Seasonal skincare-Pharmacy Corner

By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire

 

In Bermuda, we can sometimes feel as though we are under siege from the weather, whether it be in the form of rain, wind, sun or storms. This is particularly noticeable in the cooler months when the weather can be unpredictable. As many of you will have noticed, the weather’s effect is not only limited to our homes, our weather or our travel – it often has an effect on our skin as well.

Winter weather can lead to dryer skin, especially if you spend time outdoors or if you have your heating turned on. This is because the colder air or dry heat of the central heat can strip your skin of its natural moisture and windy conditions can irritate sensitive skin.  This means that your skin may benefit from a slightly heavier moisturiser than it needs in the hot and humid summer months.

Seasonal skincare-Pharmacy Corner-productsInjecting extra moisture your skincare regimen can begin with your face wash: investigate using a richer facial soap to start your skincare off on the right foot. Dove’s White Beauty Bar soap is famed for its simple and richly moisturising formula and there is also a sensitive version available for those whose skin is more temperamental. Neutrogena, Aveeno and Simple also have facial cleansers that are moisturising.

Next up is your daily moisturiser. Most of us benefit from using a light daily moisturiser which not only nourishes the skin but also provides a barrier against the elements. You may find that your skin is dryer or has patches in the winter which are not an issue in the summer. This means you should switch to a heavier moisturiser the weather warms up again. One small tip that works whatever your moisturiser: if you apply your moisturiser right after washing your face (while it’s still damp) you can lock in moisture that would otherwise be lost.

Seasonal skincare-Pharmacy Corner-moisturize

Using a daily moisturiser nourishes the skin and protects against the elements and harsh environments.

Changing any aspect of your skincare regimen can be a source of worry, but if you have a brand you like, and that works for your skin type, then make sure you investigate all of their offerings. For instance, Neutrogena’s Hydro-Boost range offers products which increase skin hydration – eye cream, gel and daily moisturiser. There is also a lighter Healthy Defense moisturiser.

Seasonal skincare-Pharmacy Corner-makeup removerIf you wear make-up, it’s important – whatever the time of year – to make sure that you are removing it properly and avoid pore blockages or causing irritation – so remember to cleanse your face at night before you go to bed. You should ensure that you are using a cleanser which is gentle as well as effective, such as Simple’s Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing water. It is also important to moisturize at night with a night cream which is richer and heavier than a daytime moisturiser.

Whatever the time of year, living in a tropical place like Bermuda means that it’s incredibly important to protect your skin from the sun. Although the weather is cooler now, the sun’s rays can still have a damaging effect. While you should ensure that you are keeping your skin protected through the use of sunblock or a hat, you can make your life easier by investing in a facial moisturiser with SPF, such as Neutrogena’s Healthy Skin, Aveeno’s Positively Radiant or Absolutely Ageless. By using a moisturiser with sun protection, you can make sure that you never skip a day. Additionally, you can extend this to your whole body with a product such as Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 15.

If you are one of the many people who finds sunblock can cause blockages or irritation, make sure to invest in one made for sensitive skin – Neutrogena, Coppertone and Alba are some of the brands with sensitive skin formulas. These are good for everyday use on more sensitive skin. This is particularly important for young people.

Your skincare routine should be flexible and change with the season: just because it’s not summer is no reason to not take care of your skin.

Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.

Please follow and like us: