Summer is a season where extreme environmental factors prevail: the sun can take a toll on our skin. In this blog you will find all the information you need to keep your skin in good shape for summer.

Atmosphere characteristics: high temperature, humidity, intense UV radiation, dryness caused by air conditioning.

Skin Issues: oily skin (greater sebum secretion), acne breakouts, dark spots and freckles (sun damage), dry/dehydrated skin.
Remedy: cleanse, oxygenate, moisturize with lightweight formulations, protect from UV radiation and preserve.

EXTERNAL MEASURES:

• Do not disturb your pH. Heavy metals-rich water, alkaline soaps/gels, taking long baths, etc will only strip your skin`s natural oils and make your skin more prone to UV damage.
• Always tone after showering/bathing. A mildly acidic toner will hydrate the skin and restore the skin`s acid mantle.
• Regularly exfoliate (2-3 times x week). Exfoliation not only gets rid of surface debris, prevent cellular build-up and keep the skin lubricious but it preconditions the skin to accept treatment based products.
• Keep your skin well moisturized. Summer calls for lighter, non-comedogenic, fast penetrating, antioxidant-rich moisturizers that lock in moisture and prevent Transepidermal Water Loss.
• Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. A healthy appearance of the skin throughout the summer is dependent upon sun protection. To minimize UV rays-related damage, you should seek shelter during the peak hours (from 10 am to 4 pm), wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the delicate skin of your face as well as your eyes. Always use broad-spectrum sunscreens that provide a minimum SPF 20 (or higher if the skin is very fair). Do not skimp on sunscreen, make sure you cover your entire body (including your lips). Sunscreen should be applied 3o minutes before going outdoors as this is the time it takes to bond with the skin . Reapply it every 2 hours, after swimming or sweating profusely.
• Treat your skin to a facial smoothie. Maximize the use of antioxidant rich fresh ingredients that will keep your skin oxygenated and ward off/repair UV-induced damage.

INTERNAL MEASURES:

• Make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. During summer our bodies are likely to lose water to Transepidermal Water Loss and sweating; drinking more water can prevent dehydration.
• EAT your water. Indulge on fresh fruits and vegetables; the water they provide is more easily absorbed by our cells than drinking water and they are also a rich source of nutrients which keep the skin supple.
• Cut down on alcohol and caffeinated beverages. Their over consumption can lead to dehydration, especially during summer. Always drink an extra glass of water for every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you take.
• Increase your intake of selenium, zinc, vitamin C and E rich foods. They shield your skin from UV rays-produced free radicals.

SEASONAL FRESH INGREDIENTS THAT KEEP SUMMER BLUES AT BAY (internally and externally):

Atmosphere Characteristics: unstable climate, strong UV radiation, dust.

Skin Issues: acne breakouts/clogged skin, skin allergies , irritation, inflammation, broken thread veins; dry, dehydrated, scaly, dull, rough, undernourished, wrinkled skin (Winter blues).

Remedy: deep cleansing, exfoliation (skin renewal), rejuvenation and protection against UV radiation.

EXTERNAL MEASURES

Gently cleanse, thoroughly cleanse

Springtime care should be aimed at repairing Winter havoc and prepare the skin for future aggressions. Using a mild, mildly acidic, hydrating cleanser, for both body and face, is the perfect way to thoroughly remove all Winter build-up while replenishing lost moisture and without causing tightness/dryness afterwards. Dead skin cells need to be rehydrated in order to be effectively loosen up. Rinse with purified water or a mildly acidic toner, never with heavily chlorinated/fluorinated water.

Remember to tone

Apply a mildly acidic toner after cleansing to restore your skin`s acidic mantle.

Shed your old skin

Just as the snow thaws before Spring arrives, dry skin also needs to slough off. Use gentle, natural exfoliants 2-3 times per week, this will help loosen dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. Steer clear of scrubs, they can cause teeny tiny scratches which can further irritate your already sensitive Winter skin. Avoid using acid chemical peels, they can exacerbate your winter blues by disturbing your skin`s acid mantle and lead to hyperpigmentation problems. Emphasize your rough areas (elbows, knees, heels, etc), they also need to be tended.

