Whether you’re a skincare newbie or a veteran in the skincare department, it’s time to give your skincare routine – just like your wardrobe – a summer update.
Summer is finally here, and along with the longer days, shorter ‘fits, and the countdown to the festive season comes the need to seriously take care of your skin. Because all that fun in the sun is good for the soul, but – unprotected – it’s not so good for your skin.
First things first, let’s talk about the must-haves – the four steps you need to stock up on before you start spending your hard-earned cash on that overdue pedicure or event-ready spray tan, and before we get into this article’s hot (excuse the pun) topic – antioxidants.
Step 1: Cleanser
Hopefully, by now, you’re aware that a bar of soap in the shower does not make a cleanser. Whatever your skin type or concerns, there’s a cleanser on the market for you—and your budget. Particularly during the summer months, look for a cleanser with hydrating and exfoliating properties.
Step 2: Serum
If you only have one serum in your arsenal this season, opt for a Hyaluronic Acid serum. Hydration is key during the summer months. If you want to really up your summer skincare game, in addition to an HA serum, you can incorporate a brightening serum (if you struggle with hyperpigmentation) and a Vitamin C serum for some antioxidant-rich TLC.
Step 3: Moisturiser
Several moisturisers on the market can be used morning and night, so rather than skimping on quality because you feel like you need two different moisturisers, opt for one multi-tasking moisturiser that covers all the bases—hydration, anti-ageing, textural correction, pigmentation management, and collagen-boosting properties.
Step 4: SPF
Using a moisturiser that contains a little SPF or a foundation with some SPF doesn’t mean that you don’t need to use an SPF. You always need a broad-spectrum SPF in your skincare routine and really shouldn’t leave the house in the morning without thoroughly applying it.
We love the Heliocare 360 Pigment Solution Fluid SPF 50 – an ultra-light protection formulation for correcting and preventing hyperpigmentation. Containing Fernblock®, this product protects against UVB, UVA, VL, IRA, and blue light from digital devices. Its antipollution and depigmenting systems assist with correcting hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and uneven skin tone; its ultra-light texture makes it suitable for all skin types. Oh, and it's water- and sweat-resistant and won’t irritate the eyes.
Navigate Summer Skincare Like a Pro with Antioxidants
Once you’ve got your cleanser, HA serum, moisturiser and SPF sorted, it’s time to pop “add antioxidants” on the top of your to-do list. Why? Well, antioxidants help protect skin cells from damage and ageing while improving skin texture and appearance.
To get you started on your antioxidant journey this Summer, we’ve rounded up the five products we’re crushing on as much as those fabulous sandals we just saw mid-scroll.
- SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF is a world-class Vitamin C Serum for oily and blemish-prone skin types who want to treat ageing. This oil-free formula refines skin texture and improves clarity with its breakthrough antioxidant combination of Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract), L-ascorbic acid, Ferulic Acid, and Salicylic Acid. This combination prevents oil oxidation (responsible for breakouts and premature ageing) and provides antioxidant protection (enabling your skin to withstand environmental aggressors).
- Endocare Radiance C Ferulic Edafence Serum is a feather-light antioxidant treatment suitable for all skin types – your one-stop solution to illuminate your skin's natural glow while combatting the harmful effects of pollution and pushing the boundaries of antioxidative skincare. Leveraging cutting-edge anti-pollution technology, this product wages an effective war against various forms of pollution, including ozone, heavy metals, and tobacco smoke, while stimulating cell regeneration, paving the way for a more even skin tone and a healthier, rejuvenated appearance.
- Neostrata Enlighten 15% Vitamin C + PHA Serum is the gold standard for Vitamin C serums, a powerhouse face serum featuring a blend of antioxidants and polyhydroxy acid for a more radiant skin tone. Lightweight and easy to absorb, this formula reduces oxidative stress, minimises signs of ageing, gently exfoliates your skin– removing dead skin cells and clogged pores – and gives your skin a radiant glow while targeting dark spots and uneven skin tone.
- Lamelle Correctives Recharge CE Complex is a powerful product that improves wrinkles, skin texture, sluggish skin cell turnover, and discolouration. This formula is unique because it contains a stable, high concentration of real-deal Ascorbic Acid, the form of Vitamin C scientifically proven to benefit your skin. This potent ingredient, combined with Vitamin E, delivers antioxidant protection to your skin, repairing damage and preventing future harm while smoothing, hydrating and brightening skin, too.
- Skin Renewal HA Gel and Peptides is an active serum formulation for those struggling with dryness, dehydration, and visible signs of ageing. This gel contains a high quantity of Hyaluronic Acid—the substance responsible for retaining water and keeping skin cells plump. It also combines a unique combination of Peptides to reduce visible signs of ageing by improving collagen formation.
As with any new product or skincare plan of action, if you have questions or are unsure of what’s right for you, chat with one of our world-class medical doctors or medically trained therapists at any of our 20 branches nationwide or chat with us virtually.