With next weeks heatwave approaching, searches for ‘retinol and sun exposure’ are up by 4,250% and ‘how much retinol to use’ up by 1,100% in the last 30 days alone, there’s certainly an appetite for understanding why your routine may need a mix up as the mercury rises..
To help, Cult Beauty has teamed up with pharmacist and founder of The Derma Lab Elizabeth Japal to decode what your summer skincare routine really needs and why some ingredients, including retinol, should be left to one side this summer.
Why you must switch up your skincare in summer
“As the seasons change, so do your skin needs,” says Elizabeth. “In the warmer weather, skin tends to be oilier, sweat more, and is exposed to high levels of UV and environmental stress. This means you can usually pare back heavier products and focus on lightweight hydrating and strong sun protection.
SPF becomes your top priority, and formulas that support the skin barrier are essential. If you don’t adapt your routine, you may experience clogged pores, irritation, or premature aging.”
Heading into the sun? Here’s why you should take a break from retinol
Pharmacist Elizabeth Japal warns that “if you’re heading abroad or expecting intense sun exposure it’s wise to take a short break from retinol to avoid irritation and overexposure.” Retinol hailed for smoothing fine lines and boosting collagen becomes risky when paired with strong UV rays. While some actives can be used cautiously in summer, Elizabeth urges sunseekers to pause using these ingredients.
“Retinols, AHAs and BHAs can make skin more photosensitive. You don’t need to ditch them forever, but if you’re on a beach holiday or spending hours in direct sunlight, now’s the time to give your skin a break,” Elizabeth says.
Summer skin care do’s and don’ts
To keep your complexion calm, glowy and protected all summer long, Elizabeth shares her summer skincare rules:
Do’s:
- Prioritise SPF – Use a broad spectrum SPF50 and apple every two hours.
- Apply a water or gel based moisturiser packed with hyaluronic acid that’s oil free and noncomedogenic.
- Introduce antioxidants into your routine – Vitamin C, niacinamide and green tea extract help defend the skin from UV damage and environmental stressors. sunscreen, but they do strengthen your skin’s resilience. A lightweight antioxidant serum in the morning pairs perfectly with SPF.
- Cleanse twice daily and use a gentle, non-stripping face wash.
- Carry a cooling face mist to refresh your complexion on the go.
Don’ts
- Avoid using retinols as it becomes risky when paired with strong UV rays.
- Don’t forget about your lips, neck and hands when using your SPF. Look for nourishing lip balms that also protect and re-apply your favourite body SPF’s from head to toe.
- Forget to keep on top of hydration – drink at least 2 litres of water a day
- Try a strong exfoliating solution on your skin, especially if you’re on holiday and spending lots of time in the sun. Keep your routine gentle and moisturising.
To shop skincare please visit – https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/c/skin-care/
