The arrival of summer and the warmer weather means you’ll want to spend more time outdoors in the sun. Whether you’ll be playing sports, walking, gardening or just lounging by the pool or on the beach, caring for your skin and using the appropriate skin products can help prevent skin conditions and sun damage.

To help you out this summer we’ve put together some handy skin survival tips!

Problem No 1 : Sunburn

The summer sun is much stronger than you may think. If you are going to be exposed to the sun, always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Remember, sunburn can cause cancer. However if you do get burnt, take cool showers and keep skin well moisturised. It is also recommended to avoid oily products at first, as these can trap the heat.  

Tip: Hydrating gels help initially, and then richer creams will help reduce peeling afterwards.

Quick fix: Use a mineral make-up to tone down redness, pure minerals provide good coverage without irritating the skin.

Problem No 2 : Dry, Dehydrated Skin

Summer is the party season, but don’t forget that warm weather and/or alcohol dehydrates the skin. Apart from moisturising regularly, do your skin a favour by drinking plenty of water and also exfoliating your skin regularly, which will improve the skin’s ability to absorb moisturising products.

Tip: Swap to a lightweight moisturiser. When it’s hot and humid, heavy creams can block pores, leading to acne, which is very difficult to treat in those with dry skin.

Quick fix: Smooth a few drops of pure rosehip oil over the entire face before applying make-up.

Problem No 3 : Oily Skin and Breakouts

Keeping cool is important in preventing oily skin and breakouts. Pores and sweat glands in the skin help regulate body temperature, so when it’s warmer, pores open to release perspiration to cool us down and oil glands do the same, which may spell disaster for those with oily skin.

Tip: Don’t over cleanse: This will only strip the skin of oils it needs to stay hydrated, making it produce more and exacerbating the problem.

Quick fix: Carry a pack of cosmetic blotting papers to mop up shine.

Problem No 4 : Flushed, Red Face

Overheating is a problem for anyone suffering from a red, flushed complexion or the skin disorder rosacea. In warmer weather, it is also particularly important to avoid large meals, hot spicy foods and to minimise alcohol.

Tip: Use soothing, calming skincare products with ingredients such as propolis.

Quick fix: Carry a mineral spritz spray to cool the face as often as necessary throughout the day.

Problem No 5 : Pigmentation

Pigmentation problems can be caused by hormonal factors (such as the contraceptive pill or pregnancy) or sun exposure. If your problem is hormonal, speak with your GP about options. While pigmentation may be reduced with fading creams or peels, it will return the moment you go back into the sun without protection. So always apply sunscreen. Remember to Slip, Slop, Slap!

Tip: Use sun protection plus ingredients that help prevent pigmentation such as vitamin C.

Quick fix: Use a light, tinted moisturiser as a base and even out pigmentation with concealer.