Yes, winter really did end, I think! And along with it, peel season. Many clients have seen great results from peels over the last few months. I especially commend those who completed a series of peels (3 is the magic number for the best results). Finishing a series of peels isn’t always easy. It takes timing, intention and commitment. And often, it can also be inconvenient. Let’s face it: even on a Zoom call, no one really wants to be peeling! But just like working out, eating healthy and taking care of yourself, this is a practice that requires effort and is so worth it.
A New Season.
Summer is just around the corner, so it is a good time to review your program and make some shifts in how you care for your skin. A few things to keep in mind.
Go lighter on moisturizer.
As the weather gets warmer and humidity rises (hello, Ottawa humidity!), you can put away the richer moisturizer you were using over winter. I am such a fan of AlumierMD’s HydraDew (I use it all year in the morning) and HydraLight for super hydration along with power ingredients (peptides all around!). If you struggle with breakouts, HydraClarité is a great option. And for my sensitive friends, look to HydraCalm.
Exfoliate. With Care.
Exfoliation is still important in the summer months. We sweat, and we apply and re-apply sunscreen (right?). All this and the effects of the sun create buildup on the surface of the skin. Exfoliation is still important, but you need to dial back the intensity. From an anti-aging point of view (for 40s and up especially), it’s time to make the move from the higher percentage retinol, .5% or more, that thins the skin and makes it sun sensitive. Switch up to ingredients like AHAs that exfoliate at the surface. AHA Renewal serum, for example, is softer and more hydrating and doesn’t thin the skin in the way that retinol does.
Now, here’s a thing that might blow your mind: you can use a low-dose retinol like AlumerMD .25% Retinol during summer – but just a couple of times a week. Traditional thinking has been to put retinol away – for good reason, as it thins the skin. Now, encapsulated formulations and lower-dose products have opened up options. ALSO, it comes with a warning – you must be practising safe sunscreen protection – as it were. There are multiple options and approaches to combining nightly exfoliation. I am currently doing what I call a rotating exfoliation program and will continue through the summer. What is this mystery secret formula, you might ask? No room to talk about that today, more on that in another post. Reach out and ask me if you are interested in switching things up.
Wear your sunscreen. Period.
I can’t stress this enough – sunscreen is THE age-management miracle worker. If you know me well, you know I recommend wearing sunscreen all year long, rain or shine, indoors or out. But it is especially important to protect your skin from the summer sun. Sunscreen is often met with much resistance, yet it is a game-changer for your skin – preventing fine lines and keeping your skin looking fresh, healthy and youthful. The trick is finding the right sunscreen. One that is free of chemical filters, which are not only bad for you but can cause breakouts. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 and apply it not only to your face but your chest and shoulders when you are spending time out during the day. A well-formulated mineral sunscreen is not thick and sticky, nor does it leave a white cast on your face. AlumierMD’s Sheer Hydration will forever be my go-to.
Treatments for Summer. Planning for Fall.
A facial treatment is always a great way to clean up and boost your skin. During the summer months, we work lighter in the treatment room using exfoliating enzymes and acids that work without compromising the skin in the sun. Just like my homecare recommendations, all of my facials are customized to you for the best possible outcome. And remember, just because it is warm and sunny, hydration is still super important. Stay on it, not just drinking it, but applying it to the skin.
If peels weren’t in the picture this season, that’s OK. Truly. This means we just make a plan for the Fall. However, that entails making it AND booking it. This way, you can make better choices of when and how and grab a spot before it goes.
And trust me, time moves quickly. Before you know it, you will be starting on a peel series and feeling really good because it is in your control rather than something you are stressing about.
In the meantime, take good care of your skin and enjoy the summer months.