Sadly the sun is one of the worst elements you can expose your skin to. That ever desirable ‘sun kissed glow’ is the main culprit of premature ageing, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and the loss of elasticity.
Even if you no longer bake in the sun like we once did, and despite best efforts of slathering on SPF this summer, the cumulative effects of UV (sun spots, dark patches and uneven skin tone) have a way of showing up.
Your daily walk to and from the car, sitting at an office window or driving in a sun drenched car can contribute to various skin issues; not only manifesting in pigmentation but also in the breakdown of collagen, which is the foundation of skin’s structure.
Your best bet to repairing and protecting your skin year round is a reparative at home skin regime that includes these skin saving heroes.
Vitamin C is your skins best friend during the day. By incorporating a Vitamin C serum into your morning routine you will not only enhance your sun protection, but also protect your skin from free radical damage and environmental pollution, whilst also promoting collagen production and brightening skin tone.
What makes Vitamin C even more remarkable is it’s symbiotic relationship with SPF. Because it’s an antioxidant, it supports SPF by neutralising the free radicals that cause photo-damage. Double win.
BUT… not all vitamin C treatments are created equal as this powerful free radical fighter is highly unstable and will lose its efficacy if not formulated correctly. Opt for an advanced formula from IS Clinical such as Pro Heal Serum ideal for blemish prone and compromised skin or Super Serum Plus which is a powerhouse treatment to target pigmentation and anti-ageing
Exfoliating is key when it comes to tackling sun damage, and AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) are the way to go to effectively remove the build-up of unhealthy skin caused by sun exposure. AHA’s effectively increase cell turn over which is turn helps brighten, smooth and strengthen skin.
DAILY: Josh Roserbrooks Daily Acid Toner is an exfoliating ,brightening and pH Balancing treatment, combining pyruvic, malic, citric and glycolic acids that works to resurfce skin and help lighten dark spots, all whilst stimulating collagen and increasing hydration. A daily essential for brightening skin.
WEEKLY : A more targeted and intense treatment is ideal once or twice a week - Joanna Vargas’ Exfoliating Mask gives skin an instant boosts and brighten - it includes fruit enzymes, lactic acid and Vit C to gently clean, smooth, buff away dullness and increase cell turn over in less than 10 minutes flat.
Retinol - The number 1. Skincare ingredient that does it all. You can’t go past treating sun damaged skin without incorporating Retinol in your evening routine. This powerhouse ingredient is instrumental in reversing sun damage with its ability to supercharge cell turnover and reduce skin discolouration and fine lines.
Not only does retinol increase cell turnover but it also boasts incomparable anti-ageing properties as it stimulates collagen and elastin production too. We love Retinol Reform - the cult product that does it all; targeting all signs of ageing with a winning (and uniquely gentle) formula that includes lactic acid, which helps to brighten and smooth skin - so you get both immediate and long-term results.
For extra defence, consider an anti-inflammatory diet filled with vibrantly coloured fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, leafy greens, extra virgin olive oil, legumes and essential fatty acids - all of which are rich in antioxidants and therefore have sun protective properties. Think of these nutrient dense foods like an internal SPF that will help reduce inflammation and protect your skin from free radical damage.
A quick way to amplify your antioxidant intake is by introducing a supercharged booster from The Beauty Chef such as their IMMUNE Support, Glow, Body Powder or Antioxidant Boost.
It goes without saying SPF is a non-negotiable. Unless you want to end up back where you started, a good SPF is essential. The best prevention, protection and results starts and ends with adequate SPF. You must wear sunscreen every day, try and stay out of the sun, and if you are, be sure to re-apply every two hours and wear a wide brim hat.