Replenish the lost oils

Moisturization is the key to keeping the skin in good shape throughout Spring and Summer time and repair Winter damage. Moisturize twice per day with nourishing, gentle, non-clogging formulations. Layer your moisturizer, this means that you will apply it immediately after toning while the skin is still damp. Apply 2 or more layers if needed.

Caress your sensitive skin

Due to Winter inclemencies and Spring allergies, the skin becomes extremely sensitive and reacts aggressively to any stimulus/aggression, including your everyday skin care products and picking at your blemishes. It is necessary to adopt protective and preventive measures. Avoid any potentially irritating/PH disturbing products and opt for hypoallergenic, mildly acidic care containing immune system-boosting active ingredients.

Never underestimate the power of sunscreening

It is important to increase protection against UV radiation during this time of the year. Spring`s sun radiation is more intense than it may seem and the skin is even more sensitive to its effects. Choose an SPF (minimum 15) rich in biological filters such as shea butter, avocado oil, raspberry oil, coconut oil, etc. These filters act as free radicals scavengers and they also help to restore our skin`s natural oils. Remember to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply it every 2 hours.

Deep condition your skin weekly.

Masks can speed up your skin`s recovery process. Favour natural masks and fresh ingredients which offer purifying, hydrating and nourishing solutions. Relax while you leave your mask on; relaxation has a positive influence on the aggressions of the skin.

INTERNAL MEASURES

Hydrate your skin from the inside out

Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to restore the moisture loss during Winter and prep your skin for Summer. For every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you take, have an extra glass of water to prevent possible dehydration. Consume plently of fresh fruits and vegetables, their water is loaded with nutrients that maintain our skin`s optimal health.

Supercharge your skin with Superfoods

A diet rich in antioxidants like carotenenes, vitamins A and E, algae and EFAs is extremely beneficial for Springtime skin as it will kick-start sluggish skin conditions and reveal a brighter, rejuvenated complexion.

SEASONAL FRESH INGREDIENTS THAT KEEP SPRING BLUES AT BAY (internally and externally):

In this piece, Karen Sinclair gives you all the information you need to keep your skin in good shape through the winter season.

Atmosphere characteristics: cold temperature, freezing wind; dryness produced by indoor heating.

Skin issues: roughness, dryness, tightness, irritation, itchiness, fine lines and wrinkles.

Remedy: shelter, gentle skin care, richer moisturization, antioxidant and EFAs rich diet.

External Measures:

• Always bathe/shower with warm water. Cold water causes further vasoconstriction. Hot water strips your skin’s natural oils more easily.

• Avoid taking long baths/showers. The natural oils of your skin, responsible of keeping the skin lubricious and regulating Trans Epidermal Water Loss, will be stripped.

• Purchase a shower filter. Unfiltered water contains high amounts of chemical compounds such as chlorine and fluoride which alkalize water. Alkaline water severely alters the skin’s pH causing more dryness.

• Bathe/shower with a mildly acidic gel. Soaps are usually very alkaline and will disturb the skin’s pH balance.

• Make sure you rinse soaps and gels thoroughly. Residue can irritate the skin and prevent active ingredients from penetrating.

• Tone after showering/bathing with a mildly acidic solution. An extremely important step as it will restore normal pH and hydrate the skin.

• Exfoliate frequently (2-3 times x week). It will help remove all surface cellular debris and keep your skin soft and smooth.

• Moisturize with a lightweight, ultra-nourishing, mildly acidic lotion. Oils and butters with a heavy molecular weight can’t readily penetrate the skin and will likely clog it. It is important to replace the natural oils that have been stripped after showering/bathing with a good moisturizer as these oils are responsible for holding much of the Vitamin C stored in our bodies. If Vitamin C is allowed to escape, you will be more susceptible to colds and other viruses. Apply moisturizer twice per day, emphasizing face and hands. Use fragrance-free moisturizers; fragrances can sensitize the skin.

