From hydration hacks to fighting the frizz, Charlee Singleton rounds up the beauty challenges that the vibrant summer season brings with it.
Whilst the British summer so far has been limited to the odd sun filled day, the solstice seems to have brought with it the gorgeous weather we know and love. Long, sun-drenched days, warm breezes and a sense of carefree adventure are on the horizon. The warm weather invites us to spend more time outdoors, basking in the sun and enjoying beach days, park picnics, and of course, summer holidays.
Despite the heat, the spirit of summer is one of relaxation and joy, but this doesn’t mean that our beauty routines are free from any challenges. Whether you are jet-setting overseas to warmer and humid climates, or staying in the UK with hopes that the rainfall will be minimal, summer can bring with it multiple unique beauty tests, as changes in climate, pollution, and humidity affect our skin and hair.
The rising heat and increased exposure to UV rays can test even the most robust beauty routines. This season, more than any other, requires us to rethink and refresh our approach to skincare and makeup – calling for a routine that protects and nourishes.
“Coming from colder months to warmer ones demands an adjustment towards lighter, water-based serums and moisturisers.”
Hyaluronic Hydration
One of the most common issues for summer skin is dehydration, due to the changes in environment and lifestyle. Increased sun exposure, higher temperatures, improper hydration and air conditioning can all take their toll on the skin barrier, leading to moisture loss and dull, dry skin.
Those travelling by plane may also notice further dehydration, as the dry air in airplane cabins can leave your skin feeling parched and lackluster, leading to an overall dull complexion. Skin can feel dry, tight and flaky, with fine lines, wrinkles and conditions like eczema and psoriasis exacerbated by the pressurised cabins and recycled air on planes.
Jane Saint, national trainer and educator of BEAUTYPRO says that hydration is key to maintaining your skin in the summer months, stressing the importance of adapting your skincare routine as the seasons change. “Coming from colder months to warmer ones demands an adjustment towards lighter, water-based serums and moisturisers. Heavier formulas may not allow your skin to breathe and prevent your pores from clogging.”
By now you’ve probably heard about Hyaluronic Acid, a powerhouse ingredient for hydrating the skin that has been hitting the shelves in a variety of beauty and skincare products. The naturally occurring molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it incredibly effective at retaining moisture. It helps to maintain the skin’s hydration levels by attracting and holding onto water molecules, ensuring the skin remains plump and supple.
“Hyaluronic Acid is particularly beneficial in a summer skincare routine because as we perspire through the warmer months, we are losing hydration,” says Saint. “It is a perfect ingredient for all skin types that are suffering from dehydration, including oily or acne prone skin, as it will help to increase the hydration levels in the skin without overstimulating the sebaceous glands that create oil.”
“Hyaluronic Acid can be used daily, either on its own in serum form with a lightweight SPF or as a serum under a moisturiser plus an SPF. It can also be used in the form of a sheet mask for a replenishing burst of hydration.”
Natural Alternatives
Those with sensitive skin may prefer to choose natural alternatives to Hyaluronic Acid, such as the Aloin Regenerative Face Mask by British skincare brand Cosy Cottage Soap, a nourishing face mask to help reinvigorate skin and sooth conditions including rosacea, eczema and psoriasis. The mask contains aloe vera and sustainable sourced, Yorkshire grown Sea kelp, which is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, moisturising and regenerative properties.
“So much skincare, especially used in spas and salons, includes a long list of chemicals and ingredients that can overwhelm some skin types,” says Clara Challoner Walker, founder of Cosy Cottage Soap. “Consumers are increasingly wary of the trend towards interventionist skincare, working against, rather than with the body’s natural processes … This product range is designed to offer natural alternatives, make spa-grade skincare more open, accessible and provide greater choice.”
Skin Food, the cult beauty staple by natural beauty legacy brand Weleda is famed for its ability to provide instant moisture for your entire body. The much-loved, multi-award winning range has a lightweight counterpart that is perfect for the summer months. Comprising of Skin Food Light, a natural moisturiser with a lighter formulation that is quickly absorbed, and Skin Food Light Ultra Dry Oil, an ultra-light bi-phase spray that provides an instant glow on the go, the range has been developed to leave your skin feeling velvet-soft without any heavy or greasy residue.
Brits are three times more likely to remember their phone when heading on holiday than they are to remember sunscreen.
Sun safety
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a crucial component of any skincare routine and should be used year-round as UV rays are present even on cloudy days. It is especially important during the summer months when UV radiation is at its peak to prevent sunburn, premature ageing and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Despite the known risks associated with prolonged sun exposure, research suggests that Brits are three times more likely to remember their phone when heading on holiday than they are to remember sunscreen.
This shocking fact inspired Green People’s recent campaign with UK network provider O2, which saw the introduction of the ‘Sun Case’; a limited-edition phone accessory with a handy built-in 10ml tube of Green People’s best-selling Age Defy+ Daily SPF30 Moisturiser. Launched during Skin Cancer Awareness Month, to highlight the importance of sun safety, the limited-edition ‘Sun Case’ aimed to help holidaymakers combat SPF emergencies, as 6.4 million Brits admit to shunning sunscreen – risking sunburn and skin damage – in pursuit of catching a tan.
“SPF has always been a huge part of the Green People offering” commented Green People founder, Charlotte Vøhtz. “We’re all reliant on our phones whilst away, so the ‘Sun Case’ is a great way of reminding us all to make SPF the same priority.” The Age Defy+ Daily SPF30 Moisturiser combines potent plant antioxidants with SPF 30 for a natural day cream that is non-greasy and protects skin against sun-induced skin ageing.
If you find yourself as one of the many people who oftens forgets to use sun protection, when choosing a sunscreen try to opt for a format that is memorable for you. MyCHELLE Dermaceuticals makes SPF in a variety of formats and factors, from easy stick applicators to quick sprays and traditional lotions. Look for broad-spectrum protection, which shields against both UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 or higher is recommended for daily use, but if you plan to spend extended time outdoors, consider SPF 50 or higher.
Fight the frizz
Just like your skin, your hair can suffer from the summer season’s environmental changes. With longer days and more time spent outdoors, your hair is exposed to increased sun exposure which can lead to dryness, brittleness and colour fading. UV rays can break down the proteins in your hair causing weakened strands, split ends and in some cases even frizz. To protect your hair from sun damage, incorporate products with UV protection, such as leave-in conditioners or serums, or simply wearing a hat when outdoors for extended periods can provide an extra layer of defence.
Hydrating your hair is essential during the summer, especially if you’re spending time at the beach or pool where exposure to saltwater or chlorine can further dry out your strands. Using hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks can replenish moisture, restore softness, and prevent dryness and brittleness. Swimcap, by Philip Kingsley guards the hair from UV rays, salt and pool water damage whilst also giving the hair a hydrating boost.
Hot temperatures can make heat styling tools like blow dryers and flat irons feel even more uncomfortable, so minimising heat styling during the summer can help reduce damage and maintain hair health. Embrace your natural hair with air-drying techniques or make sure to use heat protectant sprays before styling to protect your hair from heat damage and help it retain moisture.
Increased humidity in the summer months causes the hair shaft to swell and the cuticle to lift, allowing moisture to enter and disrupt the hair’s natural structure. This tends to lead to a frizzy appearance, particularly for those with naturally wavy or curly hair. Adjusting your hair care routine to include anti-frizz products, hydrating conditioners, and lightweight styling products can help control frizz and maintain smooth, defined curls or waves – look for natural oils such as argan or coconut oil, which nourish and seal the hair cuticle.
ORGANii SPF 50 Sun Milk
ORGANii
www.organii.uk
The perfect sun protection for the whole family. Our certified organic SPF 50, fragrance free, mineral Sun Milk is suitable for babies, children, and adults and will protect the most delicate skin from the harsh Sun rays. It blends effortlessly and is quickly absorbed, leaving more time for fun in the sun and less time waiting for the product to dry. The high-protection formula has a fluid consistency so there is no residue left on the skin after application, while protecting your skin from the UVA & UVB rays naturally and safely. Non-nano Zinc Oxide and non-nano Titanium Dioxide sit on top of the skin, reflecting the Sun’s rays and creating a protective barrier.
