Understanding Different Climates and Skin Care
Not every country in the world experiences four seasons. Some countries are tropical, some countries are temperate, some countries are cold, and some countries have four seasons. For example, I am currently living in Dubai and 8-9 months of the year it is summer (30-50 degrees) and 3-4 months of the year it is spring (14-23 degrees), winter is not experienced here. So, can’t people living in temperate climates add retinoids and acids to their skin care routines? Of course they can 🙂
Retinoids and Chemical Peels in Summer
- Apply active products that deteriorate in UV rays in the evening instead of daytime.
- Additionally, chemical peelings and retinoids exfoliate the skin in different ways. They can make the skin surface sensitive. Hence, sunscreen plays a crucial role at this stage.
Tracking the UV Index
- Moreover, make sure to track the UV index hour by hour from your phone.
- Furthermore, when you leave the house, always check the UV index level first. If it is above 1-1.5, apply your sunscreen in the appropriate amount and manner.
- If you spend the entire day at home, away from direct sunlight and windows, and the UV index is not high, you can apply sunscreen once and forgo the renewal process. In such cases, you can make the decision for yourself.
- During summer, particularly when on vacation, the UV index tends to be very high between 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM. It is not advisable to stay directly under the sun during these hours. If you enjoy being outdoors, such as at the sea or on the beach, ensure that you apply sunscreen all over, wear protective clothing, UV-protected sunglasses, and a wide, brimmed hat without any gaps, and seek shade. Remember to wear your hat even when swimming in the sea. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Sunscreen Application for Office Workers
- If you work in an office during the summer, make sure to apply your sunscreen between 9-10 am, particularly if your office is located near a window and exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, if you plan to spend time outside during lunchtime, remember to reapply your sunscreen before heading out.
Adjusting Skincare Routine for Field Workers
- For those working in the field during the summer, meaning prolonged hours under direct sunlight, you may consider taking a break from retinoids and chemical peelings or using products with the lowest concentration once a week. You can observe and adapt this approach in various ways. Once again, it is highly beneficial to prioritize the use of sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
It’s all about tracking UV rays and applying sunscreen in the right amount, in the right way, and providing all-round protection. By doing so, you can effectively utilize all products with active ingredients.
Moreover, you don’t have to compromise on any product; however, it is crucial to follow the protocols to avoid wasting your skincare routine. Neglecting these protocols can even result in worse outcomes, such as blemish formation and hyperpigmentation.
Furthermore, it’s important not to assume that there is no UV exposure during winter or when it’s overcast, cold, or rainy. UV rays are present in all weather conditions and throughout all seasons, from sunrise to sunset. Therefore, the safest approach is to check the UV levels daily, even without applying sunscreen, and then apply sunscreen accordingly based on your environment.
Thank you for reading,
Love