Detail of a tree in spring
The weather in Boston is warming up, which means Spring will be here before we know it! When the air is very dry and cold it is important to layer up with serums and moisturizer to help combat dry skin. As the air warms up, humidity will increase which will help keep your skin from drying out. It’s time to say good bye to dry, itchy skin!! There are a few simple things you can do to help transition into warmer months. Each of these will help to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Beauty Routines
Exfoliate: Cold, dry air has surely left extra dead skin cells behind and an exfoliation will help to slough away those cells. I suggest a chemical peel for your face (if you are in the Boston area, schedule an appointment with me!) and a DIY Sugar Scrub for the rest of your body. Pay extra attention to elbows and knees and always exfoliate before hair removal. If you want something you can use at home, I like the HydroPeptide Anti-Wrinkle Polish & Plump Peel (order with code ‘Doctor-Ip’ for preferred pricing) or Peter Thomas Roth Max Complexion Correction Pads.
Moisturizer: Swap your heavy moisturizer for something a little lighter. Skin will hold more water in the spring and summer so you won’t need as much moisturizer. Your heavy winter moisturizer could leave you feeling and looking a little greasy. In general, I recommend that creams be used in the winter and lotions be used in the summer. CeraVe AM and CeraVe PM are my go to moisturizers.
Sunscreen: Incorporate sunscreen into your routine. An easy way to get your sunscreen is use a moisturizer with sunscreen in it. In the winter, we can get away with using a moisturizer that includes an SPF 30. Once we move into warmer months I suggest using a sunscreen separate from your lotion and makeup that is at least SPF 50. When enjoying the sun for a prolonged period of time (e.g. beach, hikes, pool), sunscreen needs to be applied every two hours. After two hours the sunscreen is no longer effective. Sometimes, people do not reapply make up because they are concerned about ruining their make up. In this instance, I recommend that you try a brand like Colorscience. The brand makes several SPF 50 mineral powders that will allow you to freshen up your make and get your sunscreen. Check out my Product Recommendation page for my favorite sunscreen options.
A Good Spring Clean
When you open the windows and start your Spring cleaning at home, don’t overlook your personal products. Toss anything that is past its expiration date or over six months old and be sure to give your make-up brushes a deep clean. Products with SPF will lose their effectiveness overtime so this is a good time to replace these products.
Take The Challenge
Spring is a great time to freshen up your skin care routine. Download my FREE E-BOOK, The Clear Skin Challenge for 30 days worth of skin tips, product recommendations and advice that will set you on a path to clear skin.
What changes do you make during the transition from winter to spring?
African American Dermatologist