We asked Dr Parushinee Naidoo, a medical doctor with a special interest in aesthetics, and owner of Skin Solutions in Ballito and Umhlanga, to answer some of our skincare questions…
What are the top skincare essentials we should be using daily during summer, and why?
Sun protection is the most important step in our skincare routine all year round. It becomes more important during the warmer months as our exposure increases due to more time spent outdoors and increased UV indices. I recommend using a minimum SPF 30, preferably SPF50. Sunscreen only remains effective for a few hours so reapplication is necessary for ongoing protection throughout the day. A double cleansing routine using a cream-based cleanser, followed by a gel cleanser would really improve your cleansing routine. The double cleansing routine ensures adequate removal of sweat, makeup, sunscreen and pollutants. Prevented clogged pores and breakouts. If you have sensitive skin or active acne, I would recommend seeking guidance from a skincare professional for cleanser choice. A light moisturiser is essential to keep your skin hydrated.
Are there specific ingredients we should look for – or avoid – in summer skincare products?
During the summer months, you may want to relook at your active ingredients in your skincare. If you are spending long lazy days in the sun, I would avoid using retinols and alpha hydroxy acids too frequently. You may step back to using these ingredients only a few times a week. Vitamin C is a great additive to your summer skincare regime. It is an anti-oxidant and may help minimise the oxidative damage caused by the sun.
How can we balance the need for effective sun protection with a lightweight feel, especially for oily or acne-prone skin in hot weather?
There have been amazing advancements made in sun protection formulation. There air oil-free formulas available for acne prone skins. The concept of tinted sunscreen has also become an extremely effective way to combine a foundation with sunscreen. This allows you to use less products on your skin. Formulations of good quality sunscreen are non-comedogenic. Sun protection also comes with mattifying formulas for very oily skins. I recommend you spend some time testing and sampling sun protection for yourself. There are so many options available and suitable for all skin types.
What’s the best way to manage skin sensitivity that might be worsened by sunscreen reapplication or sweat?
Choosing good quality sun protection is the best way to prevent irritation. There are sunscreen formulas that are oil-free, suitable for sensitive skin and sweat resistant. Cleansing the skin well at the end of the day to remove all residue of sweat and sunscreen is also a way to minimise irritation.
Details: Skin Solutions Ballito, E202 Izulu Office Park, Reys Place, Ballito,
067 321 2566 / 087 354 9043
E-mail: ballito@skinsolutionssa.co.za
