Is your post-holiday, sun-stressed skin in need of a little TLC? The sun can be detrimental to skin health in a variety of ways. Excess sun exposure causes several conditions ranging from sunburn, unwanted pigmentation or unpleasant breakouts thanks to hotter, more humid weather combined with layers of sun cream that can result in blocked pores, not to mention far more serious long-term risks.

If your skin is feeling the effects of the heat, read on for my tips on repairing your post-summer skin and achieving a healthy, stronger, more balanced complexion ready to face the cooler months.

Unclog those pores

Between impurities, sweat and oil build-up, our pores tend to need a little bit of help at this time of the year. Using a chemical exfoliant (physical exfoliants are too harsh on the delicate skin barrier) is the first step to relieving your pores. A good acid toner or exfoliator will help get rid of impurities and minimise breakouts. I recommend exfoliating once or twice a week, depending on how your skin is feeling. And if you’re really struggling with congestion, now is a good time to start a course of in-clinic chemical peels or HydraFacial treatments to help remove the build-up of surface dead skin and encourage cell turnover to reveal fresher, glowy skin.

Nourish your skin barrier and boost hydration

If you enjoyed the sun a little bit too much this summer, your skin is likely feeling dehydrated and in need of a hydration fix. Plus, as the air gets chillier outside, the heating gets hotter inside, this also increases the risk of dehydration. Soon, we’ll be feeling colder, drier air, so start planning and prepping now so your skin doesn’t have a harder battle during the winter. If skin is dry and dehydrated, ramp up your internal moisture with Omega-3 and collagen supplements. Add a nourishing hyaluronic acid serum or cream into your regime as well as a rich moisturiser in the evening.

Tackle sun damage

If you feel that your skin is showing the signs of sun damage such as pigmented patches and a dull, lacklustre complexion, this is likely the accumulation of decades of damage that gets triggered when the sun is at its strongest. A lot of the pigmentation you’re seeing isn’t just this holiday, it’s holidays over the last decade or two. But fortunately, there are things that can be done to lessen its visibility.

When it comes to skincare, many ingredients can help protect the skin and speed up the skin’s repair process. Look for vitamins A, B and C alongside broad-spectrum sun protection.

Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is the gold-standard anti-ageing ingredient which is excellent for reversing the signs of premature ageing such as lines, wrinkles, and discolouration. Vitamin B3, or niacinamide, will help minimise hyperpigmentation whilst improving barrier function. And Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps reverse the signs of ageing by neutralising free radicals.

In terms of treatments, chemical peels are a great option for improving the appearance of sun damage. They work to remove the outer layer of the skin, revealing a smoother surface beneath. Chemical peels are available in various strengths – medium-depth peels penetrate deeper and are an excellent choice for those with sun damage or pigmentation issues. Radiofrequency microneedling, ultrasound and lasers can significantly improve the effects of sun damage. They help to boost the production of collagen and resurface, repair, and restore the complexion.

Polynucleotide skin boosters have a remarkable anti-free radical action. They counteract the skin damage which can accumulate due to various stressors, including cellular damage, stress, and exposure to UV rays, whilst boosting hydration and stimulating collagen and elastin production to create firmer, smoother, and more radiant skin.

If you’d like to discuss the options, or establish what’s right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.