While winter is firmly behind us, and the natural elements that took their toll on our skin gone with it too, summer comes with its own set of skin care challenges. “The summer heat causes you to perspire more, resulting in loss of moisture. Time spent outside can also sap the skin of essential hydration, making it dry and sensitive. Skin that has its moisture barrier compromised is more prone to issues like infections and rashes. With the humidity experienced in some parts of the country it can be tempting to skip your skincare routine altogether, however, it is essential to provide the skin with the necessary moisture by using a lightweight body lotion,” explains Su-Marie Annandale, Clere brand manager.
She shares the reasons why moisturising should still be a top priority, albeit with a lighter lotion:
- Hydrates skin: It’s easier to lose essential moisture and nutrients from your skin during the summer months. This can lead to issues like ashy patches, dull skin, itchiness, and tightness, which, in turn, may stop you from wearing breathable summer outfits like skirts and short sleeve tops. A body lotion like Clere’s will keep your skin hydrated. Clere’s Vanilla Honey Cream and Berries & Cream body lotions, enriched with tissue oil and pure glycerine, help reduce the appearance of stretch marks* and moisturise the skin. Remember to apply it morning and night, even in summer. According to The American Academy of Dermatology, the best time to apply a hydrating moisturising lotion is immediately after washing, when your skin can lock in the most moisture.
- Keeps skin nourished for longer: A body lotion will not only hydrate the skin but also locks in moisture and nourishment that is provided by the body from the inside. This helps keep your skin calm and soft to the touch all day long.
- Calms down the effects of prickly heat: When your skin is exposed to the hot sun, it can start to sting and irritate, especially if you tend to go out a lot. A body lotion infused with calming and cooling ingredients can keep your skin sting-free even on super-hot days.
- Prevents heat rashes: Summer activities like working out, swimming, and other outdoor sports can be harsh on the skin. From perspiration clogging hair follicles to pool water drying out your skin, summer rashes only get more prevalent as the heat intensifies. Using a body lotion can help keep summer rashes at bay.
“Good skin care in summer is about making simple changes, keeping to tried and tested basics and then indulging in a pampering body lotion to keep your skin soft, bright and appealing. It is all about taking some time out from hectic routines to ensure that you always look and feel your best – something that Clere understands,” concludes Annandale.
*8 out of 10 women saw an improvement in their stretch marks and it helped even their skin tone
Clere’s range of crèmes and lotions are available at all leading retailers at an estimated cost of R38.99 and R25.99, respectively.