• Sunscreen daily (SPF 15 minimum). Even though winter sun is less intense it can burn your skin; remember that snow reflects up to 85% of sun radiation. Reapply every 2 hours.

• Dry brush every day. This is an excellent way of massaging your skin. Dry brushing will not only remove all skin debris but it will also stimulate circulation and help flush toxins through the lymphatic system. Pay special attention to the rough areas: elbows, knees, feet, etc.

• Pamper yourself. Apply once or twice per week a living food facial using
• nourishing fresh ingredients, this will prevent surface build-up and provide deep moisturization.

• Do not forget your neglected areas. Apply to 2-3 layers of moisturizer on the rough areas. Use emollient lip balms liberally and exfoliate your lips at least once per week with a toothbrush soaked in the vegetable oil of your choice (preferably organic). Moisturize your hands whenever you wash them. Smear organic coconut oil on your hands and feet at night and cover them with and cover them with a pair of gloves/mittens and socks, respectively.

• Dress warmly. This will prevent further vasoconstriction and encourage healthy blood flow which, in turn, will keep our skin cells oxygenated.

• Exercise. It increases blood flow to every single organ of your body including the skin.

• Purchase a humidifier. Humidifiers help combat dryness caused by indoor heating.

Internal Measures:

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Water is the most important nutrient and it also helps transport other nutrients throughout our system.

• EAT more water. The water from fresh fruits and vegetables is more easily absorbed by our cells than drinking water and so are the nutrients they provide.

• Go easy on alcohol and caffeinated beverages. For every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you drink, have an extra glass of water to avoid possible dehydration.

• Increase your intake of EFAs (Omega-3) rich foods such as: salmon, flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, purslane, scallops, cauliflower, cabbage, cloves, mustard seeds, halibut, shrimp, cod, tuna, tofu, kale, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, spinach, romaine lettuce and winter squash. These foods will keep the skin moisturized from the inside out.

• Supplement if necessary. If the aforementioned foods do not meet your EFAs needs, then by all means take mercury-free fish supplements. For vegetarians/vegans, you can find several algae-derived Omega- 3/DHA supplements in the market.

Seasonal Fresh Ingredients That Keep Winter Blues at Bay (Internally & Externally):

Avocado, Bananas, Chestnuts, Clementines, Cranberries, Grapes, Grapefruits, Kiwi, Kumquat, Oranges, Passion Fruit, Pears, Persimmons, Pomegranates, Pummelo, Radishes, Rhubarb, Squash (Winter), Sweet Potatoes, Tangelo, Tangerine, Ugli Fruit

Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter; our skin needs special attention.

Summer and winter are two seasons in which extreme environmental factors prevail: the sun, the dry air and the snow can all take their toll on our skin. Spring and autumn, on the other hand, represent the perfect time to renew, to recover from previous environmental aggressions and emerge restored and refreshed whilst prepping the skin for harsher climates.

In autumn, atmosphere characteristics are dry and cooler.

Skin issues: rough, dry, dehydrated, drab skin (summer aftermath).

Remedy: moisturize, protect and prepare.

During summer, our skin is exposed to several aggressive elements (such as the sun, sand, insect repellents, etc.) which can damage the skin.

External Measures

1. Moisturize while you cleanse.  It is advisable to switch to a creamier, gentle, non-clogging cleanser that will add extra moisture and protect your skin from environmental aggressions.
2. Steer clear of heavy metals. Chlorine, fluorine, etc. disturb the skin’s acid mantle leading to imbalances
3. Use mildly acidic, hydrating toners. They will finalize the cleansing process and balance the skin’s pH.
4. Do exfoliate, but be gentle. Summer damage can result in cellular build-up on the skin’s surface. To effectively remove dead skin cells and leave the skin smooth, it is advisable to frequently exfoliate using mildly acidic, natural formulations. pH balanced exfoliates support the skin’s natural functions and prep the skin to better absorb nutrients without causing irritation, a crucial aspect considering our skins have been exposed to several aggressions during summer.
5. Tailor your routine. In order to repair your summer skin and prepare it for winter inclemencies, you will need to modify your moisturizing regime. Your skin needs richer, more emollient creams (especially at night) that keep the skin elastic and lubricious.
6. Shield your skin. Although sun radiation is less intense, you should continue protecting your skin against damaging UV rays. Use daily a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and remember to re-apply it every 2 hours.
7. Fix summer damage with a weekly treatment. Seasonal fresh fruits, when applied topically, can slough off dull, hyper-pigmented, actinic (photo-aged) skin as well as stimulate cellular renewal.

