Summer is synonymous with sunny beach days, festive celebrations, and balmy evenings under the stars. While this is a magical time of year, the season’s intense sun, heat, and dry air can challenge even the most flawless complexions. At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we believe that glowing, healthy skin is the ultimate summer accessory—and it starts with a bespoke approach to skincare.
Here’s how to summer-proof your skin with our expert tips, carefully curated skincare, and innovative in-clinic treatments.
Hydration: The Foundation of Summer Skin Health
As temperatures soar, your skin tends to lose moisture faster due to heat and sun exposure. Dehydration can lead to dullness, fine lines, and an uneven skin tone—everything you want to avoid during the festive season.
Hydration Essentials for At-Home Care
- Switch to lightweight, hydrating products: Incorporate hyaluronic acid-based serums (such as the Mesoestetic HA Densimatrix) to lock in moisture without feeling heavy on your skin.
- Drink water strategically: Stay hydrated internally with plenty of water, and add slices of cucumber or lemon for a detoxifying twist. From helping your skin maintain elasticity, to reducing wrinkles and fine lines, water can do amazing things for your skin and your overall health.
- Opt for a mist: A refreshing mist with antioxidants can keep your skin hydrated and protected throughout the day. Mesoestetic Hydratonic Mist Mesoestetic’s Hydratonic Mist is an all-around favourite!
Reminder: It’s essential to consult with an experienced Skincare Specialist before investing in products, as your skin has unique needs. What works for who you follow on social media might not be the right fit for you!
In-Clinic Solution: The Signature FORMA™ HydraLyft
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, our signature FORMA™ HydraLyft skincare treatment (suitable for all skin types) combines the brightening effects of a Chemical Peel with the deep infusion of Hyaluronic Acid using our Mesotherapy technique as well as the skin tightening and contouring benefits of the FORMA™ Radiofrequency Skin Tightening.
This has become known as the Red Carpet Treatment, for immediately after your first treatment you will notice a range of benefits including radiant skin lifting, skin tightening and deep skin hydration.
Sun Protection: Your Summer Skincare Non-Negotiable
Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin damage. Protecting your skin from UV rays should be your top priority during summer.
Expert Sun Protection Tips
- Choose a high-quality sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours, especially if swimming or sweating. Heliocare has incredible sun protection products to choose from. From waterproof body sprays and anti-aging fluids to light weight air gels and mattifying solutions.
- Don’t skip exposed areas: Pay attention to often-neglected spots like the neck, chest, ears, and hands. This will also help prevent our necks, chests, and hands ageing faster than our faces…
- Layer smartly: Consider tinted sunscreens that will not only give you the skin protection you need, but also a luminous summer-ready glow. An all-time favourite at our clinic is the Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 FLEX by Colorescience; a hydrating, antioxidant-rich all-mineral formula powered by patented EnviroScreen® Technology – which means comprehensive protection, combined with advanced antioxidants and nourishing, hydrating ingredients for long-term skin health. FLEX features innovative, iron oxide pigments that bloom in your fingertips to deliver tone-adapting buildable colour coverage with a demi-matte finish.
In-Clinic Solution: The Bespoke Recovery Booster
If you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun, our Bespoke Recovery Booster is an excellent post-sun treatment. It soothes inflammation, repairs damage, and boosts your skin’s natural healing process.
After cleansing and gentle exfoliation, a Pharmaceutical grade product containing the highest concentration of natural growth factors, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans is applied to your skin. To enhance circulation, promote healing, and encourage cellular renewal. This is followed by a healing Dermalux LED Light treatment to further aid in skin healing.
Lightweight Skincare: Less is More in Summer
Streamlining Your Routine
- Gentle cleansing: Use a non-stripping cleanser to remove sweat, sunscreen, and impurities without disrupting your skin’s barrier. The QMS Medicosmetics Deep Gentle Cleanser is a great option because it contains no mineral oils and can be used to remove stubborn eye make-up. The mineral oil-free formulation ensures the pores do not become clogged whilst the active ingredients deliver an in-depth cleanse to remove skin-damaging pollutants and impurities.
- Lightweight hydration: Swap heavy creams for gel-based moisturizers that keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy. Have a look at the NeoStrata® PHA Daily Moisturizer – an elegant and lightweight cream that improves hydration while refining skin texture for a healthy and radiant glow. Suitable for sensitive skin with ageing concerns.
- Support skin barrier function: Incorporate ceramides or squalane to strengthen your skin’s barrier function, especially after prolonged sun exposure. A great option for consideration is the OptoDerm®️ CBD Hydrating Serum; formulated to offer a range of dermatological benefits, including enhanced hydration, anti-inflammatory effects, and improved skin barrier function. This serum is particularly beneficial for post-procedure wound healing, reducing inflammation, and treating various skin conditions.
Remember, when it comes to skincare products, it is always best to consult with an experienced Skincare Specialist before you invest in products, as your skin’s unique requirements will determine which products are best. What works for bestie, might not be ideal for you!
In-Clinic Solution: The No Downtime RetiFlash MD Peel
For a truly radiant summer glow without the downtime, the RetiFlash MD Peel is a fantastic option. This quick, no-downtime treatment provides an immediate glow effect by revitalising the tone and providing luminosity while attenuating imperfections.
Skincare Maintenance Throughout Summer
With the right care and attention, your skin can thrive through the summer season, radiating health and confidence. Embrace the beauty of glowing, well-nurtured skin this holiday season and beyond.
Want to discuss your ideal solutions with a professional? Email us at skinclinic@drnwilkinson.co.za to enquire about your personalised consultation.
