Finally, summer is creeping in!
Though we welcome the perks it has to offer, hotter weather can mean irritation, redness, and dryness for the skin.
Summer heat means more oil and more sweat.
Likewise, sun damage can destroy the skin’s moisture barrier resulting in less elasticity and collagen and premature ageing.
For that beautiful, healthy, sun-kissed look, here are some easy to follow summer skincare tips.
Cleanse twice a day
Hot weather combined with constant air-conditioning, especially in this desert region, can cause the skin to produce more sebum resulting in large pores and breakouts. To keep your skin looking it best we recommend cleansing twice daily (morning and evening) using a mild facial cleanser like our PH balanced olive & castor bean cleaning milk to gently cleanse and nourish the skin.
Being both alcohol and detergent free, this cleansing milk will not disturb the natural acid mantle on the skin, allowing the skin to function properly with the changes in weather. Always complete your cleansing routine with a toner to remove any final traces of impurities. Our PH balanced ‘alcohol-free’ Rosewater Hydrating Spritz is perfect to use as a toner after cleansing and also as an instant hydrating tonic to be spritzed onto the skin throughout the day – even over make-up for instant hydration.
Apply a few drops of our signature rosehip oil, beneath or together with a light day cream/lotion and our fountain of youth face cream is perfect for this dry and humid climate.
Skin Treats
Regular exfoliation sloughs away dead skin cells to promote a sun-kissed glow. Try SCO’s Date & Bilberry face polish to increase cellular turnover, minimize breakouts and brighten the complexion. Follow with your favourite mask to deliver nourishment and vital minerals to the skin. We believe powder masks are more effective because they are fresh, potent and free from preservatives. Try activating one tsp of Instant Glow Face Mask with one tsp of water and let stand for one minute before applying all over face and décolleté. Remove with warm water followed by toner and a few drops of your favourite serum. Do not apply any gels/lotions or creams to allow the skin to breathe and eliminate toxins. This treatment will prepare the skin for better absorption of creams and serums, increasing the overall effectiveness of your beauty products.
Moisturize
Opt for a lightweight moisturizer and if you use sunscreen apply that on top, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. SCO’s products are lightweight so they will not block the pores or add oiliness to your skin. Our products are free from phototoxic (sun sensitizing) ingredients to benefit skin exposed to sunlight and heat and our signature antioxidant blend helps to combat environmental stress and pollution.
Try SCO’s Fountain of Youth Face Cream. It is suitable for all skin types. Mix a few drops of serum together with it and create your perfect night cream.
Be friends with Vitamin C serum
Invest in a good vitamin C serum, it prevents hyperpigmentation, increases collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Massage a few drops of Vitamin C between your cleansing and moisturizing routine. Try SCO’s Vitamin C Elixir to help lighten, whiten, and brighten your skin. This super hydrating elixir rapidly decreases wrinkles and increases collagen. The potent botanicals and antioxidant blend present in it deeply penetrate your skin to smooth fine lines, and remove pigmentation.
Reduce shower time
Rigorous workouts, beach outings, or the plain old summer heat makes you want to shower more than once in a day. So keep your shower time short and keep the water temperature cool. Taking long hot baths in the summertime will overheat the skin and cause inflammation.
Use non-comedogenic makeup
Try to use minimal makeup during the hot and humid summer months. Use non-comedogenic makeup that won’t clog your pores: powder sunscreen, lightweight foundation, or an oil-free primer are suitable examples.
Drink plenty of water
Dehydration may irritate the skin causing red, blotchy patches. Hydrate your skin by drinking plenty of water at least eight glasses per day. Proper hydration will make your skin look soft and glowing. Adequate hydration will also help the skin recover from unwanted sunburn.
SPF
The sun is a mixed blessing and needs to be thought about in that way! Too much of a good thing becomes bad. At SCO we believe that sensible sun exposure is vital for mental health and by sensible sun exposure we mean spending a small amount of time outdoors (without any SPF) to gain from all the benefits the sun has to offer. However, if your lifestyle has you outdoors most of the day, then yes, you will need to take the necessary precautions to prepare yourself by applying a sun screen, proper clothing and a correct diet. We recommend the use of a biodegradable, non-toxic sunscreen applied regularly and protective clothing and if possible, minimizing your exposure during peak midday hours. It is all about balance!
Enjoy your summer. Enjoy sensible sun exposure, wear protective clothing, sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, eat a rainbow with lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables (there is a reason why they grow in summer) use non-toxic sunscreen and stay consciously beautiful.
