This article has appeared previously with Equestrian Life. To see what's in our latest issue, click here

By Rebecca Nicholls

There is a reason why they call it the “winter blues”. Long, cold winters are not good for your skin. The low humidity in conjunction with additional heating, hot water and layers of clothing can leave your skin looking dull, dry, rough, and dehydrated. The colder, icy winter days can also make skin itchy, and tend to worsen problematic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis,

The good news is that warmer weather is a time for skin to improve. Summer skin is closer than you think if you follow these simple steps:

1. Out with the old

When you update your summer wardrobe, take a few extra minutes to sort out and throw away old skincare and make-up products. Old, outdated products that are rarely used can lose their effectiveness and be a home for bacteria.

Check the dates on your products. If you have not used it in over six months, throw it away. You may want to also check the following:

•    Anything past the expiration date particularly sunscreens
•    Anything that has changed consistency, colour, or smell
•    Mascara older than three months should be replaced
•    Throw away or wash old or dirty make-up brushes, which can cause skin problems

2. Adjust your skincare collection

Adjust your skincare to reflect the seasonal changes that come with the warmer weather. A few easy tweaks can make a big difference to how your skin looks and feels.

Cleansing is a vital element of any skincare routine, particularly after winter when extra make-up, central heating and lack of sunshine can contribute to blocked pores and dry, flaky skin. Find a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type and which is effective at removing surface dirt, make-up, sunscreen and pollution. Try a gentle, plant-based, foaming cleanser such as Jurlique’s Herbal Recovery Antioxidant Cleansing Mousse, a silky foaming cleansing oil rich in botanical oils such as Jojoba, Grape Seed and Rose Hip to gently and effectively cleanse and lift away make-up and impurities.

Summer is the time to consider switching to a lighter moisturiser. Higher temperatures result in oilier skin for everyone, in warm, humid weather; you’re more likely to sweat when you’re out and about. For summer skincare, swap your heavy moisturiser for a lighter lotion if your skin is normal, or you may find you only need to use it sparingly in dehydrated areas if you have combination or oily skin. Try Jurlique Rose Moisture Plus Revitalising Gel Lotion which is a silky gel to help protect against environmental aggressors, hydrate, smooth and soften the skin.

3. Get Glowing and Exfoliate

The cold, dry days of winter are over, but your dry, flaky skin remains. Exfoliating can slough off dry, dead skin cells after the winter months and restore a fresh glow to the skin. Gentle exfoliation helps reveal fresher, smoother skin and then will help give you a smooth, even skin texture and help moisturisers absorb into skin. If you have sensitive skin you don’t have to miss out, just avoid harsh scrubbing or grainy products that may irritate the skin. Some skins may also need extra attention, depending on the climate and your skin type, you may need to exfoliate more often in the spring and summer.  A perfect exfoliator for all different skins is Jurlique Daily Exfoliating Cream, a non-granular exfoliating cream recommended for everyday use. It cleans deeply using natural ingredients such as almonds, oats and honey to lift away dead skin cells and leave skin looking smooth and radiant.

4. Don’t forget your body – skincare doesn’t stop at your neckline

During winter, much of our skin is “out of sight, out of mind”. Long pants, long sleeves, warm socks and boots may have prevented you from seeing the rough, dry skin building up on your feet, knees, and elbows. Slough off that old layer of dry skin with regular exfoliation and scrub your entire body with a circular motion, paying extra attention to rough, dry patches. Finish with a silky smooth body lotion while your skin is still damp to lock in the moisture.

5. Don’t skimp on Sunscreen

Sunscreen is important all year, but essential in summer when more of your skin is exposed for longer periods of time. Stay vigilant with sunscreen as the sun can be friend or foe depending on your skin colour and strength. Remember to avoid excess sun exposure and wear hats, clothing, and sunscreen for added protection. Opt for a waterproof, broad-spectrum sunscreen and re-apply throughout the day; a light mist or gel sunscreen can feel lighter and prevent clogged pores, but make sure you reapply regularly.

6. Lighten Up

Summer is a great time to let your skin go au natural and lighten up on the make-up. Warmer temperatures can lead to excess perspiration, which, if you are wearing heaving make-up and foundation, can lead to clogged pores and breakout. For spring and summer, choose one of the newer BB or CC creams which are similar to a lightweight-tinted moisturiser with a natural, sheer appearance, skin and anti-ageing benefits and sunscreen protection.

Finally, the dull, drab days of winter are behind us — it’s time for that skincare spring-clean and head into summer with your best face forward!

The author, Rebecca Nicholls.

Photo supplied.

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