Internal Measures

1. Super hydrate. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day will keep your skin moisturized and help eliminate toxins effectively. Have an extra glass of water for every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you take to prevent possible dehydration. Try to get as much water as possible from fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. EAT your cosmeceuticals. Foods rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants such as polyphones, Vitamins A, C and E can help reverse summer damage, prepare it for the challenges it will face during winter and boost the skin’s immune system while preserving its quality and restoring its natural glow.

Seasonal Fresh Ingredients That Keep Autumn Blues at Bay

• Apples
• Avocados
• Bananas
• Beets Carrots
• Chestnuts
• Clementines
• Cranberries
• Garlic
• Grapes
• Grapefruit
• Kiwi
• Kumquat
• Oranges
• Persimmons
• Pomegranates
• Pumpkin
• Quinces
• Sweet Potatoes
• Tangerines

Foods and Nutrients that boost your skin’s antioxidant protection against UV radiation

With the overwhelming increase in awareness about the use of chemicals in our personal care products and their negative effects, this has put more emphasis on researching natural alternatives.

Thankfully there are now companies producing effective natural sunscreens which is just one way to keep our skin healthy and help to prevent sun related aging. But let’s look and some foods and nutrients that also help boost our skin’s antioxidant levels to protect against UV radiation;

• Cocoa (dark chocolate): contains 4 times as much phenols and catechins as tea. These antioxidants protect our skin from sunburn and skin cancer. Milk should not be added to the chocolate as it interferes with the absorption of its antioxidants. Recommended dose: 2 ounces of dark chocolate daily.
• Green and black teas: rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols are one of the most powerful botanical antioxidants known today. They offer unrivalled action against free radical exposure which is responsible for 80% of skin aging and can boost your skin`s antioxidant protection from the inside out. According to a study, drinking two or more cups of either black or green tea reduces the risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer by 30%.
• Micro-algae: like chlorella and spirulina, contain a carotenoid called Astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is, perhaps, the most powerful ever studied. It is 550 times more powerful than Vitamin E, and it has been shown to protect the skin and eyes against Ultraviolet radiation.
• Carotenoids: are antioxidants which reduce the negative effects of UVB radiation. Green leafy vegetables are rich in oxygenated carotenoid compounds known as xanthophylls. Carotenes are unoxygenated carotenoid compounds which provide pigment to fruits and vegetables. This pigment is used by plants as sunscreen and can activate melanin. Foods containing high concentrations of carotenes are: apricots, papaya, mango, carrots, sweet potatoes and beets.
• Lycopene: is a red carotenoid which protects the skin against sunburn and skin cancer. It is at least twice as effective an antioxidant as beta carotene to block UV light (has an SPF of about 3). Foods high in lycopene include watermelon, tomatoes, papaya, pink guava, red bell peppers and pink grapefruit. Watermelon is especially rich in lycopene, it contains 40% more lycopene than tomatoes.
• Pomegranates: contain powerful polyphenol compounds such as catechins and anthocyanins which strengthen the skin`s upper layers, thus increasing its resistance to harmful UV rays.
• Tocotrienols: are a group of compunds which belong to the Vitamin E family. They are 30-60 more powerful than tocopherols thus, they neutralize free radical activity at a faster rate. Tocotrienols are capable of reducing/absorbing penetration of UV radiation. Barley, rye, oats, annatto oil, rice bran oil and palm oil are natural, rich sources of tocotrienols.
• Vitamin C: prevents premature aging and skin cancer by warding off free radicals. The best natural sources of Vitamin C are acerola cherry, rose hip, berries, guava, kiwi, papaya and all citrus fruits.
• Vitamin D: it protects against many types of cancer, including skin cancer. Supplementation is in order for people who live in areas with long winters and/or people who do not take sunbaths.
• Broccoli: has anti-cancerours effects and is rich in an antioxidant called sulphoraphane. A research showed that sulphoraphane helps body cells to protect themselves against the ravages of UV radiation .
• Green leafy vegetables: according to a study spinach, kale and swiss chard may reduce risk of squamous cell skin cancer by 50 percent
• Omega 3 fatty acids: can reduce inflammation, protect your skin from sunburn and melanoma (a deadly form of skin cancer). Salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, algae/seaweed, green leafy vegetables, flax, hemp and chia seeds are rich sources of Omega 3 fatty acids.
• Orange peels: 1 tsp. per week reduces the risk of squamous cell skin cancer
• Histidine-rich foods: stimulate healthy production of urocanic acid (a natural photoprotectant).Although adult humans produce this amino acid, it is believed that natural supplies run short easily. Histidine can be found in: meat, dairy products and grains such as rice, wheat and rye.
• Water: keeping your skin hydrated encourages a healthy NMF (natural moisture factor) which in turn, protects your skin from environmental factors. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids after sun exposure to prevent dehydration.

