There is something about summer that makes time slow down and life becomes a little more relaxed. While the days by the pool are long and lazy, skincare routines shouldn’t fall off the radar. If anything, products need to be switched up to accommodate the much warmer weather.
Licensed Aesthetician Jennifer Buck, owner of Luminous Glow Med Spa, says it’s pertinent that skincare routines are updated as each season changes to keep skin healthy and protected. Summer skincare changes should be implemented in late April or May as the sun’s rays start to intensify.
“Everyone should make sure that they're exfoliating in the summer, changing to a gentle cleanser from a hydrating cleanser, and then incorporating vitamin C in your routine. If skin cannot tolerate Vitamin C, you could try a product such as Vivid by Hydrinity," Jennifer said. “Continue to use that retinol, but make sure you’re only using retinol at night.
“Of course, wear SPF, and don't forget to reapply.”
Jennifer suggests starting each morning routine by exfoliating, then cleansing the face. She recommends medical-grade skin care, such as Renewing Eye Complex by Hydrinity or a specialized eye cream, then adding Daily Power Defense by ZO that supports cellular repair and hydrates the skin. The last step is generously applying an SPF, such as Color Science Glow.
“So many people don't understand the layering of skincare and how important that is, and I think one of the easiest ways to remember is that it's thinnest to thickest,” she explained. “Thick products prevent absorption of the thinner products.”
Just as important, the nighttime routine helps the skin rejuvenate during sleep. Jennifer recommends double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser like Precleanse by Dermalogica, then a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup and sweat that accumulated throughout the day.
The next step is layering night products from thinnest to thickest, just like in the morning. Adding a power house like Growth Factor Serum by ZO will enhance the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid and help prevent signs of aging.
“If we start doing these steps it will even help maintain your neurotoxins,” Jennifer said. “It takes 90 days for your body to regenerate collagen and fibroblasts to help tighten the skin and regain its elasticity to help with those deeper lines and wrinkles we see as we age. We want to keep that in mind when we start a routine, or have a service like microneedling done.”
Aside from daily routines, Jennifer says monthly facials are one of the best ways to maintain healthy skin in the summer. A facial creates a clean slate for the skin, allowing daily skincare products to absorb better.
Depending on age, skin type and other factors, Jennifer advises making an appointment with a licensed esthetician to develop a personalized plan. She also owns and operates an Academy of Aesthetics and Laser in Argyle, sharing her knowledge with future estheticians.
“I think it’s important to understand that we will customize your services and treatments based on your lifestyle and budget,” she said. “There are so many factors that go into a plan; it’s not just a one-size-fits-all.”
Luminous Glow Med Spa is having a Summer Open House on May 16 from 6-8 p.m. with the best prices of the season. Can't make it? At any time, new clients are offered a free first-time consultation to create a personalized skincare plan. Visit luminousglowmedspa.com for more details.
