Besides the longer days and beautiful spring flowers, one of the biggest benefits of spring is that we no longer have to deal with the harsh, dry winter weather taking a toll on our skin. Of course, since the shift in weather can change the skin, it’s natural to wonder if you should be adapting your routine. Let’s talk about exactly how your skin might change, and what you can do to make your skin look and feel its best this spring.
How Does Skin Change From Winter to Spring?
As the weather changes from winter to spring, so does our skin – and it’s thankfully for the better. Winter is the harshest season as far as skincare goes, as the lack of humidity and cold weather can dry out and irritate the skin. Once spring hits, the weather gets warmer and humidity levels start to increase – both of which make it easier to maintain calm, hydrated skin.
While a complete overhaul of your routine isn’t necessary, there are some adjustments you can make to adapt to the change in seasons. Here’s how we recommend switching up your skincare routine this spring.
Start Exfoliating
Many people choose to skip exfoliants during the winter, as the process can dry out the skin (which is already particularly prone to dryness during this time). If you’ve neglected to exfoliate this winter, we have good news for you: your skin will be much better equipped to handle exfoliation in the spring. Milder spring weather means that your skin will be less easily aggravated and better able to handle exfoliation.
We suggest adding an exfoliating serum to your routine. Alpha hydroxy acids (such as glycolic and lactic acids) are great for improving uneven skin tone and texture, as well as for softening fine lines. Beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid) are particularly great for oily and acne-prone skin, as they work deep in the pores to clear away excess sebum and other impurities. You can also find formulas that combine both categories of exfoliants. Alternatively, there are also gentle physical exfoliants (such as a mild scrub) that manually buff away dead skin cells and debris to reveal smooth, radiant skin.
As you’re adding exfoliation to your routine, start slowly. Over exfoliation can aggravate the skin and disrupt the barrier, so it’s best to gradually work the process into your regime to see how your skin reacts.
Adjust Moisturizing Routines
Since humidity levels increase and the weather gets warmer in the spring, there is far less of a need to use the thicker cream-based moisturizers that many reach for in the winter. Instead, you can swap out for a lighter moisturizer. Gel-based formulas are great, as they absorb quickly into the skin and give the complexion the appropriate boost of moisture that it needs. Those with particularly dry skin may choose a more lightweight cream-based formula.
Hydrate & Brighten With Serums
Winter weather can cause our skin to become dull and dehydrated – but targeted serums can help revive the complexion for the spring. If you’re looking to boost radiance, try vitamin C. This antioxidant is one of the most effective ingredients for improving uneven skin tone and promoting a brighter complexion. The Vitamin C Boost Serum – which is suitable for all skin types – combines potent vitamin C with hydrating ingredients for a bright and supple complexion.
Another ingredient that’s great for all skin types is hyaluronic acid, a humectant that effectively locks moisture into the skin. The Hyaluronic Pure Boost Serum has a gentle, lightweight formula that plumps the skin with moisture for a softer and more elastic complexion. You can even layer it with the Vitamin C Boost Serum to fully rejuvenate your complexion this spring.
Protect From Skin Damage
You should be protecting your skin against the damaging effects of UV rays year-round, but this becomes even more essential in the spring. If you don’t already have a go-to daily sunscreen, be sure to find a formula that works for your skin type and budget. A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is a must – but SPF 50 and above is even better (especially on days when you’re spending plenty of time in the sun!). Embarking on a beach vacation for spring break? Make sure you have water-resistant sunscreens for both the body and face for when you jump in the water.
Beyond sunscreen, now is the perfect time to start thinking of other ways to protect your skin this spring. Upgrade your wardrobe with a wide-brimmed hat to keep your face covered, and consider getting some UV protection tops for when you’re out and about. From 10:00am to 4:00pm, we also recommend doing your best to stay out of direct sunlight, as this is when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