Here are some of our favorite SPF’s that have formulated without the use of harmful chemicals to both humans and our planet

• Lavera Sunscreens: their broad spectrum sunscreens block UVA, UVB and even UVC radiation. Their formulations are available in lotions, sprays and lip balms. Lavera sunscreens are paraben-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free and contain both physical and biological UV filters. Certified natural by BDHI.
• 100% Pure Organic Pomegranate Antioxidant SPF 20: 100% natural and vegetarian broad spectrum sunscreen. Formulated with certified organic ingredients. 100% sunscreen contains physical and biological UV filters which also protect the skin against free radicals present in the environment. Free of chemicals, fragrances and synthetic preservatives.
• Sante Sun Lotion SPF 30: broad spectrum sunscreen formulated with physical and biological UV filters. It is effective immediately after application, whereas most sunscreens take 15-30 min to bond with your skin. Water resistant, dermatologist tested. Free of synthetic colorants, fragances, synthetic sunscreen agents, preservatives and emulsifiers. Certified natural by BDIH.

Certified Organic products that protect against UV radiation:

• Sophyto Polyphenol Skin Drops: formulated with polyphenol extracts derived from organic green and white tea, organic apples, organic grapes and organic olive leaf. Combine with your sunscreen to boost antioxidant protection within the epidermis.
• Sophyto Mega Omegas Day Face Moisturiser: rich in vegetable Omega 3 Fatty Acids which reduce inflammation and keeps it supple. This moisturizer also contains biological filters such as shea butter and raspberry oil. Raspberry oil offers the skin broad spectrum protection from damaging UVA and UVB rays. The SPF of red raspberry seed oil has been found to be equal to that of titanium dioxide.

Mineral Makeup:

• Suncat mineral makeup: formulated with uncoated titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Ideal for those who need heavy coverage but do not want to resort to clogging foundations. Free of silicones, parabens, fillers, carmine, bismuth oxychloride, ultramarines, boron nitrides, nanoparticles, micronized minerals. Suit all skin types. Naturally water and sweat resistant minerals that let your skin breathe.
• Coastal Classic Creations tinted loose powders: contain high purity iron oxide (physical UV filters which blocks both UVA and UVB rays). Suitable for all skin types. Coastal Classic loose powders do not contain bismuth oxychloride, mica, boron nitride, dimethicone, nano/micronized particles, talc parabens and carmine. Keep the pores free of all debris. By far, the purest minerals I have ever used.