5 Spring Skin Care Tips

It seems a bit amiss to bring you 5 spring skin care tips when I look out my window today and see that it still looks like mid-January! Rain and cloudy skies aside – this is Vancouver after all – here are spring skin care tips that will also serve you well for summer.

1. Amp Up the SPF. As impossible as that may seem today, warmer weather will arrive, bringing with it more frequent and intense sunshine. We already know that sunscreen is important year round but it’s even more important during the warmer months when we tend to spend more time outside exposed to UV rays. UVB rays (those responsible for sunburn) are also more intense. Even short exposure causes sun damaged skin, contributing to wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Opt for a high SPF sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) to help defend against UV damage. Don’t forget to reapply during the day. Tip: Lunch-time, when you refresh your make-up is a good time to consider. Our new Shade SPF 30 is on its way, but until then we like dermatologist approved Anthelios sunscreens available at our sister site PharmacyMix.com.
2. Add in Antioxidants. If you’re not using an antioxidant, now’s a good time to start. Antioxidants protect skin by preventing the destruction caused by free radicals, unstable and destructive molecules generated by the environment and UV rays. Free radicals can break down collagen and elastin, which contribute to the skin’s support structure. They are especially important during spring and summer when stronger UV rays wreak more damage. Apply an antioxidant underneath your sunscreen every morning. We’re particularly fond of our Apothekari Bespoke Vitamin C Serum. Available in 10% and 15% concentrations, it features Vitamin C and an arsenal of antioxidants to deliver unparalleled free radical protection.
3. Opt for a Lighter Foundation. Although foundations and concealers are an integral part of many make-up routines, a buildup can contribute to breakouts. During warmer months, heat and humidity contribute to sweating and clogged pores which may be exacerbated by the use of heavy foundations. Lighter treatments, including tinted sunscreens such as Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Ultra-Light Fluid Tinted or Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra-Fluid Lotion SPF 50  are good options to consider.
4. Ditch the Heavy Moisturizer. Heavy moisturizers help to counteract the effects of colder temperatures and lower humidity on skin. When temperatures rise, so does the humidity. A lighter moisturizer tends to be enough for most people while heavier ones may increase the risk of breakouts. Apothekari Daily Infusion delivers light hydration to restore the skin’s moisture content without oiliness.
5. Exfoliate. Absolutely essential during the cooler months when dry, flaking skin is something we often struggle with, exfoliation is still necessary when it’s warmer outside. Exposure to UV rays contributes to dry skin leaving dead skin cells at the surface. These cells not only leave skin looking dull but may also contribute to clogged pores, increasing the potential for breakouts. Opt for treatments containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), salts or sugars. Apothekari AHA-Mazing Clean Exfoliating Cleansing Gel contains a triple combination of AHAs to gently and effectively exfoliate clogged pores and improve skin’s overall appearance.

The weather may not be cooperating, but writing about spring skin care has helped to put me in a happy mood! Do you have any more to share?