Things You Should Know: Switching It Up - Summer Skincare

The sun’s rays combined with oiliness, blemishes, dehydration, sweat and grime all contribute to the way skin reacts to the change in climate. With summer finally here, it's time to think about overhauling your daily skincare ritual to suit the season.

Embrace all that is dewy, glowing and radiant and get your skin summer-ready with these perfecting products.



TOP SUMMER SKINCARE PRODUCTS

The Exfoliator
Remove any build up of surface debris with a gentle exfoliator. One that uses enzymes to break down dirt is more appropriate for the hotter months as it’s not so abrasive on the skin like granular exfoliators.



Try Molton Brown Gentle Refine Papain Exfoliator, $45, which is gentle on the skin yet enriched with enzymes that target blocked pores and any surface build up.


The Cleanser & Toner
Refresh and rehydrate your skin with a gentle cleanser and toner. Cleansing will give the skin a deep clean, while toning will help minimise the amount of dirt making its way into the pores. Stay away from harsh cleansers and toners that are high in alcohol as they will excessively strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture.



Try The Body Shop Aloe Calming Toner, $15.95, which is alcohol-free and contains aloe that soothes the skin.



For a gel cleanser that helps to encourage the skin’s natural moisture retention system, try Bakel Hydra-Gel Cleanser, $65.


The Moisturiser
Opt for a fluid illuminating moisturiser that will add a summer glow to your skin, leaving you looking fresh and radiant. Look for sheer products that are lighter in texture to avoid clogging up the pores.



Try La Mer Moisturising Gel Cream, $250, which has a feathery-light feel and luxuriously nourishing quality.


The Sunscreen
Moisturiser and sunscreen should be number one in your cosmetic arsenal all year round but during the summer - they are vital. Again, go for a sunscreen that feels fluid and light. Tinted sunscreens always make life easier, especially when you’re on the go.

This summer, I’m using Invisible Zinc UV Silk Shield Foundation for its great coverage, high SPF and buildable finish.



Try Invisible Zinc UV Silk Shield Foundation, $42.



TOP SUMMER MAKE-UP MAGIC

The Highlighter
Intensify your dewy complexion with a highlighter or illuminator. While contouring can be tricky, master the art with a highlighter in hand and you’ll get greater definition and glow. Blend thin lines down the centre of your nose, on the cheekbone, below the brow and on the cupid’s bow above your lip for an instant pick-me-up.



Try Guerlain Precious Light Rejuvenating Illuminator, approx $57.


The Bronzer
Summer comes hand-in-hand with a bronzing palette. They have the perfect amount of warmth and shimmer to give a sun-kissed glow. Apply to the highest points of your cheeks, chin, nose and forehead. Be sure not to choose a shade that is too dark and, of course, be wary of going overboard.



Try Clinique Almost Bronzer SPF 15, $59.