How to Form a Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin in Summer:
Step-by-Step Guide
Sensitive skin requires special care, especially during the summer when
heat, humidity, and sun exposure can aggravate irritation. Creating a gentle
yet effective skincare routine can help maintain your skin’s health and
comfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to forming a skincare routine for
sensitive skin during the summer months, including recommendations for
active serums, ingredients to use, and diet tips.
Step 1: Cleanser
Morning & Night:
- Choose a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleanser: Look for a hydrating
cleanser with ingredients like glycerin, chamomile, or aloe vera to
soothe and moisturise the skin. - Application: Use lukewarm water to wet your face. Apply a small
amount of cleanser, gently massaging it into your skin with your
fingertips. - Rinse and Pat Dry: Thoroughly rinse off the cleanser and pat your
face dry with a soft towel.
Step 2: Toner
Morning & Night: - Select an Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Toner: Opt for toners with
calming ingredients such as rose water, cucumber extract, or
hyaluronic acid. These help to refresh and hydrate the skin without
causing irritation. - Application: Pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad or your
hands and gently press it into your skin.
Step 3: Serums with Active Ingredients
Morning: - Use a Vitamin C Serum: Choose a gentle, lower concentration
vitamin C serum (around 10%) to protect the skin from sun damage
and enhance radiance. - Application: Apply a few drops to your face and neck, gently
pressing it into the skin.
Night: - Apply a Hydrating Serum: Look for serums with hyaluronic acid or
niacinamide (5%) to boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. - Application: Apply a few drops to your face and neck, gently
pressing it into the skin.
Step 4: Moisturiser
Morning & Night: - Choose a Lightweight, Fragrance-Free Moisturiser: Select a
moisturiser with soothing ingredients like ceramides, oat extract, or
squalane to hydrate and protect the skin. - Application: Apply a generous amount to your face, massaging it in
gently.
Step 5: Sunscreen
Morning: - Select a Broad-Spectrum SPF: For sensitive skin, use a mineralbased sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These
ingredients are less likely to cause irritation. Look for an SPF of at
least 30. - Application: Apply generously to all exposed areas of your face and
neck, reapplying every two hours if you’re outside or sweating.
Step 6: Exfoliation
1-2 Times a Week: - Choose a Gentle Exfoliant: Look for mild chemical exfoliants with
lactic acid (5%) or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which are suitable for
sensitive skin. - Application: Apply according to the product instructions, usually
leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing off. Avoid physical
exfoliants that can be abrasive and cause irritation.
Diet Tips for Sensitive Skin - Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin
hydration and can reduce sensitivity. - Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Include foods rich in antioxidants
and omega-3 fatty acids, such as berries, leafy greens, fatty fish (like
salmon and mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts. These can help reduce
inflammation and soothe sensitive skin. - Avoid Common Triggers: Some foods may exacerbate skin
sensitivity. These can include spicy foods, alcohol, and excessive
caffeine. Pay attention to your diet and note any foods that seem to
trigger flare-ups. - Incorporate Probiotics: Probiotics can help support gut health,
which is linked to skin health. Include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and
other fermented foods in your diet. - Limit Processed Foods and Sugars: High levels of processed foods
and sugars can cause inflammation and aggravate sensitive skin. Opt
for whole foods and maintain a balanced diet.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip the skin of natural oils,
increasing sensitivity. Opt for lukewarm showers instead. - Test New Products: Always patch test new products on a small area
of your skin to ensure they don’t cause irritation. - Manage Stress: Stress can aggravate skin sensitivity. Practice stress
management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing
exercises. - Get Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to support
overall skin health and reduce stress. - Avoid Touching Your Face: This prevents the transfer of bacteria
and oils from your hands to your face. - Clean Your Phone and Pillowcases Regularly: These surfaces can
harbour bacteria that contribute to skin irritation.
By following this step-by-step guide and incorporating gentle active
serums, ingredients, and a balanced diet, you can effectively manage
sensitive skin during the summer and maintain a calm, radiant complexion.
Consistency is key, and it may take a few weeks to see significant
improvements. If your sensitivity persists, consider consulting a
dermatologist for personalised advice and treatment options