Moo & Yoo Miracle Curl Cream
Moo & Yoo
www.mooandyoo.com
Activate your curls, enhance your natural waves, add shine and fight the frizz with our nourishing and hydrating Miracle Curl Cream.
This vegan haircare product will bring your curls back to life. Our rich yet lightweight curl cream formula ensures your curls are nourished and hydrated without being weighed down. This miracle styling product works to intensely condition and define your natural curls leaving your hair looking smooth, frizz free yet full of volume. Our Miracle curl cream enhances, creates volume and bounce and at the same time protects from humidity and environmental stresses. It moisturises and conditions your curls – and keeps all that gentle hydration locked in. It helps with definition and keeps hair soft, shiny and frizz free.
BEAUTYPRO Hyaluronic Sheet Mask
BEAUTYPRO
www.beautypro.com
This 15 minute Hyaluronic Acid treatment promotes hydration in your skin to ensure that it can efficiently renew cells, soothe redness and prevent breakouts. This results in skin that feels nourished and looks conditioned. The plant based formula uses Chamomile, Soybean and Wild Rose to help you to achieve healthy, supple and radiant skin.
The sheet mask uses our NEW 100% Biodegradable Packaging. Once opened, our new eco pouches begin to biodegrade immediately, taking just 1% of the time compared to traditional plastic. That’s 500 years down to 5 years with no trace of microplastics in the soil or sea! This environmentally friendly biodegradable material can be disposed of in general waste, recycling bins and home composts – it will biodegrade in all environments. The sheet mask itself is constructed with bamboo fibres, which not only minimise skin sensitivity but also makes the mask biodegradable.
Skin Food Light Ultra Dry Oil
Weleda
www.weleda.co.uk
This ultra-light bi-phase spray combines the lightness of a moisturising mist with nourishing plant oils and extracts of pansy, organic calendula, organic rosemary and organic chamomile. Easy to apply, it’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly, for an instant glow and softer skin.
Benefits:
o Feels ultra lightweight
o Non-greasy
o Multipurpose: use it for body and face when needed
o Long-lasting (approx. 40 applications per product assuming 19 pumps per body application)
o Dermatologically proven for skin tolerance
o Ingredients of 100% natural origin
o Suitable for vegans
Philip Kingsley Swimcap Chlorine Hair Protection Water Resistant Mask
Philip Kingsley
www.philipkingsley.co.uk
Originally developed by Philip Kingsley at the request of the first US Olympic Synchronised Swimming Team, today Swimcap is both a summer saviour and must-have for swimmers all year round. Perfect for blondes, this conditioning treatment protects against the drying and damaging effects of both chlorinated and salt water, plus contains UV absorbers to extend the life of colour-treated hair. What’s more, it will create a protective layer on the hair which shields it from the discolouring effects of chlorine, preventing hair turning green!
Who is it for?
• Swimmers in sea-water and chlorinated water – whether you go for a dip on holiday or tackle 50 laps of the pool every day, Swimcap has you (and your hair) covered with the highest chlorine protection
• Sunbathers and holiday-goers – if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun, Swimcap will protect your hair from UV rays
Sol de Ibiza Magic Sun oil
Sol de Ibiza
www.soldeibiza.com
This is Sol de Ibiza Magic Sun Oil. Your ultimate skincare essential for radiant, protected skin every single day.
Created with an extraordinary formula that merges the powerful protection of zinc oxide with the revitalising powers of ethereal oils and flower extracts. This Multi-Purpose zinc lotion provides broad spectrum light protection (UVA and UVB) every hour of the day.
It is designed to:
— Regenerate the skin and prevent spots, giving you a flawless complexion.
— Delay photoaging with the potent antioxidant vitamin E, ensuring your skin stays glowing and vibrant.
— Protect from the harmful effects of the sun, wind, and pollution, keeping your skin shielded and healthy.
— Repair the delicate skin on your face, neck, décolletage, and hands, restoring its natural beauty.
— Provide anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, promoting skin health and vitality.
