How To Prep Your Skin For Summer, According To Dr. Barbara Sturm

Summer is approaching, and many of us like to adjust our skincare routine to reflect the warmer weather, whether it’s incorporating lighter serums, or using higher sun protection. With that said, the renowned skincare expert, Dr. Barbara Sturm has shared her intel when it comes to prepping your skin for sunnier months, from the positive effects of body brushing and staying hydrated, to stocking up on trusty aloe vera.

Switch to a lighter moisturizer

During the spring and summer, you want to use a moisturizer that is super hydrating to replenish your moisture reservoirs and rebuild your lipid shield and skin barrier function after the long winter months, but light enough to not clog pores on the warmer days.

Start body brushing

I'm a big believer in dry body brushing which mechanically boosts your circulation and lymphatic system, discourages fluid retention and reduces cellulite. The bristles also provide an exfoliating action which helps unclog pores and removes dead cells from the surface of the skin, leaving it better able to absorb the ingredients in your body products. It’s also great for boosting your energy if you're feeling sluggish.

Keep hydrated

I try and drink plenty of water all year round but it’s even more important when the weather gets warmer to regulate body temperature and stay hydrated. As well as drinking water, you can up your intake of anti-inflammatory and cooling food and drinks, like smoothies, juices, and salads to help cool and rehydrate the internal system of the body and mitigate the effects of heat, such as breakouts and irritation.

Protect against UVA and UVB

When you are looking for sun protection, don't only consider SPF – it doesn’t tell you anything about protection from UVA rays, which are just as dangerous as UVB and can penetrate car and home windows. My Sun Drops SPF 50 are a hybrid sun protection/skincare that creates a broad-spectrum shield on your skin against UVA and UVB rays - while also providing your skin with healing, moisture and anti-oxidative ingredients.

Exfoliate for radiant skin

Exfoliation is important all year round but it’s essential in prepping skin for a summer glow. Regular exfoliation aids the removal of dead skin cells and bacteria and helps remove any excess oil you might be experiencing during warmer weather. The upshot is even skin texture and a brighter, fresher complexion.

Use Aloe Vera after sun exposure

Studies have shown Aloe has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties and can be used particularly well in treating damaged skin including sunburns. Aloe’s biological activity degrades rapidly after harvest unless the Aloe is stabilized and preserved at its peak. I created my ALOE VERA GEL using the freshest, hand-selected and harvested Aloe - it’s the best and most effective formulation.

Spend time in a sauna

The sauna is a tremendous tool for overall health and well-being, but it also leaves your skin with the most amazing glow. It’s been clinically shown to improve skin barrier function, regulate sebum flow, and improve cardiovascular and muscular health and there are interesting clinical studies about its positive effect on health. I built one in my bathroom in Dusseldorf, and I love it.

Add a Vitamin C serum to your routine

As it starts to get warmer and there are sunnier days ahead, skin becomes more prone to hyperpigmentation-free radical damage. Introducing a vitamin C-based serum like my The Good C Vitamin C Serum helps brighten the complexion, reduces the signs of irritation and uneven pigmentation and provides anti-oxidative protection from environmental stressors.