Summer Skincare 101

We’re willing to bet a pretty penny that when winter rolls around your medicine cabinet is stocked with hydrating face masks, heavy night creams, and just about any product with the word “moisturizing” on it. Winter’s low temps, harsh winds, and dry air leave your skin craving moisture and nourishment. However, when winter finally subsides and the sun comes back into our lives, it’s time to transition from heavy creams to light serums, water-based creams, and cooling gels.

Summer has (unofficially) started, and we can already feel a change in our skin. Where we once had glowy, dewy skin we now have large pores and oily blackheads; it’s not a great look. Summer is a challenging time for skin, to be sure, which is why we asked celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas all of our most pressing questions. Below, Joanna Vargas provides a few tips for knowing when and how to transition your skincare routine, how to mask the right way, and the best ways get rid of that greasy feeling. You can thank us later….

How should you change your skincare routine for summer?

Keep in mind, summer skin needs less moisture but just as much TLC because of our increased exposure to the environment. Once the weather gets warmer, I suggest changing your skincare routine to just serums. In my own line, I have a Daily Serum, which is inspired by my love of green juices. It contains oat grass juice which boosts your lymphatic system, chlorophyll to oxygenate the face, and hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated. I also have a nighttime formula called Rejuvenating Serum, which is made from Argan oil for Vitamin C, jojoba oil for balancing oil production, olive oil which is a skin softener, neroli oil for better circulation, and rosehip oil for environmental protection. It improves your skin’s ability to heal and balances the texture of the skin. It’s so liberating to not need anything else for the skin! Plus, a daytime serum is great to apply under sunscreen, which you absolutely cannot live without.

What are the best hydrating foods for your skin?

  1. Cucumber
  2. Celery
  3. Parsley
  4. Spinach
  5. Kale
  6. Romaine
  7. Apple
  8. Pear
  9. Olive oil
  10. Avocado

Eat greens for every meal. This one is for your weight, for cellulite and skin. Want to look ready for summer? You need greens at every meal; it will slim you down, aid digestion so your skin glows and make you feel healthy!

Every girl I know wants clean, clear and glowing skin, especially for summer holiday parties and yes, the photos. My best tip is to start by eating a bit of avocado everyday as part of your salad, or even throwing a half of an avocado into your morning smoothie. Avocado supplies the skin with healthy fats and phytonutrients to hydrate from the inside out and bring back your glow.

Two great tasting boosts to your skin’s moisture are celery and cucumber. They both contain silica, an ingredient that boosts moisture and elasticity. I encourage clients to eat a salad with plenty of both to keep your skin young and supple.

Why do you need sunscreen everyday?

I’m afraid there is no avoiding using lots of sunscreen. Every single complaint women have about their skin after thirty-five is entirely the result of sun exposure. Applying a high SPF before leaving for a day in the sun is always the best and only way to go, but for everyday protection, you have more flexibility.  If you are the type that hates the thick feeling of an SPF for everyday, then I would highly recommend a powder sunscreen. I use one daily for going to the office or running errands. It’s lightweight and generally doesn’t have an odor. I use an organic formula and it’s fantastic, even over makeup!

For sun damaged, sunburned or dry/sensitive skin try this DIY Recipe:

3 tbs aloe vera juice

1 tbs aloe vera gel

2 drops rose oil

Apply with cotton ball to damaged area all over face.

Shop our favorite summer sunscreens here, the check out the best white summer clothes.