How Should I Update My Skincare Routine for Spring?

Skincare Routine for Spring

Spring is a season of renewal, and with the warmer weather comes a need to adjust your skincare routine. After months of harsh winter weather, your skin may be dry, dull, and in need of some serious TLC. Read on for several simple steps you can take to refresh and rejuvenate your skincare routine (and skin) this spring.

Exfoliate

One of the most important steps in any skincare routine is exfoliation, which involves removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin to reveal fresh, new skin underneath. In the springtime, exfoliation is especially important, as it can help to remove any dry or flaky skin left over from the winter months.

There are many different types of exfoliants available, including physical exfoliants like scrubs and brushes, as well as chemical exfoliants like alpha and beta hydroxy acids. In general, we prefer chemical exfoliation to physical, as there is less risk of scratching and abrading the skin. Different exfoliating acids excel at different things (for example, salicylic acid is better for dissolving oil in clogged pores, while glycolic acid is preferred for collagen stimulation). Often a combination of acids, like you can find in our best-selling Clean Sweep pads works best to achieve all your goals.

Moisturize

After exfoliating, it’s important to moisturize your skin to help it retain hydration and prevent further dryness. In the spring, you may want to switch to a lighter moisturizer instead of the heavy creams you used during the winter months. Look for a moisturizer that is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can help to plump and hydrate the skin.

Protect

With the sun shining brighter, it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even if you’re not planning to spend much time outside. Consider a tinted sunscreen if you’re prone to pigmentation (read: brown spots), as the iron oxide that creates the tint protects against the visible light that causes pigmentation in the skin. We always recommend layering your sun protection, so wear the SPF, but also wear the hat, and seek shade during peak sun hours to further protect your skin.

Deep Cleanse

Just like we schedule “Spring Cleaning” of our homes, your skin can use a spring cleaning as well! Consider a facial, like our Everyday Facial, to really cleanse, clean out pores, and deeply hydrate skin after a long winter. You can add LED light or high-frequency treatments to stimulate collagen production and for even more brightening. A facial is a great way to give skin a fresh start for the season, and it allows your skin care products to absorb more easily, getting you better results over time.

Treat

If you have specific skin concerns, like acne, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines, spring is a great time to start incorporating targeted treatments into your routine. Look for products that are formulated with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or niacinamide, which can help to address these concerns and promote healthy, glowing skin. Have a lot of pigmentation? Consider a Photofacial, which uses broad-band light energy to erase brown and red colors from the skin, leaving skin clear and even. Have clogged pores or acne? Consider a facial or chemical peel to more deeply exfoliate skin – or book one!

Hydrate

In addition to using a moisturizer, it’s important to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your skin looking plump and healthy. You may also want to incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens into your diet.

Relax

Finally, don’t forget to take some time to relax and de-stress this spring. Stress can have a negative impact on your skin, causing inflammation and breakouts. Make time for activities that you enjoy, like yoga, meditation, or reading a book, to help reduce your stress levels and promote healthy, radiant skin.

Spring is a great time to refresh and renew your skincare routine. Try out these tips – exfoliating, moisturizing, protecting, cleansing, treating, hydrating, and relaxing – and watch your skin blossom!