From beaming UV rays to sticky humidity, the summer season is right around the corner which means our skincare regimens are in for a huge change. Now, it’s time to swap the heavy makeup and rigorous skincare routines for effortless looks and simple treatments. Haute Beauty caught up with board-certified Dr. Shah to discuss the best skincare tips to prep for this summer’s weather, how to achieve a healthy glow, and the products that keep her skin healthy during this season.

What tips would you recommend to clients who are transitioning their skincare regimens from the spring to summer seasons?
Try lighter moisturizers as the higher humidity in the environment this season allows a decrease in how much moisture your skin loses to it.  Think about cleansers that lather and foam more to allow for deeper cleansing. Try and increase how often you exfoliate around this season to keep the sweat and debris from clogging up pores.

What skin concerns should we be prepared for during the summer season?
This season is all about protecting from UV rays!  Sunscreen, SPF chapstick, sunglasses, hats, sun protective clothing/rashguards — all are great ways to protect yourself. As we tend to spend more time outdoors when the weather is nice, remember to reapply every 2 hours to keep a continuous level of protection. Remember, that what you do now will reap you benefits years down the road. One blistering sunburn increases your lifetime risk of skin cancer.

What skincare procedures would you recommend to clients during these transitional months?
This season is a great time for injectables like neurotoxins and fillers as these procedures don’t leave your skin more sensitive to the sun. Neurotoxins serve double duty here as not only can they be used cosmetically but they are helpful for hyperhidrosis (a condition of overactive sweat glands) as well!  Lastly, as everyone gets ready for their summer bodies, body contouring procedures such as cool sculpting are great during this season as well!

What top 3 products would you recommend for a healthy summer glow?
First things first – hydration. Keeping yourself moisturized might seem counterintuitive this season but it is essential to keep and maintain that summer glow! Check for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides during this season.  Second, keep that sunscreen handy!  One of the most frequent questions I get are about pigment issues on skin, especially concerning melasma and sunspots.  I often say “dark spots like to get darker in the sun.”  With this info – it is crucial to protect yourself from the sun’s rays to keep a more even complexion.  And third, antioxidant serums!  I tend to favor those with Vitamin C as its properties include protection from UV rays, collagen synthesis and thickening of dermal skin as well as aiding to block an enzyme that creates hyper-pigmentation in skin.

Which products/procedures are you currently using to keep you skin healthy during this season?
I start my day off by cleansing with either Essopi Glycolic 10% Moisturizing cleanser (good for exfoliation) or PCA Skin Creamy Cleanser (hydrating and gentle) and follow with Skinceuticals CE Ferulic or Jan Marini C-ESTA Face Serum for antioxidant protection. I then apply a generous application of Elta MD Tinted UV Daily SPF 40. I keep up with neurotoxin treatments during this season and generally every 4 months throughout the year.  I end my days with the above cleansers, followed by Zerafite Barrier Repair moisturizer and a pea sized amount of retinol.

For more information, please visit www.TheDermGroup.com