Atmosphere Characteristics: unstable climate, strong UV radiation, dust.
Skin Issues: acne breakouts/clogged skin, skin allergies , irritation, inflammation, broken thread veins; dry, dehydrated, scaly, dull, rough, undernourished, wrinkled skin (Winter blues).
Remedy: deep cleansing, exfoliation (skin renewal), rejuvenation and protection against UV radiation.
EXTERNAL MEASURES
Gently cleanse, thoroughly cleanse
Springtime care should be aimed at repairing Winter havoc and prepare the skin for future aggressions. Using a mild, mildly acidic, hydrating cleanser, for both body and face, is the perfect way to thoroughly remove all Winter build-up while replenishing lost moisture and without causing tightness/dryness afterwards. Dead skin cells need to be rehydrated in order to be effectively loosen up. Rinse with purified water or a mildly acidic toner, never with heavily chlorinated/fluorinated water.
Remember to tone
Apply a mildly acidic toner after cleansing to restore your skin`s acidic mantle.
Shed your old skin
Just as the snow thaws before Spring arrives, dry skin also needs to slough off. Use gentle, natural exfoliants 2-3 times per week, this will help loosen dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. Steer clear of scrubs, they can cause teeny tiny scratches which can further irritate your already sensitive Winter skin. Avoid using acid chemical peels, they can exacerbate your winter blues by disturbing your skin`s acid mantle and lead to hyperpigmentation problems. Emphasize your rough areas (elbows, knees, heels, etc), they also need to be tended.
Replenish the lost oils
Moisturization is the key to keeping the skin in good shape throughout Spring and Summer time and repair Winter damage. Moisturize twice per day with nourishing, gentle, non-clogging formulations. Layer your moisturizer, this means that you will apply it immediately after toning while the skin is still damp. Apply 2 or more layers if needed.
Caress your sensitive skin
Due to Winter inclemencies and Spring allergies, the skin becomes extremely sensitive and reacts aggressively to any stimulus/aggression, including your everyday skin care products and picking at your blemishes. It is necessary to adopt protective and preventive measures. Avoid any potentially irritating/PH disturbing products and opt for hypoallergenic, mildly acidic care containing immune system-boosting active ingredients.
Never underestimate the power of sunscreening
It is important to increase protection against UV radiation during this time of the year. Spring`s sun radiation is more intense than it may seem and the skin is even more sensitive to its effects. Choose an SPF (minimum 15) rich in biological filters such as shea butter, avocado oil, raspberry oil, coconut oil, etc. These filters act as free radicals scavengers and they also help to restore our skin`s natural oils. Remember to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply it every 2 hours.
Deep condition your skin weekly.
Masks can speed up your skin`s recovery process. Favour natural masks and fresh ingredients which offer purifying, hydrating and nourishing solutions. Relax while you leave your mask on; relaxation has a positive influence on the aggressions of the skin.
INTERNAL MEASURES
Hydrate your skin from the inside out
Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to restore the moisture loss during Winter and prep your skin for Summer. For every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you take, have an extra glass of water to prevent possible dehydration. Consume plently of fresh fruits and vegetables, their water is loaded with nutrients that maintain our skin`s optimal health.
Supercharge your skin with Superfoods
A diet rich in antioxidants like carotenenes, vitamins A and E, algae and EFAs is extremely beneficial for Springtime skin as it will kick-start sluggish skin conditions and reveal a brighter, rejuvenated complexion.
SEASONAL FRESH INGREDIENTS THAT KEEP SPRING BLUES AT BAY (internally and externally):
| Apricots Blueberries Cantaloupe Carrots Casaba Melon Cherries |
Currants Fennel Figs Garlic Nectarines Onion Papayas Pineapples |
Raspberries Rhubarb Strawberries |