More than ever, today’s environment plays a big role in our health. We have become much more aware, and more importantly educated, on how seasonal extremes and environmental impurities can harm our skin. I like to work with my patients on not only improving the condition of their skin but also fundamentally to prevent any damage caused by changing seasons, as summer can be especially damaging.
We already know the anti-aging ingredients that work for us all year round, like Retinol and Alpha Hydroxy Acids. And, during summer your basic skincare routine should remain the same. With that said, changes in seasons most definitely reflect on my patient’s skin, body and hair. If you have not done so already, the warner weather is a good time to refresh your skincare regimen.
My philosophy is to achieve and maintain results with consistent use of ingredients. This, along with sun protection all year round, should be your number one priority. Below I recommend the top ingredients you should add to your summer skincare routine.
Hyaluronic Acid:
Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant, meaning it holds 1000 times its weight in water. This keeps your skin hydrated longer and complements collagen. When you start using Hyaluronic Acid you will notice improvement in plumpness and elasticity. Your skin will be softer and have a lot more strength. In truth it is what our injected facial fillers are made of to add volume to our skin. Choose an oil-free moisturizer that holds the ingredient in order to hydrate and naturally plump the skin.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is excellent as a before bed summer treatment, this is when your skin is in a regenerative state. It helps fight sun damage, environmental pollution and free radicals; all of which can lead to visible signs of aging. Additionally, it works to eliminate dark spots and wrinkles caused by the sun. Applying Vitamin C topically is the most effective way to make sure your skin gets a sufficient amount. If you are worried about existing dark spots and a dull complexion, a gentle nighttime peel combined with a good Vitamin C serum will help fade dark spots faster and both will brighten the skin.
Melatonin:
This one is important. I continue to advocate the daily use of sunscreen; it should be used 365 days a year. The ingredient melatonin is one of the most powerful ingredients in sunscreen right now, which I pioneered. It is naturally occurring in the body and helps prevent sun spots. If you were not using sunscreen in the winter, start this summer and make your new year’s resolution.
Green Tea Extract:
Once research showed how much green tea extract protects against harmful UV rays and slows down aging it has become an essential ingredient for sunscreens. As an herbal derivative in beauty products it fights free radicals and environmental toxins. The crucial point is that it protects against sunburn. Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound that is believed have tremendous health benefits.
My method to achieve gorgeous skin starts with researched, effective and a carefully cocktailed formula of ingredients. No one ingredient is a magic bullet. Switch up your regimen, with these recommendations and you will be on your way to glowing summer skin.
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