon Vivek Eranki, from Cosmetique cosmetic surgery clinic, says a lot of artificial debris builds up on the skin over summer.

“Exfoliation can help get rid of it, so your moisturiser and serum can penetrate into the skin deeper,” Dr Eranki says.

Dr Gunatheesan suggests using a gentle exfoliating wash, which contains some salicylic acid and lactic acid, at night.

“That will clear your skin, improve renewal and it also helps unblock your pores,” Dr Gunatheesan says.

WHAT TO ADD Think about including a serum that contains vitamin C and vitamin B to your routine.

These active ingredients are great at helping reduce pigmentation, while vitamin C is one of the only things that builds collagen in the skin. “(These actives) will teach your melanocytes how not to overproduce pigment, and also breaks up pigmentation. They’re also antioxidants, so help in repairing cell damage,” Dr Gunatheesan says.

When it comes to serum, Leelah suggests looking for a product containing B group vitamins and also hyaluronic acid, which are both helpful in keeping the skin hydrated.

Overexposure to airconditioning can be very dehydrating for skin. To help combat dryness, try a hydrating mist.

“A gentle spray can lubricate the skin. Then you can also apply a serum or moisturiser, as slightly damp skin is good at absorbing nutrients,” Dr Gunatheesan says. SWITCH UP YOUR MAKE-UP Given you will be sweating and producing a bit more oil during summer, choose make-up that sits well on the face in these conditions. Consider switching from powder-based cosmetics, which can cause a lot of peeling and tend to “ball” on the skin, to make-up with a creamier, more dewy texture. This could be a simple swap, such as going from a powder blush to a blush stick.

WE LIKE La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Light Sensitive Moisturiser, $35.99; Dr LeWinn’s Eternal Youth Skin Polishing Exfoliant, $25.99; Avene Trixera Nutrition Nutri-fluid Cleanser, $20.99; Healthy Care Collagen + Vitamin C Serum, $39.99; Sukin Rose Hydrating Mist Toner, $10.49 WE LIKE Maybelline Cheek Heat Blush, $14.49; Revlon Insta Fix Blush, $22.49; Maybelline Color Strike Eyeshadow Pen Makeup, $15.49