The beginning of summer has brought with it ultra-high temps this time around, which can be tough on our skin. Summer weather often leads to skin issues like irritation, inflammation, acne, and greasiness. Additionally, depending on your location, you might experience either extreme dryness or humidity, adding another layer of challenge. Therefore, adjusting your skincare routine for summer is essential, involving replacing heavy products with lighter ones and opting for formulations containing soothing ingredients. Wondering which ingredients to watch for on product labels? We've got you covered with a rundown below.
Centella asiatica
Centella asiatica (aka gotu kola) is known for its hydrating properties. It also reduces inflammation, retains the natural moisture within your skin’s barrier, treats conditions like eczema and helps soothe burns. It contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that gently heal the skin. It’s a great addition to your summer skincare routine—especially if you have sensitive skin.
Tira recommends:
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Calendula
Anti-inflammatory in nature, calendula is a rather popular summer skincare ingredient with multiple benefits. Apart from treating irritated and inflamed skin, calendula also acts as a natural humectant; which means that it draws moisture from the environment and locks it within the layers of your skin. This makes it your go-to if you’re experiencing dry skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties aid in treating breakouts too, as it kills the acne-causing bacteria within the pores. What’s more, calendula also doubles as a gentle exfoliant and is therefore a good ingredient for toners or serums. It’s an all-rounder that works well with both dry and oily skin types.
Tira recommends:
The Face Shop Calendula Essential Moisture Serum
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Zinc PCA
Summer often pushes the skin to produce more oil than usual, increasing the chances of clogged pores and breakouts. The main purpose of zinc PCA is to control sebum production and help treat any acne caused by it. PCA is a natural amino acid found in the skin; and when combined with zinc, it helps hydrate the skin while controlling the sebaceous gland’s oil production. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which means it heals any ongoing acne, while preventing future breakouts.
Tira recommends:
Christian Breton Zinc Blemish & Age Corrector Face Moisturizer
Azelaic acid
Think of azelaic acid as the mild exfoliator your skin requires in summer. The acid is present in grains such as barley and wheat; and is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in treating acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation. It also helps break down oils and exfoliates the skin. Besides, it evens out your skin tone, brightens dullness, reduces inflammation, and more. Appropriate for all skin types—especially sensitive or acne-prone skin—azelaic acid in summer is an all-in-one solution for your skin woes. However, we do recommend following this with a hydrating moisturiser, especially if you have dry skin.
Tira recommends:
Dr. Sheth's Probiotics & Azelaic Acid Serum
Ginseng
A sensitive skin superhero, ginseng is known for its balancing properties and is apt for all skin types and conditions. It aids in boosting blood circulation and therefore promotes collagen synthesis, leaving you with firm skin. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties are known to cure dullness and help protect the skin from free radical damage. Lastly, ginseng also treats hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. Considering that it works for sensitive skin too, it reduces inflammation, redness and puffiness. This will be your go-to when the weather outside is too hot to handle.
Tira recommends:
Sulwhasoo White Ginseng Radiance Refining Mask
Ceramides
Ceramides seal the building blocks of your skin, preventing any sort of deterrent from permeating it. Ceramides not only boost your skin’s health from within, but also aid in moisturising—they lock moisture into the layers of the skin and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. This, in turn, prevents irritation, inflammation or dryness (a common occurrence during summer).
Tira recommends:
d'you In My Defence Barrier-Building Moisturiser
Aloe vera
This all-rounder needs no introduction. An anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antiseptic ingredient, this hydrator helps soothe irritation, redness and inflammation, among many other skin concerns. Rich in vitamins C and E as well as beta-carotene, it moisturises the skin, boosts wound healing, soothes itchiness and even fights skin ageing.
Tira recommends:
Forest Essentials Pure Aloe Vera Light Hydrating Facial Gel
