Now that winter is firmly behind us and spring officially graces Britain with its presence, we're turning to transitional clothes - but our skin needs some transitional care too.
In the colder months our skin often feels dry and dull. While the warmer temperatures and higher humidity of spring are a welcome change from winter, it also means we need to spend more time outside in the sun, which means it's important to adjust our skincare routines accordingly.
Jillian Osborne, certified beauty expert at facial yoga app Luvly, explains: "Environmental factors have a major impact on the appearance and health of our skin. Seasonal changes, UV radiation, humidity, pollution and temperature all have an influence.
"With the climate changing, it can be a real struggle to keep the climate glowing. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause dryness and oiliness in equal measure, but it doesn't have to be that way.
"Simple measures - taking it easy, staying hydrated and providing your body with essential vitamins - can help your skin look its best, rain or shine."
To help us transition our skin care from winter to spring, Osborne gives us seven tips to get our routines ready for spring.
Spring clean your skin care cupboard
During spring we no longer need the same kind of moisturizing treatments that winter calls for. But be wary of simply reaching for last year's leftover skin products, says Osborne.
"Skincare products have a limited shelf life, so check the expiration date and PAO (period after opening) symbol in the jar," she advises. "While you're at it, keep an eye out for ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, which lose their effectiveness over time (even if they're outdated)."
However, instead of pushing winter products to the back of the cupboard, Osborne says to use them now. "Seasonal changes are the perfect opportunity to use up the rest of last season's produce. Instead of using winter produce one day and spring produce the next, it's better to alternate them.
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s"For example, use your spring moisturizer in the morning and your winter moisturizer in the evening. This prevents product waste and removes the temptation to keep leftovers that will inevitably spoil.
"Also, clean your brushes in the spring with a gentle brush cleaner or mild soap to remove any buildup of makeup, oil, and bacteria. Allow them to air dry thoroughly before storing in a clean, dry container to prevent growth of mold and bacteria."
Hydration is key
The warmer weather may call for lighter textures, but it doesn't mean you have to immediately overhaul your entire routine, says Osborne. "Change your routine gradually depending on how dry or oily your skin becomes. You may still need richer moisturizers to restore the skin barrier and address any residual dryness from winter.
"Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides also work wonders and lock in hydration. These innovative formulations mimic the body's natural components such as collagen, elastin and hyaluronan, enhancing your skin's natural glow by replenishing essential nutrients and promoting elasticity.
She continues: "Introduce one product at a time for several weeks, alternating between winter and spring products to allow the skin to adapt effectively. But don't just rely on formulas - hydrate from within by drinking plenty of H20 before the warmer weather." weather."
Scrub away the dullness
Osborne recommends using chemical exfoliants to help reduce the dull look winter has left us with.
"Chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) dissolve dead skin cells and transform dull, flaky winter skin into a smooth and radiant complexion. AHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, while BHAs penetrate deeper into the pores and prove effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
"These exfoliants can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting cell turnover and stimulating collagen production, resulting in a more youthful complexion."
But she warns against "overdoing" the chemical exfoliants, as they can make the skin extra sensitive. As the weather warms, reduce the frequency of exfoliation to once or twice a week to avoid oversensitizing the skin, and always follow with plenty of moisturizer and sun protection.
You can never have too much SPF
Sun exposure is very harmful to the skin and can cause premature aging. Osborne recommends applying SPF 30 or higher every two hours, especially when outdoors.
When choosing between a chemical sunscreen, a lightweight formula, or moisturizing protection, Osborne says it really depends on our skin type, preferences, and the other products we use, like retinol.
"You need a solution that will keep your skin safe and healthy, so take into account personal factors such as your sensitivity, oiliness and specific skin care concerns.
"For acne-prone skin, consider oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas labeled 'non-acnegenic' or 'oil-free' to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these are less likely to irritate. Whatever your choice, make sure it offers broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays - and don't forget your ears and décolleté!"
Supplement vitamins
The lack of vitamin D during the dark winter months, when we stay indoors more, affects the health of our skin. Osborne recommends replenishing vitamin D supplies by eating plenty of vitamin-rich foods, such as oily fish, fortified dairy products and leafy vegetables.
"Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits can also help combat winter-induced dullness," she adds. "And add a dash of nuts, seeds and oils - full of vitamin E - which protects against oxidative damage.
"These powerful antioxidants protect the skin against free radicals such as UV rays, pollution and environmental aggressions, which damage cells and accelerate aging. With the right diet, your skin will thrive when spring arrives, leaving you radiant for the new season ."
Cold water therapy for radiant skin
You may have heard of the health benefits of cold water therapy, but Osborne says it can also benefit your skin.
"Cold water rinses, usually performed after cleansing and before applying products, can invigorate the skin. The cold water constricts blood vessels to remove toxins and reduce inflammation and tightens pores for a smoother appearance. This stimulates circulation and also your senses, leaving you with a healthy glow and full of energy," she says.
You can add cold water to your skin care routine gradually with splashes to build tolerance and work up to rinses that last a few minutes. Osborne recommends using an ice ball that can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer if you have particularly sensitive hands.
Help your lymphatic system get things moving
Lymphatic drainage massages are praised by practitioners and celebrities - even the Duchess of Sussex swears by it for reducing puffiness on her face. Osborne says it can also help improve the appearance of our skin as it adapts to warmer weather.
"In addition [to drinking plenty of water and exercising regularly], try dry brushing," she says. "Start at the center of the chin and gently brush outwards in circular motions along the jaw towards the hairline. Wipe along the neck to the collarbone to remove lymphatic fluid from your face.
"Choose a natural bristle brush specifically designed for use on the face, with bristles that are firm enough to provide stimulation, but soft enough to prevent irritation. Apply gentle pressure and avoid the eyes and areas that suffer from irritation or broken skin to avoid damage to your delicate facial skin.
Osborne explains that dry brushing stimulates lymphatic drainage, removes dead skin cells and promotes blood circulation.
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