Our skin goes through a lot in the winter. We often deal with skin issues caused by the cold weather, as well as dry and flaky skin from the heating in our homes. Now that we can finally show off our skin in sleeveless tops and skirts after exfoliating away all the dead skin from these past months, it's important we know how to properly care for our skin, now that it will be exposed to the summer heat and the blazing sun.
More from MamásLatinas: Tips to get your skin ready for summer
Celebrity esthetician Shani Darden —who is known as the "facialist to the stars" and has worked with Jessica Alba, Kelly Rowland, Chrissy Teigen, Shay Mitchell, and more— shares some tips to help us care for our skin through the seasons. Darden, who has her own beauty line, emphasizes the importance of knowing what our skin needs so we can have the right tools and products at the ready to make sure we are treating our skin in the best way.
Shani Darden shared with MamásLatinas the importance of taking care of your skin through different seasons.
Shani tells us that it's about being aware of our skin's needs, regardless of the season. "It's not so much about switching your skin care routine between seasons but adding in products that are going to work well for your skin type during the transitional period," she says. "I always recommend using an antioxidant and sunscreen, because they help protect you from pollutants and, of course, the sun."
Being outside in the summer is great, but the sun can have a lasting impact on our skin.
There's a reason why Jennifer Lopez has said she stayed out of the sun for most of her 20s and 30s. She's reaping the benefits of that now that she is soon to be 50 and her skin looks flawless. Shani says that there is a way to avoid and treat the sun spots left from exposing our skin to the rays during summer. "Vitamin C is also great for treating sun spots and sun damage," she says. "Everyone's skin doesn't agree with vitamin C, so you'll want to ease this product into your routine to be sure your skin can handle it. If you're unsure, always check with your esthetician or dermatologist!"
Sunscreen is a must-have in your beauty routine, year-round.
"No matter the season, sunscreen should always be a main component of your daily skincare routine! Especially women of color, I know there's this stigma that it's not as necessary or required outside of the summer months, but that couldn't be farther from the truth," the expert shared with MamásLatinas. "Other than sunscreen, I also always wear retinol which is really the ultimate anti-aging product–it reduces fine lines and wrinkles, boosts collagen production and can even reduce hyperpigmentation. Of course, with increased sun exposure during these months, you want to be sure you're being careful with retinol as it can make you a bit more sensitive to the sun. Again, if you're unsure or want to discuss a more customized plan for your skin, I always recommend a visit to a trained esthetician who can speak to your specific skin needs and type."
Our skin goes through a lot in the summer, from shaving to the sun to dealing with crazy humidity.
While in winter months, a lot of our body parts stay covered so there's no need for constant hair removal like waxing or shaving, preparing to have our skin on full display does come with some damage. "Hydration is key here. Before shaving any part of the body, always use a hydrating shave cream or gel, and moisturizer after," Shani says. "If the skin is exposed to the sun, don’t forget the sunscreen! For the skin under your arms, this area is really sensitive and delicate and needs to be treated as such. It can be as simple as choosing an antiperspirant that cares for your skin every day. That’s why I love Dove’s Dry Serum, it’s lightweight formula absorbs instantly into the skin, allowing it to breathe and Dove’s signature ¼ moisturizers, that leaves the skin irresistibly soft and smooth."
Some people struggle with ultra oily skin when the weather gets warmer, but the products you use are the key to prevent it.
"Everyone’s skin is different, so the key to preventing oily skin during the warmer months is using products that aren’t too heavy for your skin type," the celebrity esthetician recommends. "Opt for an oil-controlling product like a serum with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or even a combination of the two. These powerhouse ingredients work wonders on oily skin because the help to reduce excessive oil and prevent clogged pores."
