What’s on my skin: summer edition
Summer is here (and hitting FL extra!) which means it’s time for a skin refresh. For me, summer skincare is all about protecting and hydrating the skin against sun damage, heat and humidity. As a former tanning bed goer, I’ve come a long way! So long are the days of baking for hours without sunscreen… I definitely love the sun but have seen enough research to know that protection and reducing exposure is key to anti-aging. This summer especially, I’m in my third trimester prepping for baby boy’s arrival in August which means giving my skin all the extra love and attention!
Here’s a breakdown of my key summer skincare practices:
SPF, SPF, more SPF! I never leave the house without SPF (I’ve loved Summer Fridays ShadeDrops for years) and reapply throughout the day depending on how much sun exposure I’m getting. I also always wear a hat/glasses if I’m walking outside and cover my face completely on the rare occasion I’m tanning outside.
Hydrated not heavy! I swap out heavier creams with lightweight/gel-based moisturizers and oils. Also, I up the water intake- the most simple yet effective skincare tip :) extra points for adding lemon, lime, herbs and garnishes
Cleanse & exfoliate. In the colder months, I tend to avoid over-cleansing and exfoliating to not dry out my skin. During summer, I’m sweating more and want to reduce build up and clogged pores. I cleanse, tone and exfoliate regularly (still using gentle products) to treat texture and keep my skin clear.
Enhance brightness and fight hyperpigmentation with antioxidant rich ingredients. Sounds fancy (I learned this from my esthetician) but I just gravitate toward nutrient-rich products with ingredients like Vitamin C, Rosehip, Squalene and Hyaluronic Acid! Serums and moisturizers that contain antioxidants hydrate, reduce redness, even skin tone and combat dark spots that come with sun exposure.
Keep it cool! Pregnancy plus Florida summer calls for all the cold therapy- beating the heat, reducing inflammation and de-puffing is essential! While I can’t cold plunge right now (it’s never been my thing anyways), there is nothing better than a cold shower after a long day in the sun, or starting the day with one to boost energy. I also love dunking my face in an ice bucket. It’s refreshing mentally but also tightens pores and reduces puffiness and oiliness. The Skinny Confidential ice roller is a go-to for my mornings which I like pairing with an eye mask for extra depuffing benefits.
AM routine
My morning skincare is typically very consistent:
Cleanse (love the Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser), Ice Roll and Gua Sha with Squalene Oil, Vitamin C, Moisturize, SPF
pm routine
I wouldn’t say I skin cycle, but I do like to mix things up and try different treatments at night. Lately I’m rotating:
Night 1 - Cleansing Balm, Foaming Cleanser, Mask (either Ursa Major 3 min flash mask or Indie Lee clearing mask), Agent Nateur holi oil and holi water
Night 2 - Cleansing Balm, Foaming Cleanser, Tone (Moon Juice Acid Potion), Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Moisturize
Night 3 - Cleansing Balm, Foaming Cleanser, Tower 28 Facial Spray, Oil (Summer Fridays Heavenly 16 all in one)
For the belly
Can’t forget bodycare or in my case, bellycare! While I avoid heavier creams on my face during the summer, I am all for lathering up the body. My skin craves moisture after being in the sun and while pregnant I’m already conscious of keeping my skin nourished as its growing and stretching. It may seem extra (warning, I am doing all the things right now!!), but ideally this is my current body care routine:
AM - end my shower with the HANNI Splash Salve and pat dry. This leaves my skin so soft and nourished while still feeling light. Perfect for daytime. Game changer!! Would also be great post-shaving or if you’re looking to moisturize in the morning without a heavy lotion. Once dry, I also apply the HANNI Fatty Moisture Stick. This is basically like a deodorant stick that moisturizes- mess free and perfect for on the go. This product has been a must for travel as well!
PM - Post shower I apply the Hatch Mama belly oil or the Summer Fridays belly balm on my belly. Good Clean Goop has a good affordable oil as well. Over top I use the Oak & Sage Everywhere Cream. This is a small business find and my top belly product recommendation. It’s made with 100% beef tallow and melts into the skin like butter. A little goes a long way and my skin feels more nourished than ever since using it. I love it so much I will continue to repurchase post-pregnancy!
