Be it relaxing in the Irish sun or further afield dipping your toes in the crystal clear waters of the Med, our top priority should be to care for our skin. Regardless if it’s blistering rays or overcast sky, the UV rays are much stronger during the summer months, meaning we must add a little more TLC into our everyday routines.
Sinead Murphy, famed therapist, skincare expert and creator of Blumáin Organic Skincare, shares her top tips for keeping skin safe and healthy during these warmer spells.
First Things First – Protection: “We really should be using a broad spectrum SPF all year round, not only in the Summer months, as the UV rays are reaching our skin even on cloudy days.” says Sinead, “The physical sunscreens, such as those containing Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, are generally much better suited to sensitive skin types.”
Feed Our Skin From Within: When it comes to adding particular ingredients into our everyday life, be it through foods, liquids or vitamins, Sinead says, “As much as we wish for clear blue skies and sunshine in the Summer, it’s not really the best for our skin. With high temperatures and humidity, our skin can be more at risk of collagen damage, hyperpigmentation and dehydration. With that in mind, we need to protect, hydrate and brighten our skin with the aid of some helpful ingredients.”
Vitamin C is not only essential for protecting our skin from sun damage, thanks to its powerful antioxidant benefits, but also boosts collagen production, which in turn strengthens our skin.
Sinead also suggests introducing a number of skin-loving, nutritious ingredients into our diets, such as juicy fruits like Strawberries and Watermelon, as they will not only help to hydrate the skin but are full of antioxidants, and Tomatoes, which are a great Summer staple as they are filled with lycopene and beta-carotene which helps boost the skin’s natural defence against the sun.
Hydration is Key: Not only do we need to ensure we keep on top of drinking water, but we must also hydrate the skin! “Hyaluronic Acid is dehydrated skin’s best friend” says Sinead, “With the ability to hold hydration in the skin and plump out fine lines and wrinkles, Hyaluronic Acid is safe to be used both morning and night.” The Blumáin Organic Skincare Hyaluronic Acid & Multi Vitamin Face Serum (RRP €34) contains both Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, which will help to hydrate and repair sun-damaged skin.
Keep The Skin Bright!: “During the Summer months, our skin’s natural ability to exfoliate can become a little sluggish, and we may also be dealing with areas of hyperpigmentation.” says Sinead, “Alpha Hydroxy Acids aid in shedding excess dead skin, leading to fresher brighter cells underneath.” The Blumáin Organic Skincare AHA Tonic (RRP €37) boosts the natural exfoliation process. Best used at night 3 – 5 times per week, as AHA’s may make you more photosensitive.
When it comes to achieving that enviable summer glow, Sinead comments, “Exfoliating and hydrating are key to removing excess dead cells, revealingly glowing skin and keeping that fresh look in tip-top condition.” Sinead recommends the Blumáin Organic Skincare AHA Tonic (RRP €37) and Geranium & Bamboo Facial Polish (RRP €24) which work in tandem to enhance your glow, while the Hyaluronic Acid & Multi Vitamin Face Serum (RRP €34) will hydrate the skin and help fight any free radical damage, as its packed full of antioxidants such as Vitamin A & C and Lingonberry extract.
Prepare For The Season Ahead: Not only is it essential to care for our skin during Summer, as we dive deeper into August, it’s important to start preparing for the harsher conditions we may expect in the cooler Autumn and Winter months. “Scale back on the foaming or gel-based cleansers which can be quite striping on the skin.” says Sinead. Reach for more soothing products like the Blumáin Organic Skincare Hydrating Orange Blossom Cleansing Milk (RRP €25), gentle enough to use both morning and night, or the Geranium & Orange Cleansing Oil (RRP €25), which is ideal for removing makeup or as a first step in your double cleanse routine. Sinead also suggests introducing a toner into your routine an added boost of hydration. Using a heavier moisturiser or Night Cream, such as the Rosehip Regenerative Night Cream (RRP €36), is also a must at this time of year, to lock in moisture and nourish the skin.
One final piece of advice? “Most importantly, continue to protect your skin with an SPF, even in the Winter Months”
