Our Experts Answer Your Summer Skincare Questions

With the sun starting to burn hotter and brighter, we’re getting lots of questions from our patients about how best to care for their skin in the summer climate. This week, we’ve brought together some of the most frequently asked ones, so you can get the lowdown on how to look your best in the hottest months of the year.

Does Sunscreen Go On Before Or After Moisturiser?

Before. Sunscreen works best when it’s directly applied to the skin, rather than having to work through other products. Our Heliocare range especially gives you the best results when applied first, so if you’re looking for maximum protection for your skin (of course you are), that’s what we’d recommend!

Why Do Some People Tan And Others Burn?

Ah, the summertime lament of so many of us here in Britain! There’s a short answer and a long answer, but to save burying you under science, we’ll give you the short one: genetics. We inherit our ability to tan or burn from our parents, and as you’ve no doubt guessed it’s a lot to do with our natural skin colour. People with fairer skin tend to burn easily, while people with darker skin have higher amounts of melanin, giving them a better natural ability to adapt to UV rays, as the extra melanin means greater UV protection. No one is totally immune to damage though, and sunscreen is an absolute necessity no matter your skin colour!

Can I Wear Makeup At The Beach?

You can, but if you want our advice we wouldn’t recommend it. Firstly it can clog your pores, potentially leading to outbreaks, and secondly it can melt, which is never a good look. Avoid wearing it if you can but if you’re set on the idea we’d suggest keeping makeup to a minimum. Waterproof (or at least water resistant) mascaras are best, and it’d be wise to steer well clear of heavy foundations, blush and bronzer. It’s just not worth it!

Why Does My Skin Feel Oiler?

The answer to that one is relatively simple – basically, the higher heat levels increase sebum production from your sebaceous glands. It’s essentially one of the ways that your skin keeps itself hydrated in extreme temperatures. Greater oil production can be triggered by a variety of other factors, including hormonal changes (for example, if you’re pregnant), or emotional stresses. At this time of year though, the hot weather is the most likely culprit.

How Can I Make My Skin Feel Less Oily?

The trick is to be gentle and careful with it. Rather than scrubbing it mercilessly, just switch up your skincare routine to concentrate on hydrating it properly. Moisturise gently but thoroughly, and you might find yourself needing to do it more often than usual. Your diet might also need looking at – avoiding pizza or other takeaway foods can help your skin feel less greasy, and don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids!

How Can I Stop My Skin From Feeling Dry?

Dry skin is a problem we more commonly associate with winter, but it can happen in summer too. Chlorine from a swimming pool, for example, can strip away too much of your skin’s natural oils, leaving it feel dry and itchy. Shower and moisturise immediately after a pool or beach day to avoid the worst of it – and if you’re going back out again, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen before you go!

If there are any questions we’ve not answered above, or you’re still unclear on anything, our experts in our Blackburn skincare clinic are only too happy to lend a hand. You can call us on 01254 297 000 to get your queries answered, or even just book an appointment. Whatever the case, we’re here to help!

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