She Said/She Said: Summer Skincare
We tapped two of our local skincare experts, Ashley Perkins of Caravela and Celthia Corsino of Bellacara, for tips on summer skincare. If anyone knows how to tap into the fountain of youth and make our skin glow — it’s these women. Here are some ideas to implement into your current routine:
How does your skincare routine change in the summer?
Ashley: More water, more hats, more SPF.
Celthia: I switched to a lighter moisturizer. I'm currently using Alchimie Kantic Calming Cream. It's lightweight yet hydrating and doesn't make me look shiny during the day. I then use ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50. Not only does this sunscreen protect and repair, it also helps fight against photoaging and looks great under makeup!
At night, depending on how hot and humid it is, I'll skip the moisturizer and use a lightweight face oil. I like the ISDIN Melatonik serum-in-oil. It's 3-in-one formula of melatonin, bakuchiol and vitamin C packs a punch. My skin looks brighter, springier, and more radiant in the morning.
What’s the difference between Hydrating vs. Moisturizing?
Ashley: Great question! It comes down to the science behind skincare. Hydration should be something your skin naturally experiences which is only accomplished with using the proper products so as to not strip your skin's natural barriers and cause dryness or irritation. Poor skin hydration and thus poor skin health results in the need to moisturize. So if you can let your skin do what it's designed to do - which is protect you, then you won't feel the need to grab that moisturizer as often as you think you need it.
Celthia: Hydration refers to the replenishment of water in your skin. Hydrating products typically contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which attract water molecules and bind them to the skin. These products help to increase the water content of the skin, making it plump and supple. A favorite product of mine that helps hydrate the skin is the SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier, which is a multi-beneficial corrective serum made to amplify the skin's hyaluronic acid levels.
Moisturizing, on the other hand, involves creating a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin. Moisturizers usually contain ingredients like oils, butters, petrolatum, and silicones that help to seal moisture into the skin and maintain its hydration levels. They form a protective layer on the skin's surface, keeping it smooth and preventing dryness. A great moisturizer that truly helps seal moisture into the skin is the Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Oil-Free Moisture Cushion. This moisturizer is an all-day hydrator with a gel-cream texture. It is also infused with Japanese marine algae, which contains essential amino acids and B vitamins to enhance skin's elasticity and moisture content.
Best way to reduce the appearance of bags under the eyes?
Ashley: Water and sleep. Plus, invest in high quality medical grade eye cream for long term support of the collagen in that area.
Celthia: I first like to use an eye mask for a quick fix. Dr Dennis Gross Derminfusions Lift + Repair Eye Mask not only addresses the under eye bags, but the whole eye area in 10 minutes. This revolutionary eye mask is a 3D alternative to invasive fillers so it helps fill in the appearance of fine lines, volumizes, hydrates and soothes for a more youthful look. I then follow up with Skinceuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye Cream. This anti-aging eye cream addresses concerns of dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles.These two products have helped me look more rejuvenated, especially after early morning makeup call times.
What skincare habit or lack/of makes you wince?
Ashley: Not using SPF!
Celthia: Not washing your face at night. Maximize your skincare routine and wash the day off. I double cleanse with ISDIN Essential Cleansing Oil-Based Cleanser. It takes everything off including high performance makeup and SPF. I followup with Rilastil Aqua Face Cleanser. It's gentle, hydrating and smells amazing!
Your go-to sunscreen for the beach or pool?
Ashley: ZO Daily Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 - sweat resistant and easy to apply!
Celthia: I love ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion for the face and COOLA Clear Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 for the body!
Your secret skincare weapon?
Ashley: A protocol which includes always using SPF.
Celthia: My secret skincare weapon is the Dr. Dennis Gross DRX SpectraLite FaceWare Pro – it will completely transform your skincare routine. This LED mask is FDA-cleared and it uses the power of red and blue light therapy to target multiple skin concerns effectively. The red light stimulates collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles for a firmer, more youthful complexion. Meanwhile, the blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, helping to clear breakouts and calm inflammation. I mainly love it because of how easy to use it is; it just takes three minutes per day to enjoy the benefits of professional-grade treatment in the comfort of my own home!
Have a topic you’d like to hear more about? Email editor@alexandriastylebook.com with your suggestions!
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