Preparing your skin ready for summer

We all typically come out of winter with skin that isn’t at the top of its condition. Long months of cold weather, indoor heat, dry air, and wind have likely taken their toll. Plus, if you lived in the northern climates, you may have eaten a bit more sugar and carbs than usual, as when we don’t have access to the sun, we tend to crave these things. Unfortunately, these foods can create skin issues, leaving it looking dull and sluggish for summer. 

The quickest and most effective way to rejuvenate your skin is exfoliation! Dead skin cells will stop your products from penetrating the skin effectively, stopping them close to the surface. The older we become, the slower our skin cells regenerate, meaning that old cells will stick around a lot longer. If allowed to build up too far, it can make our skin appear dull, rough, dry and wrinkled. Dead cells are also one of the most common culprits for blocked pores, which can lead to acne, blemishes and an oily complexion. And for all the fake tanners out there, regular exfoliation before applying tan will give you a longer-lasting and more even summer glow, without any additional aftercare. 

Exfoliation tips and tricks to get your skin summer-ready:

• Exfoliating once to twice a week will usually ensure a regular turnover of skin cells
• Always adequately moisturise afterwards to help restore the skin's natural oils
• Avoid abrasive ingredients such as nutshells, fruit seeds or harsh chemicals. These will damage your skin further and accelerate ageing
• Never scrub hard and always let the product do the work, lest you irritate your skin
• If your product's instructions advise rubbing the exfoliant in your hards first, always do so - this is ensuring that the particles have no rough edges, and won't cause damage
• If you have sensitive skin, avoid any harsh chemicals or ingredients. Try to find an enzyme-based exfoliate that will gently break down cells without any physical particles.