MY TOP SUMMER SKINCARE ESSENTIALS Pt. 1 - Cleansers + Moisturizers
Summer is in full swing, and I am just loving all that comes with it! It's been a bit rainy, to say the least, which at times I feel like we are living through Fall here but alas the sun came out today finnnnnnallllly! We've had a good amount of our favorite things this summer so far - mountain bike rides, long walks, days at the beach, lots of planning for the Mountain Home, date nights, our anniversary (21 years!) and late nights binging some of my favorite series on Netflix.
Something else that brings me just as much joy? My Summertime skincare routine! It may sound silly, but taking care of my skin will always be one of my absolute favorite and necessary built in self care practices. My regimen is best when adjusted to the weather and seasons.
It has definitely taken some trial over the years to discover what works best for my skin during each season. The warmer weather months can be especially tricky to navigate!
Between the sweat, sunscreen, and increased oil - my skin needs a little extra care in the Summer. And if you’re feeling the same, this roundup is for you.
I’m covering My Favorite Summer Skincare Essentials. Here’s to safer skincare and sunshine!
First up, CLEANSERS.
Using a good cleanser on the regular will help keep your skin healthy and radiant. Especially in the summer - there really is nothing like the feeling of “washing off the day”. Unfortunately, a majority of cleaners on the market today are filled with harmful ingredients that absorb into your skin. AND, many cleaners strip away your skins' natural oils.
After cleansing, your skin should never feel too tight. (I know many of us are so used to this feeling, truly associating that tight feeling with it being clean.) If your skin does feel tight/stiff/dry after cleansing, this is a strong indication that your product is too drying for your skin. When your skin is too dry, a perpetual cycle of oil overproduction begins, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Luckily, Beautycounter has come to the rescue for me and so many of my clients, and has a number of good Summer skin friendly options!
I love this cleanser because it leaves my skin feeling completely refreshed without drying it out. It’s made with jojoba beads, which reminds my clients of their favorite acne wash from the drug store-except much, much safer for you...and the planet.
This cleanser gently exfoliates your skin while removing excess oil, makeup, and impurities. It’s always my top recommendation for clients with breakout prone skin or oily skin, or anyone feeling like they just need a little something “extra” to wash the grime away.
Countercontrol Clear Pore Cleanser Counter+ Charcoal Cleansing Bar
I had never used a bar of soap on my face before this one, but let me tell you it does not disappoint! This amazing bar can be used in the morning or evening, and just like most BC cleansers, creates just enough lather. Helping to absorb impurities like dirt, oil and sunscreen - it leaves skin feeling refreshed and squeaky clean (but not dry and tight!).
Beautycounter products are well known for their quality, lasting effect, and how such a little bit of product goes such a long way. The Charcoal Cleansing Bar is no exception. When stored well (I like to keep mine in a soap box in the shower) this bar will last for what seems like forever. If you are looking for a quality product that is also friendly on your budget - this bar is a must.
For those of you who like the texture of a foam to your cleansing, give this one a try. The Countermatch Refresh Foaming Cleanser is ideal if you have sensitive or dry skin. The Countermatch Line is designed to be gentle and hydrating, and is perfect for those with any redness or irritation of any kind.
I personally like this one because of its main ingredient, Squalane, which helps to draw in moisture. The last thing I want on a hot Summer day is to cover my skin with a heavy cleanser. The Countermatch Refresh Foaming Cleanser is weightless, making for the perfect Summer skincare companion.
Please pass the HYDRATION.
Now that the cleaners are covered, let’s chat about moisture. My skin doesn’t dry out as much during the Summer compared to other seasons, which is why it’s important to change up my moisturizer accordingly!
Enter the Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion. It’s super light, leaving skin feeling hydrated, but not greasy. After a day in the sun, this lotion feels so refreshing to put on. (For those who are acne prone this lotion is as great fit! I pair it morning with the No 3 Balancing Oil - this combo during the summer leaves my skin feeling light, hydrated and dewey. If you have a history of dry skin, acne, or over production of oil - I can't recommend facial oils enough!
For alternative options, both lotions from the Cocoboost Collection are just as lightweight. (For those who are acne prone this lotion isn’t always a good fit - the coconut oil can be clogging for some.) Counterstart Cocoboost Moisturizer in the morning, and Countermatch Recovery Sleeping Cream in the evening - it’s a great combo for those who are looking for a light, gentle and hydrating am/pm combo!
At night, I personally reach for the Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Cream. This award winning, buttery cream is so luxurious. Not only does it come with a major hydration boost for your skin, it helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles thanks to bakuchiol (a natural alternative to retinol - which has all of the same benefits, with none of the harmful side effects.)
And that’s a wrap, until part two comes out next week! If you need help figuring out which of the about products would be best for your skin, reach out at angie@angiebloom.com. Or, take my 3 minute “skincare questionnaire” with this link HERE - and I’ll be in touch with my recommendations!
Sending you love,
