Seasonal Skincare with Aromatherapy ~ Summer
In celebration of the launch of my new Rejuvenating Aromatherapy Facial Massage, I wanted to share with you some tips on switching up your skincare with the summer months, as well as walking you through the seasonal considerations that go into choosing ingredients for my Bespoke Essential Oil Remedies.
As with all of my treatments, my approach is holistic. The season, your skin type and also your lifestyle will play major roles in terms of what will benefit you best, so do bare this in mind if you choose to integrate any of the following into your routines.
Disclaimer - Some of the ingredients mentioned below will have maximum dilution rates so please check before using them. I’m not qualified to give dermatological advice, however, based on my knowledge of essential oils and carrier oils, here are my thoughts.
Sun Exposure:
It goes without saying here that the Number 1 thing to remember is to cover up with a hat and a high SPF face cream. It’s always best to prevent sun damage in the first place...
Essential oils: My go to essential oils to help support skin regeneration, especially after sun exposure are frankincense and rose. *Please be aware that some essential oils, expressed citrus oils in particular, can cause photosensitisation*. These include grapefruit, bergamot and lemon. During the summer months I normally omit citrus essential oils in facial serums and balms altogether, or will formulate with those that are furocoumarin free (FCF) – the main compounds that are responsible for photosensitisation.
Carrier oils: Rosehip and pomegranate seed oil, are high in linoleic and alpha-linoleic acid which help to aid skin regeneration and prevent transepidemal water loss (TEWL), leaving the skin feeling revitalised. This is not a replacement for suncream, but raspberry seed oil and sea buckthorn seed oil also have photoprotective qualities helping to protect against UV radiation.
Gels: Blending just a couple drops of essential oil into an organic aloe vera gel and making yourself a hydrating mask is a beautiful soothing way to help sun exposed skin.
Summer Dryness
Warm temperatures and days on the beach where we forget to bring enough drinking water (anyone else?) can lead to our skin feeling dehydrated.
Facial mists: Hydrolats, also called hydrosols, come into their own at this time of the year. I love to use neroli or peppermint hydrolats in a little spray bottle to quench thirsty skin. Keep yours in the fridge and you’ll also benefit from their cooling freshness, especially if you’re experiencing hot flushes in this season of your life.
Carrier oils and balms: Choose nourishing but fast absorbing oils such as apricot kernel oil and evening primrose, helping to prevent TEML. Using a facial balm to cleanse your skin in the evenings is also a beautiful way to gently lock in moisture and soften skin.
Summer Acne
Humidity and extra layers of suncream can sometimes be problematic for those of us that have naturally oilier skin.
Essential oils: Sebum balancing essential oils such as palmarosa and geranium are beautiful when included in facial serums and cleaners.
Carrier oils: Argan oil is your best friend here! Rosehip oil is also helpful for reducing marks left by previous acne breakouts.
Clay masks: Clay powders have been used for literally thousands of years to support skin health. Used once or twice a week as part of your skin care routine can help to naturally balance out oily complexions, leaving it feeling fresh. Choose gentle kaolin clay powder or the more drying French green clay powder mixed into a paste with tonifying witch hazel hydrolat.
Summer Hyperpigmentation and Pregnancy
Hyperpigmentation or sunspots can be common among pregnant women, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. The darkening of patches of skin are caused by a combination of sun exposure and hormonal changes. This isn’t necessarily a skin condition, and personally I think it can look quite beautiful.
Carrier oils: Carrier oils rich in palmitoleic acid such as sea buckthorn are indicated to help with hyperpigmentation. Oils high in linoleic and alpha-linoleic acid such as Rosehip are also helpful for reducing UV-associated damage and hyperpigmentation. Finally, hemp seed oil, high in linoleic acid is said to help lighten hyperpigmented skin - if indeed this is something you are concerned about.
I’d love to know if any of these tips inspire you to bring some new seasonal skincare rituals into your day! Feel free to drop me an email or chat over on Instagram.
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