Spring Cleaning for Your Skin

Spring is here at last. Temperatures are rising, the sun is shining, and while milder weather is good news, your skin will still need plenty of TLC to recover from its winter woes before it gets that summer-sweet glow.

Harsh winds and low humidity coupled with too much time indoors under artificial heat may have left your skin dry, rough, chapped and scaly. And we’re not just talking about facial skin — elbows, hands, knees and feet take a beating during the blistery winter months. The first challenge is helping your skin recover from what it’s been through, and the next is prepping for the warmer, sunnier days that lie ahead.

STEP 1: Be Gentle

When it comes to your skin, take a tip from doctors and focus first on “doing no harm.” Frosty temperatures may have damaged the outermost protective layer, exposing facial skin to inflammation and bacteria.

Wash your hands well before applying skincare or makeup, use a soap-free moisturizing cleanser, avoid over-scrubbing at all costs and stay away from potential irritants such fragrances, sulfates and petroleum ingredients like mineral oil.

STEP 2: Restore Moisture

After a long, cold winter, the best place to start for smooth, supple, healthy skin is a head-to-toe moisture treatment. Make sure every product you use on your face delivers hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is found in every Rx for Brown Skin EssentialHydration Moisturizing Cream. Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant, a substance that draws water to the epidermal surface and holds it there to help repair and rebuild your skin’s outer layer. Avoid products that contain alcohol!

STEP 3: Exfoliate Away Dead Cells

Next, you’ll want to slough off dead and dry skin cells with a gentle exfoliator. This will help relieve the dry, flaky complexion you see at the start of spring. Take it slowly at first, exfoliating a few time a week to assess how your skin adapts, then increase frequency.

Your best bet are products that contain gentle exfoliating ingredients like beta-hydroxy acids and glycolic acid. For example, Rx for Brown Skin Absolute Radiance IntensiveExfoliating Serum contains MFA Complex, a blend of natural fruit extracts that encourages cell turnover without stripping skin of moisture.

STEP 4: Protect Against Sun Damage

Warmer weather and longer days means more time in the sun. You should be applying sunscreen with an SPF of 15 every day, preferably several times a day. Stick with products that also contain emollients to help rehydrate weather-worn skin, like Rx for Brown Skin AgeBlock UV Shield SPF 15, which is packed with moisturizers and soothing botanicals.