While we’re all accustomed to switching up our wardrobes as we shift from cooler to warmer months, did you know your skin could also benefit from a few changes to your daily skincare routine? 

You don’t need to be thinking about a major overhaul for each new season, just some small tweaks to accommodate for potential skin changes as we start to plan those long summer days and sunshine getaways! 

What is different for our skin in the warmer months? 

At Alpha-H we’re firm believers in SPF all year round, but it’s even more important during the hotter months. Coming into summer as the world begins to lean a little closer to the sun, the intensity of damaging UVA and UVB rays increases so it’s important to give your skin the broad spectrum SPF50+ protection it needs to fight off preventable extrinsic damage. 

In addition to potential sunburn, there’s also the threat of pigmentation to consider. Exposure to UV (among other things) causes the skin to produce more melanin in its fight against the damage that free radicals can cause, leaving you with sunspots or patchy, uneven skin tone. 

And along with the rise in UV rays comes a rise in temperature too; more heat means more sweat, which also means a change in oil production. The oil we produce can become more fluid in warmer temperatures potentially clogging pores, causing breakouts, and giving the illusion of an oilier skin in the summer months. During this time, the air is more humid so less of your water and oil output is being absorbed by the environment around you and instead, stays on the skin’s surface. 

So how can you switch it up for the warmer months? 

First and foremost – protect 

Sun protection is non-negotiable, and it’s not just for the beach. Each time you’re outside whether it’s 10-minutes or 2-hours, damage is being done if you’re not protected. For a glowing, dewy finish, Daily Essential Moisturiser with SPF50+ has got you covered. For those of you wanting to balance out shine and live for a matte finish, Protection Plus Daily SPF50+ should be your go to. Both offering broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection on top of moisturising and priming properties. 

Balance your cleansing 

Cleansing is a cornerstone of any good skincare regime. During the cooler months you may have gravitated towards a nourishing cream or balm cleanser. If you love these, there’s no reason to stop using them, however, some people enjoy the addition of a cooling gel cleanser in the warmer months. Tackle inflammation and excess oil with pH balanced Triple Action Cleanser, to cool and soothe sun stressed skin, and keep shine at bay. 

Ditch the dead skin 

If winter has left your skin looking dull and grey, it could be holding onto a build-up of dead cells in need of some friendly encouragement to turn over. Regular exfoliating clears away dull, dead cells allowing bright, fresh new skin to make its way to the surface. If you’re new to actives or your skin leans towards the sensitive side, try Generation Glow Daily Resurfacing essence, a gentle yet powerful AHA exfoliator designed to smooth, even and brighten all complexions. If your skin is already used to regular actives, reach for our cult favourite Liquid Gold with 5% Glycolic Acid to clear surface dullness and get a head start on that famous Australian glow. Three nights a week (we stick to Monday, Wednesday and Friday) is all you need to brighten, tone and regain a youthful looking complexion. 

Pro Tip:  Liquid Gold isn’t just for the face! Try sweeping across any areas of texture on the backs of the arms or legs. It’s even great for removing stubborn fake tan. 

Up your antioxidants 

Did you know that Vitamin C can help to fight against free radical damage, boosting your skin’s antioxidant protection? By layering Vitamin C Serum under your daily SPF, you’re getting an extra hit of Hyaluronic Acid hydration as well as helping to further protect against (largely preventable) extrinsic ageing. 

And finally, don’t forget to hydrate 

While things can get a bit stickier in the warmer months, don’t make the mistake of skipping that all-important hydration step. When our skin becomes dehydrated, it can actually overproduce oil in an effort to balance out the lack of moisture. If you feel that your current moisturiser is too heavy for summer, try switching to a lighter formula or even layering in serums instead. Hyaluronic 8 Serum adds a hit of 8 multi-weighted hydrating ingredients to plump and smooth the skin throughout the day, while a few drops of Vitamin E Serum makes a great alternative to an evening moisturiser, soothing and deeply hydrating stressed summer skin.