Winter is (finally) over, and spring is in the air. This means a few things: Dogwoods are in bloom, we’ve put away our coats and boots, clocks have moved an hour ahead and spring cleaning is in full swing. Make the most of the seasonal switch, and spring clean your skin care routine too. Start with these 5 ways you can spring clean your skin care routine!
1. Clean away dead skin
As the weather warms and we start shedding layers of clothing, consider exfoliating your dry skin too! Exfoliating is the process of removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells to reveal the smoother skin beneath. Manually exfoliating with a gentle scrub or using a mild chemical exfoliant can slough off dry, dead skin cells after the long winter months. Doing so can help other products like sunless tanners go on more evenly and last longer. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cleanser is a great choice for those wanting physical exfoliation, while SkinBetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads three times a week will leave you glowing.
It is important to be careful when using harsh, grainy exfoliating products containing microbeads or seeds; these products can irritate the skin and cause damage to delicate tissue underneath. Instead, use a dermatology tested product that will be gentle on your skin for a healthy glow.
2. Wash makeup brushes
Makeup brushes should be washed every 2 or 3 weeks. Sponges, Beauty Blenders and other applicators should be washed weekly. This is an important step in a keeping your skin clean and clear. Dirt, oil, makeup and even bacteria can get caught in brushes and applicators with regular use.
You can thoroughly clean your brushes and sponges in lukewarm water with a gentle clarifying shampoo or facial cleanser. Then let them air-dry on a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Let the brushes dry fully before use. If your brush is shedding bristles or has become misshapen, it’s time to toss it. Applicators and sponges should be replaced every 1-3 months.
3. Check for expiration dates
Take a look inside your bathroom cabinet and drawers to inventory the contents. Believe it or not, skin products have an expiration date. Outdated or expired cosmetics can cause all kinds of problems, including skin irritation, eye infections and more. Additionally, bacteria, fungus and mold can grow in old cosmetics and skin care products.
Take time this spring to carefully clean out your skin care products and replace anything that might have expired. Consider using the expiration timeline below when contemplating which facial products should stay or go:
- Mascara: 3 months
- Lipstick: 12 to 18 months
- Eyeshadow: 24 months for power shadows, 12 months for cream formulas
- Powder: 24 months
- Foundation: 12 to 18 months, with oil based products lasting up to 24 months
- Eye and lip pencils: 36 months, but sharpen regularly
- Liquid eyeliner: 3 months
- Nail polish: 24 months
Remember, if a product has changed in smell, color or consistency, it’s likely time to replace it.
4. Drop heavy products in favor of lighter options
Winter’s dry air is gone, and spring has left you feeling lighter! That means it is likely time to ditch your heavy winter moisturizer and switch to brighter options.
While people with dry skin concerns like eczema or psoriasis may need a heavy cream or lotion year round, many people can consider turning toward a cleansing gel. Perhaps try a lighter lotion instead of body butter or swapping a moisturizing mask for one that brightens the skin while hydrating. SkinMedica’s HA5, is a one of Dr. Doppelt’s favorite hydrating serums because of it supports the skins natural ability to replenish its own hyaluronic acid for overall skin health. SkinBetter Trio is a balancing moisturizer that gives your skin just what it needs—hydration without the weight.
While you’re at it, consider switching your heavy foundation for a lighter-weight BB or CC cream that offers a high-SPF in addition to natural coverage. Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF Lotion or ColoreScience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex is a great alternative to protect your skin all year long. Need help coming up with the perfect spring skin care regime for your skin? Dr. Doppelt and his staff have the knowledge and products you need to get glowing this season!
5. Clean up your sunscreen habits
Many people slack on their sunscreen routine during the cooler months, but it’s time to clean up those bad habits now more than ever. If you’re not using sunscreen daily, make this spring the time you start! Applying SPF daily is an easy way to prevent skin cancer as well as ward off premature aging caused by sun damage.
Consider opting for a water resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen like SkinMedica’s Total Defense + Repair. A lightweight mist or gel sunscreen is easy to apply and prevent clogged pores, which is especially important for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Remember to re-apply your sunscreen as the day goes on.
If you follow these spring cleaning tips above, your skin can jump start summer with a glowing, healthy complexion!
