6 summer skincare mistakes expert warns can cause havoc

Skincare is something that we are all aware of. If you’re trying to protect yourself from the sun, or if you’re worried about breakouts.

Let alone about the signs of ageing and losing collagen when we get older.

However, seeing as summer is just around the corner and to be fair we cannot wait for some warmer weather. Our skin tends to change just like the seasons which means so does our skincare routine.

While our skin may sweat some more and be prone to causing havoc on our bodies and faces it is no wonder we sometimes don’t where to begin with what to use.

Thankfully there is a skincare expert here to help with our summer glow. Kimberley Medd, Clinic Lead at Face the Future shared her advice on what products to avoid this summer.

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Heavy Ingredients

While some of us probably don’t know some of the ingredients in our skincare some of them can do more harm to our skin. Especially if it is sensitive.

Medd said: “One of the biggest mistakes people make during summer is continuing to use heavy moisturisers or skincare products formulated with occlusive ingredients.

“Whilst these ingredients may provide great hydration during colder months, they can trap sweat and sebum in the pores when temperatures rise, leading to clogged pores and dreaded breakouts.

The skin expert recommends using “lightweight, non-comedogenic” moisturisers which can absorb into your skin better.

Forgetting the SPF

Of course, we know how important sun cream is when it comes to our skin and Medd advises not to skip it.

She continues: “Sunscreen is non-negotiable year-round, but it’s especially crucial during the summer months when UV radiation is at its peak.

“Unfortunately, many people either skip sunscreen altogether or don’t apply enough to provide adequate protection. To avoid sunburns, premature ageing, and skin cancer, opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

She recommends looking for suncream which has the “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” label.

Remember how much you sweat

Whether we are working out at the gym or in warmer temperatures we need to make sure our skin is ready to sweat.

Medd advises: “Sweating is the body’s natural way of cooling down, but it can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts when mixed with oil, dirt, make-up, and bacteria on the skin’s surface.

“To combat this, consider switching to lightweight, oil-free skincare and lighter make-up products that won’t congest your pores.”

The skin expert recommends cleansing your skin “thoroughly” after sweating.

Fragranced Products

While some of us are better with fragranced products than others it can cause problems during the summer months.

“Whether (the products are) synthetic or natural, they can increase skin sensitivity, especially when exposed to sunlight, Mead said.

“This can lead to irritation, redness, and even phototoxic reactions known as phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction that occurs when skin exposed to sunlight encounters certain chemicals.”

If the products start to irritate your skin go for fragrance-free ones instead.

Vitamin C Serums

It seems to be a buzzword at the moment with vitamin C boosting our skin hydration.

Mead says: “Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant that can brighten the complexion and protect against environmental damage.

“However, high-concentration vitamin C serums, particularly those formulated with L-ascorbic acid, can be unstable and prone to oxidation when exposed to heat and sunlight.

Instead, she recommends using lower vitamin C serums or alternative antioxidants.

Hot showers and baths

Though many of us opt for a quick hot shower before heading out you might want to think again as it can “strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin’s natural moisture barrier.”

Mead says this can “lead to dryness and irritation” and cause further problems when you’re out in the sun.

She recommends using lukewarm warm for when you’re “cleansing your skin during the summer months to prevent moisture loss and maintain skin’s hydration levels.”