Summer is well on the way, and whilst this may mean long lazy evenings in the garden, weekends at the beach and trips to the park it can also mean that our skin will be more exposed to the summer elements and this could promote dry, dehydrated skin.
Here, Dr Giuseppe Aragona, GP and online doctor for OnlinePrescriptionDoctor reveals his 5 tips for saving your dehydrated skin this Spring/Summer.
SPF is king
It’s no secret that the best way to prevent ageing is by wearing a SPF daily, even when the weather is grey and cloudy. Wearing SPF will protect your skin barrier from the harsh summer elements such as the sun, pollution and pollen, all of which can contribute to dry dehydrated skin. Opt for factor 50 SPF daily to ensure that you are well protected and your skin remains healthy, plump and supple.
Moisturise
If you find over the warmer months your skin becomes much drier, you may want to increase the amount you are moisturising your skin. After cleansing you should be applying a thicker overnight moisturiser which will work to regenerate your skin overnight, in the day I would opt for a gel-based moisturiser for locking in the skin’s moisture. You may also want to try hyaluronic acid as this works wonders for keeping skin looking plump and hydrated.
Treat allergy symptoms
Often, those who suffer with seasonal allergies such as hay fever also suffer with dry dehydrated skin, this is because these allergens irritate our skin and may leave it feeling dry and course, this is also the case if we end up scratching, rubbing or touching our skin because it is itchy. The best way to prevent this from occurring is with anti-allergy treatments such as Fexofenadine, which provides effective relief from hay fever symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing and itchy and watering eyes. This will help to keep symptoms at bay meaning you won’t run the risk of causing irritation to your skin which may lead to a dehydrated and dry skin barrier.
Anti-pollution skincare
In the warmer months, there are often many more pollutants lingering in the air, and so it is essential that you protect the skin barrier first and foremost to keep skin hydrated and healthy. Anti-pollution skincare is a must, ingredients such as antioxidants and vitamin C are ideal, these can be applied daily before your SPF to protect the skin. If you live in a city this is imperative for ensuring your skin is staying protected and healthy.
Stay hydrated
It’s one of the simplest yet effective ways of reducing dry dehydrated skin and promoting plump, healthy skin; and that is drinking plenty of water each day. When we are well hydrated, our body functions much better, and this is also the case for the skin. Our skin looks hydrated, plump and healthy, whereas dehydrated skin can often leave skin looking tired, grey and may accentuate lines and wrinkles. Try to aim for 8 glasses of water a day if you can.
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