That sweet Spring feel is in the air! The days are longer; the flowers are beginning to bloom, you’re wondering what you can do to keep your skin in tip-top condition. Springtime tends to bring changes in humidity, increased sun exposure and outdoor activity (which we love). We have put together our favourite tips to make that transition as smooth as possible for you and your skin.
Step 1: Spring Clean! Nothing says Hello Spring like a spring clean. Clearing out old products is vital if you haven't done a skincare clearout in the last few months. Cleanse and swap out washcloths, sponges, makeup brushes, and applicators accordingly. These are breeding grounds for bacteria, yeast, and mould, irritating our skin and contributing to breakouts and infections. Scrap anything past its expiration date, which is on the bottom of the packaging. Keep in mind that even if a product hasn't been opened, active ingredients will become less potent and less effective over time. It’s best to change your routine each season, with the weather changes- our skin needs different products so now is a good time. Out with the old and in with the new!
Step 2: Exfoliate! Many people avoid exfoliation during the winter months because it can dry out the skin, but as the weather warms up and the humidity increases, we can tolerate acids and stronger formulations of active ingredients. Spring is the prime time to return to exfoliating and brighten all the dull skin accumulation during winter. We recommend giving our Amaze Exfoliating Gel a try! Viva’s exfoliating gel cleans pore impurities and minimizes visible age spots, dark spots, and scarring. It also helps to reduce blackheads, whiteheads, blocked pores, sloth off dead skin layer to reveal a brighter complexion. With its unique combination of ginseng, ginger, aloe vera, dong quai, and hyaluronic acid, the Amaze Exfoliating Gel heals, calms, and helps regenerate the skin for an appearance that is more supple, and resilient. Stick to a routine of using an exfoliator about two to three nights per week or as often as you find necessary for your skin needs.
Step 3: Moisturize! While we may lather our skin in a thick moisturizer in winter, applying a thick cream to a hot sticky face is not as pleasant. When the weather is cold and dry, it's best to use emollients and occlusives to reduce transepidermal water loss. As the temperatures and humidity increase, we may not need such heavy occlusives to keep our skin moisturized, and heavy products can feel sticky and greasy. Lighter moisturizers with humectants and emollients will feel better in Spring. (1) We should be switching to a gel-based formula, which absorbs while protecting the skin barrier. We recommend our Amaze Cream, packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, and moisturizing herbs such as aloe vera, rosehip oil, and lavender. This formulation also includes powerful botanical compounds: Alpha Lipoic Acid, CoQ10, and Hyaluronic Acid. Using the Facial Toner to keep your skin moisturized and plump while giving it a tightening effect can also be a great go-to while out and about.
Step 4: Look after your diet and keep it simple! Healthy habits also play a vital role in nourishing your body from the inside out. To keep yourself protected from the elements, remember to apply a non-toxic natural UV protection, exercise regularly, and consume plenty of nutrients. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy spring, it means summer is almost here!
